Why do you need to purchase tapware that is warranted for outdoor use?
The most important thing when purchasing outdoor tapware is to ensure that it is warranted for outdoor use. If you were to use ordinary tapware in an outdoor setting it will not be designed to withstand the harsh outdoor environment. Overtime the tapware will begin to corrode and the finish will no longer be appealing to the eye. The other obvious reason is that if anything does go wrong with the product, there will be no warranty to cover the cost of replacement parts or labour.
What kind of tapware is warranted for outdoor use?
Normally, all tapware that is made from 316 marine grade stainless steel is warranted for outdoor use. There are also some brands that make outdoor tapware ranges from brass/copper materials with special finishes that can handle outdoor weather, but if you aren't sure we always recommend checking with your supplier before purchasing.
What to avoid when purchasing outdoor tapware?
We recommend avoiding tapware that is made from 304 grade stainless steel as this is the industry standard and is only intended for indoor use, therefore it will not be durable enough when installed outside. 304 grade stainless steel is susceptible to deterioration, especially in coastal settings which the majority of New Zealand is made up of. If you are purchasing tapware that is made from stainless steel then just make sure it is 316 grade stainless steel, which posses higher levels of molybdenum that enhance its resistance to corrosion - perfect for the great outdoors.
You also want to avoid tapware that is made from brass, unless it specifically states that it is warranted for outdoor use. Most finishes applied on brass tapware are not suitable for the outdoor environments and the exposure of the sun combined with the harsh rain water will cause the finish to deteriorate, with the exception of some living finishes.
Which tapware ranges are warranted for outdoor use?
]]>Step 1: Select a type
First things first, you need to decide what type of vanity you are wanting. There are two types of vanities; wall and floor mounted. You might already have a preference based on the aesthetic and depending on the home it is being installed in. You will also have to determine whether you are looking for a modern vanity or something more traditional for an older styled home. These two decisions will give you a rough idea of what you need to look for in a vanity, so now you can knuckle down on the finer details like style and design.
Step 2: Select a style
The next big step is determining what kind of style you want for your vanity. Maybe you have a specific design in mind already or want to explore a few potential options. Being such a broad market means there is a vast range of vanity styles available. However, most of the decisions in the following steps will be narrowed down for you as soon as you select a vanity range. To give you a few ideas here is a list of some different styles and our most popular vanity ranges for each:
Fluted | Marquis Cove, Marquis Peak, Vanity Co Firenza Fluted, Forma Opaco & Forma Spio
Rattan | Marquis Boca, Loughlin Freo & Loughlin Pacific
Groove | Vanity Co Firenza Groove, Marquis Anna, Linea Opaco & Linea Spio
Shaker | Marquis Pier, Loughlin Freo, Vanity Co Firenza Shaker, Hampton Opaco & Hampton Spio
Coastal | Marquis Cove, Marquis Pier, Marquis Boca, Marquis Palm, Loughlin Freo & Loughlin Pacific
Classic | VCBC English Classic & McKinley Impero
Wood | Rose & Stone, Stanza Legno, Stanza Opaco & Stanza Spio
Minimal | Falper 7.0 & Ply25
Curved | Vanity Co
Step 3: Select a size
Now that you have narrowed down your selection to a specific vanity range, it's time to select the size of your vanity. This will generally depend on the size of your bathroom and also the sizes that are offered in your selected vanity range. You might have the option to select how many drawers/doors you want and if you are going for a vanity that is 1200mm or bigger you can choose to do single or double basins.
Step 4: Select a finish
Finishes is up next! Again this is something that will be limited to your selected vanity. Every vanity range has their own unique offering of either painted, melamine, timber veneer, solid oak or thermolaminated finishes. You will want to select a finish that suits your bathroom design and colour scheme.
Step 5: Select a basin
If you have selected a vanity that has a basin integrated into the benchtop then you can go ahead and skip this step. Some of our vanity ranges offer a specific selection of basins to choose from and others don't include a basin at all. If you have chosen a vanity that doesn't come with a basin but just a flat benchtop - then the world is your oyster and you have the option to select any basin you desire. Check out our basin ranges below to get some inspiration:
Basins | Bench Mounted, Inset & Undermount
Step 6: Select a handle
Finally, the last step is choosing a handle. This depends on the vanity as some come with a concealed handle so this step may not apply for you. But, if your vanity does have a handle choice then you will typically need to select a colour (e.g. brass or black) and/or a style (e.g. round or pull).
Now just finish off your vanity by pairing it with tapware and accessories and you'll be good to go!
]]>Where does lead come from?
Lead can come from various sources. Some of these sources include old paint and tapware or plumbing materials that supply water. Lead can be introduced to the body through food, water and air and if absorbed can cause lead poisoning.
How does lead contaminate water?
Water can be contaminated with lead when plumbing materials containing lead corrode, especially in areas that have high acidic water/low mineral levels as this can cause pipes or tapware to corrode. Plumbing fixtures, lead pipes and tapware tend to be the most common sources for lead contamination in water.
Homes that have lead pipes connecting to the water supply are normally the main cause of lead contaminated drinking water. Lead pipes are usually located in older homes built before the 1980's. In homes that don't have lead pipes, the most frequent source is brass tapware/valves and plumbing that has lead-based solder.
If you are unsure whether your water contains lead you can always get your water tested and seek advice from a plumber.
Where can you find lead free tapware?
Various brands have started offering tapware ranges that are lead free. Most tapware that is made from 304 or 316 grade stainless steel is lead free as they do not contain brass materials - if you are unsure we always recommend checking with your supplier prior to purchasing. However, some brands like The Watermark Collection and Methven use a lead free brass to manufacture their tapware ranges which is also a safe alternative to stainless steel.
Our lead free ranges include the following:
A living finish is left un-lacquered or coated allowing it to naturally patina. Each finish is unique because it will react to the environment that it is installed in and age in its own way, meaning each piece creates its own quirky character.
The degree of change is dependent on many factors such
as perspiration, cleaning agents, wear, abrasion, usage and water properties. Areas that are touched more often, such as the handle and spout of a tap, will patina at a faster rate than areas that aren't touched as frequently.
The appeal of these finishes comes from the industrial and rustic feel that they add to the space where they are installed. When they patina they embrace a raw appearance that is extremely charming and beautiful. A lot of living finishes are commonly used in traditional homes as they help to create that classic and organic look, but in recent years there has been a surge for them in contemporary settings too. So, they are quite universal in the sense that they can be used in any space and any home.
Brass living finishes such as aged brass, brushed brass and polished brass, which are the most trending when it comes to living finishes, will wear to reveal the lustre of the brass and copper substrate. Polished and brushed finishes normally darken with time, whereas aged and oxidised finishes will lighten. A brass living finish is the perfect way to add some warmth, vibrancy or character to your home and can pair beautifully with just about any colour.
For the non-brass lovers, there are other options such as nickel, copper and bronze finishes. Nickel is a great alternative to a classic chrome finish with a high polish appearance, while copper/bronze finishes help to bring in those darker tones for a more moody look.
If you are interested in living finishes we recommend checking out our favourite brands that offer them including Astra Walker, Progetto (Buddy) and Nicolazzi (Regal & Arena).
]]>TAPWARE
Buddy X
The very latest in industrial influenced tapware to complement the popular Buddy tapware collection. Buddy X, with its exciting tactile knurled handle, is offered in 12 finishes to match the existing extensive Buddy tapware and accessories collection. Buddy X provides endless opportunities for creating your perfect bathroom solution.
Astra Walker Knurled Icon + Lever
The most recent addition to our Icon family. Fine knurl detailing creates a striking surface on the Astra Walker Knurled Icon + Lever handles. Defined by beautiful design with balanced proportions for contemporary living, this collection presents exquisite designs that can truly enhance your bathroom space. This impeccable collection offers standalone components that can harmonise with your overall design and fittings while lifting the space to touch perfection.
Astra Walker Assemble
Enter a world that encompasses the modern design of luxury tapware, where dreamers can dream and confinement to one style is unimaginable. The Astra Walker Assemble collection pairs streamlined products with vast design possibilities, carefully curated to make your vision come to life. Free from constraint and far from ordinary. The dial handle collection offers four unique detailed handles including knurled, reeded and fluted designs.
BASINS
Kast Aura
The Kast Aura range consists of three sleek new basin designs: a vessel basin, wall mounted double basin and freestanding basin. All of which feature a stunning ribbed surface pattern. These statement pieces are bound to create luxury in any bathroom or powder room space.
Concrete Nation Raw
New and exclusive, the Raw collection recently released by Concrete Nation consists of the Milos vessel basin, Malta vessel basin and the Cosa freestanding basin. The textured finish on these basins accentuates the natural beauty and perfectly imperfect nature of concrete.
United Products Flute
The United Products Flute collection features a fully fluted basin exterior. Available in a vessel or pedestal basin design. The smooth matte white solid surface material creates an elegant and sophisticated look, with the exterior detailing adding a slight edge.
VANITIES
Forma Spio & Opaco
A collection inspired by the latest global trend of fluted finishes where the linear moulded Forma cabinetry is combined with the sleek contoured solid surface top. The drawers are offered in 13 fashion colours and finished with a slimline handle in your choice of 6 colours. The Forma Spio and Opaco collections will add texture and style to any new bathroom.
Vessel basins offer an outstanding visual appeal combined with functionality and are fast becoming the most popular choice for bathroom design. A diverse range of shapes and sizes are available enabling flawless design with the rest of the bathroom fixtures and as the appeal for these basins grow, as does the range of colours and materials.
]]>Vessel basins offer an outstanding visual appeal combined with functionality and are fast becoming the most popular choice for bathroom design. A diverse range of shapes and sizes are available enabling flawless design with the rest of the bathroom fixtures and as the appeal for these basins grow, as does the range of colours and materials.
Concrete Vessel Basins:
Concrete vessel basins are perfect for creating a raw and organic appearance in your bathroom space, especially if you want something that is a little bit different to the norms of bathroom design. The organic variations in surface texture create a distinctive aesthetic that is integral to the character of the material and is what makes each basin so unique. Concrete is a very stylish and durable option for vessel basins that provides a bespoke edge.
All of our concrete basins are handmade and offered in a vast selection of colours from green to yellow or even pink! Which means the options to create something truly distinctive are endless. We have two brands for concrete basins, Kast and Concrete Nation. Kast basins are crafted in the UK with a very innovative range of basin designs supplied in 28 different colours. Our Concrete Nation basins are meticulously handcrafted in Australia with 15 trendy colours available.
Solid Surface Vessel Basins:
Solid surface vessel basins are one of the most popular materials used in bathrooms today. They are made from a composite material engineered from minerals and resin forming a flawlessly smooth matte white appearance. The popularity and demand for these basins is due to their durability and resistance to stains. It is also a very hygienic basin choice as solid surface prevents any growth of mould or mildew and is germ resistant.
Our solid surface vessel basin range includes the Niagara (Progretto), Super-Thin (Progetto), TKH and United Products.
Ceramic Vessel Basins:
Ceramic is the ultimate classic when it comes to vessel basins. Its benefits are well known as it is an extremely robust material that is very hard-wearing. The durable surface is resistant to scratches and stains allowing it to withstand the harshness of everyday use. Ceramic vessel basins are also practical for kids as they require little maintenance and are easy to clean.
Ceramic vessel basins are normally offered in a gloss white finish, but high demand has seen an increase in colours and finishes so there are now options for matte white, black and grey. Our ceramic vessel basin range includes the Pura (Astra Walker), Premium (Catalano) and Zero (Catalano).
Fireclay Vessel Basins:
Fireclay is also a form of ceramic, but is composed primarily of clay and other minerals that give it a tougher exterior. Fireclay vessel basins are more durable than ceramic vessel basins as they are nonporous as well as heat, scratch and stain resistant. Therefore, they are the perfect combination of form and function while also being stylish in design.
Our Robert Gordon range offers 4 different vessel basin designs with 9 unique colours that have a beautiful stone appearance and are all handmade in Australia.
Stainless Steel Vessel Basins:
Stainless steel vessel basins make a very sleek and elegant statement with their super thin edge. Perfect for matching with your tapware to create a stunning feature in your bathroom. Made from hard-wearing 304 grade stainless steel and coated with a PVD finish. Our Oli range of stainless steel vessel basins comes in brushed brass, brushed nickel and brushed gunmetal to complement the Oli 316 tapware range.
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So here it is, our top 5 finishes:
1. Matte Black
You can never go wrong with a classic Matte Black finish! The ultimate go-to for modern and traditional homes. Matte Black is by far our best selling finish and is becoming the new chrome, in terms of popularity. It has such a simple yet sophisticated appearance that suits any styled interior! Not to mention it is super easy to match with accessories like handles and lights. Our main brands that offer this finish include Astra Walker, Buddy, Meir, and Methven.
2. Brushed Brass
Brushed Brass finishes are very elegant and stylish, allowing them to bring in a bit of vibrancy and colour to your home. Our Urban Brass finish by Astra Walker is one of our best sellers, for those who prefer a sealed finish that will remain the same. It features delicate brushed lines under an alloy of hard gold plating, with a matte appearance. Alternatively, the Tiger Bronze finish by Meir has also been a huge hit this year as it is a gorgeous sealed brass with a slight gloss finish.
If you are looking for something more retro and industrial, a living finish may be for you! Living finishes are becoming very popular and are designed to change and evolve, so they will develop a unique worn appearance over time. Our most common Brushed Brass living finishes are Eco Brass by Astra Walker and Brushed Brass by Buddy.
The Eco Brass finish by Astra Walker is created by mechanically vibrating each brass piece. Over time the raw brass surface will further evolve as it reacts to the natural atmosphere it is in. Areas that are touched by hand become lighter, while areas that are rarely touched darken and oxidise to create a beautiful organic appearance. The Brushed Brass finish by Buddy is made in a similar manner so that it produces the same beautiful organic look.
3. Aged Brass
Aged Brass is a well known living finish, for those who want a more subtle and darker tone brass finish. All of our Aged Brass finishes are living and we offer this across both our Astra Walker and Buddy ranges. The Aged Brass finish is achieved by chemically treating each brass piece. Tone can vary depending on whether the brass is extruded, cast, machined or forged, but the result is a stunning organic appearance. Just like all of our living brass finishes, the raw brass surface will become more visible as it reacts to the natural environment that it is installed in.
4. Stainless Steel
Stainless Steel is a simple and classic finish if you want to avoid introducing too much colour in your home. The reason it is so popular is because it will never age or go out of fashion. Stainless Steel will also match anything in your house, including your appliances, making it a very reliable finish. With an alluring brushed finish, Stainless Steel provides a more glamorous touch as apposed to your standard polished chrome look, while still maintaining a neutral silver tone that easily fits into any home. Not to mention it is super durable and easy to maintain!
The best thing about Stainless Steel is that it is such a common finish and is available across various product ranges including Astra Walker, Methven, and Oli. Astra Walker also offers a Brushed Chrome (blue tinge) and Brushed Platinum (golden tinge) finish which incorporate a Stainless Steel look but with a slight blue/golden tinge.
5. Brushed Nickel/Gunmetal
Brushed Nickel or Gunmetal is a highly recommended finish for those wanting something with a darker tone, and is often a subtle alternative to Matte Black. Brushed Nickel and Gunmetal can vary from brand to brand but are often darker than a Stainless Steel finish with a slight black lustre and soft brushed lines.
Buddy does an exquisite Brushed Nickel finish which is a beautiful blend of soft grey and silver tones. If you are wanting something a little bit darker, and are leaning more towards Gunmetal then there are a few different trending options that people tend to go for. Ice Grey by Astra Walker is a sleek brushed grey finish, they also do Iron Bronze which is a slightly darker matte grey, both are very modern and bespoke takes on a Gunmetal finish! Alternatively, Buddy also does an Aged Iron finish which is similar to the Ice Grey.
Image source: Lume Design
]]>So, let's talk about our product ranges that are compatible for low and unequal pressure systems.
REGAL
The Regal collection by Progetto is made by Nicolazzi, a boutique tapware manufacturer located on the shores of Lake Orta in Northern Italy who pride themselves in handcrafting their taps completely in-house combining modern technology with age-old craftsmanship. They offer a traditional range of products that has a few options for low or unequal pressure on request with an optional low pressure kit that can be purchased seperately. Available in 10 stunning finishes.
METHVEN
Creating amazing water systems since 1886. Methven is world renowned for beautifully designed, award winning showers, taps and valves. They have various product ranges with options for low and unequal pressure, including the Aio, Futura, Kiri, Koha, Maku, Minimalist and Waipori collections. Available in chrome and matte black finishes.
ASTRA WALKER
Astra Walker offers the ideal design solution in both contemporary and classical kitchen/bathroom fittings with a range of 24 finishes. Anything that has cross handles can be ordered with jumper valves to make it compatible with low pressure systems. Including selected products from the Classic, Eden, Edwardian, Hampton, Icon + and Olde English collections.
GREENS
Greens tapware is designed and engineered in New Zealand, made especially for the modern lifestyle. They offer contemporary ranges for all pressures (low/unequal). These ranges are the Astro, Curb, Glide and Zeon which come in chrome, matte black, brushed nickel and gunmetal finishes. While we don't have these products on The Kitchen Hub website you can view them on our sister company website, The Bathroom Shop.
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The ideal care for all tapware is to dry them with a soft cloth after each use, which will prevent mineral deposits. Tapware should be regularly cleaned with warm water or a mild pH neutral liquid soap and water and polished with a clean soft cloth. A microfibre cloth is gentle and effective for cleaning without scratching and needs only to be dampened to clean the product. Residue left by personal hygiene products such as liquid soap, tooth paste, shampoo and shower gel can cause damage. Always rinse these off the fittings with clean water immediately after use.
Under no circumstances should harsh cleaning agents containing acidic, caustic or abrasive components or citrus, bleach or alcohol based substances be used to clean these fittings and should not be allowed to remain on metal finishes. DO NOT use Jif or Bar Keepers Friend as the harsh chemicals in these products will completely strip the finish and damage the colour. Avoid dripping or over spraying such cleaning agents by covering the fixtures with a cloth or towel, metal finishes splashed with these products should be immediately rinsed with clean water and dried. Do not use abrasive cloths, scouring pads, scrub sponges, steel wool etc.
Some finishes may require additional care and maintenance. This will depend on whether the finish is coated or living, and electroplated or powdercoated. Refer to the information below for cleaning specific Astra Walker finishes.
Polished Chrome, Brushed Chrome, Brushed Platinum & Ice Grey: The most durable of the electroplated finishes, cleaning as per the guidelines above.
Matt Black, Iron Bronze & Satin Chrome: Low gloss electroplated finishes with a matt appearance. Cleaning as per guidelines above. Avoid the use of waxes or polishes as they will fill the surface and give the part a polished look.
Gloss Black: High gloss electroplated finish, not as resistant to scratching or scuffing as standard chrome. Cleaning and care as per guidelines above.
French Gold & Urban Brass: These products should only be cleaned with a microfibre cloth, warm water and pH neutral liquid soap as per guidelines above.
Stainless Steel: These products are made from 316 marine grade steel. Although rust resistant, this product can develop tea-coloured stains. These can be removed with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. For difficult stains, use a synthetic scourer with soapy water, and work in the direction of the surface grain. After cleaning, rinse with clean water and towel dry. DO NOT use steel wool or steel brushes as these leave particles that will corrode the steel.
Nickel: This is an electroplated finish which over time will develop an individual patina, giving a distinctive classical look. Nickel finishes do require regular care. It is important to clean nickel finishes after use to prevent tarnishing. Water should be dried off and prevented from building up and forming hard water spots (which if left can be difficult to remove). It is highly recommended to clean your tapware regularly as per the guidelines above. If required waxing and cleaning with a soft wax like Mr Sheen will help protect the finish.
Natural Brass: As a living finish, also known as polished uncoated bare brass, this is an un-lacquered brass that has been buffed to a shiny finish. Over time the polished brass will garner a patina with a unique character and the surface will lose some of its brightness. Brass fittings can be cleaned routinely with mild soap and water which will not alter the patina development. If desired the shine can be restored with a very mild abrasive cleaner like Brasso.
Aged Brass: This accelerated aged look is achieved by chemically treating each brass piece. Tone can vary depending on whether the brass is extruded, cast, machined or forged, but the result is a beautiful organic appearance. This finish will further evolve over time altering the visual appearance. The degree of change is dependent on many factors such as perspiration, cleaning agents, wear and abrasion. When this finish is first supplied it has a sheen or gloss appearance which will dull over time. Cleaning and care as per guidelines above. Under no circumstances should harsh cleaning agents containing acidic, caustic, or abrasive components or citrus, bleach or alcohol based substances be used to clean or allowed to remain on these finishes.
Eco Brass: As a living finish, this has a tumbled surface which reduces the gleam on the surface. Over time this brass finish will garner a patina with a unique character. Fittings can be cleaned routinely with mild soap and water which will not alter the patina development. A soft wax such as Renaissance Wax can be used gently over the finish after cleaning to preserve the finish. Under no circumstances should harsh cleaning agents containing acidic, caustic, or abrasive components or citrus, bleach or alcohol based substances be used to clean or allowed to remain on these finishes.
Charcoal Bronze & English Brass: Achieved by chemically treating the brass with an oxidizing solution, the process is repeated several times. The darkness and colour hue is affected by the brass/copper material composition. A wax is applied to the coloured surface to provide a degree of stabilization and protection. This finish will further evolve over time altering the visual appearance. The degree of change is dependent on many factors such as perspiration, cleaning agents, wear and abrasion. Being a softer finish, the durability of the finish is directly related to its environment and the care and maintenance of the article, which are as per the guidelines set out above. A soft wax such as Renaissance Wax can be used gently over the finish after cleaning to preserve the finish. Under no circumstances should harsh cleaning agents containing acidic, caustic, or abrasive components or citrus, bleach or alcohol based substances be used to clean or allowed to remain on these finishes.
Copper, Flemish Copper & Ultra: These are lacquered finishes which have an acrylic lacquer topcoat applied to provide additional protection given that these finishes are soft with low corrosion resistance. Simply wiping and drying with a soft cloth will maintain the finish. Never use abrasives of any nature as these will scratch and wear the coating. Follow guidelines as set out above.
Powdercoat Finishes: Cleaning and care as per guidelines above. Please note that these finishes are delicate and if chipped or scratched this will damage the finish and will not be covered by the warranty. Avoid contact with ultra violet light and under no circumstances should harsh cleaning agents containing acidic, caustic, or abrasive components or citrus, bleach or alcohol based substances be used to clean or allowed to remain on these finishes.
]]>Although granite sinks are extremely durable and are resistant to heat, scratches and stains, they still require regular care and attention to keep them looking new. Read on for the do's and don'ts of caring for your new granite sink.
]]>1. Positioning
Where in your kitchen will your tap sit? On an island, under a window, to the left or right of your sink? Positioning plays an important part in making a decision. For example, if your tap was to be displayed on an island, do you want the tap to stand out or blend in? If your tap was to be displayed by the window, do you want it to sit under or over the windowsill? The positioning of your tap will determine the size of your tap. A tap in the wrong position can have an underwhelming or overwhelming effect depending on size.
2. Type of Sink
The type of sink will also play a great part in choosing a tap. Do you want to colour match your tap and sink? Will your sink be a double bowl or single bowl? The type of sink you choose can help to eliminate certain colours or functions. It’s all down to personal preference but some colours just look better than others. There are plenty more components to a tap nowadays. For example, do you want a pull out spray or a tap that changes water pressure? A pull out spray is a great option for double bowl sinks or laundry sinks whereas single bowl sinks smaller than 500mm (width) are best suited for normal taps.
3. Colour Palette
The colour palette of your kitchen is important to consider when choosing a tap finish. Matching cupboard handles, bench stone, cabinetry, and other details to your tap can elevate the overall ‘wow factor’ of your kitchen. Brass finishes are becoming increasingly more popular, but there are a few things you should learn before purchasing. With a vast amount of brass taps available, choosing the right one for your space can be daunting, but don’t worry. Consider the look of your kitchen long term, do you want the brass colour to remain the same or patina? A tap that will patina overtime is just the result of a natural tarnish that forms on the surface, alternatively there are some polished brasses that lacquered to help preserve the tap colour. Black tapware has also spiked in popularity. Black is a powerful colour and can add a degree of sophistication to a space.
There is no rule book on choosing the right tap for your kitchen, but with these considerations we hope you get one step closer to your perfect space.
Image sources:
]]>Like carefully curated artwork for your home, tapware is the fastest way to turn your kitchen or bathroom into the most luxurious of spaces.
Amongst the metals, copper reigns supreme with searches for copper taps up 100 per cent year-on-year. A mix of high-glamour 1920s with warehouse-style chick, copper is proving its not going anywhere. It seems New Zealander's can’t get enough the industrial look.
From taps and showers to frames and handles, brass finishes transcend a wide range of bathroom trends from rustic to ultra-modern schemes. Raw, natural and living brass finishes continue to increase in popularity. Matt and polished brass also hold their own ground within a luxe contemporary space.
Gold accents were also up in popularity (+96%). From rose-tinted to glamorous, gold accents are a great way to add some metals into the mix.
Metals mesh with any color palette, but to really amp up a space, mix different finishes together (saves on Pinterest for “mixed metals” +423%). Mixed metals were a home highlight from the Pinterest 100 report.
Still not sure what colour to choose? Scroll down for more of our favourites...
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The soft texture of the raw materials adds warmth while remaining minimalist in style. As Oliver describes this minimalist style allows the “beautiful materials” to do all the “talking”.
When selecting brass products, you have the choice of raw, sealed, or aged brass. Raw brass naturally patinas overtime, adding a sense of character and wisdom to the product. Fast-forward this process by selecting a product constructed from aged brass. However, if a maintained bright brass finish is preferred, products are also available in a sealed brass. Each finish offers a different sense of character to your bathroom. For the timber products, the use of reclaimed, recycled timber you know you are making an environmentally friendly choice. Many products combine the four materials for added contrast; you will find the perfect piece to complement your bathroom design.
The natural materials age with your home to tell the unique story of your family. The materials natural charm disguises quality mechanical parts with all Wood Melbourne products meeting the required technical standards.
If you would like to explore the options of incorporating the Wood Melbourne products in your bathroom design, please contact us for a personalised quote. Combine these products with other brands available at The Kitchen Hub to create a personalised space and explore the options of a package deal with us.
]]>It’s no longer simple to choose and purchase a kitchen sink. Under or top mount? Double or single? Drainer or no drainer? Granite or stainless? With so many options available, it can be stressful and confusing! We take you through the pros and cons of both stainless steel and granite sinks, and hopefully one of those decisions will be made a little easier!
]]>We take you through the pros and cons of both stainless steel and granite sinks, and hopefully one of those decisions will be made a little easier!
Image source: Homes to Love
Stainless steel sinks have come a long way over the years. They remain an extremely popular sink, widely used in the restaurant industry for their exceptional durability. Technological and design developments have opened up a huge variety in terms style and configuration options. In short, stainless steel is no longer boring, it can be beautiful. Stainless steel also works in seamlessly with other chrome and stainless kitchen appliances such as ovens, dishwashers and fridges, creating a cohesive look throughout your space. And to top it off, stainless steel is 100% recyclable so you know you are doing your part for the environment also!
Image source: Blanco Naya 9s - The Kitchen Hub
However, some of the con’s when purchasing a stainless steel sink can be their tendency to scratch and age over time. You also need to be aware of the gauge or thickness of the steel as this gives a good indication of the quality and durability. The thinner the steel, the more likely to become damaged or dented. For some people, the noise created when dropping cutlery or pans into a stainless steel sink can be a real headache, so be sure to buy quality and make sure the sink is undercoated to provide adequate sound deadening.
Image source: The Style Curator
Choosing a granite sink can provide a real point of difference in your kitchen! A granite sink is comprised of usually around 80% granite and 20% acrylic resin resulting in durability that is hard to match! Opting for granite also means you get a sink that is scratch, stain and heat resistant meaning less to worry about when banging about in the kitchen. Depending on the brand, there are a variety of colour to choose from that work in nicely with most design plans. With a little care and attention, you can keep enjoying a beautiful granite sink year after year.
Image source: Blanco Naya 8s - The Kitchen Hub
In comparison to stainless steel sinks there are more limitations to the configuration choices for granite, in saying that however there is still a large range to choose from! If you live in a ‘hard water’ area, owners of dark granite sinks have found that a build-up of lime can leave a white residue over the sink but this can be avoided by always rinsing and drying the sink after use and using a mineral oil on the surface. In order to keep your granite sink looking great you do need to follow a few care instructions, but it’s well worth the effort.
Image source: Your Home and Garden
All in all, both types of sinks offer great durability and functionality so it really comes down to style. Think about which sink will work in best with the design of your kitchen benchtops, cabinetry, tapware and appliances. Then, as long as you buy quality be rest assured that you are getting a great sink that will stand the test of time!
]]>So what’s the best laundry sink? Sink or tub? Undermount or top mount? This all comes down to personal preference. So best to think through what you’re most likely to use your laundry sink for: soaking sports clothes and shoes, hand-washing delicates, washing your hands after gardening? The difference between a laundry sink and a laundry tub generally comes down to size. A tub tends to be much larger and deeper. You may struggle to fit a roomy laundry tub into a small room, but in general the larger the laundry sink the better. If you don’t have a huge amount of space, another design tip is that you can use a kitchen sink with a standard depth of approximately 200mm and pair it with a gooseneck mixer. This will make plenty of room for your buckets and larger items! Oh, and before you start trying to narrow down your choice, it’s best measure the unit the laundry sink will need to fit in to first! Make sure you give yourself a bit more room to play with than just drop-to-drop (the internal dimensions of the sink).
Still not sure what the best laundry sink option is for you? Get in touch with us at hello@thekitchenhub.co.nz.
Image source: Rejuvenation
]]>Your kitchen needs to be designed with you in mind. Consider the way you will use your kitchen when trying to decide things like double bowl sink or single bowl, instant hot or cold water taps, insinkerator or not?
Once you’ve made the descisions about the functionality of your kitchen you can play around with your own personal style. There are numerous ways to inject style and sophistication into your kitchen that reflect your own personality. We’ve put together a few ideas to get you started…
BENCHTOPS
Benchtops need to be functional and suit your lifestyle, but they can also make a big statement, especially since they often make up a rather large surface area! Make sure you choose one that wil suit your lifestyle and when choosing colour consider how it compliments the other colour aspects of your kitchen.
Image source: Pinterest/apartmenttherapy.com
TAPS
The new generation of tapware extends well in to the realm of beautiful architectural design. These can be a fabulous way to showcase your design style and compliment the other aspects of your kitchen. The options available really are limitless from black to white, chrome to brass and almost everywhere in between.
Image source: Pinterest/insideout.co.au
SPLASHBACKS
Whether utilising tiles, glass or even beautiful wooden panels, splashbacks no longer need to boring! Geometric patterns are trending at the moment and these look wonderful as a tiled splash back either subtly in a white geo pattern or a bold black or colour palette.
Image source: Pinterest/cdn.homedit.com
LIGHTING
Like benchtops, your lighting choice needs to be functional, however lights can also set mood of your kitchen. Hanging pendant lights are a dramatic style feature, and the colour, shape and material can complement your other kitchen design choices. On the other hand, hidden lights can help create a streamlined modern look as well as being extremely functional in their placement.
Image source: Pinterest/bluetea.com
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