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The kitchen tap is one of the most frequently used fixtures in the house and choosing the right one for your home deserves careful consideration. Think about functionality, but also visual appeal, as an attractive mixer will stand out and make a style statement.
Whether you’re simply updating a few fixtures or creating a new kitchen from scratch, tapware is a significant design element and should be chosen in conjunction with your sink. For a cohesive look, opt for a tap in a colour and shape that complements the overall look and feel you want to evoke in the kitchen. Minimalist, angular tapware has a sleek, contemporary look suited to square sinks. An elegant gooseneck mixer with a pin lever, teamed with a rounded sink, is a subtle way to soften a kitchen with gentle curves, while more decorative or ornate tapware can add a touch of charm, and pair beautifully with a ceramic sink in a Hamptons-inspired kitchen.
Kitchen taps come in a range of colours and finishes, so your choice of mixer can recede discreetly into the background or be a style standout. A stainless-steel sink paired with a chrome tap is a timeless combination with myriad variations. Alternatively, a tap in a bold feature colour, like black or brushed brass, can act as a wonderful focal point on an island bench and visually link accent hardware and accessories in the same finish.
Maintenance might also influence your decision. Matt black is forgiving when it comes to marks and fingerprints, whereas metallic tapware will need more regular cleaning to keep its lustre.
A tap's shape and size can affect the way it functions. To minimise splashing, a good rule of thumb is to choose a spout that is proportional to your sink and can be easily directed over the main outlet. If you have a deep sink, a tall, gooseneck model is a great option. It not only looks striking, but makes it easy to fill jugs and clean large pots.
For added convenience, consider a pull-out tap with a retractable nozzle, which allows you to direct water exactly where you want it to go. Some also include a spray button, which easily allows you to switch between a jet spray and a more gentle pressure better suited for rinsing vegies.
Tip: Did you know we can install your kitchen tap for you? Visit our tap and mixer installation service page to get your installation booked in.
To compare the water efficiency of different tapware, check out the WELS rating, Australia’s Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards scheme. The more stars out of six, the more water efficient the fixture. Also look at the number on the WELS label, which indicates average water flow per minute. A top performing six-star WELS-rated tap will have a flow rate of 4.5 litres per minute or less.
Check out our handy kitchen sink buyer’s guide to find the best one to suit your needs.
Photo Credit: John Downs, Sue Stubbs and Brigid Arnott
Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.
When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.
