Selecting the Perfect Cabinet Hardware for Your Kitchen Renovation

When renovating a kitchen, the cabinet hardware you choose can have a huge impact on the look and feel of the finished space. Cabinet knobs and pulls are the "jewelry" that adds the finishing touch and pulls the whole design together. With so many styles and finishes available, selecting hardware can feel overwhelming. Follow these tips to help you choose cabinet hardware that complements your new kitchen perfectly.

Tip #1: Coordinate with Your Cabinet Style

The hardware you choose should coordinate with the overall style of your cabinets. For traditional or vintage cabinets, consider classic shapes like bin pulls, cup pulls, or knobs with decorative details. Sleek, minimalist bar pulls or angular knobs pair well with contemporary flat-panel cabinets. Shaker cabinets work with a wide range of hardware styles from simple knobs to heavier industrial pulls.

Pro Tip from an Interior Designer: "Take a drawer sample with you when shopping for hardware to test how different options look and feel on your actual cabinets." - Sarah Richardson

Tip #2: Choose the Right Finish

The finish is just as important as the shape when it comes to hardware. Common finishes include brushed nickel, polished chrome, matte black, aged bronze, and brass/gold tones. Pick a finish that fits with your color scheme and the other metal tones in the kitchen. A rule of thumb is to match cool finishes (nickels, chromes) with cool tones and warm finishes (bronzes, golds) with warm colors.

Pro Tip: "Don't be afraid to mix finishes! Using two different tones like brushed brass with matte black can give your kitchen a high-end, designed look." - Genevieve Gorder

Tip #3: Consider Scale and Proportions

The size of your hardware should be proportionate to your cabinets. Larger, chunkier pulls look best on larger drawers and cabinet doors, while smaller knobs suit smaller cabinets. For upper cabinets, you may want smaller hardware to minimize hand/knuckle clearance issues. Make sure pulls are wide/deep enough for comfort when gripping.

Pro Tip: "As a general rule, your cabinet pulls should be around 1/3 the length of the drawer for proper scale and positioning." - Karen Williams

Tip #4: Mix It Up for Visual Interest

Who says all your hardware has to match? Try using two different but complementary hardware styles like knobs on uppers and pulls on lowers. Or put pulls on primary cabinets and knobs on less visible ones. Just make sure the different elements coordinate.

Pro Tip: "Using a combination of knobs and pulls is a great way to add depth and contrast to your kitchen cabinets. Just stick to one metallic finish for a cohesive look." - Vern Yip

Tip #5: Don't Forget Functionality

Beyond aesthetics, practicality is important. Pulls are typically easier to grip than knobs, especially for those with dexterity issues. D-shaped and cup pulls allow you to cup your hand under versus pulling straight out. Spring-loaded knobs and pulls enable soft closing.

Pro Tip: "If anyone in your household has mobility limitations, be sure to select cabinet hardware that's easier to grasp firmly – you may want to avoid tiny knobs." - Emily Henderson

Tip #6: Pay Attention to Projection

How far hardware projects from the cabinet matters for clearance when opening/closing doors and drawers next to appliances, walls, or windows. Generally, 2-3 inches of projection is recommended for most cabinets.

Pro Tip: "Take measurements of any tight spaces where your cabinet doors will be swinging open to ensure you have enough clearance based on the hardware projection." - John Gidding

 

Whether you prefer sleek and modern or warm and traditional styles, taking the time to carefully select your cabinet hardware will ensure it enhances the look and functionality of your new kitchen for years to come. We are always here to help you make the best choices for your dream kitchen. 

 

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