Making the selections for your project is an exciting part of the renovation process. Flooring, cabinets, countertops, windows, and doors are just a few. For most of these, you must consider both functionality and aesthetics, and for some items one may be more significant than the other. When selecting a faucet however, both of these are equally important. The faucet plays the critical role of bringing water access into the room and its style and finish is a key component of establishing the design aesthetic for a space.
Here are some basic tips for choosing a faucet:
FEATURES
We suggest you start your search by determining which features are important for your household.
For kitchen faucets, do you want/need:
- A built-in or separate sprayer and which is your preference
- A matching soap dispenser
- Instant hot water
- “No touch” on/off controls
Brushed nickel faucet with pull out sprayer and matching instant hot water dispenser
For bathrooms:
- Do you prefer a single lever or individual hot and cold handles or knobs?
- Is temperature control needed (for bathrooms used by children, this can prevent scalding)
- “No touch” on/off controls
Traditional style chrome faucet with separate hot and cold levers
STYLE
Once you determined what features you want you can start looking at the shape and style faucets that are available.
Things to consider:
- If you have already selected the sink, you will need to consider the number of holes you have for installing your faucet.
- What type of sink have you selected? This is especially important when you have chosen a very specific style such as a farmhouse or vessel sink.
- Is the style of your room traditional, transitional, contemporary or modern? This will help guide you toward the right shapes and sizes.
- Consider the amount of clearance you need below the neck of the faucet. In the bathroom, you may want a tall faucet that sits higher to allow you to rinse your face. In the kitchen, consider the depth of your sink and make sure your faucet will clear a pile of dishes.
Single lever modern style faucet
FINISH
Most faucet styles will come in more than one finish. Once you know the style you want, you now need to select the finish. These days you have so many choices from the popular polished chrome, brushed nickel, and oil-rubbed bronze to more unique options like matte black or copper.
Oil rubbed bronze faucets
Things to consider:
- Chrome and nickel finishes are very versatile and can be used in nearly any type of space.
- Brushed nickel works particularly well in traditional and transitional designs.
- Polished nickel lends itself to modern aesthetics.
- Oil-rubbed or satin bronze is a great alternative to brushed nickel in traditional spaces.
- Brass is elegant and can create a vintage feel.
- Copper is unique and bold and pairs well with European and Farmhouse inspired spaces.
- Black finishes are great for creating a modern and eclectic aesthetic.
Faucet with pull out sprayer and matching soap dispenser and instant hot water dispenser
