Choosing the Right Hardware for Your Kitchen Cabinets

Certainly you will choose hardware that works well with your cabinet style and finish. But this is also an opportunity to enhance a color or style introduced in your countertop, appliances, light fixtures, faucet, flooring or paint. Below are some examples, along with tips on how knobs and pulls can kitchen design pop.

If your cabinets feature exposed hinges, choose hardware in a matching finish. On this wall of inset Shaker cabinets, brushed nickel knobs subtly complement the exposed hinge barrels for a seamless effect. The finish is reflected again in the nail trim on the bar stools.

Euro style bar pulls in lengths proportionate to drawer width and door height provide a balanced, graceful look in this transitional kitchen. The homeowner chose a stainless finish to coordinate with the appliances, sink and faucet.

In the kitchen above, Euro bar pulls reflect the contemporary styling and finish established by the industrial-look faucet.

Oil-rubbed bronze cabinet hardware complements the style and color of the island chandelier and stair banister. The deep color enhances the effect of the hand-rubbed glazed finish on the cabinetry.

Read more about CliqStudios lighting solutions here.

Cup pulls perfectly complement a farmhouse sink or country kitchen style. Use them with slab or raised-panel drawer fronts. Avoid using the cup pull with a recessed-panel drawer front, since it limits access to the pull.

Cabinet pulls and knobs put in years of hard work, so quality is important. Feel the back of a pull or knob—you want a solid piece with the fashion metal all the way through, not a thin piece of pressed metal. You will often find the best prices online, where you can also see customer reviews. It may be worth a few dollars in shipping to order samples before buying hardware for the entire kitchen.

Tell us about your hardware favorites in the comments below!