When you are renovating or customizing your kitchen, it easy to find yourself focusing on the bigger stuff such as countertops, cabinetry, and flooring, and forget about the small things. However, it would be best if you understood that the little things such as cabinet hardware also make a big difference. And considering the full range of hardware options out there, choosing the right items for your kitchen is not an easy task either. This article highlights some of the things you should consider when selecting hardware for your cabinets.
The Style
The style of hardware you choose will highly depend on the design style in your kitchen. Consider the various elements in your kitchen to determine the right hardware style for your cabinets. If your kitchen boasts traditionally styled cabinets that embody intricate face profiles, classic hardware will be the best option. Flat-faced cabinets will look great with minimal, streamlined knobs and pulls. If you have Shaker-style kitchen cabinets, they’ll be excellently complemented by cup pulls. For countertop edges, cabinets, and lighting fixtures with square or curved lines, choose hardware that matches those curves and lines.
Finishes
The other important thing when selecting cabinet hardware is the finish. Should you choose brass, brushed nickel, or chrome finishes? It is crucial to ensure that you maintain a smooth finish on all of your kitchen hardware and ensure that the hardware you select complements the overall decor. Homeowners can choose from a vast array of cabinet hardware finishes, including brushed, polished, satin, antique, burnished, or oil-rubbed. If you want to make a bold statement, try bronze finish. If you are looking for hardware for a traditional style kitchen, you’ll never go wrong with brass and pewter finishes. Warm-toned cabinets will look fabulous with black, bronze, or gold finishes.
Knob or Pull
Another important decision that homeowners need to make is whether to use the knob or pull option. Here, you’ll need to factor in both form and function. Pulls make your work more comfortable as they provide more space for you to have a firm grip and navigate freely around the kitchen. They also create an attractive look and make a more significant statement.
On the other hand, knobs exude a sense of style when used on cabinets, but they tend to create a dated look when used exclusively. Using pulls on drawers and knobs on cabinets can add variety and showcase your style. As for the price, knobs are less costly and easier to work with when you have all the fine details in place. Whether to use knobs or pull will be contingent upon your budget, the space between various elements in your kitchen, and functional benefits.
Consider the Material
Most of the cabinet hardware is made of metal alloys. However, to get the best out of your cabinets, you need to understand what materials will fit best to your kitchen cabinets design. Bronze hardware boasts antimicrobial properties, provides a bold look and feel, and resonates well with cabinets made of thick and robust wood. Brass also comes with antimicrobial properties, but it needs some plating or lacquering to make it more durable. Those seeking a luxurious look can opt for crystal or glass-made hardware. Other popular choices include pewter, stainless steel, and nickel, among others.
The Size Matters
You need to go for cabinet hardware that provides a comfortable grip. The overall kitchen design style should determine the size of the hardware you choose. A pull that is more than 9 inches yields a contemporary allure, while a pull between 5 and 7 inches is considered traditional. Aesthetically, if the size of the hardware overshadows the kitchen, it is too large. Additionally, knobs and pulls with extended overhands or profiles can catch clothing and make it difficult to maneuver around the kitchen.
However, if the profiles are too small, they may make it more challenging for people with larger hands to use the cabinets. No matter how suitable cabinet hardware is, it will cause you problems if it is not the right size.
For help with your kitchen remodel, book an appointment with Karin Ross Designs today!
