Designer Tips for Selecting New Cabinet Hardware
January 24, 2012Guest Blogger5 comments

Modern and sleek hardware on these cabinets matches stainless steel appliances
After narrowing down your kitchen cabinets options and finally selecting the style that looks the best for your home, you still have to decide on the right decorative hardware for your cabinets. Choosing kitchen cabinet hardware sounds like an easy process, but with the thousands upon thousands of options available, making your final decision can be a bit overwhelming.
While you’ll find many options at your local home improvement store, so much more is available to you online. You’ll find cheap options, expensive ones, and unique styles not suited for mass market retail stores.
Here are some things designers look for and consider when sourcing knobs and pulls:
Consider Existing Décor
Choose a style and finish that matches your existing décor. If you have a traditionally styled home, the cabinets and the hardware should match.
Think Complementary
The hardware should complement your cabinet style and finish.
Function First
Fashion over function doesn’t have to apply here. If you’re opening your cabinets every day, choose a style of knob or pull that is comfortable in your hand.
Remember Maintenance
Consider how much maintenance the hardware material will need. Textured pieces will be harder to clean, and some finishes may need more upkeep.
Pulls vs. Knobs
You can mix and match styles. For example, pulls may work better on doors and knobs better on drawers for you, or vice versa.
Create Accent Pieces
Use hardware as an accent piece to help create a focal point. For example, a different knob or pull style can be used a special cabinets to emphasize the area.
For more information on choosing the right materials for your new kitchen and for a resource on remodeling check out CliqStudios’ remodeling resources page.
Cabinet Knobs
I would use granite knobs and pulls to match the granite countertops.
Kitchen Renovations Adelaide
Very useful post. Choose the cabinet style that not only fits the kitchen design but also provides enough space for your kitchen appliances. Choose the material that is more safe and cost effective.
Carol
Iam in the process of remodeling my kitchen. The cabinets are painted dove white from benjamin Moore. My appliances are stainless steel. Iam not sure what finish to use for cabinet hardware? Does brushed nickel look better with my appliances or should I consider polished chrome? My overall style of my home is traditional. Can you help me? Thanks!
August Drilling
Carol – I would choose the hardware that most closely matches your appliances. My guess is the brushed nickel will be a closer match. Also, polished chrome tends to need more maintenance because it shows fingers prints and wet marks.
Matt
Just bought stainless steel pulls for everything to match the appliances!