10 Faucet Trends That Are Quickly Fading Away

Like any element of home design, faucet styles come and go. What was once the height of sophistication can quickly become outdated as technology advances and design preferences evolve. In recent years, the faucet industry has seen dramatic shifts toward sustainability, smart features, and minimalist aesthetics. This means that several old trends are quietly fading away, replaced by more practical, efficient, and visually clean alternatives.

At WOWOW, we stay at the forefront of these changes, combining timeless craftsmanship with modern innovation. If you’re planning to upgrade your kitchen or bathroom, it’s helpful to know which faucet trends are disappearing—and what’s taking their place.

1. Overly Ornate Designs

Once upon a time, faucets with intricate carvings, heavy ornamentation, and elaborate handles were seen as a mark of luxury. Victorian-inspired fixtures and antique brass finishes dominated bathrooms and kitchens alike. However, homeowners today prefer clean, simple lines that blend seamlessly into modern interiors.

Minimalism has become the new luxury. Sleek silhouettes, smooth curves, and subtle detailing now define high-end faucets. Instead of trying to stand out with excessive decoration, contemporary faucets make their statement through precision design and refined finishes. WOWOW’s minimalist collections embody this shift, offering beauty through simplicity rather than embellishment.

2. Polished Brass and Gold Overload

Polished brass once symbolized warmth and opulence. However, when overused, it can make a space look dated or overly flashy. While gold finishes are still trending in some modern interpretations—particularly matte or brushed gold—the traditional high-shine brass look is gradually disappearing.

Today’s homeowners lean toward softer metallics such as brushed nickel, matte black, and stainless steel, which pair effortlessly with various design styles. These finishes not only look more contemporary but are also easier to maintain, as they resist fingerprints and water spots better than glossy brass. WOWOW offers a range of modern finishes designed to complement both traditional and modern spaces with understated elegance.

3. Two-Handle Faucets for Everyday Use

Two-handle faucets—one for hot water and one for cold—were once the standard in homes. While they still have their charm in vintage or farmhouse settings, most modern homeowners prefer the convenience and efficiency of single-handle faucets.

Single-handle models make it easier to adjust temperature and flow with one hand, reducing water waste and improving user comfort. Additionally, they tend to have a cleaner, more streamlined appearance that suits contemporary kitchen and bathroom designs. WOWOW’s single-handle collections showcase this functional evolution while maintaining aesthetic appeal.

4. Chrome Everything

For decades, chrome reigned supreme as the default faucet finish. It’s shiny, affordable, and versatile—but it’s also overused. Homeowners are increasingly moving away from the “all-chrome” look, which can make a space feel cold or sterile.

Instead, modern trends emphasize texture and contrast. Matte black faucets, brushed gold accents, or two-tone combinations (like black and chrome or nickel and white) bring depth and personality to a space. These newer finishes allow homeowners to express individuality while maintaining sophistication. WOWOW’s two-tone faucet options are a perfect example of how contemporary finishes can elevate the look of any bathroom or kitchen.

5. Bulky Faucet Designs

Heavy, bulky faucets with thick spouts and oversized handles are falling out of favor. They take up too much visual space and can overwhelm smaller sinks or countertops. The modern aesthetic is all about balance—faucets that are both elegant and unobtrusive.

Manufacturers like WOWOW are now focusing on slimmer profiles and ergonomic shapes that offer the same durability and functionality while enhancing visual harmony. These streamlined faucets contribute to a feeling of spaciousness and lightness, especially in compact bathrooms or kitchens.

6. Plastic Components and Low-Quality Materials

Inexpensive faucets with plastic parts or low-grade finishes were once popular due to their affordability. However, as consumers become more environmentally conscious and quality-focused, this trend is quickly disappearing.

Durability and sustainability are now top priorities. High-quality materials like lead-free brass and stainless steel are becoming the new standard. They’re not only safer for household water use but also last much longer, making them a smarter long-term investment. WOWOW’s faucets are made from premium materials that guarantee lasting performance without sacrificing style or safety.

7. Faucets Without Water-Saving Features

Water conservation is no longer just a “nice to have”—it’s an expectation. Old faucet designs that lack aerators or flow restrictors are rapidly being phased out as people aim to reduce water consumption and utility costs.

Modern faucets incorporate high-efficiency aerators that maintain strong water pressure while minimizing waste. Some advanced models even include sensors or adjustable flow settings for added control. WOWOW integrates eco-friendly technology into many of its faucets, helping homeowners save water without compromising performance or comfort.

8. Touchless Tech Ignored—Not Anymore

In the past, touchless faucets were viewed as high-end luxuries reserved for commercial spaces or designer homes. But after the pandemic heightened hygiene awareness, this perception changed dramatically. While it’s not exactly a “disappearing” trend, the lack of touchless or smart options in a faucet is quickly becoming outdated.

Modern homeowners appreciate the convenience and cleanliness that motion-sensor faucets provide, especially in bathrooms and kitchens. They reduce the spread of germs, conserve water, and add a futuristic touch to any space. WOWOW’s touchless faucet line reflects this evolution, combining sleek aesthetics with intelligent functionality.

9. Ignoring Color Coordination

In previous decades, homeowners often chose faucets in isolation, without considering how they would match with other fixtures or decor elements. This led to mismatched finishes—chrome faucets paired with brass towel bars or silver shower heads. Today, that approach is considered outdated.

The modern trend focuses on cohesive design. Coordinating faucet finishes with handles, mirrors, and accessories creates a unified and intentional look. WOWOW offers matching hardware collections, allowing you to achieve perfect harmony throughout your bathroom or kitchen.

10. Function Over Aesthetics—Now It’s Both

There was a time when faucets were chosen purely for function—if it poured water, it was good enough. That mindset is quickly vanishing. Homeowners today expect their faucets to be functional works of art—pieces that enhance usability while contributing to overall design.

Modern faucet design merges technology, style, and ergonomics. Whether it’s a pull-down sprayer in the kitchen or a waterfall spout in the bathroom, the new standard demands both beauty and practicality. WOWOW’s modern faucet collections embody this balance, blending innovative engineering with stunning design that fits any home style.

Conclusion of Faucet Trends

Faucet trends are evolving toward simplicity, sustainability, and sophistication. Gone are the days of heavy ornamentation, shiny brass, and purely functional designs. Homeowners now seek faucets that reflect modern living—clean, efficient, and built to last.

At WOWOW, we’re proud to lead this evolution. Our faucets combine cutting-edge technology, premium materials, and timeless style to create fixtures that fit seamlessly into the modern home. So, if you’re planning an upgrade, skip the fading trends and embrace the future of faucet design with WOWOW—where quality meets innovation.