In a time where hand and dishwashing have ramped up, choosing the right faucet can make a big difference in kitchens and bathrooms.
Homeowners no longer desire a high design faucet with low functionality or vice versa—both beauty and performance are required for kitchen and bath products. These new kitchen and bathroom faucet releases show an interest in refined minimalism, contemporary lines, and advanced capabilities.
Functionality and the silhouette of a faucet are key considerations, but homeowners are highly interested in the finishes and materials of their faucets.
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And because faucets can be a quick, simple switch out, more homeowners opt for adventurous plumbing fixtures in their kitchens and baths, says Brittany Merritt, category manager for finished plumbing at Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery.
Brass remains the most commonly used faucet material due to its durability, promising a long life. Stainless steel faucets follow closely behind because of their resistance to corrosion and the ability to match it with accompanying hardware and appliances. As for finishes, more manufacturers are widening their offerings with matte black as a response to customer demand.
According to the National Kitchen and Bath Association’s 2021 Design Trends report, surveyed professionals said matte black will continue to be big in the faucet category for the next several years. Residential professionals also noted nickel, chrome, brushed, and polished finishes remain popular.
While dual handles are not going away any time soon, homeowners' increased awareness of hygienic and easy to clean products could begin to influence faucet choices. The New Home Trends Institute’s bathrooms survey found cleaning to be a big pain point in bathrooms. Single-handle faucets are easier to clean and less likely to harbor bacteria.
Here are five new faucet releases to keep on your radar:
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Urbena - BLANCO
The Urbena kitchen faucet collection by Blanco offers homeowners a dual-spray control and pull-down spray head with a modern gooseneck spout. Pull-down spray heads offer stronger, more precise water flow when washing dishes and cleaning the sink. Urbena previously won a Red Dot Design Award and became available to the U.S. market this spring. Residential pros can choose from 11 different finish options that can accent the silver faucet, such as gray, white, black, and gray. Urbena kitchen faucets offer a 190-degree swivel and an eco-friendly 1.5 gallon per minute flow rate.
AXOR One - AXOR
London-based design studio Barber Osberby designed the AXOR One collection featuring highly minimalist bathroom faucets with dramatic curves. The entire collection features 31 different fixtures ranging from showers to bathtubs. Barber Osberby aimed for a timeless, simple design across all fixtures and fittings in the collection. Each features technology-forward aspects such as an all-in-one controller that controls water flow with the press of a button. Faucets are available in 15 AXOR finishes.
Central Park West - Kallista
Kallista teamed up with architecture and design firm Robert A.M. Stern Architects for its Central Park West collection. It’s described by the company as a chic brassware series featuring details based on the “legendary sophistication” of the early 20th century. It’s ideal for bathrooms seeking high-end finishes in a modern classical aesthetic, featuring knurled details and etched monograms, the company says. Central Park West faucets are available in four different designs, from a wall-mount style to a U-shaped design.
Wheel Handles - California Faucets
California Faucets has upgraded its Descanso collection with “industrial chic” new Wheel Handle options. The addition helps further the vintage, mid-century aesthetic from the Descanso collection, the brand says. In addition to appearance, the wheel’s grooves offer an ergonomic, tactical experience for the user. Wheel Handles are available in more than 28 different finishes, such as matte black or its specialty red made just for this addition.
Valton - Sterling
Valton by Sterling features a sleek, curved appearance with a dual-function pull-down handle for high performance. Users can switch between an aerated stream to a more powerful ring spray. The company says it features ProMotion technology that makes pulling down the faucet easier and more comfortable. Due to its tall height, there’s plenty of room for tall cookware and pitchers, plus its ceramic disc offers longevity. It’s built to resist corrosion and is backed by a lifetime limited warranty.