Tapware is one of the most important elements within any bathroom and kitchen. It adds to the overall aesthetic of the space and can completely transform and elevate a room.
There are a range of finishes, styles and designs to choose from when selecting tapware. Rounded and curved taps suit traditional and heritage spaces, while chunkier square shapes and architecturally designed mixer taps are on trend in contemporary and minimalist bathrooms.
Style
Often overshadowed by big ticket items like vanities and bathtubs, tapware is a crucial design feature that can make or break your bathroom or kitchen. With a huge range of styles, shapes and finishes available, selecting the right taps is crucial for your space. The key is having a clear vision of the interior style you want to achieve and choosing taps that complement.
There’s a simplicity to contemporary interior design styles so sleeker tapware silhouettes suit. Softer curves in tapware work well with mid-century modern designs while industrial-inspired spaces call for more raw materials and rough finishes. A popular choice is brushed nickel or gunmetal finishes for these interior design styles.
If you want to create a more formal feel, then taps that are more ornate and traditional in shape and finish will work best. These styles can also be paired with fusion styles such as Hamptons coastal or masculine minimalism.
Functionality
While style is a major consideration when shopping for tapware, functionality shouldn’t be ignored. Think about how your new taps will work with the overall aesthetic of your bathroom or kitchen, and whether they have any features that you’ll find useful.
For example, a swivel spout may be a feature you want in your kitchen sink to make it easier to reach dishes and pots. Or, you may prefer a back-to-wall bath mixer that sits on the floor and doesn’t require additional space underneath the basin.
It’s also important to consider your water consumption and the rate at which your tapware set uses water. Many products will include a WELS rating (Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards), which can help you compare tapware sets and choose the most efficient ones for your home. This will reduce your water usage and save you money on your water bill.
Materials
Tapware materials can have a significant impact on the overall look and feel of your bathroom and kitchen. If you want to create a sleek and modern feel, stainless steel tapware may be the right choice for you. Stainless steel is easy to clean and highly resistant to watermarks and fingerprints. It also pairs well with a range of different textures in your bathroom or kitchen space.
For those seeking a more traditional or relaxed design, brass tapware can be the perfect solution. It’s a great way to bring character and personality into your home, especially as it develops a natural patina over time.
Alternatively, brushed gunmetal tapware can be the ideal option for those wanting a more modern and contemporary design. It’s also an environmentally-friendly option, with efficient aerators providing significant water savings. Brushed finishes are also highly durable, and they resist fingerprint marks and watermarks. Whether you’re looking for a high-end or budget friendly piece, Tile & Bath Co have you covered!
Budget
Tapware is an expensive item to replace or install in your home, so it’s important to understand what budget you can work with. The cost can quickly add up when you’re replacing taps across the kitchen, laundry or bathroom.
It’s also worth considering the rate that your taps use water and the impact this will have on your water bill. Checking the WELS (Water Efficiency Labelling & Standards) rating will help you see how efficient your new taps are.
It’s also worth discussing your preferred style with a professional plumber and asking whether there are any restrictions in terms of what can be installed. For example, some styles, such as floor mounted bath fillers, require plumbing moves which will add to the overall cost. You may be able to save money by choosing a different style of tap.