By the Kinycraft workshop team, makers of handcrafted brass and copper fixtures in Marrakech. Updated October 2026.
Quick answer
A brass bridge kitchen faucet has two handles joined by a horizontal "bridge", with the spout rising from the center. It usually needs 2 holes 8 in apart (3-4 with a side sprayer). Choose polished brass for a bright, glamorous look, or unlacquered brass for a warm patina that suits farmhouse and English-style kitchens. Check that the spout reach lands water near the center of your sink.
Key takeaways
- Bridge faucets are the classic farmhouse and English kitchen faucet.
- Count the holes: 2 for the faucet, plus 1 for a side sprayer.
- Unlacquered brass ages beautifully with frequent use.
In this guide
What is a bridge kitchen faucet?
The bridge design dates back to Victorian kitchens. The hot and cold valves sit on the counter, connected by an exposed bridge, and the spout rises from the middle. The result is symmetrical and sculptural, and it pairs perfectly with apron-front and farmhouse sinks.
Polished vs unlacquered brass bridge faucets
| Polished brass | Unlacquered brass | |
|---|---|---|
| Look | Bright, mirror-like, glamorous | Warm, natural, ages to amber and brown |
| Upkeep | Wipe and dry to avoid spots | Wipe and dry. Polish only if you want shine |
| Ageing | Lacquered stays bright. Unlacquered polished brass slowly mellows | Patinas quickly in a busy kitchen |
| Best for | Classic, glam and dark cabinetry | Farmhouse, English, rustic kitchens |
Not sure which finish suits you? Read lacquered vs unlacquered brass.
Side sprayer, handles and spout height
- Side sprayer: a separate hand spray for rinsing pots and the sink. It needs one extra hole.
- Cross handles: traditional and easy to grip.
- Lever handles: easier with messy hands.
- Porcelain handles: white porcelain marked hot and cold, for a vintage look.
- High-arc spout: clears tall pots. Check there is room under cabinets or a window.
Will a bridge faucet fit your sink?
- Count holes in the sink or counter. Most bridge faucets use 2 holes 8 inches apart, plus 1 for a sprayer.
- Measure spout reach from the faucet holes to the drain. The water should land near the center of the bowl.
- Check height under any shelf or window.
- Wall-mounted option: some bridge faucets mount on the wall above the sink, which is ideal for apron-front sinks without deck holes.
Caring for a brass bridge faucet
Wipe the faucet dry after heavy use to avoid water spots. Wash with mild soap, never bleach or abrasive pads. To brighten unlacquered brass, use a lemon and baking soda paste. Full instructions are in how to clean brass and copper.
Frequently asked questions
What is a bridge faucet?
A bridge faucet is a two-handle faucet where the hot and cold valves are connected by a visible horizontal bridge, with the spout rising from the middle.
How many holes does a bridge faucet need?
Most need 2 holes, usually 8 inches apart, and a third or fourth if you add a side sprayer or soap dispenser.
Is polished brass or unlacquered brass better for a kitchen faucet?
Choose polished brass for a bright, formal look, and unlacquered brass for a natural patina that hides everyday wear and suits farmhouse kitchens.
Do bridge faucets work with farmhouse sinks?
Yes. Bridge faucets are the classic pairing for farmhouse and apron-front sinks, either deck-mounted behind the sink or wall-mounted above it.
