Phoenix
Tapware has officially stepped into the spotlight. Once purely practical, taps and mixers are now style statements in their own right – shaping the look and feel of kitchens, bathrooms and laundries across Australian homes. From fluted lines and retro details to warm metallics, these three trends are leading the way this year and into 2026.
Art Deco revival
Elegant and timeless, our collective desire to bring back retro details couldn’t be stronger – and Art Deco style is leading the charge. This nod to the 1920s is influencing everything from joinery to lighting and fixtures, including tapware.
This year’s take on the charming trend, however, is subtle – think fluted lines, faceted handles and sculptural shapes that hint at, rather than spotlight, the glamorous era.
The Wiltern Collection by Phoenix Tapware captures this beautifully. Designed in Australia, it blends Deco-inspired charm with modern functionality, creating a design-led point of difference for both classic and contemporary homes. Available in four finishes – chrome, brushed nickel, brushed gold and brushed carbon – and featuring SwitchMix compatibility, it’s easy to tailor to your style or update down the track.
Farmhouse charm
The modern farmhouse aesthetic continues to win hearts. With The Block’s recent rural settings and the rise of the ‘tradwife’ trend, our feeds are brimming with country-inspired interiors – a hark back to simpler times.
While the kitchen remains the heart of this look, the apron-front sink isn’t the only hero element defining country-style kitchens. Fixtures are getting the farmhouse treatment too, with pot filler taps becoming a must-have for cooks who love both function and flair. Beyond the convenience of not having to find brute strength to haul a pot full of water back to the stove, their timeless silhouette ties the whole rural-chic look together — and feels right at home in Australian kitchens.
Bathrooms are embracing the rustic charm too, with classic cross-handle taps and softly curved spouts making a comeback. Paired with natural stone and shaker cabinetry, this trend brings comfort and character to contemporary homes.
Burnished tones
Despite the popularity of cool-toned metals, warmer finishes continue to add richness that chrome simply can’t match. Into 2026, these burnished tones are evolving beyond just high shine surfaces into more tactile, brushed treatments, ideal for creating inviting bathrooms.
Their subtle variations pair beautifully with timber, stone and soft, linen textures, grounding the space while adding a touch of luxury. Whether it’s a basin mixer or shower rose, these amber accents prove that elegance often lies in the details.
Tapware might seem like a small detail, but it’s one of the most powerful ways to define your home’s personality. Whether you’re drawn to Deco elegance, rustic charm or the glow of warm metals, the right choice can take your space from functional to unforgettable.
Phoenix creates bathroom and kitchen fittings through refined Australian design. For over 30 years, we’ve been trusted to deliver innovation, precision and quality in every product – designed in house and made with pride – for a timeless experience in the home.
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