8 Trends in New Kitchen Faucets for 2021
Touchless technology, mixed metals, etched details and matte white are featured in new faucets at the KBIS trade show
Becky Harris
February 20, 2021
Houzz Contributor. Hi there! I live in a 1940s cottage in Atlanta that I'll describe as "collected."
I got into design via Landscape Architecture, which I studied at the University of Virginia.
Houzz Contributor. Hi there! I live in a 1940s cottage in Atlanta that I'll describe... More
Though technical difficulties shut down the all-virtual 2021 Kitchen & Bath Industry Show early, many of the exhibitors pressed on, announcing their latest product offerings, hosting live events and sharing videos and online catalogs. We spoke with many of the exhibitors and sifted through countless photos of new products to find the latest trends in kitchen faucets. Here are eight faucet design trends happening now.
Riobel’s Trattoria faucet features touchless technology. Photo from House of Rohl
1. Touchless Options
While touchless faucets have been around for years, the pandemic has heightened demand from homeowners who are eager to prevent germs from spreading within their homes.
Riobel added touchless technology to several of its existing faucet collections, including the Art Deco-style Trattoria line shown here. It comes in four finishes and with options for a C-shaped spout, seen here, or a U-shaped spout.
Kohler also retrofitted its most popular faucet collections with touchless technology.
Hire a local kitchen designer
1. Touchless Options
While touchless faucets have been around for years, the pandemic has heightened demand from homeowners who are eager to prevent germs from spreading within their homes.
Riobel added touchless technology to several of its existing faucet collections, including the Art Deco-style Trattoria line shown here. It comes in four finishes and with options for a C-shaped spout, seen here, or a U-shaped spout.
Kohler also retrofitted its most popular faucet collections with touchless technology.
Hire a local kitchen designer
U by Moen’s Sarai faucet is a new offering with touchless technology. Photo from Moen
While the wave of a hand can turn on many of the latest faucets, it’s not the only touchless technology. Several faucet brands now allow you to integrate faucets with your home voice assistant, such as Amazon Alexa, Google Home and Apple HomeKit.
Kohler and Moen now offer faucets that allow you to give a verbal command that will trigger a handwashing sequence that follows guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The U by Moen Sarai faucet shown here is a good example of the intersection of technology and style. The faucet can be operated manually, with the wave of a hand or with voice commands. A smartphone app allows homeowners to customize presets or turn the faucet on and off. And Moen, like many other brands, has expanded the number of styles and finishes available with their touchless technology this year. The Sarai is one of five new styles offered with touchless technology.
Note: You’ll need an electrical outlet under the sink for touchless faucets. If you have a garbage disposal, it’s likely you already have an outlet.
Shop for single-hole mounted faucets
While the wave of a hand can turn on many of the latest faucets, it’s not the only touchless technology. Several faucet brands now allow you to integrate faucets with your home voice assistant, such as Amazon Alexa, Google Home and Apple HomeKit.
Kohler and Moen now offer faucets that allow you to give a verbal command that will trigger a handwashing sequence that follows guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The U by Moen Sarai faucet shown here is a good example of the intersection of technology and style. The faucet can be operated manually, with the wave of a hand or with voice commands. A smartphone app allows homeowners to customize presets or turn the faucet on and off. And Moen, like many other brands, has expanded the number of styles and finishes available with their touchless technology this year. The Sarai is one of five new styles offered with touchless technology.
Note: You’ll need an electrical outlet under the sink for touchless faucets. If you have a garbage disposal, it’s likely you already have an outlet.
Shop for single-hole mounted faucets
The Montay pull-down kitchen faucet by Pfister has an ergonomic design and knurled detailing at the base. Photo from Pfister
2. Integrated Pull-Down Sprayers
In previous years, many integrated pull-down sprayers had a clunky look, but new offerings are seamless and sleek. These sprayers are a popular feature among homeowners, and manufacturers have responded with a wider range of styles, finishes and improved technology, such as spray boosters and well-designed docking capability.
For example, the Montay faucet by Pfister, shown here, uses a magnetic docking system to keep the spray nozzle head secured firmly to the spout.
Faucet designers are also addressing another important issue: ergonomic function for people with varying abilities. The faucet shown here extends farther out over the sink than a standard faucet, making it easier to reach and use. It’s also ADA-compliant and is a good option for people designing with aging in place in mind.
2. Integrated Pull-Down Sprayers
In previous years, many integrated pull-down sprayers had a clunky look, but new offerings are seamless and sleek. These sprayers are a popular feature among homeowners, and manufacturers have responded with a wider range of styles, finishes and improved technology, such as spray boosters and well-designed docking capability.
For example, the Montay faucet by Pfister, shown here, uses a magnetic docking system to keep the spray nozzle head secured firmly to the spout.
Faucet designers are also addressing another important issue: ergonomic function for people with varying abilities. The faucet shown here extends farther out over the sink than a standard faucet, making it easier to reach and use. It’s also ADA-compliant and is a good option for people designing with aging in place in mind.
Homeowners can mix and match finishes on Kohler’s new Tone touchless kitchen faucets. Photo from Kohler
3. Two-Tone Faucets
Mixing and matching finishes continues to be a strong trend that helps homeowners personalize their kitchens. Kitchen designer Rebekah Zaveloff says mixing metals helps make a kitchen trend-proof as different finishes fall in and out of favor.
In addition to choosing different finishes for plumbing fixtures, light fixtures and cabinet hardware, homeowners now have the option of mixing two different finishes on a kitchen faucet.
Shown here is a faucet from Kohler’s new Tone collection that combines matte black and polished chrome. For those who prefer warmer tones, the faucet also comes in a combination of matte black and brass finishes.
3. Two-Tone Faucets
Mixing and matching finishes continues to be a strong trend that helps homeowners personalize their kitchens. Kitchen designer Rebekah Zaveloff says mixing metals helps make a kitchen trend-proof as different finishes fall in and out of favor.
In addition to choosing different finishes for plumbing fixtures, light fixtures and cabinet hardware, homeowners now have the option of mixing two different finishes on a kitchen faucet.
Shown here is a faucet from Kohler’s new Tone collection that combines matte black and polished chrome. For those who prefer warmer tones, the faucet also comes in a combination of matte black and brass finishes.
Kallista’s Juxtapose faucet is an elegant take on the professional-style faucet and is just over 24 inches high. Photo from Kallista
4. New Twists on Professional-Style Faucets
Tall professional-style kitchen faucets with integrated pull-down sprayers have been taking faucets to new heights — literally. These faucets, typically more than 20 inches high, have altered the scale of faucets that designers and their clients find acceptable in a kitchen.
What’s new about professional-style kitchen faucets is that they’ve evolved far beyond the utilitarian silhouettes in stainless steel or polished chrome offered by restaurant suppliers. Faucet designers have responded to consumer demand for popular finishes, more elegant looks and personalized style.
The contrasting finish on Kallista’s Juxtapose faucet, shown here, pops up in small accents on the base, handle, spout and magnetic docking arm. Created by noted kitchen designer Mick De Giulio, the faucet is available in matte black (seen here), polished nickel and stainless steel. Homeowners can customize the faucet by choosing an accent finish in polished chrome, polished nickel, brushed moderne brass or matte black.
4. New Twists on Professional-Style Faucets
Tall professional-style kitchen faucets with integrated pull-down sprayers have been taking faucets to new heights — literally. These faucets, typically more than 20 inches high, have altered the scale of faucets that designers and their clients find acceptable in a kitchen.
What’s new about professional-style kitchen faucets is that they’ve evolved far beyond the utilitarian silhouettes in stainless steel or polished chrome offered by restaurant suppliers. Faucet designers have responded to consumer demand for popular finishes, more elegant looks and personalized style.
The contrasting finish on Kallista’s Juxtapose faucet, shown here, pops up in small accents on the base, handle, spout and magnetic docking arm. Created by noted kitchen designer Mick De Giulio, the faucet is available in matte black (seen here), polished nickel and stainless steel. Homeowners can customize the faucet by choosing an accent finish in polished chrome, polished nickel, brushed moderne brass or matte black.
The KV1 faucet by Vola, shown here in a copper finish, is available through Hastings Tile & Bath. Photo from Vola
5. Copper Finishes
For those who want a warm metallic finish but aren’t fans of brass, copper is a beautiful alternative. The KV1 faucet by Vola, shown here, comes in an elegant copper finish.
Other warm finishes that have been showing up more lately are rose gold and champagne bronze.
5. Copper Finishes
For those who want a warm metallic finish but aren’t fans of brass, copper is a beautiful alternative. The KV1 faucet by Vola, shown here, comes in an elegant copper finish.
Other warm finishes that have been showing up more lately are rose gold and champagne bronze.
The Industrial Revolution inspired Perrin & Rowe’s Armstrong faucet. Photo from Perrin & Rowe
6. A Little Flourish on the Handle
Single-handle faucets have more minimalist silhouettes than other options, so designers have embraced the handle as a way to add a flourish to them. This year, many designers looked to the Industrial Revolution and Art Deco eras for inspiration. Many faucets have etched detailing that recalls those eras.
Perrin & Rowe’s Armstrong collection was named after railway engineers George and Joseph Armstrong. The handle honors Industrial Revolution-era levers, while bolt-shaped accents nod to industrial hardware. These subtle details add character to the minimalist faucet. The faucet is also available in a touchless option.
6. A Little Flourish on the Handle
Single-handle faucets have more minimalist silhouettes than other options, so designers have embraced the handle as a way to add a flourish to them. This year, many designers looked to the Industrial Revolution and Art Deco eras for inspiration. Many faucets have etched detailing that recalls those eras.
Perrin & Rowe’s Armstrong collection was named after railway engineers George and Joseph Armstrong. The handle honors Industrial Revolution-era levers, while bolt-shaped accents nod to industrial hardware. These subtle details add character to the minimalist faucet. The faucet is also available in a touchless option.
House of Rohl’s Eclissi collection features a circular handle available in matching or contrasting finishes. Photo from House of Rohl
The phenomenon of solar and lunar eclipses inspired House of Rohl’s Eclissi collection and its sophisticated, minimalist circular handle. The inner and outer details of the handle can be selected in different finishes. Choose from four finishes for the spout, four finishes for the inner knob and six finishes for the outer ring portion of the knob.
Other handle flourishes seen this year include etched patterns and Art Deco-inspired shapes.
The phenomenon of solar and lunar eclipses inspired House of Rohl’s Eclissi collection and its sophisticated, minimalist circular handle. The inner and outer details of the handle can be selected in different finishes. Choose from four finishes for the spout, four finishes for the inner knob and six finishes for the outer ring portion of the knob.
Other handle flourishes seen this year include etched patterns and Art Deco-inspired shapes.
Kohler’s new Riff faucet has three different spray options. Photo from Kohler
7. Spray Options
A few manufacturers announced improvements in spray power and spray type for kitchen faucets. Kohler’s new Riff faucet has three different sprays: an aerated stream, a sweeping spray (shown here) and a boost button for increasing the power by 30% to clean pots and pans.
Moen’s Align faucet, shown in the next photo, has a button to increase the spray power by 50%.
7. Spray Options
A few manufacturers announced improvements in spray power and spray type for kitchen faucets. Kohler’s new Riff faucet has three different sprays: an aerated stream, a sweeping spray (shown here) and a boost button for increasing the power by 30% to clean pots and pans.
Moen’s Align faucet, shown in the next photo, has a button to increase the spray power by 50%.
Moen’s Align faucet in black stainless steel. Photo from Moen
8. New Finishes
Choosing an unexpected faucet finish is a great way for homeowners to show personal style. For those who are drawn to the dark finish of matte black but prefer something shinier for a kitchen faucet, check out black stainless. This new finish from Moen, shown here on its Align faucet, resists water spots and fingerprints.
8. New Finishes
Choosing an unexpected faucet finish is a great way for homeowners to show personal style. For those who are drawn to the dark finish of matte black but prefer something shinier for a kitchen faucet, check out black stainless. This new finish from Moen, shown here on its Align faucet, resists water spots and fingerprints.
The 590H faucet by Vola in matte white. Photo from Vola
Almost every faucet company now offers the popular matte black finish, but matte white seems destined to shake things up. It’s a finish we saw a bit of in 2020, and this year other manufacturers are jumping on board. Vola’s new minimalist kitchen faucet shown here comes in matte white. The simple, graceful curved design also keeps a low profile, at just 10½ inches high.
Almost every faucet company now offers the popular matte black finish, but matte white seems destined to shake things up. It’s a finish we saw a bit of in 2020, and this year other manufacturers are jumping on board. Vola’s new minimalist kitchen faucet shown here comes in matte white. The simple, graceful curved design also keeps a low profile, at just 10½ inches high.
Vola’s KV1 faucets channel the spirit of 1970s Danish design. Photo from Vola
In addition to white, Vola launched several colorful finishes inspired by 1970s Danish design, including red, green, yellow and pink.
More on Houzz
Read more kitchen stories
Browse kitchen photos
Hire a kitchen remodeler
Shop for kitchen products
In addition to white, Vola launched several colorful finishes inspired by 1970s Danish design, including red, green, yellow and pink.
More on Houzz
Read more kitchen stories
Browse kitchen photos
Hire a kitchen remodeler
Shop for kitchen products
We care about your home remodeling project needs as much as you do. We believe in conducting business with... Read More
What are you working on?
Related Products
Dave Fox is a design/build remodeling firm with a customer focused process, an incredible staff and a close knit... Read More
Related Stories
Bedrooms
The 10 Most Popular Bedrooms So Far in 2024
By Becky Harris
Feather your nest in style with inspiration from Houzz readers’ most-saved bedroom photos
Full Story
Entryways
The 10 Most Popular Entries and Mudrooms So Far in 2024
Get ideas for storage setups, color schemes and special details from the most-saved entry photos so far this year
Full Story
Home Offices
The 10 Most Popular Home Offices So Far in 2024
By Julie Sheer
Get inspired by these stylish workspaces where designers pair comfort with practicality
Full Story
Bathroom Design
The 10 Most Popular Bathrooms So Far in 2024
By Elena Vega
Creativity flows freely in ways big and small in these inspiring colorful and neutral baths
Full Story
Living Rooms
The 10 Most Popular Living Rooms So Far in 2024
Get ideas for furniture arrangements, color schemes, TV placement and more from these most-saved photos
Full Story
Laundry Rooms
The 10 Most Popular Laundry Rooms So Far in 2024
By Becky Harris
Get clever design ideas like a tuckaway ironing board, a pull-down sprayer faucet, expandable drying racks and more
Full Story
Kitchen Design
The 10 Most Popular Kitchens So Far in 2024
Get inspired by the warm neutral palettes, ample storage and inviting islands in these most-saved new photos on Houzz
Full Story
Events
5 Trends in New Engineered Countertops and Surfaces for 2024
See the latest styles and features for quartz, porcelain and sintered stone showcased at the recent KBIS 2024 trade show
Full Story
Events
10 Design Trends for New Kitchen and Bath Products in 2024
See the latest shower features, countertop looks, faucets, appliances and more that debuted at the KBIS 2024 trade show
Full Story
Houzz TV
5 Kitchen Design Trends Worth Considering
Learn about open-concept kitchens, long islands and more trends happening now from the latest Houzz research data
Full Story
Thank you Becky for the info. I will take a look.
@ceansor - I cannot agree more!! I've ordered my second solenoid replacement, as the other one also DRIPPED to hell and gone all the time. I always had to undo all the heavy drawers under the sink, undo the whole darn thing lying upside down under the sink, rinse it out, and then reinstall it, putting all the drawers, etc... back. A back-breaking job and pain in the butt. The solenoid unit, if you ask me, is made in such a way as to be overly sensitive to the most minute bit of grit or speck of anything in the water. We won't even go into my fully-touch water filter spigot!!! That darn thing hasn't worked since I put it in. We had it for about 5 months before it started acting up. And this is a solenoid which is installed in AFTER a major water filter has filtered the water!!
Refreshing cherrywood