The Ultimate Guide to Kitchen Sinks
Explore the best kitchen sink styles, materials, and layouts to suit your home, lifestyle, and design preferences.
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Your tap isn’t just for filling the kettle, it’s a high use item in any kitchen and a crucial element to consider when undertaking any renovation. Nowadays, kitchen taps range from simple and straightforward all the way up to high-tech and futuristic. Here’s our best advice on selecting the best one for your lifestyle.
Wait! Not sure what sink to go for? Check out our comprehensive guide on all things kitchen sinks here!
This is your classic all-rounder: hot and cold feeds come through a single spout, controlled by one or two levers. It’s a clean, efficient solution that works with almost any kitchen aesthetic. Available in a huge variety of shapes (curved goosenecks or square-edged spouts to name a few) and finishes, mixer taps remain a timeless choice for most homes.
Best for: Traditional, shaker, or minimalist kitchens where simplicity is key.
A favourite in chef-style kitchens, this tap features a flexible hose that pulls out from the main body, often with the option of a spray or stream setting.
They’re incredibly useful for rinsing produce, cleaning large pans, or blasting soap suds off dishes. The look is slightly more industrial, but the functionality is unmatched. We typically recommend these for any homeowners who have chosen not to have a dishwasher for any reason.
Best for: Cooks who like control, flexibility, and a hands-on feel.
No more waiting for the kettle. A Quooker boiling water tap delivers 100°C water instantly. To really tap into all the mod-cons, consider the CUBE system for instant filtered, chilled and sparkling water, straight from the tap. For homeowners wanting to maximise their kitchen counter space and minimise bulky appliances, an instant boiling tap is the perfect choice.
Best for: Time-saving, energy-conscious households who want a tech upgrade.
The finish of your tap can subtly tie the room together or make a bold statement in its own right. Here are the most popular finishes and how to style them:
Bright and polished, ideal for classic white or grey kitchens
Warm and sophisticated, stunning against navy or deep green units
A bold, modern choice that works with pale cabinetry or as part of a monochrome scheme
Nickel – Softer than chrome, perfect for understated luxury
Eye-catching and glam; use sparingly for maximum impact
To really elevate a kitchen sink space, our customers often opt for:
Waste Disposal Units: Great for reducing food waste and mess, especially in busy homes
Draining Boards: Can be integrated into your sink or routed into the worktop for a sleeker look
Built-in Colanders, Baskets, and Grids: Add-on accessories that make prep and cleaning easier
Soap Dispensers: A small touch, but helpful for maintaining a clutter-free sink area
Your sink and tap are two of the most-used elements in your kitchen so don’t leave them as an afterthought. Whether you lean towards timeless elegance, clever functionality, or a clean modern look, the right choice can add both beauty and ease to your everyday routine.
Need help choosing your perfect sink and tap pairing?
Come visit our South Manchester showroom and speak with our design team we’ll help you find the ideal combination to suit your style and lifestyle.
A pull-out or spray tap features a detachable nozzle that extends from the spout, making it easier to rinse dishes, clean your sink, or fill pans. They’re especially useful with larger or double-bowl sinks and for busy cooks who want extra flexibility.
Yes – modern boiling water taps like those from Quooker include childproof push-and-turn handles, insulated spouts, and safety features that prevent accidental use. They’re a safe and efficient alternative to kettles in family kitchens.
Brushed brass, matte black, and nickel are trending finishes that add warmth and character. Chrome remains a timeless choice and is typically the most affordable and easy to maintain – we see chrome used over a wide variety of kitchen styles.
No, Quooker taps include their own under-sink tank that connects to your standard plumbing. Some models also offer filtered cold and sparkling water, making them an all-in-one tap solution.
Absolutely. Matching finishes between taps, handles, and even light fittings can create a cohesive design. For example, brushed brass taps pair beautifully with warm-toned cabinetry and handle accents.
Regular cleaning with a non-abrasive cleaner and soft cloth will keep most sinks looking their best. Stainless steel can benefit from occasional buffing to reduce water marks, while ceramic sinks may need more care to avoid chips. Avoid using harsh chemicals or wire pads on any material.
Yes. Some taps, especially those with additional functions like pull-out sprays or boiling water features, require a minimum water pressure to work properly. Our architectural designers can discuss this with you in your free consultation and find the best solution for your home.
Chrome is the most low-maintenance and widely used, showing fewer marks than some matte finishes. Brushed brass and black taps are very popular but may need more regular wiping to keep watermarks or fingerprints at bay.
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