Faucets are used hundreds of times a week. They're also one of the most visible hardware elements in a bathroom — the finish, the handle style, and the spout shape all read as design decisions, not just functional ones. Getting the right faucet means matching it to your sink configuration, your vanity, and the finish of your other hardware.
Faucet Configurations
Single-Hole Faucets
One hole in the sink or countertop — handle and spout in a single unit. The most common contemporary configuration, clean and compact. Works with undermount sinks and vessel sinks where the faucet mounts to the counter, and with many integrated vanity tops.
Widespread Faucets (Three-Hole)
Separate hot and cold handles with a spout in the centre, requiring three holes at 8" or 16" spacing. The traditional configuration in higher-end bathrooms — more visual presence on the counter, and the separate handles often have a more substantial, premium feel. More installation complexity but worth it when the vanity top supports it.
Wall-Mounted Faucets
Faucet mounts to the wall above the sink rather than the countertop or sink deck. Popular with vessel sinks and freestanding trough basins. The rough-in location needs to be set precisely during framing — wall-mounted faucets are very hard to reposition after the wall is closed up. Best planned at the renovation stage, not retrofitted.
Vessel Sink Faucets
Tall spout faucets designed for above-counter vessel basins — the extra height accounts for the basin sitting on top of the counter. Need to be specified to match the vessel height; a faucet that's too short won't reach the basin properly.
Finish — The Coordination Decision
Faucet finish should be consistent with other hardware in the bathroom: vanity drawer pulls, shower glass hardware, towel bars, and toilet paper holders. Mixing finishes can work (brushed nickel with matte black accents, for example) but it needs to be intentional rather than accidental.
| Finish | Character | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|
| Brushed nickel | Warm, versatile, works in most styles | Forgiving — hides water spots well |
| Matte black | Contemporary, bold, high contrast | Shows water spots more; wipe regularly |
| Polished chrome | Classic, bright, reflective | Shows fingerprints and water spots |
| Brushed gold / champagne | Warm, on-trend, statement-making | Varies by coating quality |
| Oil-rubbed bronze | Traditional, dark, antique feel | Good — living finish hides wear |
Sinks
Undermount — Mounted below the countertop surface. Counter edge is exposed — no lip to collect grime. Works with stone and solid surface countertops (not laminate). The cleanest look and the easiest to wipe crumbs into the sink.
Vessel — Sits above the counter entirely. Strong design statement in powder rooms and guest baths. Requires compatible tall faucet and creates a higher splash zone.
Integrated — Basin and countertop are one piece, usually ceramic or cultured marble. No seam, easy to clean, lower cost. Standard on many vanity packages.
Drop-in — Rim drops into a cut hole in the countertop. Easy to replace, less seamless look. Common in older bathrooms; less popular in new installations.
Brands We Carry
Moen, Delta, Grohe for reliable mid to premium range. Riobel for thermostatic and contemporary configurations. Aqua Brass for premium custom finishes. Blanco for undermount basins.
Match Your Faucet to Your Bathroom Plan
Faucet selection makes most sense alongside your vanity and tile choices. Come in and we'll help you coordinate everything in one visit.
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