Blog

How to Choose the Right Bathroom and Kitchen Cabinet Hardware

March 26, 2024 · BY: WOLF HOME PRODUCTS

Something as small as your cabinet hardware can change the look and feel of your bathroom or kitchen. As new styles emerge, you have more options than ever before — so how do you know what’s right for you and your space? Use our guide to inspire you and find the perfect cabinet hardware to complement your design style and personality.

Style

Style

Not all cabinet handle hardware is the same. From sleek, modern options to unique statement pieces, there is cabinet hardware for every design style. 

Before looking at the design and color of your cabinet hardware, you first need to decide on cabinet pulls vs. knobs. You can mix and match these handles or opt for a single style throughout your design, and both pull and knob hardware comes in various designs and sizes. If you want to incorporate both types of handles into your cabinetry, pulls are typically used for drawers, while knobs are used for cabinet doors. 

Cabinet Pulls

Pulls are ideal for drawers because they allow you to use your whole hand to open the drawer instead of just your fingertips. A wider grip gives you better control, especially for heavier drawers. If you prefer an all-pull look, it’s best to place your pull handles horizontally for drawers and vertically for doors. 

Pull-handle cabinetry can give your bathroom or kitchen a more modern look. Popular pull handle styles include:

  • Arch pulls
  • Bar pulls
  • Birdcage pulls
  • Cup pulls
  • Drop-handle pulls
  • Finger pulls
  • Ring pulls

Bar and arch pulls are classic pull handle options, but take some time to consider all your options. It’s important to find a handle that matches your style and is comfortable to use. You’ll use these handles multiple times a day, so you’ll want to make sure you like the way they feel, not just how they look.

Cabinet Pulls

Knobs

Knob handle hardware for kitchen and bathroom cabinets is most commonly a geometric shape. However, there are novelty design options available as well. You can find novelty cabinet knobs in a wide variety of shapes, from animals to flowers. Whichever design you choose, ensure the knob is also comfortable in your hand. 

Knob handles give a space a traditional and classic look. Some popular knob handle styles include:

  • Bar knobs
  • Cylindrical knobs
  • Geometric knobs
  • Round knobs
  • Square knobs
  • Oval knobs
  • Mushroom knobs

Whether you go for knobs or pulls on cabinets is completely up to you and your personal style. However, even if you opt for an all-knob handle design, you may still want to use pulls for any heavier drawers or doors, such as a pull-out trash compartment.

Color and Finish

Another way to customize your cabinet hardware to fit your design style is through its color and finish. Some popular hardware finishes include:

  • Chrome
  • Brushed nickel
  • Shades of bronze
  • Satin brass
  • Oil-rubbed bronze
  • Rust
  • Aluminum 
  • Matte black
  • Clear glass
  • Wood

If you want to create a monochromatic look, look for a finish that matches your cabinets. If you’re looking for a pop of color or want to add contrast to your color scheme, try matte black kitchen hardware for cabinets. 

Having a hard time choosing a finish for your kitchen cabinet hardware? Look to your appliances for inspiration. What color and finish are your refrigerator, dishwasher and sink faucet? Look at options that complement your current appliances, as well as ones that add contrast.

Hardware Trends

Hardware Trends

Design trends are constantly changing — it’s essential to focus on your own taste and style to ensure you love the look of your kitchen or bathroom for years to come. After all, you’re the one who will be using the space daily. The most important person to please is yourself!

However, sometimes we need a little help finding our style. You can use these current cabinet hardware trends to inspire you during your design process:

  • Go bold: From oversized handles to eye-catching colors like gold or black, current cabinet hardware design trends are all about making a statement. A bold cabinet handle or knob will draw attention and add a beautiful design element to your space without being overwhelming.
  • Incorporate historical design elements: Current design trends show a renewed interest in the dramatic and elegant designs of the past. If you love a vintage look, you may want to consider historic-inspired cabinet hardware. You can find collections with novelty items as well as more traditionally shaped pieces. 
  • Mix and match: Mixing metals is just one way to create a fun, unique look. Try choosing a single color and finish for your hardware but mix up the shapes you use. Try fun geometric shapes for your cabinet drawers and classy pulls for your drawers. Have some fun and find a combination you love that will make your space personal to you and your style.

Where to Put Cabinet Hardware

If you’re replacing your current cabinet hardware, the existing screw holes will guide where you place your new hardware. However, if you’re replacing a knob with a pull or vice versa, you’ll need to determine the new placement yourself. 

Follow these guidelines to find the proper cabinet handle placement for knob hardware: 

  • You’ll want to place the knob on the opposite side of the door’s hinges. 
  • Place the knob around 2 ½-3 inches from the bottom corner for upper cabinet doors. 
  • Place the knob 2 ½-3 inches from the top corner for lower cabinet doors. 

Follow the same rules for pulls by placing one end of the hardware where your knob would go. Ensure the pull is level before securing the other end.

The center of the drawer is a classic option when adding pull hardware. You can also place the pull slightly above the direct center if it feels more comfortable for you. This same idea applies to knob hardware. Align the center of your bar knob or other knob hardware with the center of the drawer. 

Upgrade Your Cabinetry With Wolf Home Products

When you want to elevate and upgrade your home, Wolf Home Products offers a great selection of beautiful, high-quality cabinets, vanities and more. From traditional cabinets to more unique models, we offer several cabinet options for various types of design styles and preferences. Find a dealer in your area to start renovating or designing your new space today. 

Related Posts

Recent Posts

Popular Posts

a white cabinet with a gold handle sits next to a rug
a close up of a white marble counter top

Sign up To Receive News from Wolf Home Products

    a close up of a gold object with a white background