Kitchen Hardware is Like Jewelry for Your Cabinets

Just like choosing the right jewelry completes your outfit, choosing the right kitchen hardware completes your kitchen design. Remodeling your kitchen consists of making decisions about every element from your cabinets to your countertops, flooring, lighting, and more. Remodeling is expensive, and your design must stand the test of time.

The hardware you choose complements each element of your design and pulls them all together. Your hardware choices are also a way to put your personal style on your kitchen in a way that enhances your design, but it's also easily swapped if your tastes change. 

The same way your outfit looks different depending on if you wear your simple gold earrings or your diamond drops, your kitchen hardware choice will significantly influence your kitchen design's tone, feel, and style. 

When it comes to kitchen cabinet hardware, you have relatively endless options. In this post, we're going to look at how you can select the right hardware style to bring out the best of your design. Here are some key things to consider.

What Do We Mean When We Say Cabinet Hardware?

Hardware allows you to easily open your cabinet doors and drawers. Typically the hardware is one of the last decisions you'll make during your kitchen remodeling. The only exception is choosing cabinets designed to work without hardware, like those using recessed channels or cutouts.

Basically, when we're talking about cabinet hardware, it fits into two categories: knobs and pulls. Knobs attach with a single screw, while pulls can be used either on cabinet doors or drawers and typically attach with two or more screws. Some decorative hardware comes with a backplate that lies flat against the door.

Choosing Cabinet Hardware: Style and Finish

When the time comes to make your cabinet hardware choices, you will have a vast array of choices and options to choose from, and it can be overwhelming! The best option is to use the style of your home as a guide. This can help you narrow your choices considerably. 

Knobs

Knobs come in various shapes, including round, square, rectangular, novelty, and more. Sizes can vary, but they are typically smaller. Knobs come in various materials, including stainless steel, stone, glass, brass, ceramic, or even unusual materials like repurposed buttons.

Pulls

Like knobs, pulls come in a wide range of options, including bar, ring, cup, and bail pulls. Drop handle pulls give your cabinets a more furniture-like look, while recessed pulls are built into the door facing and offer a sleeker, more modern look. Like knobs, pulls come in a range of colors and materials.

When creating your design, start with the basics. Because they are most often round, knobs are a more "traditional" choice. Pulls can be a popular choice for contemporary kitchens as they usually have a linear, modern form.

One standard design option is that most drawers should have pulls, and doors should have knobs, but not every vertical surface should be treated the same. Today, many homeowners choose to mix of knobs and pulls, but typically keep the style or finish consistent. Proper sizing of pulls makes a big difference in your design. By keeping finishes or style consistent and properly sizing your pulls, you can create a more custom, designer look.

Choosing the Right Finish

Once you've chosen the right type of hardware for each drawer and door, it's time to select the perfect finish. Like knobs, you have a wide range of finishes to choose from. From chrome to brass and bronze, each finish offers its own distinct charm. 

A modern finish like stainless steel can coordinate perfectly with high-end appliances. It's also ideal for sleek kitchen design and those who want to add a bit of polish to their design. If you're looking for a more traditional old-world elegance, oil-rubbed bronze is an excellent choice. It creates a warm and welcoming ambiance. If you're looking for a more luxurious idea, why not explore a pewter finish. Even though this finish is on the dark side of the metal family, it picks up light and casts a soft glow! 

Learn the cost of a kitchen remodel

Defining Your Design: It's All In The Details!

Even though cabinet hardware is small in scale, it is truly one of the most prominent and defining details in every kitchen. It has a dramatic effect on the look and feel of the space. When done correctly, decorative cabinet hardware can take your design to a new level. Vintage glass knobs, solid brass pulls, wrought iron handles, even Swarovski crystal knobs are just some of the unique choices available. Though using unique designs and materials, you can take your kitchen from just ok to fabulous!

Make selections that fit into your kitchen's overall design style. Consider your light fixtures, faucet, and other décor details. If you're kitchen has clean lines and minimalist details, consider hardware that is sleek and contemporary. In contrast, if your style leans more toward European elegance, old-world ornate pieces might be more fitting.

Try including specialty hardware pieces into your design to add luxury without sacrificing functionality. For example, an ornate ring pull can enhance your Italian inspired design. Looking for a timeless element? Try brass pulls with delicate rosette details. Starburst knobs, animal pulls, or stone knobs can add an eye-catching aesthetic. Or add texture with polished steel or hammered brass that feels great to the touch.

Your cabinets can become extraordinary items you use and appreciate every day with artistic kitchen hardware designs like these! 

Go From Drab to Fab!

It's amazing what a little jewelry can do! Your cabinet hardware is the jewelry your design needs to take your kitchen from drab to fab! Through the use of unexpected, luxurious selections, you can dramatically impact the look and feel of your kitchen design while maintaining perfect functionality for everyday use.

Are you considering a kitchen remodeling project?  If you live in the West Central Alabama area,  give the design experts at Toulmin Kitchen & Bath a call at (205) 366-0807. Our design professionals can help you select the perfect cabinet hardware to achieve a high-end look! Call today and arrange a free no-obligation consultation to discuss your project.