Last Updated:June 29, 2025, 13:34 IST
Low-maintenance finishes like brushed nickel, matte black, and PVD coatings are redefining everyday luxury in modern homes.
Stainless steel remains a go-to for its hygienic and hardy properties
In today’s fast-paced lifestyle, homeowners are steadily leaning toward low-maintenance living, where convenience doesn’t come at the cost of style. The modern bathroom isn’t just a utilitarian space anymore; it’s a wellness retreat that must balance aesthetics, durability, and ease of care. As this paradigm shift takes root, the finishes we choose for our fixtures are becoming pivotal. A faucet is no longer just a faucet, it’s a piece of everyday design that should endure time, touch, and tarnish.
Chrome-Plated ABS: Lightweight with Longevity
“Chrome-plated ABS plastic is a smart choice for the modern Indian home,” says Rajeev Jain, Founder and MD of RN Valves and Faucets Pvt. Ltd. “It’s rust-resistant, easy to clean, and holds on to its polished appeal without appearing clinical or boring.” Being lightweight and cost-effective, chrome ABS is ideal for homeowners looking for fuss-free finishes that still offer a sleek, contemporary look.
Brushed Nickel: Understated Durability
Both experts agree that brushed nickel continues to be a timeless pick for bathrooms. “This finish has been a traditional favorite for a reason,” shares Aashish Khandelwal, Founder of Hanumant Design and Developers. “Its subtle sheen helps conceal smudges, watermarks, and fingerprints—making it perfect for high-touch areas like showerheads and taps.” Jain adds, “It doesn’t just look refined; it’s impressively resistant to tarnish and corrosion. The long-lasting coating ensures that homeowners don’t need to polish it often.”
Matte Black: The Allure of Clean Minimalism
Matte black finishes are having a major moment. With their bold yet calming aesthetic, they effortlessly blend form with function. “Matte black has a visual limerence, it lingers in the eye without shouting for attention,” says Jain. “Smudges, dust, and water stains remain discreet, which is what makes it such a pragmatic choice in bathrooms that lean into monochromatic calm.”
Khandelwal concurs, adding, “It’s a finish that gives bathrooms a sleek, wellness-inspired edge while being extremely low-maintenance. Unlike glossy finishes, matte black needs less polishing and is ideal for homeowners seeking clean lines and calm vibes.”
Stainless Steel: Resilient and Elegant
Stainless steel remains a go-to for its hygienic and hardy properties. “It’s durable, corrosion-resistant, and naturally repels stains,” says Khandelwal. “Especially in bathrooms and kitchens, where cleanliness is key, stainless steel stands up beautifully to moisture while being easy to wipe down.”
PVD-Coated Finishes: The Future of Fixture Design
One of the most exciting advancements in low-maintenance luxury is PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition) coating. “PVD-coated finishes are the next frontier in both aesthetics and durability,” explains Khandelwal. “They come in sophisticated hues from graphite grey to warm champagne gold and offer extremely scratch-resistant surfaces.”
Jain agrees that PVD finishes are revolutionizing the fixture market. “They’re no longer seen as luxury add-ons. In fact, materials like SS 304 steel, toughened glass, and PVD coatings have become standard expectations for quality-conscious buyers,” he says.
A Holistic Aesthetic
It’s not just about faucets anymore. “Flush tanks, towel rods, soap dishes, everything is now designed to match seamlessly,” Jain adds. “The idea is to create a cohesive and low-maintenance bathroom environment where every component works together visually and functionally.”
The Rise of Practical Luxury
As homeowners increasingly prioritise time and ease, the era of choosing beauty over practicality is quietly being replaced. “Low-maintenance isn’t elusive anymore—it’s expected,” says Jain. “When people invest in the right finishes today, they’re setting up homes that thank them tomorrow.”
Khandelwal sums it up perfectly: “By choosing finishes that stay cleaner for longer, you’re not just saving cleaning time, you’re elevating your everyday. It’s a small but powerful step toward a more thoughtful, wellness-focused home.”
Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl…Read More
Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl… Read More
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