How To Choose The Right Kitchen Cabinet Hardware?

Why does kitchen cabinet hardware matter?

Before you begin selecting the best cabinet hardware, you must first appreciate its importance. Only then you will be able to put in the amount of effort required in picking the proper hardware for your cabinets.

Here are some of the top reasons why this detailing has the same importance as other kitchen renovation decisions.

They enhance the aesthetics of your kitchen

Every homeowner wants each of the rooms in their house to be visually appealing. After all, we are surrounded by social media that allows access to beautifully designed homes around the world. It would be a shame to be left behind, right?

Well, something as simple as kitchen cabinet hardware can help elevate the aesthetics of your kitchen. You can choose the most premium cabinets out there. But, if you don't select the correct hardware, they will still appear odd and out of place!

Therefore, choosing hardware for kitchen cabinets can make or break the overall aesthetic of your kitchen.

There is a massive range of knobs and pulls available to choose from. The key is to pick a design that matches the theme of your kitchen. These little details will surely add aesthetic value to this particular section of your home.

They boost functionality

Sometimes we underestimate just how important something like a handle is! Think of all of the appliances around you. From your wardrobe to your room doors, everything has a handle. This small tool has the power to make any item functional.

Let's say you install the best-designed cabinets and drawers. To make use of them, you will need to add knobs and handles. And if these knobs aren't comfortable enough, you won't get things done promptly in kitchen. Thus, at the end of day, no room needs to be more functional than a kitchen.

Therefore, it is imperative to select proper hardware for  kitchen cabinets drawers. Initiate by making an informed decision of the product by considering factors like ease of grip, comfort ability of handles, durability etc.

Are you not sure how?

Choosing the proper cabinet hardware: A guide

Here is how you can break the task into simple steps:

Know your type

When deciding your cabinet hardware solely on the looks of it, you might feel overwhelmed! This is why it is better to narrow down your choices from the get-go. To do so, begin by knowing what type of hardware you want on your cabinets.

There are three types you can choose from: all pulls, all knobs, or a combination of both. For starters, a cabinet is usually opened via a knob, and a drawer has a pull installed on it. However, you can mix and match and create your own rules along the way!

Here are some things to remember about this two hardware:

• Knobs are less expensive and utilize less space than handles. They can be used on both cabinets and drawers and are easier to install.
• Pulls take up more space than knobs but tend to make a better visual statement. They are easier to grip and hence more functional than knobs. The linear shape of pulls tends to complement both drawers and cabinets.

The ideal one for your kitchen can be determined based on the following :

1. your functionality requirements,
2. the aesthetic vibe you are going for,
3. and your budget.

Decide on a style

Different kitchens exude different styles. Your cabinet hardware must complement the overall style statement of your kitchen. For instance, a modern kitchen requires modern kitchen hardware as well.

Here are the five types of cabinet hardware that you can choose from, depending on the architecture of the rest of your kitchen:

• Contemporary: Linear bar handles, or barrel handles are ideal for kitchens with little ornamentation, sleek lines, and neutral color palettes. Try to mimic the style of the handles of your appliance on your kitchen cabinets as well.

• Transitional: Such kitchens tend to feature elements of both traditional and contemporary kitchens. Here, the trick is to find a balance between the two types of styles when selecting hardware.

• Traditional: You will still find kitchens with elaborate moldings and embellishments. For such traditional style rooms, ornate drop handles and fancy knobs are a perfect choice.

• Rustic: For those of you who have a rustic style kitchen, use your cabinet hardware to convey a feeling of warmth. A simple bronze or copper pull or knob will do the trick!

• Eclectic: Do you feel that none of the above-mentioned styles match your kitchen? Then, chances are that you do not follow a single theme and love to experiment! If that's the case, feel free to install hardware that goes with the overall vibe you are trying to create.

Think of your hardware collectively as an extension of your overall kitchen style and choose it accordingly.

Finalize the material and finish

Once you have a clear idea about the hardware style you wish to install on your kitchen cabinets, now is the time to move to the final stage – choosing the material and finish of your hardware!

Let's start with material first. Cabinet hardware is available in a seemingly endless variety of materials. Some popular choices include brass, bronze, pewter, nickel, and stainless steel. For those wishing to add a vintage touch, options like ceramic, crystal, and glass are also available.

Different materials have different benefits. For instance, brass hardware tends to be more durable, while bronze hardware is antimicrobial and looks great. On the other hand, stainless steel is very easy to clean. Weigh each option based on its merits and decide which one suits your needs.

After finalizing the material, it is time to move on to the last decision – finishing of your kitchen hardware. Again, options are endless. To name a few, you can choose between painted, brushed, polished, satin, burnished, matte, antique, oil-rubbed, or weathered, etc.



Generally, brushed or polished finish work well when added to a contemporary kitchen. On the other hand, a dramatic black finish is ideal for transitional-style kitchens. So, here, the decision you make should be dependent on the décor of your kitchen.

Tips to Remember

Beyond choosing and installing cabinet hardware, certain tips will surely help you make the best decision regarding your kitchen hardware.

• Your cabinet hardware should be among the last things you finalize. This will allow you to narrow down your choices as all you have to do is stick to your kitchen's overall theme.

• Avoid opting for different finishes on different cabinets and drawers in your kitchen. Cohesiveness will help your kitchen look connected and well-thought-out.

• Apart from cabinet and kitchen style, also take into account the color of your cabinets. This will help you in finalizing the finish and color of your hardware. Usually, a contrasting color looks best.

• Be mindful of the quality! Don't just choose hardware because it looks aesthetically pleasing. Instead, make sure you select durable material. The last thing anyone would want is to replace their cabinet hardware again and again!

• Don't be afraid to experiment. Your kitchen, just like any other room in your house, should reflect who you are. Go ahead and mix and match as you please – as long as the output is functional, durable, and visually pleasing.

• Consider cost when making your final decision. Remember, this is just one aspect of your project. Don't spend too much on it.

Ending Remarks

You now have all the information you need to tackle with this aspect of your kitchen renovation.

Take your time and choose the best kitchen hardware as per your need.

Give your kitchen cabinet hardware the attention they deserve. These are the few things you will be reaching out to a lot when working in your kitchen!