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When building a new home or renovating an existing one, it’s easy to become distracted by the bigger items such as cabinets, countertops, or flooring. A project is not complete until you have chosen the right hardware for your cabinetry. It should strike the perfect balance between function and form. This last decorative touch will bring the project together, and give it a flare that reflects you.
There are many different types of decorative hardware for your kitchen cabinets. They come in various sizes, finishes, styles and materials. You can read our guide below to decide which is best for you.
1. Types of decorative hardware
Hardware should match the style of your home, but also be easy to use. Personal preference is key when choosing between a pull or a knob. You should try to obtain a sample of any knobs or handles you’re considering. Try them on a drawer or a door of a cabinet to see how well they fit. Do they fit you well?
Mixing knobs and handles in the kitchen can create visual interest. You can use knobs for the doors and pulls for the drawers, or vice-versa. Choose one style of pull and one style of complementary knob and use the same finish in the entire kitchen. You can also use the same type of hardware in your kitchen to create a cleaner look.
Ask how long it will take you to receive your hardware. Some vendors can turn around orders in a matter of a few days, while others may take up to 12 weeks.
2. Sizing and positioning handles
When choosing the right size knob or pull to fit your kitchen cabinets, consider proportion, balance and aesthetics. A large knob or pull is needed to function properly on an oversized drawer or cabinet door. For a smaller drawer or door, a knob or pull of corresponding size is recommended. For traditional or transitional pulls, a good rule is to make them about one third the length of the drawer. For drawers wider than 18 inches, you may need more than one knob or pull. For more contemporary designs, long pulls are required that measure at least two thirds the length of the cabinet or drawer door.
Pulls are usually placed horizontally on drawers, and vertically for doors. For a modern kitchen, consider placing pulls horizontally on the door for a sleek appearance. Think about the position of the knobs and handles before you permanently attach them to your cabinetry, no matter what style it is.
Installing knobs on a drawer or door requires a single screw. Pulls are attached with two screws at two points of contact. Be sure to give your contractor or homebuilder detailed instructions before any holes are drilled so they can install the correct handle on each cabinet or drawer. It is important to indicate the location of the pull or knob so they can be installed consistently throughout the kitchen.
3. Style of Hardware
You should select hardware that complements the design of your entire kitchen. There are five major categories of cabinet hardware for kitchens: rustic, eclectic, rustic-traditional, and transitional.
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Contemporary kitchens have sleek lines and neutral colors. They are also very minimally decorated. It is best to select hardware that is streamlined and simple in order to fit this design style. The best choice is a linear bar handle or curved barrel handle. Select handles that are similar in style and finish to the handles of your stainless steel appliances for a cohesive appearance.
Transitional
Transitional style combines elements of both contemporary and traditional. You can, for example, combine the sleek look of inset cabinetry with contemporary hardware, but not with too much ornate detail, such as a cup handle and matching knob.
The Traditional Method
A traditional kitchen is characterized by its elaborate details, ornamentations and moldings. Interior designers often choose fancy knobs or ornate drop handles for furniture-style cabinets in a classic kitchen.
Want to give your home a vintage feel? You can get a porcelain-covered knob or pull.
Rustic
Hardware should reflect the warmth and welcoming feel of a farmhouse or rustic kitchen. Choose a simple pull or knob in an oil rubbed bronze, black or copper finish. These finishes develop a patina with time, which makes them perfect for a rustic and homey kitchen.
Eclectic
You want your personality to come through? Unique hardware can add a unique touch to your cabinets. For your beach house, choose handles that resemble seashells. Choose painted knobs to complement your relaxed, informal kitchen.
4. Materials
There are many different materials available for kitchen cabinet hardware. The majority of them are metal alloys. Brass hardware is usually coated or plated to make it durable for use in the kitchen. Antimicrobial, it helps reduce the spread and growth of germs. Bronze hardware has a similar antimicrobial property, but it also offers a more substantial appearance and feels. It is suited to cabinets made from thicker wood. Another option is stainless steel, which is durable and easy-to-clean. Nickel and pewter are also popular options. You can also choose ceramic, glass, crystal or other vintage-looking knobs.
5. Finishes
It is easier to select the finish for your kitchen cabinets once you have decided on the style, size, material and type of hardware you desire. You can choose from a variety of finishes, including polished, brushed satin, matte or burnished. There are also many other options, such as antique, painted, weathered, painted, aged, or oil-rubbed.
In a modern kitchen, stainless steel handles with a high-polish or brushed finish are a great choice. Brass and pewter are more appropriate in a traditional kitchen. Bronze will age and mature over time. It will look great in a rustic setting. In a kitchen with a transitional design, a black finish looks dramatic against a light-colored cabinet. You can choose any finish for your cabinet hardware, but it should complement the decor in your kitchen.
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