Interior Design Fittings and Fixtures - Plumbing and Sanitary Fixtures

Tapware / Faucets

The different types of tap spouts and water-dispensing fittings are extreme to say the least. Confirming that is easily done by a visit to your local hardware store or plumbing merchant.

So on this page we will identify the basic forms of taps/faucets, and what they are made of, the systems within the taps and some of the ergonomic considerations that should be taken into account.

Here are the main considerations or points that we as designers believe are important to understand and to base our selections on.

An important consideration is the ergonomics of the tap. This means is it comfortable to grip or easy to use? If the tap is in a wet use situation then it should have been given the ability to allow gripping while wet.

Think about different situations and users. Children aren't as strong as adults and some elderly people are also weaker in the grip.

The easier the tap is to grip and turn the better. Consequently taps that are basically rounded are more difficult to grip than those with spokes.

Taps / Faucets

Single lever mixer tap and spout provides hot, cold or warm water depending on where the lever is turned.

Spoked taps with a swivel spout

Another consideration is the aesthetic look and it may be more appropriate to have the softer rounded look than the spoke formed grip. So the easier type of tap to grip must be those with spokes that allow the fingers to turn the fitting at a number of points.

The other types of taps are predominantly knobs formed with facetted edges or square. Additional considerations to the shape or form of the tap are the edges. See if they are rounded or sharp and check the actual size of the tap.

The longer the spokes the more leverage you have when turning the fitting. The size of the tap will vary, as do the hands of children, adults and the sexes. Think about these before making your decision.

Also consider the amount of room the tap will take up when in position on the basin or sink. Ensure that there is enough room around the tap for your hand to turn it without getting caught on anything else.