Choosing tapware finishes: what to check before you buy

Sep 17, 2026

Finish choice is where bathroom specs most often stall. Online swatches lie a little; tile colour and window direction lie a lot. Use this checklist before you lock matte black, gunmetal, chrome or brushed tones for the whole wet area.

1. View finishes in the same light as your bathroom

Bring a tile offcut or benchtop sample to the Loganholme showroom. Compare matte black, gunmetal / brushed carbon, brushed nickel, chrome and gold tones under our lights, then step near the entrance daylight. Coastal and north-facing Brisbane rooms exaggerate warm golds; shady rooms can make gunmetal read flatter than you expect.

2. Match the family, not just the name

"Black" and "gunmetal" are not universal. Stick to one brand family where you can - for example Meir or Phoenix - then add accessories from the same finish code. If you must cross brands, compare pieces side-by-side in store.

3. Think about cleaning and water marks

Chrome shows water spots; matte finishes can show residue from the wrong cleaner; brushed surfaces hide minor marks better. Ask us which cleaners are safe for the coating on your chosen range.

4. Spec the wet area as a set

Mixer, shower rail, spout, towel rail and toilet-roll holder should be decided together. Shop tapware, showers and accessories, or start from a finish collection and filter.