Funny thing, I actually went with matte black in my own kitchen after swearing I’d never do it for clients—just wanted something different. Yeah, the fingerprints are real, but I kind of like the lived-in look? Maybe I’m weird. Brushed nickel is definitely easier, but I get bored with “safe” choices. As for those eco fixtures, I had a touchless one that lasted all of six months before it started ghost-activating at 3am... Sometimes chasing innovation just means more headaches.
MATTE BLACK VS. BRUSHED NICKEL: IS “SAFE” REALLY BORING?
I get the appeal of matte black—definitely makes a statement, and I’ve seen it look sharp in the right space. But I keep circling back to brushed nickel or even chrome for one reason: long-term maintenance. In my experience, especially in high-traffic kitchens, those “safe” finishes just hold up better over time. Maybe it’s not as exciting, but when you’re dealing with multiple units or rentals, practicality wins out.
About the touchless fixtures... I hear you on the ghost-activating. Had one in a model home that would randomly turn on if someone walked by with a metal watch. Drove me nuts. I wonder if we’re just not quite there yet tech-wise for residential use? Or maybe it’s about picking brands that have really nailed the sensor tech.
Curious—has anyone tried those hybrid manual/touchless faucets? Seems like a possible middle ground, but I haven’t tested one myself yet.
