Fabulous fixtures Top taps
THE PERFECT TAPWARE CAN ADD A TOUCH OF METALLIC MAGIC AND BEAUTIFULLY TIE TOGETHER YOUR DREAM BATHROOM LOOK
Your tapware needs to look fabulous and perform well when it’s in such a high-traffic area. “Because it’s something you see and use daily, it pays to invest in quality products that reflect your style and will stand the test of time,” says Daniela Santilli, bathrooms and kitchens merchandising leader at Reece Bathrooms. Before deciding, consider functionality, aesthetics and consistency. For instance, if you love soft curves and on-trend brushed brass, carry the look across all your fixtures for cohesive appeal, from the basin tapware to your showerhead and mixer.
start in style
Tapware helps define the look and feel of the space, so think about the overall effect you want to create. “We’re seeing a trend towards softer curved shapes in the bathroom as they feel organic, relaxed, are generally softer on the eye and work in traditional and contemporary spaces,” says interior designer Naomi Nimmo of Nimmo Nielsen Collective. “Rounded, decorative, three-piece basin sets suit a classic aesthetic, while sculptural arched mixers teamed with an oval bath evoke day-spa simplicity.” For a more urbane, minimalist look, opt for square mixers in matt black.
position & proportion
Wall-mounted tapware can be ideal if space is tight, as it frees up the benchtop and allows for a slimmer vanity, although, cautions Naomi,
“it can be harder for smaller children to reach”. Another option is to locate a user-friendly mixer to the side of the basin rather than behind. To ensure compatibility, choose your tapware, basins and bath together. “The tap spout should be proportional to the sink and directed over the outlet to minimise splashing,” says Daniela. “When pairing tapware with a bathtub, freestanding styles look great with floor-mounted spouts, and an inset or back-to-wall bath usually requires wall-mounted fittings.”
trending finishes
Chrome is a perennial favourite, but natural finishes and colour are on the rise. “We’re seeing variations such as brushed nickel and gunmetal growing in popularity as timeless options,” says Daniela. “People are also embracing aged finishes such as living bronze or tumbled brass, which naturally tarnishes over time to create an organic, rustic look.” For beautiful colour teamed with durability, consider options with a PVD (physical vapour deposition) finish. “They deliver a harder, scratch-resistant surface,” says Daniela.
showerheads on show
The right showerhead will bring a daily dose of rejuvenation and truly transform your bathroom. “If it’s for the ensuite, you might want more advanced functionality or a more luxurious outlet, compared to a basic crowd-pleasing showerhead for the family bathroom,” says Daniela. “Space permitting, you may even want to indulge in two showerheads.” A generous rain-shower offers a wonderfully immersive shower experience, yet if you’d prefer to keep your hair dry, it may not be your first preference. “A great alternative is a twin rain-shower with a directional handpiece, which gives you the flexibility to use either and makes cleaning the zone super efficient,” says Naomi. ‘Elysian’ minimal mixer in Brushed Brass, $179.90, ABI Interiors. 2. ‘Cross’ assembly mixer and spout set in Matte Black, $259.80, ABI Interiors.
3. ‘Milani’ assembly taps and spout set in Brushed Copper, $336.80,
ABI Interiors. 4. Milli ‘Voir’ gooseneck basin mixer tap in Brass Gold, $534, Reece. 5. ‘Eccentric’ shower rose in Graphite, $499, Rogerseller. 6. ‘Eccentric’ dual rail shower in Chrome, $1699, Rogerseller. 7. Perrin & Rowe three-hole basin set with country spout and porcelain levers, from $1345, The English
Tapware Company. 8. Grohe ‘Rainshower’ SmartActive wall shower in Chrome, $1264, Reece. 9. ‘Oscar’ floor-mounted bath filler in Matte Black, $419.90, ABI Interiors. 10. The Water Monopoly ‘Rockwell’ shower rose on angled arm with swivel in Black, from $675, The English Tapware Company.