Before Buying That New Faucet, Think Finish First

New technology and an increasing appreciation for purposeful design have made the faucet an important feature in kitchen decor.

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By Jackie Dishner

Faucet finish is an important design element that once was overlooked. But new technology and the public's widespread appreciation for the overall look in the kitchen and bath have made the faucet an important feature. Any sink in the house becomes another opportunity to introduce a new design element.

Brass, copper, chrome, nickel, gold-plated, oil-rubbed metals, matte or shiny finish, a smooth satin sheen and even faucets with texture are now available to consumers in all price ranges. In terms of sheer sales volume, says Judd Lord, director of industrial design for Delta Faucet Co., chrome is still the leader.

But for aesthetics? "The trend is to customize" Lord says. Special finishes, such as brushed nickel and oil-rubbed bronze, outsell chrome by a wide margin — especially for remodels and do-it-yourself projects, where people typically spend between $100 and $300 on faucets.

"For something you touch several times a day, why not pick a finish for your faucet that will make you feel good? People will notice if you put in an unimpressive faucet," says Peter LaBau, a Charlottesville, Va.-based architect whose book The New Bungalow Kitchen, from Taunton Press, offers great ideas for quality kitchen design.

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