Kitchen Hardware: The Jewelry of the Kitchen

Kitchen hardware can often be described as the jewelry of the kitchen, and like jewelry, there’s no one size fits all.  Hardware is a great way to infuse your kitchen with personality and character –  a way to add the final touch that sets your space apart.   Here are a few tips to consider for selecting hardware that is sure to inspire.

Knobs Over Pulls: A Shift in Preference

While sleek pulls have dominated the kitchen scene for years, we’ve recently seen a shift towards simpler knobs.   While we’re digging the dainty knobs that are popular now, we recommend utilizing a combination of both knobs and pulls.  There’s no hard and fast rule when it comes to which type of hardware to utilize in your space and our consideration will always start with function – which piece of hardware feels comfortable and will open the door or drawer easily.

Switch Things Up on an Island

Another way we love to keep things fresh in the kitchen regarding cabinetry hardware is by selecting an entirely different hardware for an island.  Maybe something more decorative or a different material such as glass, crystal or leather to transform it into more of a focal point with a furniture like appearance.   Hardware like latches or bin pulls can take an ordinary island and make it a great statement piece.

Finishes

Gold tones continue to be popular in design and this is especially true for cabinetry hardware.  If you opt for this bold yet elegant finish, consider how it blends with the rest of your space, like plumbing and lighting finishes.  Complementary colors in finishes can make a space feel coordinated and make a big impact.  Black hardware is another way to make a statement in your space and this hue lends itself to many design styles, including contemporary and even farmhouse.

 

Mix Your Metals

Gone are the days of perfectly matching metal finishes in the kitchen.  It’s perfectly acceptable (and a beautiful look, in our opinion) when your kitchen features different finishes.  When you start to think about mixing metals, we always recommend a main finish for the hardware and adding in contrasting hues in other accents like lighting and/or plumbing fixtures.  We especially love the mixture of golds and bronzes with stainless steel or black paired with golds.

Statement Hardware Can Make a POP

2024 is certainly shaping up to be the year of fun, statement hardware that dares to be bold and unconventional. From whimsical shapes to unexpected colors, statement hardware encourages creativity and individuality in kitchen design.  We expect to continue to see hardware that lends itself to being both a conversation piece as well as functional.

The Minimalist Approach: No Hardware

For those leaning towards a more minimalist aesthetic, the trend of no hardware is gaining traction as well.   More and more, we’re seeing many doors styles with subtle notches and integrated handles designed to eliminate the need for hardware. This design choice offers a clean, streamlined look.  Designer at E.W. Kitchens, Kristin Moore says that “eliminating visible hardware in favor of sleek, minimalist designs can really enhance a contemporary space.”

Hardware Placement

There are many factors to consider before hardware placement begins.   The biggest tip we can offer when selecting hardware to select one that is appropriate for the scale of your cabinet drawer or door.  When drawers are 24″ or wider, we suggest doubling up on hardware (that could be knobs or pulls, depending on your preference).  Another option for oversized doors and drawers would be using an extra long pull centered in the middle of the door or drawer.  Even the slightest ¼ inch move of hardware can completely change the overall look of a space.

An exception will always be an appliance pull.  Many panel ready appliances require oversized pulls equally for functionality and aesthetics.  The scale selected for appliance pulls is important to consider as well as the placement of the pull.   These pulls should be placed at a comfortable pull height for a refrigerator or dishwasher.

 

While the selection of hardware is often one of the last choices we help our clients make, it is by no means an afterthought. Hardware is the finishing touch that puts the punctuation mark on your style statement.  Our showrooms have hundreds of styles of hardware on display and our dream team is ready to help you create your space’s finishing touch.