How to pair your tap and basin

Bathroom basics

If you’re planning a new bathroom, make the basin and taps your style starting point. They’re some of the pieces you’ll use the most, so they need to look good and work well together. Consider how you want your finished bathroom to look and feel, says Andy Grigor of Methven. “How will your bathroom fit in with the rest of your home?” he asks. Next, think about the practicalities. Caroma’s Luke Di Michiel says details such as the tapware height, location and distance in relation to the basin and benchtop is important. “This will deliver the best bathroom experience,” he explains.

The best basin 

Pick your basin first, as it will determine the choice of taps. “Be sure to consider the basin height when selecting basin mixers,” says Luke. “Tall basins may require tower mixers to provide additional height."

There are many different types of basin:

Wall-mounted: These are great for smaller spaces where storage is less important. They have no vanity attached and are hung directly on the wall. Some come with an optional half- or full-height pedestal to conceal plumbing pipes. Tapware can be wall- or hob-mounted (fixed to the basin).

Inset, recessed, under-counter: These models all sit within the vanity to different degrees: partly (with some of the basin or just the rim showing), or completely below the surface. Taps can be wall- or hob-mounted.

Above-counter/vessel: These basins sit on the vanity surface like a dish, with taps mounted on the wall or vanity. Check the height of your tapware when you choose a vessel sink: the spout needs to easily clear the rim, but it shouldn’t be so tall that it will splash.

A top-rated tap

Choose between a basin mixer or a three-piece set of a hot and cold tap with spout. “Both types can be installed either directly onto the basin or partially concealed in the wall cavity in a wall-mounted installation,” says Luke Di Michiel. “Basin mixers are generally the easiest to install and update, whereas wall basin mixers can provide a more visually clean look.” For hob-mounted tapware, ensure you pick a sink with the right number of tap holes.

It’s possible to find twin pillar taps (one for hot water and one for cold), but mixers and sets are more common, with a broader range of styles. Check the WELS (Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards) rating, which marks water flow with a star system. The more stars, the more water-efficient the tap.

Keep in mind: Any plumbing works must be carried out by a licensed professional.

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Photo Credit: Methven and Caroma.

Some photographs feature products from suppliers other than Bunnings.