I knew it!! When black tap-ware first started appearing a few years ago now, I knew it would make waves, some would love it others would hate it, but I knew this was a look destined to stay. Differently from other tap-ware colours, black, as we often say in design world, matches everything. Indeed black tap-ware fits as well in streamlined homes as it does in more traditional ones; even heritage settings can deal with its edgy effect. Despite being considered by many a contemporary trend, and as such destined to pass, the black look has established itself as 'a classic', like chrome and stainless steel before it, and it’s nowadays also easily found in a large range of designs, with many other complimentary fittings and finishes also available, such as door hardware and sinks, which allow an easy flow of black detailing throughout the home.
all images and design in this page by James Treble
Because it feels modern, black tap-ware is the perfect ingredient to consider for your cosmetic renovations; updating to this look is a very quick and cost-effective visual effect which I suggest as an easy item to apply to a bathroom for example: adding contrast is a very effective way to lift a tired looking or out of vogue room. This look also matches contemporary tiling and looks a million dollars when combined with stone and marble finishes, and as it also fits well in homes with a traditional flair, it allows you to modernise a bathroom without it looking out of context.
As you can see, there are many reasons why the black tap-ware look is popular and here to stay: it's sleek, it's able to lift and modernise any room it is applied to and it's versatile, matching all kinds of home styling. Not last, because it’s now available in most quality brands and in many individual design styles, it can be found at competitive prices when compared to stainless steel. Some more affordable brands may be powder coated, which whilst being very strong and durable, may require attention on installation and avoiding the use of harsh products when cleaning it. Better quality ranges, which are electroplated, will last longer and allow this edgy contrast effect to dazzle for many years to come.
I use black tap-ware quite often with my clients, as it adds a beautiful edge to the room and a contrast that seems to please everybody, but it’s worth remembering that to bring the whole look together, you should continue the matte-black effect with overflows and wastes into the basins, floor wastes, towel-rails and possibly a matte-black framed shower-screen...
A Treble of Tips:
When updating a bathroom, it is a must that all the tap-ware in the room be the same colour and design
For longer-lasting beauty, look to electro plated ranges whilst remembering both these and powder coated finishes should be treated and cleaned with care,
If Matte Black is the colour you wish for your tap-ware, be sure to choose a design that matches the style of both the room and your homes’ architecture.
James Treble is an ambassador for Planet Ark and firmly believes in sensible purchasing, recycling and creative re-purposing. James has 3 decades of accumulated experience in the Building Industry, Real Estate and Interior Design and regularly shares his knowledge and experience in adding value to homes through clever design & styling. Watch his free videos on YouTube, and follow him on Facebook and Instagram for more free information.
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