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Old Kent Tapware: Traditional Styling with Contemporary Performance

The Old Kent Tapware range from Monopoly Tapware combines traditional styling with modern functionality. Featuring distinctive cross-handle details, elegant curved spouts and a classic loop design, Old Kent delivers the character of traditional tapwa

Backed by Austworld, Australia's trusted wholesale plumbing supplier since 1984, the Old Kent collection provides a versatile, trade-ready solution for bathrooms, kitchens, laundries and renovation projects where style and reliability both matter.

 

The Problem: Character Tapware That Still Performs

Traditional-style tapware can be hard to specify with confidence. Many cross-handle and period-inspired ranges on the market prioritise the retro look at the expense of modern cartridge technology, WaterMark compliance, or consistent finish quality across a full product line. For renovators and builders working on heritage properties, that's a real risk , a range that looks right in the showroom but fails to perform, or can't be matched across bathroom, kitchen and laundry.

Old Kent is built to close that gap: classic aesthetics, backed by a wholesaler that engineers and quality-controls its own ranges.

 

A Classic Design Inspired by Traditional Tapware

The Old Kent range is built around a distinctive loop-handle design carried consistently across the entire collection. Unlike minimalist tapware ranges that focus on sleek simplicity , such as Austworld's Pino range , Old Kent embraces traditional design elements, including:

  • Cross-style handles
  • Elegant curved spouts
  • Timeless chrome finishes
  • Classic tapware proportions
  • Coordinated styling across the complete range

The result is a collection that feels familiar, sophisticated and enduring.

 

Old Kent vs Contemporary Minimalist Tapware

Feature

Old Kent (Traditional)

Contemporary Pin Lever / Minimalist

Visual style

Cross handles, curved spouts, classic proportions

Slim, streamlined, minimal detailing

Best suited to

Federation, Hamptons, period renovations, character homes

Modern builds, contemporary renovations, apartments

Handle operation

Traditional turn/cross grip

Single-lever, lighter touch

Design longevity

Enduring, decades-long aesthetic appeal

Contemporary, trend-aligned

Range coverage

Basins, kitchen, laundry, bath, wall mixers, washing machine sets

Basins, kitchen, shower, wall mixers

(See our Pino Tapware guide for the minimalist alternative if you're weighing up styles for a project.)


Heritage Style with Modern Performance

Many homeowners love the appearance of traditional tapware but still want the convenience and reliability of modern plumbing technology. Old Kent bridges this gap by combining:

  • Heritage-inspired aesthetics
  • Contemporary manufacturing standards
  • Reliable water control
  • Durable construction
  • Everyday practicality

This makes the range ideal for customers who appreciate classic design without compromising on function.

 

Perfect for Renovations and Character Homes

Old Kent complements a variety of home styles, including:

  • Federation-style homes
  • Hamptons-inspired interiors
  • Traditional bathrooms
  • Period home renovations
  • Classic kitchen upgrades
  • Country-style properties

The cross-handle design and curved profiles create a sense of authenticity while remaining compatible with modern fixtures and finishes.

 

Also Suited to Character Commercial and Hospitality Projects

Old Kent's traditional detailing isn't limited to residential work. Builders and specifiers working on heritage-listed buildings, boutique hospitality fitouts, bed-and-breakfast conversions or character-driven commercial renovations often need tapware that matches a period aesthetic while still meeting current plumbing standards , a common requirement on adaptive reuse and heritage overlay projects. Old Kent's full range, including wall mixer and laundry options, supports this kind of consistent specification across guest bathrooms, communal laundries and amenities.

 

A Complete Range for Consistent Design

Consistency plays a major role in successful bathroom and kitchen design. The Old Kent collection lets homeowners, builders and designers carry the same style throughout multiple areas of a property or project. The range includes:

  • Basin mixers
  • Kitchen sink mixers
  • Basin tap sets
  • Wall sink sets
  • Shower sets
  • Pillar taps
  • Bath spouts
  • Wall mixer options
  • Washing machine sets
  • Basin and wall-top assemblies

This comprehensive offering makes it easy to create a cohesive look across bathrooms, kitchens, laundries and outdoor utility areas.

View the complete Old Kent range, or compare it against other collections via tapware by range.

 

Why Traditional Tapware Remains Popular

Traditional tapware continues to perform strongly in Australian design because it offers something many contemporary styles cannot: character. Homeowners are increasingly seeking:

  • Timeless design
  • Long-lasting visual appeal
  • Distinctive architectural details
  • Products that complement classic interiors

Unlike trend-driven styles that can date quickly, traditional tapware often maintains its appeal for decades. The Old Kent collection delivers this timeless aesthetic while remaining practical for modern living.

 

Durable Chrome Finish for Everyday Use

The polished chrome finish featured throughout the Old Kent range offers several practical benefits:

  • Easy cleaning and maintenance
  • Compatibility with a wide range of interior styles
  • Resistance to everyday wear
  • Timeless visual appeal

Chrome remains one of Australia's most popular tapware finishes due to its versatility and ability to suit both traditional and modern spaces.

 

Buying Guide: What to Check Before Specifying Traditional Tapware

Consideration

Why it matters

WaterMark certification

Legally required for plumbing products installed in Australia

WELS water rating

Affects water efficiency compliance on renovation and development projects

Cartridge quality

Cross-handle and traditional designs rely on quality internals for long-term reliability

Finish durability

Determines resistance to tarnishing and daily wear over decades of use

Range coverage

Confirm the range extends to laundry, wall mixer and outdoor tap needs, not just basin and kitchen

Supplier support

National stock availability and trade account support reduce project delays

(Note: exact WELS star rating, warranty period and flow rate for Old Kent should be confirmed and inserted here from current product documentation before publishing.)

 

Supported by Monopoly Tapware and Austworld

As part of the Monopoly Tapware collection, Old Kent benefits from Austworld's engineering, ISO 9001:2015 quality management, and national trade support network. Learn more about Austworld and its 40+ years supplying the Australian plumbing trade.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What style of homes does Old Kent Tapware suit? 

Old Kent is ideal for heritage homes, Federation-style properties, Hamptons-inspired interiors, traditional renovations, and homes seeking a timeless aesthetic.

 

  • What makes Old Kent different from modern tapware ranges? 

Old Kent features classic cross handles, elegant curved spouts and traditional proportions, while still delivering modern plumbing performance and reliability. For a minimalist alternative, see the Pino range.

 

  • Can Old Kent Tapware be used in kitchens and bathrooms? 

Yes. The range includes products for kitchens, bathrooms, laundries and utility spaces, allowing a consistent design throughout the home.

 

  • Is Old Kent suitable for commercial or hospitality projects? 

Yes. Its traditional detailing and full range coverage , including wall mixers and laundry sets , make it a practical option for heritage-listed buildings, boutique hospitality fitouts and character-driven commercial renovations.

 

  • Is chrome a good finish for traditional tapware? 

Yes. Chrome is a timeless finish that complements both traditional and contemporary interiors while offering durability and easy maintenance.

 

  • Can I use Old Kent in a renovation project? 

Old Kent is particularly popular in renovation projects where homeowners want to preserve character while upgrading plumbing fixtures.

 

  • Where can I purchase Old Kent Tapware? 

Old Kent Tapware is available through Austworld's national distribution network. Trade customers can view catalogues or browse products directly.

 

Related Reading and Products

 

Discover the Timeless Appeal of Old Kent Tapware

Design trends may change, but quality craftsmanship and classic styling never go out of fashion. Combining traditional aesthetics with contemporary performance, Old Kent Tapware offers a sophisticated, trade-ready solution for homeowners, builders and designers seeking a timeless look.

 

Ready to specify Old Kent for your next project?

Browse the full Old Kent range, download the current catalogue, or set up a trade account with Austworld to access national stock and pricing.