You will need to make many key decisions when building your home. It can be hard to remember the design of a house is not just about how many pieces go together. details are often overlooked. A good knob or lift will make a big visual impact on a space and elevate it effortlessly. You will be amazed at the number of times cabinet hardware is used every day.

You can elevate your every day by investing in heirloom-quality hardware. We offer a simple guide to help you choose the best cabinet hardware for your space.

Types For Cabinet Hardware

First, you need to decide whether all knobs and pulls are preferred or a combination. Although there aren’t hard and fast rules, generally it is easier to open a cabinet using a knob and a drawer equipped with a pull. There are exceptions. You might find it easier to install drawer pulls vertically for bathroom baseboard cabinets. For furniture that is already elevated (e.g. a side table, media console) small knobs may be more effective than a longer pull. You should consider what hardware style is most practical for you.

Baldwin cabinet knobs have a smaller profile than handles, are cheaper, and can be used both for drawers and cabinets. You only need one screw to secure the knob onto the surface. They are slightly simpler to install than pulls.

Pushes are bigger than knobs. They make a more prominent statement and are easier to grip. They are generally more expensive than pulls but come in many sizes. Their linear shape makes them a good complement to larger cabinets or drawers.

Select A Style

Once you’ve selected the type of hardware, you will need to decide what style is best for your space. Hardware with textured details, curved silhouettes, or ridges works well with traditional and heritage-inspired designs. Modern cabinetry features clean lines with minimal edges and an elegant profile that feels smooth.

Choose A Finish

Next, you need to think about the finish. Cabinet hardware that adds contrast and color to the room is best. What color is your cabinet? How about your faucet and lighting? Warmer, brass-toned spaces have a more vintage feel, while cooler, darker-toned spaces with dark cabinet hardware are more modern.

Don’t Be Afraid To Mix Metals

However, your space should reflect your personal design choices. You shouldn’t be afraid to break the rules or to mix metals. We’ve seen many kitchens featuring brass lighting and black hardware. If you prefer to have everything match, but stainless steel appliances, then consider black cabinet hardware. It can match all finishes, and it will also keep your space clean and well-coordinated.

Determine

You will find that cabinets and drawers are different in size. This makes it hard to choose the right size. Although there isn’t a standard rule, it is recommended that the pull length equals 1/3 of the drawer width.

Small Drawers 12″ and smaller usually work best with a pull 3″-4″ in length or a knob 1″ in diameter.

Medium drawers between 12″ and 30-” work well together with a pull between 4″-8″ long or a knob between 1″-1.5″ in diameter

Large drawers that are between 30 and 48 inches in length will need a pull that’s longer than 8 inches or a knob that’s 1 inch or more in diameter. It is possible to use two pulls or knobs to make a large drawer.

This is a simple guide that should serve as a starting point for shopping for cabinet hardware. You can only dial in your preferences by trying different things. Every room has its own set of needs. If you aren’t sure of the style you prefer, we suggest you place a smaller quantity of hardware. Try different styles, sizes, and finishes to find out how the swap affects your space.