Your budget is set, youâve chosen the layout to make the most of your space and youâve decided on flooring and tiles. Next up â sanitaryware and brassware. If you are in the midst of planning a bathroom, be it a family bathroom or cloakroom, choosing the right basin and tap will help tie the look together and finish off your design.Â
Together with journalist Jill Morgan, we’ve made it easier for you to choose the right basin and tap combo. Here is what you should keep in mind before you buy your fixtures and fittings…
Choose the size and shape
When it comes to choosing a basin and tap, there are lots of options available nowadays, from different shapes and sizes to materials. Plus, there’s a multitude of colours and finishes, including Pewter, Rose Gold, Vintage Copper and any type of Brass surface. Look around and analyse the amount of space you have available and image where a basin would fit best. Depending of the type of bathroom youâre planning, you might consider a freestanding basin for your ensuite, or a large wall-mounted design with plenty of surface area and storage for your family bathroom.
Find your ideal basin style
Do you want to create a statement design in your bathroom? Go for an industrial-style basin for a bold touch. Think geometric shapes and patterns, steel basin stands and raw finishes and materials, such as concrete.
Contemporary basins are all about sleek lines, subtle colours and structural shapes. So, choose a tall and freestanding basin for a statement look, or one with clever cutouts for that bit of extra storage space. There are plenty of modern designs to suit your needs and taste â play with virtual planning tools to visualise your space. Or when the time comes, visit your local bathroom showroom to see and feel your new basin and tap.
Want a bit of both modern and traditional styles in your new design? Then why not mix and match styles for a cool bathroom scheme? If you’re going for a modern space with a wetroom and sophisticated brassware, choose a classic basin, or upgrade the look of traditional fittings with new materials and finishes for your tap. Let your creativity flow and add a touch of your personality for a stylish design.
Match the tap
Pair your industrial-style basin with a slick, streamlined and clean looking tap, be it polished brass, or a matt design for a minimalist touch.
If you’re going for a contemporary look, make sure you choose a complimentary tap such as a slick and tall tap for your freestanding basin, or a bulky design for your sculptural basin.
You can go for a mix and match approach of pairing a traditional tap with a sculptural basin. This will help you achieve the classic contemporary scheme. We think a slick shape in a matt black colourway together with a classic basin make a great pair.
Think about practicality too
The number of tap holes in the product dictates the type of fittings you need. One, you need a monobloc. Two requires a pair of pillar taps, and three needs two taps and a central mixer. No hole? Then, wall or deck mounted filler is the best option. And don’t forget to make sure the fittings are compatible with your homeâs water pressure.