Exploring Colour in Tapware

Every time I travel and visit bathroom design fairs, one thing becomes immediately clear: new colours are everywhere. Tapware in reds, blues, whites and greens appears regularly in European kitchens and bathrooms, offering designers a playful way to add personality and character to a space.

In Australia, however, we tend to be a little more cautious. Most homes still favour the classics. Brushed nickel remains the most popular finish, followed by matt black and brushed brass. These are beautiful and reliable choices, but there is a much wider palette available for those willing to explore.

Working on many display homes gives me the chance to experiment with finishes that clients may not immediately consider. In a recent project I selected 'matt bronze' tap-ware and accessories, not a well-know option, but the result was simply stunning. The warm metallic tone adds richness and elegance, while still feeling playful and distinctive (note: brightening the images makes the tapware seem of copper finish rather than bronze).

To create a cohesive look, I carried the same finish throughout the home, using it in the kitchen, bathrooms and laundry. Repeating the finish across different rooms helps it feel intentional rather than decorative, tying the spaces together beautifully.

For this project the tapware and accessories were by Parisi, while the joinery handles were matched with the Momo Ona Lip range in metallic brown, and the effect is refined and harmonious.

Sometimes all it takes is one thoughtful material choice to elevate a home. Tap-ware finish is too often taken for granted, but when colour enters the conversation it can become one of the most memorable features of the space.

So next time you are planning a renovation or new build, consider looking beyond the familiar finishes. A touch of colour might be exactly what your home needs to be elevated into a space that's overall beautiful as well as punctuated with exciting contemporary features.

TIPS - How to select Tapware Colour?

1. Start with the finishes already in the room

Before choosing a tapware colour, look at the finishes that are already part of the design. Benchtops, splashbacks, cabinetry handles, appliances and lighting all contribute to the overall palette. A coloured tap can either blend with these elements or become a deliberate highlight. Repeating the same finish in other details, such as cabinet handles or accessories, helps the choice feel intentional and cohesive rather than random.

2. Think about maintenance and everyday use

Some finishes are more forgiving than others. Brushed or textured finishes tend to hide fingerprints, water spots and small scratches better than polished surfaces. This is particularly important in busy areas such as kitchens and family bathrooms. If the finish requires less constant cleaning, it will continue to look beautiful for longer with minimal effort.

3. Consider the mood you want to create

Colour in tapware can subtly influence the atmosphere of a room. Warm metallics such as copper or brass add richness and warmth, while cooler tones like nickel or chrome feel crisp and modern.

TO STAY IN TOUCH with the latest trends in Kitchens and Bathrooms follow my trip to Milano Eurocucina and International Bathroom Fair this April, live on my Social Media Channels :)

James Treble is an ambassador for Planet Ark and firmly believes in sensible purchasing, recycling and creative re-purposing. James has three decades of accumulated experience in the Building Industry, Real Estate and Interior Design and regularly shares his knowledge and experience in adding value to properties through effective design & styling. Watch his free videos on YouTube, and follow him on Facebook and Instagram for more free information. Learn more from James' knowledge via his FREE online shows James Bought A House (a renovation) and James Bought A Guest House (a brand new build).