A: Maureen, think of it this way: if you continue to drain the washing machine into your new kitchen sink, it will really help with the dishes! (Of course I'm just kidding.)

The good news is that because you have an existing sink in place, it should be no big deal to install another sink in that area. The first thing you need is a good plumber to inspect the existing lines to determine if the water and drain lines are in good shape and can be converted to fit the new sink and base cabinet. Also, the plumber will determine if a washing machine station can be set up to handle the water and drains for your clothes washer. Again, this should be fairly easy for a licensed professional to set up.

A washer station is basically a new one-handle hot and cold water valve that connects to the washing machine with the short washing machine hoses. For washer drains, the washing station usually has a two-inch drain standpipe that is eighteen inches or longer, connected to a P-trap. The flexible washer drain sticks into this standpipe. Please note that this is just general guideline information for a washing machine station; all local water, drain, and venting codes need to be followed for your area.

Once you have the new kitchen sink set up along with a separate washing machine station, the washer will now have its own drain, and the kitchen type sink will be all yours! Many homes have the washer and dryer set up close to the kitchen. In your case, you're setting up a kitchen close to your washer and dryer. So, if it works one way, I see no reason why this project won't work for you!