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Modern vs. Traditional Taps: Which Style is Right for You?

Choosing taps might seem like a minor detail during a bathroom renovation, but in our experience, they play a far bigger role than most people expect. They’re one of the most used features in any bathroom, affect the overall feel of the space, and can either blend in seamlessly or become a design focal point. Whether you’re updating a basin or planning a full redesign, getting the style right – and choosing something practical – can make a big difference day to day.

Two of the most common styles we work with are modern mixer taps and more traditional designs. Both have their strengths, and the best choice really depends on the look you’re going for, the layout of your bathroom, and how you plan to use the space.

Here’s how we typically break it down when helping clients decide.

What Are Modern Taps?

Modern taps come in a wide range of shapes and finishes, from slim cylindrical mixers to minimalist wall-mounted spouts. Some include features like click-clack waste systems or dual levers, while others focus on clean simplicity. They tend to suit contemporary bathrooms with sleek furniture, countertop basins, and frameless enclosures.

One variation we’re often asked about is the waterfall tap, which creates a wide, open flow of water. While these are visually striking, we generally recommend caution – particularly in hard water areas like Dorset. The open spout design means water sits and evaporates on the surface, which leads to limescale staining and dulling over time. If you’re drawn to the look, there are alternative modern taps with a similar aesthetic but better protection from mineral build-up.

When opting for a modern tap, we also suggest choosing a product with a PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition) finish, like those from Coalbrook. This coating makes the tap more durable, scratch-resistant and better suited to environments where water quality might affect the finish.

Rose Gold taps

What Are Traditional Taps?

Traditional taps include designs inspired by classic periods – Victorian, Edwardian or early 20th-century styling – and are a natural fit for heritage homes or timeless interiors. These typically include pillar taps, crosshead handles, or mixer taps with ceramic levers.

We regularly install traditional taps in homes where character is important or where the bathroom is part of a broader period design scheme. That said, they’re not just about looks – many of these styles are incredibly practical. Their enclosed design tends to resist limescale better than open spouts, and they’re often easier to clean and maintain.

If you’re going for a classic roll-top bath, Belfast basin or shaker-style cabinetry, traditional taps complete the picture in a way that feels intentional and cohesive.

Function and Flow

This is one of the most important considerations when choosing between tap styles. While modern mixer taps often allow for precise temperature control and sleek integration, some styles require higher water pressure to function well – particularly wall-mounted designs or waterfall-style mixers.

Traditional taps generally work well in both high- and low-pressure systems. If you’re working with older plumbing or prefer separate hot and cold controls, they’re often the safer and simpler choice.

We’ll always check your water pressure and current setup before making any specific recommendations – it’s something we factor into every design consultation.

Bronze bathroom taps
Matte black taps

Cleaning and Maintenance

In hard water areas, maintenance is a key factor – and one we’re always honest about. Modern open spout or waterfall designs might look great at first, but they can quickly collect limescale unless cleaned very regularly. If you prefer a low-maintenance option, enclosed spouts with smooth finishes are easier to wipe down and keep looking fresh.

Brands that use PVD coating on their brassware are a strong choice here. Not only do they resist limescale better, but many – including Coalbrook – also offer long guarantees on their finishes, giving added peace of mind that your bathroom will keep looking its best for years to come.

Design and Finish Options

Both modern and traditional taps come in a wide range of finishes – from polished chrome to brushed brass and matt black. In recent years, we’ve seen more traditional designs being reimagined in modern finishes, making them easier to integrate into transitional or blended interiors.

Matching the tap finish to your other brassware – such as towel rails, shower valves or mirror frames – helps tie the whole room together. We regularly help clients build a cohesive scheme, especially when choosing items from brands that offer full product families.

Which Is Right for You?

Ultimately, it comes down to how you want your bathroom to feel – and how you plan to use it. If your space is contemporary, minimal and you’re comfortable with a bit of extra maintenance, a modern tap might suit perfectly. If your home leans more traditional, or you’re looking for reliability and easy upkeep, a classic tap style may be a better fit.

From our experience, most people benefit from seeing the options up close. We always encourage a visit to our Dorchester showroom, where you can see how different styles work with various basin shapes and furniture finishes. Whether you’re drawn to modern mixers or classic crossheads, we can help you find something that looks great – and performs just as well.

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