When designing or renovating your kitchen, every element matters – from the colour scheme to the types of appliances you choose. One critical feature that often gets overlooked is the kitchen tap or sink mixer. This essential fixture serves both functional and aesthetic purposes, and picking the right one can elevate the overall look and usability of your kitchen.
Here are four key things to consider when choosing your kitchen tap or sink mixer, ensuring it complements your kitchen’s style while meeting your practical needs.
1. Choose a Style That Suits the Kitchen and Home
The tap or mixer you choose should blend seamlessly with the rest of your kitchen’s design. There are several styles to consider, and making the right choice can significantly enhance your kitchen’s aesthetic.
Minimalist Taps
If your kitchen has a sleek and modern design, minimalist taps may be the best option. These taps often feature clean lines and simple shapes, with no unnecessary embellishments. They are ideal for modern homes that embrace a “less is more” philosophy. Minimalist kitchen mixer taps not only look stylish but also tend to be highly functional, providing everything you need without any excessive features.
Contemporary Taps
Contemporary taps are another great option for modern kitchens. While similar to minimalist taps in their sleek designs, contemporary taps often have a bit more flair, sometimes incorporating geometric shapes or unique finishes. If you want your tap to stand out as a statement piece, contemporary styles are a great option. They also pair well with a wide range of kitchen designs, making them a versatile choice.
Industrial Taps
For kitchens with a more robust, utilitarian feel, industrial taps offer a perfect blend of form and function. These taps are typically made from durable materials like stainless steel and often feature exposed components, giving your kitchen a more rugged, raw appeal. Industrial taps are particularly popular in modern urban homes or loft-style spaces where functionality and minimalism go hand in hand.
Traditional Classic Taps
If your home has a classic or traditional design, you might want to opt for a traditional tap. These taps often feature ornate designs and finishes, such as chrome or brass, that add an element of elegance to the kitchen. While they may not be as cutting-edge in terms of functionality, their timeless design makes them a favourite for homes aiming for a vintage or classic aesthetic.
2. Functional Requirements: Consider Pullout, Spray, or Swivel
Once you’ve settled on a style, it’s essential to think about the functional features that will make your life easier. Kitchen mixer taps today offer more than just on-and-off water control. They come with a range of features that can enhance your kitchen experience.
Pullout Taps
Pullout taps have a detachable spray head that allows you to direct water where it’s needed, making them a fantastic option for large kitchen sinks. They’re especially useful when washing dishes or cleaning hard-to-reach areas. This added flexibility can make everyday tasks much more manageable.
Spray Taps
Spray taps often come with a high-pressure setting that’s great for rinsing fruits, vegetables, and dishes. Some models feature both a spray and a regular stream setting, offering even more versatility. These taps are perfect if you frequently prep meals and need a quick, powerful water flow.
Swivel Taps
Swivel taps offer a broad range of motion, allowing you to rotate the faucet head to cover the entire sink area. This is especially useful in double-basin kitchen sinks, as it allows you to direct water between both basins easily. Swivel taps come in a variety of styles, from minimalist to industrial, making them a practical yet stylish addition to your kitchen.
3. Match the Finish with Your Hardware or Sink
One of the most critical aspects of choosing your kitchen tap is ensuring it complements your other kitchen fixtures, such as your hardware and sink. Whether you’re going for a monochrome look or a mix of finishes, your tap should fit in effortlessly.
For example, if you have brushed stainless-steel kitchen sinks in Sydney, consider matching your tap to the sink for a cohesive look. On the other hand, if your kitchen cabinets feature brass handles, opting for a brass-finished tap can create a harmonious design scheme.
Another consideration is the compatibility of your tap with other functional aspects of the kitchen, such as soft close drawer runners. Soft-close mechanisms are a modern, sophisticated addition to kitchen cabinetry, and your tap’s design should match the sleek, contemporary look of these drawers. The right finish and colour coordination between these elements will give your kitchen a polished, put-together feel.
4. Pressure: Mains Versus All Pressure?
Finally, you’ll need to consider the type of water pressure system your home uses, as not all taps are suitable for every system. Some taps are designed to work only with high-pressure systems, while others are versatile enough to function with both mains and all-pressure systems.
Mains Pressure
Mains pressure taps work best in homes with a direct connection to a mains water supply. These taps are designed to handle high water pressure and provide a strong, consistent water flow. If you have a modern home with mains water pressure, you’ll have a broader selection of kitchen mixer taps to choose from, including those with spray or pullout features.
All Pressure
If your home uses a low-pressure water system, you’ll need to choose taps specifically designed for low-pressure systems. These taps are crafted to deliver a sufficient water flow despite the lower pressure. Make sure to check the compatibility of any tap before purchasing to ensure optimal performance in your kitchen.
Conclusion
Choosing the right kitchen tap or sink mixer is an essential part of creating a functional and beautiful kitchen. By considering the style, functionality, finish, and water pressure compatibility, you can ensure that your tap looks great and works perfectly for your needs.
Whether you prefer a minimalist design, an industrial look, or a traditional aesthetic, a kitchen tap will complement your kitchen while providing the practical features you need.