Are you ready to revitalize your kitchen, but you don’t have the desire to remodel the whole thing? Maybe you like it mostly as is, or maybe you just don’t have the time or budget for it (yet!), but you need to do something. Our advice? Look into new kitchen cabinet hardware! Nothing gives kitchen cabinets a facelift like replacing the cabinet hardware.
So Many Cabinet Hardware Choices!
You may wonder, “Where should I look for new cabinet hardware?” or “What sort of hardware is even available for cabinets?” To help you make the right choice, consider the following:
Knobs or Pulls?
Most kitchen cabinet hardware falls into one of two categories: knobs and pulls.
- Knobs are typically easier to install, as they only require one hole; however, depending on their shape, they can be more difficult to grab. If you are switching from pulls to knobs, you may want to consider filling the extra hole with putty and then covering it with paint that matches the cabinets. They are more traditional in look and feel and are typically placed in the center of a drawer and the lower opening corner of cabinet doors.
- Pulls, on the other hand, while easier to grab, can be slightly more difficult to install as they require two holes that align. If you switch from knobs to pulls, you’ll need to drill a hole yourself in your cabinets. Pulls are usually more modern in look and feel. They are typically installed horizontally on cabinet drawers and vertically on doors.
It’s important to note that many kitchens don’t choose between the two; often, designers create knobs and pulls that complement nicely, and those who cannot choose do not have to.
Additionally, latches are having a moment in kitchen cabinet hardware. Many people love the look, although as they are not always the easiest to use, we’ll have to wait and see if these last.
Form or Function?
Think about how often you open and close your kitchen cabinets on a typical day. Then, consider your frustration level if those cabinets were difficult to open. Is it more important to choose form or function?
Some people rarely use their kitchens or have a very high frustration tolerance level—for these people, kitchen hardware that compromises function over form may not be a non-starter. But for most, it’s important to consider how the hardware will handle. Read reviews and even visit showrooms before you decide if you fall into this category.
To Match or Not Match?
Once you’ve decided whether you’d like to install knobs or pulls, you’ll need to decide on your finish. At this point, you may want to consider whether or not you want your cabinet hardware to match your other kitchen appliances and cabinetry.
For example, if you have stainless steel appliances or light fixtures, do you want your kitchen hardware to be stainless steel? Or would you like to find something that provides a pop of color or a bit of contrast? Choosing to mix metals has become increasingly popular, with brass hardware especially, so don’t feel like you have to choose stainless just because you already have stainless steel in other places in your kitchen.
Size Proportions
Typically, design and cabinet experts recommend that cabinet pulls are about ⅓ of the length of the door or drawer they are placed on. For example, if your drawer is twelve inches, you’d want a pull handle about four inches.
However, some designers like to play with these proportions for fun contrast; for example, by placing oversized knobs on cabinet doors. The important thing when playing with size is to also consider the size of your overall kitchen; oversized knobs that look fun in a larger kitchen may make a smaller kitchen feel even smaller.
Your Dream Kitchen Cabinets and THE Perfect Cabinet Hardware are Waiting for You at SoCo Wood & Windows!
If you decide you’d like to invest in new kitchen cabinets and hardware, let us know! We now sell cabinets at SoCo Wood & Windows, and we’d be happy to help you take the next step in your dream kitchen. With some of the best brands on the market, from Kemper and Crystal to Medallion and Showplace, you’re sure to find kitchen cabinets perfect for your home. To get started or view our showroom, visit us online or give us a call today.