The latest technology also offers an eco-friendly alternative to bottled water as well as boiling filtered water at the touch of a button. It works beautifully with either a stainless steel sink or contemporary sleek composites such as Corian. Look for swan neck designs with ceramic levers and quarter turn ceramic disc valves or classic crosshead tops. It also comes with a built-in safety mechanism for peace of mind.

These provide full flow or spray action with a long, flexible arm that makes it easier to rinse fruit and vegetables. And when it comes to a dash of color, we're not talking colored taps themselves, but the water that changes color! KWC has developed the striking Eve Luminaqua tap with pull-out hose and LED light ring, which gives water flow a stunning illuminated effect. As taps are one of the most frequently used items in the kitchen, it's important not to skimp on quality so make sure you buy the best your budget will allow. Many of us are turning to old-fashioned Belfast or butler sinks for a touch of utility chic in a classic or modern kitchen.

Although you can buy these new, you can also find some real gems at your local architectural salvage yard and a traditional kitchen tap like the bridge mixer tap, is the perfect complement for a white ceramic sink. In recent years, the humble kitchen tap has been given a makeover and there are now hundreds of different styles that could give your kitchen a designer edge or complement a traditional setting. Say goodbye to the perils of plastic bottled water and invest in a filtered water tap. As the water is boiling and filtered, it's perfect for making tea and coffee as well as blanching and boiling vegetables, preparing soups and sauces and even sterilizing baby bottles.A new kitchen tap can breathe life into an old sink and there are plenty of classic and contemporary styles to suit every kitchen.

Current looks include clean, angular shapes; swan neck taps with a geometric twist and a new take on the professional pull-out spray. Boiling the kettle for one cup of tea is time consuming and a waste of energy so consider installing a boiling water tap, which will not only save energy but will also save time. Among contemporary kitchen taps, the latest trend for wet areas in the kitchen is for a high-tech tap that can create a focal point with sleek designer styling. It's also a handy option when filling those awkward vases that sometimes don't fit under a standard tap. The Quooker is the latest must-have kitchen gadget for homes, offices and restaurants and it's the only 100˚C boiling water tap currently available in the UK. With environmentally friendly alternatives to daily activities becoming increasingly popular – think the demise of the plastic carrier bag and rise in levels of household recycling – there's one way that your tap can help.