How To Mix And Match Cabinet Hardware
Another mixing and matching design dilemma! This time we’re talking about how to mix and match cabinet hardware. More often than not, kitchen cabinets are the main focus when considering your hardware options.
Deciding the likes such as your cabinet pulls, or if you should choose knobs. And what your hardware finishes are going to be?
Mixing different knobs and drawer pulls together for your cabinets gives the room visual interest and a custom feel to your kitchen space. Instead of a look that can look repetitive and boring. Plus picking the right hardware for functional use is important.
But mixing and matching your cabinet hardware can apply the other areas of the home as well. So you can use these hardware tips for your bathroom, or custom built-ins in your living room or dining area. Or even a closet system. There are lots of opportunities for mixing your hardware around the home.
Here are some tips and tricks to help you decide on the different hardware styles you can choose from and how to put them together. And more importantly the right cabinet hardware for your setting.
mix and match cabinet hardware tips
MIXING Cabinet Hardware Tip 1
The easiest way to mix cabinet hardware is to stick with one metal finish.
With consistency in the finish, you are free to play around with different shapes, sizes and styles within that chosen finish. This way immediately gives a uniform look that’s intentional to your kitchen but is a great way of making your space interesting.
Using the same finish on all pieces helps create a uniform appearance, even when you’re experimenting with various styles or shapes. When using one finish get all your hardware from the same brand or company to remain consistent.
Small Kitchens
For small kitchens, you can stay consistent with the hardware in shape, size and style without it seeming boring. In fact for small spaces, one style of hardware can make the space feel organized and clean.
If you have a kitchen with 12 drawers and doors or less this design approach for hardware is a good idea. As you don’t want a different style pull or knob for all your cabinet doors. It makes the design style confusing and messy.
Mixing and Matching Hardware Tip 2
An easy way to combine your cabinet hardware is to pick different hardware for the upper cabinets. And another style for the lower cabinets for visual interest.
You can use door knobs for the upper cabinets and long pulls for the lower cabinets for a simple way to go about mixing hardware. This way you’re mixing the size and the style without having to think too much about it.
You can opt for the same metal finish for both. Or use two different metal hardware for a unique style.
Mixing Cabinet Hardware Tip 3
The bigger the kitchen space or area the more you can experiment with using different hardware and different finishes. You can use assign hardware to different functions in the space.
Swinging door cabinets would have one hardware design style. And drawers would have a different hardware style. Also, bear in mind These can be assigned two different styles in the same finish.
For more interest and another design element, you can give them different metal finishes. A strong contrast between hardware works really well. If the metal finishes are too similar like a chrome and a nickel it looks odd. So it’s better to go for opposite finishes.
A modern design, for example, would be black hardware mixed together with a brass finish on white cabinets. This combination works well with other cabinet colors too. When mixing and matching hardware use two finishes or three at the maximum.
Hardware & Functionality
The two most popular choices are door knobs and drawer pulls here’s the best way to use them and some other hardware options:
Kitchen Knobs: Round or square knobs. Different types and shapes and sizes are available. Traditional or modern styles.
Smaller size knobs can be more difficult to grip. But kitchen knobs are more minimal in design style than long pulls. Best for opening swinging doors inset a couple of inches in from the corner of the door for easy access. Fixed to centre points best for small-width and shallow drawers.
Two Knobs: Can be used for wide-size drawers and deeper depth. Fixing two knobs instead of one central knob will distribute the weight better and make it easier to open using your two hands instead of one.
Cabinet/ Bar Pulls: Linear-style bar pulls are available in short or long lengths and traditional and modern styles. Good for drawers and swinging cabinet doors and hidden appliance doors.
Cup Pulls: Half dome-shaped pulls popular for traditional, rustic and cozy styles like Farmhouse and Cottagecore. Or square-edged linear cup pulls for a modern streamlined look. Grabbed for above or below best fixed centrally on drawers in a horizontal position.
Finger Pulls: A minimal slimline pull attached to the underneath or top of the cabinet to open. Best for minimalist and contemporary design styles and to use only this style if using.
Latches: A traditional look good for extra safety precautions for young children around the home. Good for single or double-swinging cabinet doors.
When considering small spaces think about whether certain design styles could overwhelm your space. Doubling up knobs on all drawers could look busy in a small area. Short bar pulls could be better suited.
It also depends on your personal preferences and what you find comfortable to use. Is a long pull easier for you to use? Or is a square or round knob easier for your to grasp?
Hardware Finishes and Different Metals
- Satin Nickel: A versatile choice that complements most color schemes and styles.
- Polished Nickel: From afar it looks silver but up close you can see a warm gold undertone to the metal.
- Brass: There are different brass finishes available like antiqued, polished and brushed.
- Oil-Rubbed Bronze: A dark brown or black colour. Perfect for adding warmth to traditional or rustic spaces.
- Chrome: A silver colour metal with blue cool tones, usually a polished finish.
- Matte Black: Ideal for making a bold statement in contemporary settings.
Your Hardware Budget and Ordering Samples
It’s crucial to set a realistic budget for your project. For a kitchen remodel think about function first and see if there are any cabinets you’d like to change.
For example, changing a cabinet door from having one corner door knob to a long pull that’s centred on the door? Would this make it easier for you to get to the things you need? And make note of the cabinet hardware sizes you’ll need.
This will help you narrow down options and avoid overspending on those fancy knobs or pulls that caught your eye.
Create a list of the hardware you need, such as hinges, and then look into prices from different stores to get an understanding of what’s within your spending plan. Keep in mind the main view of your kitchen area as this will be your main focal point.
Samples are essential when mixing and matching cabinet hardware styles. Especially when ordering online as you’re only working from an image you see on a computer screen.
The amount of times clients have ordered hardware only to receive something different than what they thought, is too many. There are a variety of finishes and the finishes will look different in person and depending on the lighting in the space.
Ordering samples allows you to see how different styles work together in person before committing fully.
Hardware Comfort and finish
In addition to checking if they complement each other visually, don’t forget about functionality as well. Ensure handles feel comfortable in hand and latches operate smoothly. And knobs are the right size for what you need.
Consider the texture and the finish of the hardware too. High shine and glossy finishes such as polished brass will leave finger marks and smudges a lot more. So if you like to keep things spick and span you’ll be wiping down finishes like this a lot more often than a matte finish.
Kitchen Cabinet Hardware Ideas
When it comes to selecting kitchen cabinet hardware, don’t forget about the bigger picture. Keep in mind other design elements like cabinets, light fixtures, tiles, and appliances – they all deserve a harmonious relationship.
To achieve this balance, start by choosing one single type of handle, such as round knobs, then mix up shapes and sizes depending on door types.
For an updated look or to make your cabinets feel like new changing the hardware is an excellent idea. One way to cut down on spending is by working with the existing holes already in your cabinetry.
This saves you from having to fill in new holes, repaint cabinets and drill new holes. Which can take a considerable amount of time and a lot more money than planned. Just do a straight hardware swap to make things easier.
Firstly, assess your current kitchen style: is it modern or traditional?
- For a modern look: opt for sleek handles that complement clean lines and minimalist kitchens and designs.
- In contrast, ornate handles work well with traditional kitchens featuring intricate details.
Depending on what kind of design style you’re looking to achieve, there are some popular choices with a mix of finishes and hardware that always work well together:
- Using brass cabinet hardware alongside black pulls for an elegant yet contemporary look.
- Pairing wooden knobs with oil-rubbed bronze pulls to create a cozy, rustic vibe.
- Brushed nickel or chrome metal hardware with black knobs for a clean and classic look.
This all is down to your personal taste, colour scheme and the size of your kitchen.
Appliances
When revamping your kitchen cabinet hardware, don’t forget about the handles on your appliances. Nowadays custom cabinetry can disguise your kitchen appliances to blend in with the rest of your kitchen.
Coordinating them with your new cabinet hardware will create a seamless and polished look in your space.
Beyond aesthetics, updating appliance handles can also offer practical benefits too.
- Improved functionality: Newer handle designs may be more ergonomic or easier to grip than older styles. An extra wide pull is a good option for opening heavy appliance doors like fridges and dishwashers.
These mix-and-match tips for your hardware will help you achieve a custom look in your kitchen. Keep in mind how each piece will complement existing design elements such as cabinetry color and style, countertops, and appliances when making your final selections.
Chloe
FAQs Mix and Match Cabinet Hardware
Can You Mix and Match Cabinet Hardware?
Yes, mixing and matching cabinet hardware is a popular design trend that allows for personalization and creativity in your home.
By combining different styles, finishes, or materials, you can create a unique look that reflects your individual taste while maintaining functionality.
Does Cabinet Hardware Have to Match?
No, cabinet hardware does not have to match perfectly. However, it’s essential to maintain consistency in finish or style throughout the space for visual harmony. Contrasting metals or selecting complementary design styles can achieve a cohesive yet eclectic look.
What Are the Rules for Mixing Knobs and Pulls?
The primary rule when mixing knobs and pulls is ensuring they complement each other visually by coordinating their finishes or styles. Additionally, consider using knobs on doors and pulls on drawers for easy access; however, this isn’t mandatory as long as there’s consistency within the overall design scheme.
