When renovating a bathroom or kitchen, it’s easy to get swept up in colours, tiles and layout, but don’t underestimate the impact of your tapware and bathware choices.
These are the elements you use every single day, and they can influence not just how your space looks, but how it feels and functions.
At Walkers Design Centre, we help clients balance style, practicality, and longevity in every selection. From bath surfaces to basin mixers, here’s what to consider before you buy.
1. Tapware Finishes: Beauty vs. Maintenance
The finish you choose can completely transform your space, but it’s also important to understand how it will wear.
Living Finishes (e.g. Brushed Brass, Aged Copper, Bronze)
These finishes develop a natural patina over time, perfect for adding character and a sense of heritage. However, they do require care.
Pros:
- Rich, unique, evolving appearance
- Ideal for rustic, heritage or contemporary spaces with personality
Cons:
- Can mark or change colour with fingerprints, moisture, and cleaning products
- Regular maintenance recommended (dry after use, avoid harsh chemicals)
These offer a sleek, modern look with excellent durability and stain resistance.
Pros:
- Low maintenance and long-wearing
- Ideal for busy bathrooms and kitchens
Cons:
- May chip if struck with force
- Less variation than living finishes (what you see is what you get)
TurnerHastings – Pull Out Mixer Brass
2. Why choose a Pull-Out Sink Mixer?
A pull-out or pull-down mixer isn’t just for professional kitchens, it’s a game-changer for daily life. With so many styles, colours and finishes available there really isn’t any excuse for not adding one of these to your kitchen.
Benefits:
- Makes rinsing vegetables, pots and pans easier
- Helps with cleaning the sink itself
- Great for island benches where a sink is more exposed
- Some come with multi-spray functions for versatility
Tip: Look for a sturdy hose retraction system and a quality brand to ensure it lasts.
Oliveri – Essente 316 Stainless Steel
Goose Neck Pull Out Mixer Retracted
Oliveri – Essente 316 Stainless Steel
Goose Neck Pull Out Mixer
3. Twin Showers vs. Standard Shower Roses
Your daily shower can be a spa-like experience or just functional. Here’s how twin showers elevate your space:
Twin Showers (Rail + Overhead Combo)
Pros:
- Adjustable hand shower great for kids, pets or cleaning
- Overhead rain shower offers a luxurious feel
- Adds flexibility for multi-user households
Cons:
- May require more plumbing and space
- Slightly more expensive than single showers
Standard Shower Rose
Pros:
- Simpler and more cost-effective
- Minimalist and streamlined look
Cons:
- Less flexible
- Not ideal for accessibility or multi-purpose use
Our Tip: If you’re upgrading your shower anyway, a twin setup offers excellent function for only a modest price difference.
