How to Choose the Right Tapware for Your Home Renovation
Tapware is more than a functional fixture—it’s a design element that can transform kitchens, bathrooms, and laundries. Choosing the right tapware for your renovation complements your home’s style and enhances usability, efficiency, and sustainability. With a wide variety of finishes, styles, and features available, finding the perfect fit has never been easier.
From understanding how plumbing layouts affect your options to exploring popular styles like matte black finishes and touchless technology, this ‘how to choose tapware’ guide covers everything you need to know about modern tapware. It highlights how to choose durable finishes, like brushed nickel or brass, that match both your design vision and maintenance preferences. For budget-conscious renovators, it provides insights into affordable and premium options, ensuring you can make informed decisions regardless of your price range.
Sustainability is another key consideration, with water-efficient taps offering significant savings on utility bills while supporting environmentally friendly renovation goals. Coordinating tapware with other design elements, such as tiles, cabinetry, and lighting, ensures a cohesive and polished aesthetic. Trusted brands like Nero Tapware and Alpine Kitchens & Bathrooms are recommended for their quality and innovation, while practical advice on installation options helps streamline the process.
Whether you’re updating a single space or embarking on a full-scale renovation, this guide ensures you’ll know how to choose tapware that’s stylish, functional, and perfectly suited to your home.
Assess Your Plumbing Layout: Will It Impact Your Tapware Choices?
When renovating your home, the most crucial consideration is your existing plumbing setup. Will it remain the same, or will it need to call in plumbers to change it? This can be a major deciding factor in choosing the right tapware for your home.
Even if you’re not technically moving your plumbing, changing from one type of tapware to another can be a bigger job than you think.
For example, if your existing plumbing has a traditional vanity-mounted basin mixer in the bathroom, then you’ll need to replace it with a vanity-mounted mixer. You won’t be able to use a more modern wall-mounted mixer without changing the plumbing.
Similarly, if your showerhead is wall-mounted, you will have to opt for another wall-mounted showerhead over a ceiling-mounted showerhead. Otherwise, you’ll need to change your plumbing setup, which can run into the thousands.
So when planning your home renovation, be sure to take your existing plumbing into account when choosing new tapware. It could save you a lot of time and money in the long run.
Find the Perfect Tapware Style: Modern, Traditional, or Minimalist Designs?
When renovating your home, it is also important to choose a tapware style that will complement the overall style of your home. Are you going for a modern or traditional look? Once you have decided on the general style, you can narrow your choices to find the perfect taps for your kitchen and bathroom.
If you have a modern home, consider sleek, angular taps with minimalistic designs, such as our Opal Tapware or Sky Tapware ranges. For a traditional home, tapware with less detailing, such as our Fiona Tapware or Cube Tapware range. Ensure the style you choose fits in with the rest of your home’s decor for a polished and cohesive look.
Choose Tapware by Room: Kitchen, Bathroom, or Laundry Essentials Explained
The room you are renovating will determine the type of tapware you need. You will need bathroom tapware for the bathroom, kitchen tapware for the kitchen, and laundry tapware for the laundry.
Some rooms, like the bathroom, will require multiple types of tapware. For example, you’ll need a basin mixer tap, a shower mixer tap, and/or a bath spout. Whereas in the laundry, you might just need a simple wall or bench-mounted tap.
Ross’s Discount Home Centre makes it easy to find tapware for each room with its categorised tapware ranges. So, whether you’re looking for bathroom tapware, kitchen tapware or laundry tapware, we have a range to suit your needs.
Again, it’s important to think about your needs before making any decisions. There’s no point spending money on tapware that you’re not going to use or that isn’t suited to the room.
Select the Right Tapware Finish: Chrome, Matte Black, Brushed Nickel, and More
Next, choose the tapware finish. Chrome and brushed nickel are the most popular finishes, but you can also find options like gold, copper, gunmetal grey, bronze, and black.
The coloured and brushed finishes are very much on-trend but can potentially present a future issue—becoming outdated. Therefore, when choosing a finish, it’s important to think about both the current trends and future-proofing your tapware investment.
- Chrome tapware is by far the most popular finish, as it is classic and timeless. It also happens to be very affordable and the most durable. It’s a good choice for an investment property renovation.
- Stainless steel tapware is also popular, as it is very durable and modern; however, it is more expensive than chrome tapware. It’s also 100% lead-free, which is a growing trend we’re seeing for tapware in 2025.
- Brushed nickel tapware is another popular option that can complement both traditional and modern homes. It has a warm, inviting look that is becoming increasingly popular in new homes.
- Gold tapware is a luxurious option that can add a touch of elegance to any bathroom or kitchen. However, gold tapware does require more maintenance than other finishes, as it is more prone to tarnishing.
- Copper tapware is a beautiful option that can add a unique touch to your home. However, like gold tapware, it does require more maintenance to keep it looking its best.
- Gunmetal tapware is a more modern option that can give your home an edgy look. It is also very low-maintenance and easy to clean, but the finish can scratch and wear off over time.
- Bronze tapware is another beautiful option that can add a touch of luxury to your home. However, bronze is a more expensive option than other finishes.
- Black tapware is a very modern and stylish option that can make a big impact on your home. However, it is essential to note that black tapware does require more maintenance than other finishes, as it is more prone to showing water spots and fingerprints. Like gunmetal grey tapware, this finish can scratch and wear off over time.
When choosing the right tapware finish, it’s important to consider both the style of your home and your personal maintenance preferences.
Set Your Budget: Affordable to Premium Tapware Options for Every Renovation
Tapware is available in a wide price range, making it easy to find options that suit your renovation budget. Whether you’re working with a tight budget or aiming for a premium finish, there are styles and finishes available for every price point.
For budget-conscious renovators, affordable tapware options offer quality and practicality without sacrificing design. Basic chrome taps, for instance, provide a clean, timeless look and are an excellent choice for cost-effective projects. Mid-range tapware often combines enhanced functionality with on-trend finishes like matte black or brushed nickel, giving your space a stylish upgrade without overspending. High-end tapware offers luxury with advanced materials, unique designs, and premium finishes that make a bold statement.
Essentially, you can spend $80 or over $1000 on a tap for the same application—it all depends on what you’re willing to spend. The key is determining what matters most for your renovation—style, functionality, or a mix of both. Affordable options ensure your project stays within budget, while premium tapware adds a touch of sophistication and longevity to your space. At Ross’s Discount Home Centre, we stock tapware that aligns with any budget, helping you create a space you love without compromise.
Focus on Features: What Functions and Innovations Do You Need in Tapware?
You also need to consider the tapware features. For example, you may want a kitchen tap with a spray function or a shower with a multi-function handset. These features can enhance your daily routine and make your life easier. Personally, after installing the Opal Pull-out Sink Mixer Graphite in my kitchen, I’ll never go back to a standard kitchen mixer. The pull-out sprayer has been a godsend for cleaning pots and pans.
If you’re unsure about what type of sink tapware is right for you, it’s a good idea to turn to resources like our kitchen tapware buying guide and our how-to guide to choosing the perfect kitchen tap. You can also speak to a professional. A qualified plumbing professional will be able to assess your needs and recommend the best tapware for your home renovation.
Once you’ve decided on the type of tapware you need, you can start narrowing down your choices by considering other factors, such as style and price. If you take the time to select the right tapware for your home renovation, you’ll end up with a beautiful and functional bathroom or kitchen that will serve you well for years to come.
Prioritise Water Efficiency: Save on Bills and Help the Environment with WELS-Rated Taps
Sustainability is becoming a top priority for Perth homeowners renovating their spaces. Choosing sustainable tapware with high WELS (Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards) ratings is a simple yet effective way to reduce water usage and lower utility bills. WELS-rated taps, ranging from 4 to 6 stars, use significantly less water without compromising performance, making them ideal for eco-conscious buyers.
By selecting water-efficient taps, you can save thousands of litres of water annually, easing pressure on the environment and reducing your water costs. For example, a 5-star WELS-rated tap can use as little as 4 litres of water per minute, compared to older taps that can waste double that amount. These savings quickly add up, especially in high-use areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and laundries.
Interestingly, as Phyah Nicholson, State Manager for Nero Tapware, observes, “Some people look for WELS ratings but most, we find, are dominated by aesthetics and practicality.” While aesthetics and functionality are important, this highlights a potential gap where homeowners might overlook the long-term benefits of choosing water-efficient tapware. Making WELS ratings a priority can not only help the environment but also result in significant cost savings over time.
Many styles of WELS-rated taps are available, ensuring you don’t have to sacrifice design for efficiency. Options like matte black mixers and brushed nickel tapware blend effortlessly into modern aesthetics while offering water-saving features. At Ross’s Discount Home Centre, we stock an extensive range of stylish and sustainable tapware that aligns with green renovation goals.
Upgrading to water-efficient taps doesn’t just save water and money—it’s an investment in a more sustainable future. Whether you’re planning a large renovation or a small update, making thoughtful, eco-friendly choices can help protect the planet while enhancing your home.
Tapware Trends You Need to Know: Popular Styles for Modern Renovation Projects
Tapware trends in 2025 are shaping up to be both functional and stylish, with Perth homeowners embracing finishes and features that reflect modern design. Matte black tapware continues to dominate as a bold and contemporary choice, ideal for minimalist and industrial spaces. Its sleek, matte finish complements a wide range of interiors while maintaining a timeless appeal.
Earthy tones are also making waves, with brass and brushed bronze tapware rising in popularity. As Nicholson points out, “Trends are leaning towards more earthy tones, with our brushed bronze frequently chosen as a designer’s favourite.” These finishes add warmth and natural elegance to kitchens and bathrooms, creating a sophisticated yet grounded aesthetic.
Another key trend is touchless tapware, combining hygiene and convenience with cutting-edge technology. These innovative fixtures are perfect for busy Perth households and bring a touch of modern luxury to any renovation project.
Avoid Common Mistakes When Choosing Tapware for Your Home
Choosing the right tapware is essential to a successful renovation, but it’s easy to make mistakes that compromise functionality and aesthetics. One common error is mismatched finishes. For instance, combining matte black taps with chrome fittings can create a disjointed look. To maintain a cohesive design, stick to a consistent finish across all fixtures.
Another pitfall is overlooking water pressure requirements. Not all taps are compatible with every plumbing system, and choosing the wrong one can result in poor water flow or leaks. Always check your home’s water pressure and ensure your tapware is suitable for high- or low-pressure systems.
Size is another critical factor many homeowners neglect. A tap that’s too large for a compact sink or too short for a deep basin can be both impractical and unsightly. Carefully measure your sink and select tapware that provides the right proportions and usability.
When considering what to avoid when buying tapware, remember to factor in durability and warranty. Opt for trusted brands with high-quality finishes that resist wear and tear. At Ross’s Discount Home Centre, we help you avoid these common tapware mistakes and find tapware that perfectly suits your style and needs.
Ask the Experts: How Professional Advice Can Help You Choose the Best Tapware
The Ross’s Discount Home Centre team are experts in all things tapware in Perth. So if you’re unsure what to choose, we’re here to help. We can offer advice on everything from the best tapware for your home renovation to the most affordable options. We also have a huge range of tapware on display in our showroom, so you can see the options for yourself.
So if you’re looking for tapware advice or tips, talk to us at Ross’s Discount Home Centre. Whether renovating your bathroom, kitchen, laundry, or entire home, you’ll find all your tapware needs met in our extensive and affordable range. We’re here to help you make the right choices for your home renovation!
Pick Low-Maintenance Tapware: Tips for Choosing Easy-to-Clean Fixtures
Consider your lifestyle when choosing tapware for your home renovation. For example, if you have young children, selecting taps that are easy to operate, such as a mixer tap, might be a good option. Mixer taps are available for just about every type of tap, including basin, shower and bath taps.
If you’re looking for tapware that is easy to clean and offers excellent longevity, then you might want to consider stainless steel tapware. Stainless steel is a popular choice for kitchen tapware, as it is easy to keep clean and corrosion-resistant.
It’s also important to consider the maintenance required for the tapware finish. As mentioned above, some finishes require more maintenance than others. So, if you don’t want to spend time cleaning and polishing your tapware, you might want to choose a less low-maintenance finish, such as chrome or stainless steel. For easy, step-by-step cleaning tips tailored to tapware finishes and type, check out our guide on how to clean tapware.
Match Your Tapware to Your Home’s Renovation Theme
Tapware plays a key role in tying your renovation together. Coordinating your taps with other design elements like tiles, cabinetry, and lighting ensures a cohesive aesthetic. The right finish and style can elevate your space and enhance your chosen theme, whether it’s modern, minimalist, or industrial.
Scandinavian or minimalist designs use matte black or chrome taps to pair with light-toned tiles and wood cabinetry, creating a clean, uncluttered look. Industrial designs use bold finishes like brushed brass or bronze to complement exposed brick, dark cabinetry, and statement lighting.
To create a unified look, match your tapware across all areas of your home, from the kitchen to the bathroom. Brushed brass taps, for instance, can work beautifully in both industrial kitchens and bathrooms with warm earthy tones. For ideas, check out our guides to the top kitchen design styles and popular bathroom design styles.
By selecting tapware that complements your renovation’s overall theme, you can achieve a polished and cohesive finish that reflects your personal style.
Plan for Installation: Ensure Your Tapware Fits Seamlessly into Your Renovation
Once you’ve chosen the perfect tapware for your home renovation, don’t overlook the importance of installation. Whether you’re tackling a DIY tapware installation or hiring a professional, understanding the costs and process can help ensure a smooth renovation.
For DIY enthusiasts, following clear instructions and watching online tutorials is essential to get it right. If you’re looking to install a basin mixer, check out our guide to installing a basin mixer tap for step-by-step advice. However, not all installations are straightforward, and mistakes can lead to costly plumbing issues.
Professional installation costs depend on the type of tapware and the complexity of the job. For a basic like-for-like mixer tap replacement, expect to pay between $150 and $300 per tap, with some services starting at $199. Shower tapware installations are more intricate and can range from $500 to $1,000, depending on the plumbing adjustments required. While professional installation adds to the budget, it ensures peace of mind, particularly for more complex setups.
When deciding between DIY vs. professional tap installation, consider your skill level and the type of tapware you’re installing. A simple swap might be manageable on your own, but unique designs like wall-mounted or touchless tapware often require professional expertise. Factor in both time and potential repair costs when making your decision.
Top Tapware Brands for Australian Homes
Selecting tapware for your home requires you to choose trusted brands that ensure quality and durability. Environmental factors like hard water and coastal conditions in Australia can impact fixtures. Ross’s Discount Home Centre offers tapware from leading brands that deliver style and performance.
Nero Tapware
Nero Tapware is a standout choice for Australian homes, offering premium finishes and innovative designs. Their PVD (physical vapour deposition) technology ensures coloured tapware is beautiful and long-lasting. According to Mr. Nicholson:
“All our coloured tapware features a PVD finish (physical vapour deposition) for longevity and beautiful end-product finishes. Our indoor/outdoor range, Zen, offers 4 colours in PVD of 316L medical-grade stainless steel, far surpassing regular marine-grade tapware.”
This level of innovation ensures Nero Tapware is a leading choice for indoor and outdoor applications.
Linkware Australia
Known for its affordability and reliability, Linkware Australia offers a diverse range of tapware to suit any renovation style. Their products combine practicality with durability, making them ideal for Australian households looking for budget-friendly yet stylish solutions.
Alpine Kitchens & Bathrooms
Alpine Kitchens & Bathrooms has built its reputation on creating versatile, high-quality tapware that seamlessly combines function and style. Their range includes options for both contemporary and classic designs, catering to a wide variety of renovation themes.
Bruce Chen, Research and Development Manager at Alpine Kitchens & Bathrooms, explains:
“At Alpine, we prioritise innovation and quality. Our tapware is engineered to withstand daily use while delivering timeless aesthetics. From sleek modern designs to refined traditional finishes, every piece is crafted to enhance your space and meet Australian standards for durability.”
Whether after bold finishes like brushed brass or practical, durable options for high-traffic areas, these brands provide some of the best tapware for Australian homes. Explore their ranges in-store at Ross’s Discount Home Centre to find tapware that matches your style and stands the test of time.
Conclusion
Choosing the right tapware for your home renovation is about balancing functionality, style, and budget. From understanding your plumbing layout to exploring finishes like matte black or brushed nickel, every decision plays a role in the final look and feel of your space. Durable materials and water-efficient designs can enhance performance and sustainability, while options like touchless technology add modern convenience.
Don’t overlook the importance of coordination—matching your tapware to your cabinetry, tiles, and lighting creates a cohesive design. Trusted brands like Nero Tapware and Alpine Kitchens & Bathrooms offer innovative solutions that combine practicality with aesthetic appeal. Whether you’re drawn to premium designs or budget-friendly options, there’s something for every renovation goal.
Finally, factor in installation costs and requirements, as these can affect your choices. Ross’s Discount Home Centre stocks a wide range of tapware and helps you make the best decisions for your home. The right tapware makes your kitchen, bathroom, or laundry both functional and stylish. Enjoy renovating!