Cup handle or edge pull? Brass or chrome? And what about handles for built-in appliances? With so many sizes, styles and finishes available, it can be hard to know how to choose the perfect kitchen hardware. Our guide will help you get to grips with where to start – and if you’d like more detailed advice, just contact us. We’re always delighted to help.
What size kitchen cabinet hardware is best?
Some people like to go by the ‘one third’ guide for kitchen cabinet door and drawer pull handles – choosing a pull that is approximately one third of the width or a drawer or the height of a door. That said, there really is no rule you need to abide by. As long as the knob or handle is functional, go with what you love the most. Just remember that very small knobs may not be practical for large cupboards or deep drawers. Bear in mind the projection, too – especially in small spaces. It may help to use digital imaging, uploading a photo of your kitchen to special interior-design software. For a more analogue approach, you could try printing out correctly sized images of your selected hardware and taping them to the fronts of your doors.
Is it better to fit a knob or a pull handle?
While some may advise fitting knobs on kitchen cabinet doors and pulls on drawers, you can do whatever you prefer – provided it’s practical. Choose what feels right and looks best to you. When it comes to very wide drawers, you’ll need either a long bar handle or two pulls or knobs, so the drawer opens evenly. And our top tip: if you’re going to mix and match different styles, use the same finish for a co-ordinated effect.
How to choose between cup handles, bar pulls or edge pulls
For good grip, either bar pulls or cup handles can’t be beaten. The former usually have a more modern look, and are available in a wide range of lengths, so you can vary them if necessary. Cup handles definitely add that traditional appeal, and are ideal for country kitchens and Shaker-style cupboards. Choose sleek, minimal and space-saving edge pulls if you’re not overly concerned about grip and want to provide a finishing touch in a modern kitchen.
Hardware for built-in appliances
It can be hard to know how to deal with hardware for the heavy doors of built-in appliances. You’ll want to match the rest of the cabinetry, but also need a good grip and a strong, durable fixing. The ideal choice is a heavy-duty appliance pull, though for smaller doors (a slimline dishwasher, for example) you’ll probably find that a standard bar handle will work just fine.
What about high-traffic kitchens?
For busy, family kitchens – or any kitchen where there’s lots going on – high-quality hardware made from solid brass will last and last. Style-wise, opt for pieces that are comfortable, easy to use and easy to clean. If you choose knobs and pulls with backplates, they will help protect the paintwork on cupboards and drawer fronts.
What finish is best for kitchen hardware?
Choosing a finish for hardware can be almost as tricky as deciding on the style. Start by asking yourself whether you would prefer your pulls or knobs to blend in or stand out as a feature in their own right. How will they complement the colour and finish of your cabinetry (and possibly other features in the kitchen)? Would you like a ‘warm’ or ‘cool’ metal? For a traditional kitchen, brass and bronze make great finishes, while in a more modern kitchen chrome and graphite black look sleek and stylish. And for timeless appeal, consider the soft patina of nickel.
