How to Choose the Best Tapware Design for Your Kitchen
How to Choose the Best Tapware Design for Your Kitchen
The kitchen tap – it’s one of the hardest working elements in your space. And while we rely on it countless times each day, how much thought has gone into the specific model you chose? After all, there is a wide variety on the market today with all kinds of helpful features. It’s not just the visual appeal that makes a difference, but the functionality of the design as well.
There are essentially four main types to consider. Just because one model may be considered trendier right now, doesn’t mean it’s the best fit for your home. The main contenders on the market are the traditional classic tap, the shapely gooseneck, the versatile flex spout, and the more modern L shape.
Are some of these types of taps unfamiliar to you? If so, you’re in the right place. At Archant, we love to educate our clients on the best kitchenware products available today.
Each of these offers certain characteristics that can potentially meet the specific needs of your design and workflow. Let’s start by taking a closer look at the unique aspects of each style. By the end, we trust you’ll be able to narrow down your selection and identify the perfect tap for your kitchen.

Gooseneck
For kitchens with tall ceilings and large basins, a gooseneck tap can be a decidedly stylish option. These shapely faucets add a whole new element of design appeal to your space. Although they are quite modern and sleek, it’s not just the way they look that’s impactful.
Goosenecks are named after the unique shape of the bird’s long neck. The higher position of the tap is convenient as it offers an abundance of clearance below. This raised faucet is advantageous when working with oversized pots and pans. Instead of constantly manoeuvring and adjusting the faucet, clean-up is quick and easy.
Not all Gooseneck taps are created equal. In addition to the standard offering, some models offer a built-in pulldown spout. This fantastic feature adds even more flexible functionality while still maintaining the beautiful design. If you spend a lot of time prepping meals and cleaning up afterward, these will certainly expedite the process.

Classic
When shopping for taps, think about the overall aesthetic you’re trying to create in your kitchen. Is it modern, traditional, or contemporary? All these considerations will play a part in leading you to the right tap style. Next, you’ll want to match the tap to the size of the sink.
For example, if you have a small bowl, a classic tap may be an ideal choice as it's more proportionate to the sink. The traditional look of a classic tap can go a long way in adding timeless appeal to the space. These often come in a wide variety of finishes including the popular chrome colour, stainless steel, brushed nickel, and more. This is advantageous, it will blend seamlessly with other kitchen accessories and appliances.

Flex Spout
If the coils of a Flex Spout look a bit unusual at first, rest assured they serve a very good purpose. These spring-loaded pull-out taps allow for the ultimate flexibility. The spring creates resistance which allows the tap to return to its housing when you let go.
This build quality is quite durable and has been widely embraced by homeowners and commercial establishments in busy kitchens. It makes quick work of spraying fruits and vegetables and reaching the far corners of the bowl for effective clean-up. This versatility also makes it an excellent choice in other areas including laundries and outdoor workshops.

L Shape
Many of the customers we work with choose their benchtop and sink carefully, but default to a generic tap. Instead of making this same mistake, we encourage you to investigate L Shape tapware. With their clean, linear design, they pair beautifully with modern kitchens. This includes our gorgeous collection of EcoGranit composite sinks.
With an industrial edge and high-end build quality, the L Shape tap is simple enough for any kitchen but bold enough to make a statement. Our collection consists of many colours including matte black, chrome, brushed nickel, and stainless steel.

Which Tap Matches Your Kitchen Style?
Now that you’ve learned more about the four main types of taps, which style makes the most sense for your kitchen? Is it the classic build with timeless appeal, or the gooseneck which offers greater bowl clearance? Perhaps the unique functionality of the flex spout would fit your workflow.
Then again, the modern appeal of the L Shape tap with its strong linear design may fit the bill. Ultimately, you’ll think about the ways you use your kitchen. This way, the model you choose will complement your workflow, and serve you well for years to come.

View Our Taps Up Close with a Showroom Visit
Our showrooms are conveniently located around New Zealand and allow you to see our kitchenware products in person. This includes Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Havelock North. Come visit and explore the different colours and finishes of our tapware. Feel the build quality of our collection and take a few brochures to help with your project planning. Our friendly design experts will be on hand, ready to assist with any questions you may have.
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