The design of a kitchen tap not only affects the rooms overall style, but also impacts upon its functionality, it has been observed.Marty Hope of the Calgary Herald claimed that the importance of kitchen taps should not be underestimated, even though they are sometimes the last item to be installed during a renovation.He referred to some recent tap design trends which he said emphasised the importance of combining usability with quality finishes.This includes the growing popularity of contemporary and distinctive designs, commented Mr Hope, who noted that some homeowners are now mixing and matching both contemporary and traditional taps in the same kitchen setting.He also stated that taps that provide both ergonomics and performance with modern pull-out and pull-down styles are becoming popular, along with modern single-lever faucets and high-arch spouts.Last week, interior design expert Karl Lohnes said in a column for Metro Canada that homeowners can create kitchens that last by keeping their designs simple.