Which kitchen tap will be best? A few aspects to bear in mind

Choosing the ideal kitchen tap can be quite a challenge — the variety of models available on the market can be overwhelming. What should you pay attention to when buying one so you don’t regret your decision? We’re happy to help! Read on to discover the aspects that will affect the functionality and appearance of your kitchen!

Installation method of a kitchen tap

One of the most important aspects to consider when choosing a kitchen tap is how it’s installed. Even the most beautiful model will be of no use to you if it isn’t suited to your kitchen. In fittings shops like ours, you’ll mainly find two options: taps mounted on the worktop or sink, and wall-mounted taps.

Your choice should depend on what’s possible in your kitchen. In many older buildings, the water pipes come out of the wall at a fairly high height, which dictates the choice of a wall-mounted tap. In newer builds the pipes come out lower, which allows for a worktop-mounted tap. And if you’re about to renovate, consider which of these options appeals to you more.

Tap material and durability

Kitchen tap is one of those fixtures that sees heavy use. For this reason, it should offer excellent durability. To achieve that, it needs to be made from a high-quality material.

The most popular options are usually taps made of stainless steel, chrome, brass or bronze. Stainless steel, valued for its resistance to corrosion and ease of cleaning, is an excellent choice for those seeking a blend of durability and a modern look. Chrome taps, known for their mirror-like shine, add elegance to a kitchen, but may require more frequent cleaning to maintain their lustre. Brass and bronze are chosen for their unique appearance and durability, though they’re often more expensive.

Choose a material that not only suits your kitchen’s aesthetics but will also withstand intensive everyday use. A good kitchen tap should be resistant to scratches and abrasion, and easy to clean. Also pay attention to the quality of the internal components — valves and seals are just as important for long-term, reliable operation as the material the tap is made from.

Functionality: the spout and handles of a kitchen tap

Another key aspect is the tap’s functionality, especially its two main elements: the spout and the handles. How do you match them to your kitchen? Remember that the tap spout should be suited to the size and depth of the sink to ensure comfortable use. A smart solution is taps with a pull-out spout, which make washing large pots and the sink much easier, offering greater reach and flexibility than classic models.

As for the handles, you can choose single-lever (mixer) models, which allow easy adjustment of water temperature and flow with one hand, or dual-handle taps, which provide precise control over hot and cold water separately. Single-lever taps are often more ergonomic and suit modern interiors, while dual-handle taps may be preferred in more traditional schemes. Also remember that a single handle most often appears in worktop-mounted models, while two handles are more common in wall-mounted ones — though this isn’t a hard-and-fast rule.

Tap finish and style matched to the kitchen

When choosing the ideal kitchen tap, it’s crucial that its finish and style harmonise with the overall kitchen design. A tap’s finish can significantly influence the look and feel of the kitchen space. How do you choose the perfect model?

Match the kitchen tap to elements already present in the room. Look around — which colour and style dominate? Do you have black appliances? Opt for a black kitchen tap. Or is silver the leading tone? A chrome tap will fit that space perfectly. In a modern kitchen featuring gold handles, a tap in a matching colour will make a beautiful finishing touch.

Also pay attention to the style itself. In contemporary schemes, simple, geometric forms work well, while in traditional interiors more decorative, classic models are a better fit. And don’t forget that taps can be matt, glossy or brushed, which will also influence the final look of the kitchen.

Gold or silver, matt or glossy — which kitchen tap will you choose?