Around here we often call fixtures the “jewelry” of a room. Much like an outfit without complementary jewelry, a room without the proper fixtures can feel less pulled together. Picture this: you are designing your dream bathroom. You’ve chosen your perfect paint color, your vanity has been carefully picked out with storage and counter space in mind, and your shower and floor tile are both on trend and timeless (goals). Now imagine with all that thoughtful consideration, your sink faucet wasn’t the right finish? Or worse, what if the faucet style was screaming farmhouse chic when the aesthetic you are going for is modern traditional?? That simply cannot do. On the other hand, if you are a renter like me and you have a bathroom that sparks little-to-no joy, a simple faucet swap can make a HUGE difference. In any case, if you are facing either obstacle, it may be time to consider your faucet options.
The main considerations for choosing a faucet are A. the faucet type (centerset, single-hole, widespread, or wall mount) B. the finish and C. the overall style. The faucet type depends on the spread that’s already in your vanity unless you are renovating in which case you can choose any spread that best fits your needs. As for finishes, you should keep the faucet finish consistent with the other metals present in your bathroom design. We suggest sticking with the same finish or if you want to mix and match, make sure to spread the different finishes evenly throughout the space. When it comes to style, consider the look you are going for in your bathroom. If you want a modern feel, go for a faucet shape that aligns with clean lines. For a traditional style bathroom, a high arched faucet with traditional handles may be your best option.
Okay now, let’s get to the best affordable faucets out there right now by spread type:
Centerset
A centerset faucet includes a deckplate that contains the handles and spout in one plate and can work with both single-hole and 3-hole basins. These are often the most affordable faucet options and are compatible with vanities and sinks that have a flat surface behind the basin.
HOT TIP: If you are renovating and trying to figure out what size the spread should be, it’s best to go with the standard size (either 4″ or 8″) so if you need or want to switch the faucet down the line, you can easily find a replacement.
1. Kingston Brass KB602B 4-Inch Centerset Lavatory Faucet | 2. American Classic 4 in. Centerset Bathroom Faucet | 3. Melina 4 in. Centerset 2-Handle High-Arc Bathroom Faucet | 4. Lindo Centerset Bathroom Faucet | 5. Kingston Brass KB1606PL Heritage 4-inch Centerset Lavatory Faucet | 6. Provincetown 1.2 GPM Centerset Bathroom Faucet | 7. Bowery 1.2 GPM Centerset Bathroom Faucet | 8. Teapot Centerset Bathroom Faucet with Metal Lever Handles | 9. 4″ 2 Handle Low Arc Lavatory Faucet
#1 is a beautiful affordable vintage style option and #2 is a similar style and finish as the basement bathroom above from Emily’s LA home. I really love the elegant brushed nickel look of #8 (it also comes in chrome) and if you are looking for a classic matte black option #9 is a great choice.
Wall Mounted
Wall-mounted faucets are perfect for smaller areas where you need to save counter space. They are also a great modern option and can have circular knobs instead of lever handles if you prefer that look. Now if you are looking to replace an existing wall-mounted faucet, they are definitely the hardest to install without rudimentary plumbing knowledge. I almost attempted this recently when my wall-mounted kitchen faucet broke and began leaking (oh the joys of being a renter) until I realized A. I would have to dig into the wall to find valves and B. I have no business messing with any plumbing fixtures. It was then I decided to leave this trick to the professionals. But if you are gutsier or more experienced than I am, there are a ton of in-depth tutorials all over YouTube.
If you have any hint of a rule breaker in you, an exciting (albeit pricier) option is to mount the faucet through your vanity mirror. Design duo Annie and Marieke of ASOM home executed this in the above bathroom and it’s a subtle yet really impactful design moment. They installed it by cutting holes in the mirrors (this is what adds labor costs) which is precarious and requires extremely accurate measuring but the result is really special.
HOT TIP: Be sure to consider the height of your faucet before installation. A faucet placed too high up may cause unnecessary (and messy) splashing and a faucet too low can make it hard to wash your hands or your face.
Here are some of our favorite affordable options:
1. Modern 2-Handle Wall Mount Bathroom Faucet in Matte Black | 2. Tenet 1.2 GPM Wall Mounted Widespread Bathroom Faucet | 3. Wall Mounted Bathroom Sink Faucet – 8.7 inches x 3.5 inches | 4. Gold Bathroom Faucet, Double Handle Wall Mount Bathroom Sink Faucet | 5. Modern 2-Handle Wall Mount Bathroom Faucet | 6. Brushed Brass Single Lever Wall Mounted Bathroom Faucet Swivel Sink Faucet Brass | 7. Wall Mounted Bathroom Faucet | 8. Single Lever Wall Mounted Faucet | 9. Millennium Wall Mounted Bathroom Faucet
For smaller bathrooms, a single handle option like #6 and #8 would take up less precious wall space. For a minimalist style bathroom, I love #7, and something like #3 or #4 could work with almost any style.
Single-Hole
Single hole faucets are used (you guessed it) when you have a single hole on the back of the sink or vanity. They most often have a single handle, lever, or knob that controls the water flow and temperature as well. These are great for small bathrooms as they take up the least amount of counter space.
HOT TIP: If you want a more affordable yet longer-lasting finish, opt for matte black. Polished brass will wear out faster so you might end up replacing your faucet sooner than you’d hoped.
1. Delta Trinsic 1.2 GPM Single Hole Bathroom Faucet – Includes Metal | 2. Bath Faucet | 3. Avallon 1.2 GPM Single Handle Sleek Single Hole Bathroom Faucet | 4. Ruth Industrial Gold Single Hole Bathroom Sink Faucet Single Handle Solid Brass | 5. JAT-C-302BLA Single Hole Bathroom Faucet | 6. Parma 1.2 GPM Single Hole Bathroom Faucet with High-Rise Spout | 7. Taut 0.5 GPM Single Hole Bathroom Faucet | 8. Nicoli 1.2 GPM Single Hole Bathroom Faucet with Pop-Up Drain Assembly | 9. Nicoli 1.2 GPM Single Hole Bathroom Faucet with Pop-Up Drain Assembly
If you like the look of a single, matte black faucet like the one Emily Bowser installed in her bathroom above, #9 is a similar affordable option. For a more modern traditional look, I love #3 and it comes in a variety of finishes. If you are looking for a cool modern faucet, I also love #4 which has an industrial-style circular knob handle.
Widespread
Widespread faucets have separate hot and cold handles that are independent of the spout and can be mounted on the countertop or on the sink itself. They are often mounted on sinks with three holes that fit 8 inches to 16 inches from one side to the other. If you are renovating and have the choice, widespread faucets are more popular than centerset because they have a more built-in look, you can space the handles however you want, and they are easier to clean. Emily chose widespread faucets in the above primary bathroom and I love how they accent the modern traditional double sink vanity. But as is the case with much of the design process, it’s all about YOUR personal preference.
If you are looking for some widespread options, here are some we love:
1. Nicoli 1.2 GPM Widespread Bathroom Faucet with Pop-Up Drain Assembly | 2. Metropolitan Widespread Bathroom Faucet with Drain Assembly | 3. 2 Handle Waterfall Widespread Bathroom Sink Faucet with Pop Up | 4. Widespread Bathroom Faucet with Drain Assembly | 5. 8 in. Widespread Three Hole 2-Handle Bathroom Faucet in Black | 6. Nicoli 1.2 GPM Widespread Bathroom Faucet with Pop-Up Drain Assembly | 7. Heritage 8 in. Widespread Bathroom Faucet | 8. Setra 8 in. Widespread Double Handle Bathroom Faucet in Vibrant Moderne Brushed Brass | 9. Three Hole 8 Inch Bathroom Sink Faucet
Because I love a vintage-style faucet, #4 and #7 are my favorites (and both come in a range of finishes). If you prefer a waterfall type of water pressure, #3 and #5 are your guys (and they both have a sleek shape and finish). If you want a tall arched faucet shape, look no further than #9.
Alright my friends, this is where I leave you. If you were looking for an affordable faucet I hope this post helped and if you have any recommendations, please sound off in the comments below. Happy Thursday! xx
Opener Image Credit: Photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp | From: Budget Basement Bathroom Reveal
THIS POST WAS ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED HERE.
