Hardware: Kitchen Remodel Series Pt.2
In the first part of this Kitchen Remodel Blog Series we shared all the details on choosing the right cabinetry. In this second part, we’re on to what we like to consider the jewelry to your cabinets - the hardware! Beyond their functional role, cabinet hardware contributes to the kitchen's style and personality. Like jewelry, hardware has the ability to tie an entire look together and reinforce a specific look. Whether your vibe is sleek and modern or traditional & timeless, there’s hardware to suit every taste and design aesthetic.
With a large variety of options, it can certainly feel overwhelming trying to choose the right hardware for your kitchen. “Do I choose gold or brass?” “Should I mix and match metals?” “What about knobs vs. pulls?” These are all questions we hear a lot! Fortunately, we’ve remodeled & designed a wide range of kitchens and are sharing our pro insights and tips to finding the perfect hardware to complement your space. We’ll cover the differences in styles, materials, sizes and finishes so that you go into your kitchen remodel confidence and excited about your hardware selection!
Here’s the deal on knobs…
First things first. You’ll need to decide which type of cabinet hardware you want to use – knobs or pulls, or both! If you don’t already know, a knob is a single small piece of hardware with a single hole, while a pull is a bar that extends between two holes. Knobs and pulls have the same function, but each one brings their own specific style to a space. Which type and style you decide to use will depend on what specific look and feel you are trying to accomplish in your kitchen.
When it comes to knobs, they’re a classic choice and while this isn’t a steadfast rule, knobs are usually seen in kitchens that have a traditional or transitional aesthetic whereas ultra-modern or contemporary kitchens usually feature a sleek, cohesive use of pulls.
There’s no right or wrong and there’s plenty of styles to choose from that will play up your desired design style. Check out our tips below for helping choose the right look!
TIPS:
Knobs are a great choice for small to mid-size drawers.
While looks are important, choose an option that is comfortable for your hands.
Round knobs are the easiest to grab.
Keep in mind that if square or geometric knobs get turned, they’ll look crooked - make sure they’re installed tightly in place!
Button, round, oval, birdcage and square are great options for rustic, traditional or transitional kitchens.
Bar, geometric & cylindrical are great options for more modern kitchens.
*See more on material finish & placement below!
and the details on pulls…
Just like knobs, drawer pulls contribute not just to the overall functionality of your kitchen but also to the aesthetics. While there are a multitude of pull styles for your cabinetry, we typically use drawer pulls in transitional & modern kitchen designs. There are of course drawer pulls that work in traditional or even farmhouse style kitchens so again, we want to empower you to choose what you love and feels best in your home!
TIPS
Finger pulls offer a sleek, minimal appearance and are great for modern spaces.
Long, simple pulls pair beautifully with modern cabinetry.
Pendant, drop, ring and cup pulls (hardware with a curve) all lend themselves to traditional and transitional kitchens.
For appliances or specialty cabinetry, consider an extra-long handle pull.
*See more on material finish & placement below!
Now that you have the run down on knobs & pulls, keep in mind that mixing knobs and pulls on kitchen cabinets can add stunning visual interest. To do this effectively, ensure there’s a clear separation within the space. For example, use pulls on upper cabinets while using knobs on lower cabinets, or use pulls on drawers while using knobs on doors. There are probably a hundred different mix and match options, so consider working with a Designer to help you choose the best option for your space!
time to break down size & placement
Whoohoo! Hopefully now you know the direction you want to go in terms of knobs or pulls (or a fun mix). The next step is making sure that your cabinetry not only looks professionally done but that they function well for your daily use. Because what good is a cabinet with beautiful hardware if it’s placed in a way that makes it difficult to actually open the door? The answer is, “no good!”
While there are different tips for both knobs & pulls, one common guideline is that your hardware should always be centered along the rail (the top frame of the cabinet) and the stile (the side frame of the cabinet).
KNOB PLACEMENT
Always place knobs on the opposite side of the door hinges (we know that seems obvious but trust us, we’ve seen some crazy things!)
A single knob works great on drawers that are under 24” wide.
For drawers that are wider than 24”, or if they might contain heavy items, we recommend doubling up on knobs.
PULL PLACEMENT
Choose a drawer pull that is about 1/3 the height of the cabinet door and 1/3 the width of the cabinet drawer.
A pull should never be more than half the size of your cabinet or appliance door.
For doors, the top of the hardware should either line flush with the frame of the cabinet or centered to the top rail.
Check out this visual guide for an additional reference. Keep in mind that this example uses a Shaker style cabinet so depending on the style of your door, the placement may slightly vary.
last but not least…FINISHes
It’s only appropriate that we saved the section on finishes until, well…the finish! Just like everything else, there’s lots of options and each one has it’s own unique look and feel. While there are always exceptions, typically polished finishes like chrome add a reflective, high-shine look that creates a modern and luxurious feel while satin and brushed finishes, provide a subtler, matte appearance with a more contemporary or industrial vibe. Antique or oil-rubbed finishes bring a vintage charm and warmth, often featuring darkened or distressed surfaces for an aged look. Matte black finishes offer a sleek, minimalist appearance, perfect for a clean, modern aesthetic. Ultimately, the choice of hardware finish should align with your design vision and complement the overall color palette and style of your space, adding that final touch of character and personality to your cabinetry!
DO
Mix & match hardware finishes for a visually appealing space.
Choose a monochromatic look for a sleek cohesive vibe.
Consider other design elements in your space such as lighting and plumbing.
DON’T
Mixed polished nickel and chrome.
Mix gold & brushed brass hardware.
BONUS TIP
Unlike silvers, golds come in many different sheens and intensites so, if you’re trying to match your hardware to your plumbing or other metal finishes, you’ll want to make sure they go together. For example, a brushed brass finish from Kohler may look totally different than a brushed brass finish from Brizo.
STEP INTO OUR DESIGN STUDIO
If you’re looking for specific advice about your space, give us a call for an in-person or virtual consultation!
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