One of the smartest upgrades in a house is a kitchen renovation.   And one of the most common kitchen renovation projects is replacing the countertops -  and when you do, the sink and faucet as well.  WHAT to change your countertops TO is a subject for another day, but today we're talking about faucet choices.

Today's solid surface countertops allow for a very clean installation with an undermounted sink (no more nasty rim to catch all the grime when you wipe the counters!) and holes through the counter for the faucet.  Obviously, the sink and faucet need to be selected before the counter is fabricated.

There are many choices in faucets and you must consider finish, style, and function when you make your selection.

Most faucets come in a variety of finishes and there is something for everyone - stainless, brushed or polished nickel, chrome, oil rubbed bronze, copper, and the newly popular brass and gold tone finishes.  If your kitchen contains a lot of stainless steel appliances and brushed nickel hardware, then stainless or brushed nickel are obvious (and popular) choices.  The quality of finishes varies from manufacturer to manufacturer, so read the specifications carefully and ask questions of your designer or salesperson.  Some finishes are "living finishes" which means they will change color over time and develop a patina...an appealing feature for a historic property or vintage vibe, not so great if it is an unwelcome surprise a few years down the road.

Style-wise there are choices from sleek minimalist, to vintage traditional and everything in between.  The faucet is another element that reinforces the style of the kitchen and so it should complement the rest of your choices. Take into consideration your cabinet hardware, cabinet and millwork styles, and the architecture of the room as you edit your choices.

Functionally there are touch activated, single lever, two handle (lever or cross), bridge faucets, deck/counter or wall mounted faucets, high arc, pull down sprays, separate sprays, separate soap dispensers, instant hot water or filtered water dispensers and much more.  

Deciding what will work best for you is a critical first step.  

Are you often turning on the water with messy, sticky hands?  Maybe touch activated would be helpful.  Do you need to fit big pots under the faucet? Choose high arc or something with a flexible spray unit.  When selecting a faucet with a pull down spray unit, look for one with a magnetic docking feature.  This easily realigns the spray head on the faucet when it is retracted.

There are styles and functions and finishes for nearly every conceivable application and a wide variety of prices available.

Your kitchen faucet is one of the hardest working pieces in the house so make sure you choose well!

If you would like some expert guidance with your renovation project, we'd be happy to help.  Contact us at JRL Interiors to start the conversation!

Happy Renovating!