Decorating and revamping your home is probably one of the most exciting things ever. You get to add a personal touch to any of your space while ensuring everything stays functional. More than that, home improvement and renovation are also effective ways homeowners can do to increase a real estate property’s value.
Both function and beauty are good reasons to love cabinet handles, knobs, and pulls. A few decades back, kitchens are nothing but mere spaces for food preparation.
It tends to get dirty all the time; hence, the lack of drive or motivation to actually decorate it and add a little bit of glitz and glamour. As the year’s past, this mindset slowly becomes a thing of the past.
While kitchens can get messy daily due to food preparation, it need not look hideous all the time. Nowadays, more than common spaces like the living room or entertainment rooms, the kitchen is also the best place to welcome guests, have a little talk, and even prepare meals together.
With that, it’s important that you find the time to care for your kitchen. Besides, it can add significant value to your home’s overall value.
It’s so easy to get caught up in selecting kitchen cabinetry and other essentials, which is why we’re here to help you! One kitchen redecorating project will never be complete unless you have chosen the best hardware finishes that create the perfect balance between function and aesthetic.
Here’s a guide to selecting the perfect cabinet handles, knobs, and pulls for your kitchen:
Knob, Handle, Or Pull?
There are absolutely no strict rules to follow when choosing the right hardware for your kitchen cabinets and drawers. However, you have to be firm on which type of commitment you’re willing to go for in the long run. Decide on which hardware you really want for your kitchen. Is it going to be a handle, a knob, or a pull?
Knobs go well with doors, while pulls and handles are perfect for all drawers. And, for any large kitchen doors, like pull-out pantries or trash cans, it’s better if you use a pull.
Drawers seem to be a lot more comfortable to open when using pulls and handles as it allows your whole hand to grab it instead of using only your fingertips. These handles and pulls and basically ideal for heavy drawers that carry heavy kitchen tools and equipment like pots, pans, dishes, etc.
But you can also stick to only knobs if you’d like. Many people believe the use of knobs is evident in many older kitchens; hence, also making it a timeless piece in your space. On the other hand, pulls and handles give off a much more contemporary and modern vibe.
Here’s a quick guide on what each cabinet hardware should look like:
Knobs are smaller than pulls or handles. These are relatively cheaper than handles and are commonly used for drawers and cabinets, as previously mentioned.
Above all, knobs are a lot easier to install than pulls and handles since you only need a screw to secure the knob into a surface. Even the most hardware unsavvy folks can do this in less than 5 minutes!
Pulls or handles tend to make more statement than knobs as these are a lot larger in size; hence, easier grip as compared to knobs. This makes them more expensive than knobs, but that’s only because they vary in size, complementing larger drawers and cabinets that carry heavy materials inside.
Edgy Or Soft?
Take note of your kitchen’s cabinet style. Do you want it square or curved? Edgy or soft? Think about the lighting fixtures, your colour palette, countertops, and all other design elements that will be of great use when picking the right cabinet handle, knob, or pull. It is important that you choose hardware that balances all your kitchen elements and one that has a consistent design.
Make A Mental Picture
Once you’ve had the chance to look at your many options, now’s the time to make a mental picture out of it. What would it look like when paired with your kitchen cabinets and drawers? Will it complement your existing style in the kitchen?
Whether you’re just replacing particular hardware in your kitchen or completely overhauling the entire space, the hardware you select should perfectly complement all other existing materials as well as the layout of the entire area.
Narrow Down Your Choices
As previously mentioned, consistency is key. This can also make your kitchen look neat and put together, no matter how much of a mess you try to make within your space. So, better if you learn how to narrow down your choices into a specific shape, style, size, or colour.
You don’t have to incorporate every single thing you see in your kitchen. Keep it as simple as possible, so you also maintain the kitchen’s overall functionality.
Don’t Overlook The Quality
Quality has got to be on top of your list when it comes to choosing the right cabinet hardware or finish for your kitchen, or basically for your entire house! Many people tend to overlook quality and focus more on design and aesthetics.
But let’s face it, the hardware in your kitchen is prone to many things like scratches or damages. It seems a lot of traffic. Stop putting so much importance on the look of it, but rather focus on things that give off the best quality. Make sure your cabinet handles, knobs, or pulls are sturdy and durable enough to withstand anything.
Consider The Color Of Your Cabinets And Drawers
The overall design or colour of your kitchen cabinets and drawers also play a significant role in choosing the right type of knob, handle, or pull. Almost any kind of finish will look good with white and painted cabinets and drawers.
Meanwhile, darker cabinets and drawers like black, grey, or those with shades of brown are not as flexible, so you have to carefully look through a variety of designs to see which ones fit best.
Think About Comfort
Try out each knob, pull, or handle that you think you might like before purchasing the entire kitchen. Touch and feel it if you must.
Try to get a hold of it and see how comfortable it feels on your fingertips or your whole hand. You should be able to know which ones would best fit comfortably and which ones only look charming but devoid of functionality and ease.
Think About Your Budget
Now that you’ve probably narrowed down your choices, it’s the best time to finally think about your budget. A good starting point should lead you to count how many knobs, pulls, or handles you will need for your entire kitchen.
Determine a price range that is comfortable for you. A lot of hardware stores have multiple designs and lines of varying quality, shape, style, and price. Make sure you find one that ensures topnotch quality materials, so you don’t have to keep spending on replacements every month or so.
Buying cheap items can seem like a good idea for short term purposes, but these things can wear out faster than you think. So make sure you allocate enough budget for quality materials.
Be Aware Of Your Appliances And Other Fixtures
Your cabinet knobs pull, or handles will not be the only hardware in your kitchen. Take into account a variety of other finishes like your appliances, lighting fixtures, your faucet, and sink. Be sure not to overdo anything.
Although mixing metal finishes throughout the entire kitchen is becoming a trend these days, but it would still be better to create a neat and put-together look for your kitchen. Make sure that the colours in your space do not clash as it can disrupt your kitchen’s cohesiveness and take away the aesthetic you’ve worked so hard on.
Think Outside The Box
Your standard hardware and appliances may come in different finishes like stainless, gunmetal, brushed nickel, and a lot more. Contrary to what was previously mentioned, it’s okay to go for something out of the ordinary. But, try not to go overboard.
Of course, we’re still looking at both functionality and design here. If you’re in the mood for it, glass and mirrors will work wonders in your kitchen, adding a creative touch you never thought could exist in your own space. If it helps you, go through kitchen cabinet trends where you can find inspirations and pegs for the look of your kitchen.
Consult A Professional
If all else fails, consult a professional! They exist for a reason. So if you want to make the most out of your kitchen’s function while still looking sleek and beautiful for your awaited guests, then it might be the perfect time to give your kitchen remodelling project to someone who knows better when it comes to home improvement.
Wrapping Up
Asking which one to get, whether a knob, a pull, or a handle, will have no definite answer. It will always be based on one’s personal preference when it comes to the kitchen and other spaces in your home.
For one who knows their kitchen very well, you should give much thought about which ones will work best for all your needs. Oftentimes, a combination of both works best in most kitchens, so there isn’t a lack of options and variety to choose from.
Author’s Bio: Rosette has a knack for anything DIY. She spent her younger years learning about the different hardware tools and equipment in the hopes of establishing a hardware business in the future. Her career options may have changed, but today, she continues to write so passionately about her first love.
