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How to Choose the Perfect Kitchen Cabinet Hardware in 6 Easy Steps

By: Andrew Saladino | 5 min

Kitchen cabinet hardware in a modern-rustic white kitchen.

Are you remodeling your kitchen or simply sprucing it up? One of the most critical but often overlooked aspects of kitchen design is choosing the right hardware.

From handles and knobs to latches and hinges, the right hardware will add the perfect finishing touch to your kitchen cabinets.

To help you make the best decision for your kitchen, we've put together a guide on how to choose kitchen cabinet hardware. Let's get started!

How to Choose Kitchen Cabinet Hardware

  1. Find Your Style
  2. Choose Pulls vs. Knobs vs. Latches
  3. Determine the Perfect Size Hardware
  4. Pick Your Materials
  5. Choose Your Color
  6. Select Your Finish

1. Find Your Style

The first step in how to choose kitchen cabinet hardware is determining the style of your kitchen.

Is it Mid-Century Modern, rustic, or industrial? A mix of multiple styles?

If your kitchen design is a bit more modern or minimal, you should look for hardware with clean lines and metal finishes like chrome, stainless steel, and pewter.

For more classic or rustic kitchens, you may prefer knobs with ornate designs and warm tones.

This scale will help you pick the right style hardware for your kitchen cabinets:

Classic and modern kitchen cabinet knobs.

2. Choose Pulls vs. Knobs vs. Latches

Now that you've determined the style of your kitchen, it's time to decide whether you prefer handles or knobs, or maybe even an often neglected option: latches.

Pulls, or handles, are always a popular choice. They're sleek, easy to grab, and come in a wide variety of styles and finishes. Handles work especially well in modern kitchens with an emphasis on minimalism.

Knobs are another great option because they offer a lot of diversity and visual interest. They're perfect for classic kitchens where elaborate designs or a mix of materials are desired.

Latches can be a great choice when you want to make a statement. They come in bolder shapes, sizes, and designs than knobs or handles, and would be a great fit in a rustic or industrial-inspired kitchen.

And if you want it all, go for it! There are no rules saying you can't mix and match hardware types.

Kitchen cabinet handles, knobs and latches.

3. Determine the Perfect Size Hardware

Once you've selected the type of hardware you want, it's time to determine how big or small that hardware should be.

When picking a size for your hardware, it's important to evaluate how big your cabinet doors and drawers are. Choosing hardware that's too small for the space can make it feel like it's lost in the design. On the other hand, picking hardware that's too big can make it feel overpowering.

If you're using handles, you may consider opting for a piece of hardware that's about a third of the size of your cabinet or drawer.

And if you're dealing with especially large drawers and insist on using knobs, use two to create a more balanced look.

Mixing and matching hardware types can help add a little balance and intrigue as well. Try using knobs or latches on cabinets and handles on drawers!

4. Pick Your Materials

The hardware material greatly affects how it looks, how long it lasts, how easily it breaks, and how much it costs - and there are a lot of materials to choose from!

Here's a quick breakdown of some kitchen cabinet hardware ideas you can play with:

  • Stainless steel is a sleek, modern kitchen cabinet hardware material that is the perfect choice for contemporary kitchens. It's also incredibly durable and won't tarnish or corrode over time like other metals.
  • Pewter has a soft matte finish that adds a subtle touch to your kitchen cabinets. It pairs nicely with dark woods such as mahogany.
  • Brass is a great choice if you want to make a statement. It looks especially compatible with wood cabinets and has a timeless, classic appeal.
  • Copper adds warmth and texture to kitchen cabinets and works well with lighter woods like oak.
  • Ceramic knobs are perfect for traditional-style kitchens and can be found in many different shapes, styles, and colors.

While it's common to choose the same or similar material for your faucet and light fixtures, don't be afraid to diverge. Dark pewter handles could be a great contrast to your gold or stainless steel faucet, for example.

Mixed kitchen cabinet hardware materials.

5. Choose Your Color

The color of your kitchen cabinet hardware should complement the existing colors in your kitchen.

If you have stainless steel or white appliances, consider a classic silver or gray finish for your handles and knobs. If you're looking to create a warm atmosphere, try brass or bronze materials.

Gold accents can bring an added touch of elegance, while black and charcoal are great options if you're going for a modern look.

Don't be afraid to consult a kitchen mood board to get the ideas flowing!

6. Select Your Finish

The finish of your kitchen cabinet hardware is an important consideration and can help create the desired atmosphere in your kitchen.

Classic kitchens look great with polished finishes, especially with brass or nickel hardware.

Brushed stainless steel or chrome can add a modern touch.

And antique finishes like weathered bronze, oil-rubbed copper, or matte black can be used to give your kitchen a rustic feel.

When picking a finish, think about how much upkeep you're willing to take on. For example, shiny silver handles might look great, but they can be fingerprint magnets.

Kitchen Cabinet Hardware FAQs

What kind of cabinet hardware is in style in 2023?

Big and bold is one of the hottest kitchen trends in 2023. From brightly painted metal and ceramic handles to bejeweled accents, kitchen cabinet hardware is becoming a statement piece on its own.

Should I use knobs or pulls on kitchen cabinets?

Pulls are generally easier to use and offer a lot of design flexibility. Knobs, on the other hand, offer a timeless, elegant look and are great for small cabinets that don't need a lot of grip. Experiment with a combination of both knobs and pulls to create an interesting and functional design.

What is the rule of thumb for cabinet hardware?

Above all else, find hardware that suits your style and fulfills your needs. If you have a traditional kitchen, opt for classic-style handles and knobs. For a more modern look, consider pulls or sleek bar-style hardware. But don't be afraid to get creative!

Should cabinet hardware match the faucet or light fixture?

It's not necessary to match kitchen cabinet hardware to the faucet or light fixtures. However, if you prefer a unified look in your kitchen, you may consider choosing matching finishes.

Remember, Hardware Isn't Permanent

Just because you choose one type of hardware doesn't mean it will stay that way forever. Hardware is easy to install and it can be quite affordable.

If you're having trouble choosing, buy a few different styles and materials to see how they look.

Don't be afraid to experiment with different types of hardware, materials, and finishes, either. You might stumble on a perfect combination that no one else would have even thought to use!

Pro tip: Once you've selected the perfect kitchen cabinet hardware, buy a few extra pieces in case you need to replace a handle down the line.

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