Not sure if you will save money going without handles but they are something else that needs cleaning! Modern no handles gives a clean simple aesthetic and will be my next choice Neryl ;))

Lots of people treat handles as an after-thought, yet they make so much difference to the overall look of your kitchen. When choosing handles on cabinetry, you need to decide on size and location of the handles on the doors and drawers, as well as the style and finish of handle. Yes, you need to be 100% sold on the handle you choose. You need to get a couple of samples and see what they look like in situ. Don't just buy them all and get them home and find they are the wrong size or finish. I think the big doors on the right need handles, otherwise they are too hard to open with push catches. The ones in the pic on the doors could be a little smaller if you don't want them to stand out too much. If the doors and drawers in the pic are the new cabinets, then your handle positions are fixed. Because the are positioned quite close to the top edge, you shouldn't get a thick handle like the one you proposed, otherwise they will appear too close too the edge. If you want something less noticeable and modern and still a bow handle, I would go for a handle like this: http://www.furnwaredorset.com.au/Handles-Knobs/Breda-Bow-Handle It is thinner and simpler than the one you chose, so these will stand out less. Choosing handles is a balance between practicality, appearance and good positioning. I wouldn't let $4 or $10 get in the way of handle choice. The kitchen is a large investment, so to skimp on the price of the handles would be a false economy.

The plumber is correct, the faceplates and handles are connected to the mixer body, so you will need to change the mixer body, - often difficult. this is why we recommend to get good quality mixers when they are in the wall.You might be able to access the tap from behind and avoid damaging tiles?

Personally I would always go for a consistent style throughout the house if at all possible. Expensive if you have to make a lot of changes to achieve it. I guess it comes down to how much it bothers you.