Basin
![]() |
![]() |
The term basin can refer to:
- A wash hand basin (WHB), sometimes referred to as a washbasin, handbasin, basin or washbowl, which is typically bowl shaped and can hold water for washing hands, face, brushing teeth etc. It is generally supplied with water by hot and cold taps, has a drain at the lowest point and may have an overflow part way up the bowl. Wash hand basins are a form of sanitaryware that would traditionally have been manufactured from porcelain (a ceramic material made from clay that might be described as 'vitreous china' when coated with enamel) and is often white. However, sanitary appliances are now made from a wide range of materials, including metals, acrylics, glass and so on.
- A ground depression that is normally dry, that can store surface water before infiltration into the ground (an infiltration basin) and / or provide attenuation and where vegetated, provide treatment (a detention basin). Ref The SuDS Manual, CIRIA C753, 2015. A river basin, is a depressed area of land in which surface water collects that is drained by a river. For more information see: River basin.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
A change to adoptive architecture
Effects of global weather warming on architectural detailing, material choice and human interaction.
How big is the problem and what can we do to mitigate the effects?
Overheating guidance and tools for building designers
A number of cool guides to help with the heat.
The UK's Modern Industrial Strategy: A 10 year plan
Previous consultation criticism, current key elements and general support with some persisting reservations.
Building Safety Regulator reforms
New roles, new staff and a new fast track service pave the way for a single construction regulator.
Architectural Technologist CPDs and Communications
CIAT CPD… and how you can do it!
Cooling centres and cool spaces
Managing extreme heat in cities by directing the public to places for heat stress relief and water sources.
Winter gardens: A brief history and warm variations
Extending the season with glass in different forms and terms.
Restoring Great Yarmouth's Winter Gardens
Transforming one of the least sustainable constructions imaginable.
Construction Skills Mission Board launch sector drive
Newly formed government and industry collaboration set strategy for recruiting an additional 100,000 construction workers a year.
New Architects Code comes into effect in September 2025
ARB Architects Code of Conduct and Practice available with ongoing consultation regarding guidance.
Welsh Skills Body (Medr) launches ambitious plan
The new skills body brings together funding and regulation of tertiary education and research for the devolved nation.
Paul Gandy FCIOB announced as next CIOB President
Former Tilbury Douglas CEO takes helm.
UK Infrastructure: A 10 Year Strategy. In brief with reactions
With the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA).
Ebenezer Howard: inventor of the garden city. Book review.
Airtightness Topic Guide BSRIA TG 27/2025
Explaining the basics of airtightness, what it is, why it's important, when it's required and how it's carried out.