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Choosing Kitchen Cabinet Hardware
After deciding which cabinetry will be installed in the newly remodeled or built kitchen, the next step is to think about the hardware that will accompany it. With the wide array of materials and styles available, it can be challenging to narrow down the choices. Even knowing which type of hardware works best for which type of cabinet or drawer can be confusing. Thankfully, the simple tips and tricks below will help make the kitchen cabinet hardware decision much more manageable.
Styles
If your kitchen cabinets are brand new, you may have the option of making the ultimate decision as to which type of hardware will go on the cabinet doors. It may not sound like a big decision, but if a handle is chosen over a knob for instance, the cabinet door will be drilled for two screws as opposed to one. For future hardware changes, that cabinet will then always need a handle or pull with two screws. Typically, the most common styles for cabinet hardware are knobs, handles and pulls. Knobs require one screw and are usually best for cabinet doors above the counter. Handles generally require two screws and are used on lower cabinet doors and drawers. Pulls are most commonly used on drawers and also require two screws. Although these are the typical uses for the hardware styles, there is no rule that they cannot be used in other locations. Choose hardware that will work best where you need it, while also giving you the look desired.
Finishes
Forget about only having one or two finishes to choose from when selecting kitchen cabinetry hardware. Today's hardware choices range from the classic to the unusual and each has a place in newly designed kitchens. Some of the most popular metal finishes include brushed nickel, polished brass, stainless steel, and polished chrome. When selecting metal hardware, make sure that the undertone matches the rest of the room. For instance, a kitchen done in primarily warm colors would look out of place with cool stainless steel handles. If you are unsure as to what the metal will look like against the cabinet doors, purchase a sample handle or knob that you can bring home to try out.
Unique Handles
Unique kitchens deserve unique cabinet hardware. Thankfully, there are just as many unusual styles of cabinetry hardware to choose from as there are conventional pieces. For a Southwestern inspired kitchen, consider painted porcelain or glass knobs in colorful hues. Drawer pulls made from antique spoons would add character to a shabby chic inspired kitchen decor. There is no end to the possibilities of unique cabinet hardware.
When making the decision about which hardware to choose, start by narrowing it down to a handful of choices. Purchase a sample of each choice and attach it to the kitchen cabinets. If you are not ready to drill holes in the cabinet doors and drawers, use low-residue double sided tape to adhere the handles to the cabinets. Keep the different options on the cabinets for a few days, so that you can get a feel for how they would really look if installed. Ask for the opinions of others if the decision is too difficult to make.
About The Author:
Jessica Ackerman, author and staff designer at WallDecorandHomeAccents.com, specializes in wall art and decor and fish wall sculpture .
