Tapware Trends 2025: Lead Free Leads The Way

While innovative design is a significant factor in predicting tapware trends 2025, the role of sustainability and health-conscious materials in home and commercial settings are equally pivotal. 

The National Construction Code’s (NCC) response to health and environmental concerns has certainly been significant, particularly by mandating lead free tapware at the point of installation in Australia from 1 May 2026.   

With that date looming fast, we explore the rise of lead free taps, smart tapware solutions, and other key trends to watch out for in 2025. 

Lead free tapware is undoubtedly one of the tapware trends in 2025 you can expect to see. This is a reaction to the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care, highlighting some potential health risks from lead exposure from traditional tapware.  

As a measure, the Australian Building Codes Board has reviewed and recognised studies on the long-term health benefits of lead free tapware. The Plumbing Code of Australia, clause A5G4 of NCC 2022 Volume Three, specifies that copper alloy plumbing products in contact with drinking water must limit the allowable lead content to a weighted average of no more than 0.25%.

ABI Interiors’ stainless steel range is a lead free tapware option. This premium 316-grade stainless steel tapware has been tested for complete peace of mind to confirm that 0% lead is present. We are also actively expanding this range and are eradicating lead from our brass products (which currently contain less than half the Australian standard) before the stipulated deadline.

Another trend you can expect to see in 2025 is the rise of eco-friendly tapware that purposefully reduces the impact on the planet. This starts with sourcing environmentally friendly materials for plumbing products and acknowledging the need for more energy-efficient practices in the manufacturing process. 
 

ABI Interiors has already anticipated this trend by embracing smart tapware technology such as our touch-free Sensor Collection. This beautifully streamlined kitchen and bathroom tapware range includes a 30-second cut-off safety feature that helps to improve water efficiency. In addition, we also include flow restrictors within our tapware products to enable better control of water usage and to provide equal peace of mind regarding water efficiency. For reassurance, many of our tapware products have a 5-star or higher WELS rating.  

Our push for environmentally responsible manufacturing has also led us to embrace energy-efficient products constructed from greener metals, including 304—and 316-grade stainless steel.
 

Simplicity and elegance are also at the forefront of tapware trends 2025. This aligns with an increasing desire for space-saving tapware designs that seamlessly integrate into bathroom and kitchen spaces. So, expect to see even more minimalist tapware innovations that embrace clean lines and incorporate simplified shapes and modular designs. 

With its bench-saving potential, wall-mounted tapware will also continue to be popular for kitchen and bathroom fixtures in 2025. Uniquely textured taps that add distinct tactility, like our Namika Collection, will increasingly appeal to these spaces, as will tapware with increased functionality, such as a pull-out nozzle, spray, or a unique swivel option.

Brushed brass, gunmetal, matte black, and green…anyone with even a passing interest in interior design can appreciate a significant shift toward bolder tapware colour choices in contemporary times, and this trend is set to continue in 2025. 

Expect to see even more unconventional finishes embracing vibrant and unique tapware colours like antique brass, brushed stainless steel, and copper. However, don’t overlook more neutral finishes like matte white, which effortlessly complement the increasingly popular grey schemes we will see next year.

With the evolution of integrated home automation services like Alexa, the once science-fiction concept of voice-activation tapware could become a not-too-out-of-reach reality. Yes, ‘talking taps’ could swiftly become part of smart tapware technology beyond 2025. 

With technology seamlessly integrating into tapware fixtures, expect to see more tech-savvy components like voice-temperature-controlled shower systems that enable you to adjust water flow and even play music while you wash! 

Another anticipated trend is the concept of mixing tapware metals. For example, the individual attributes of chrome, brass, and matte black fixtures could combine to add greater character to a space. This design flexibility could contribute to a much more diverse and personalised aesthetic than before. 

As we have learned through this dive into tapware trends 2025, there are many evolving factors to consider when selecting tapware for your home or commercial environment. 

Whether you have concerns about design, finish, construction material, functionality, or overall sustainability, ABI Interiors is here to help you select the right tapware for your space. 

Contact our friendly team for advice, or consider booking a complimentary design consultation.

Also, why not explore our related blogs:

The 4 Main Advantages of Sensor Taps in The Kitchen

Talking Sustainability with Fallow Ridge Retreat
 

Step Inside The Sustainable and Retro-Inspired Mysa Motel