There’s more to choosing architectural hardware than finding a style you love. Function is just as important as form, and you’ll need to ensure you’ve got the right door and drawer pulls, knobs and handles for the job.
1 Door knob or door handle?
In older properties, a classic door knob – perhaps in a bun or beehive style – is an elegant choice, as lever handles really only became widespread in the early 20th century. That said, for doors that require ease of opening (perhaps for a playroom, an older person’s bedroom, or a laundry room), levers are advisable. If you are opting for a knob, oval or octagonal shapes are slightly easier to grip than round ones.
2 Knobs or pulls for kitchen cabinetry?
Convention says that you should use knobs for doors and pulls for drawers, but who says you have to follow convention? We recommend choosing hardware that you love and that suits the style of your kitchen, as long as it does the job required. From a practical point of view, bear in mind that small knobs may not provide enough leverage for large or deep cupboards or drawers, and if you have very wide drawers you will need to use two pulls or knobs (or one long bar handle).
3 Cup handles, bar pulls or edge pulls?
If you are seeking a traditional look, nothing beats the good old-fashioned cup handle. Superbly practical, they do the job in an understated way that has definitely stood the test of time. Bar pulls are another lovely option, tending to be more modern in style, though some can be quite ornate. They generally offer a good grip, and are better than knobs at dealing with heavy drawers or large cupboard doors. Edge pulls are streamlined and minimal, and look fabulous in modern rooms. They’re usually space-saving and help made cabinet fronts easy to clean, but they may be slightly harder to use if you need a good grip.
4 Selecting the right size cabinet fittings
Provided your hardware does its job and is comfortable to use, there is no right or wrong when it comes to choosing dimensions. You may prefer subtle, smaller knobs and pulls, or want to make a statement with larger pieces. You could choose to follow the ‘one-third’ rule for pulls – choosing a length that is approximately one third of the height of doors or width of drawers. If in doubt, either experiment with some of the imaging software that’s now available for designing interior schemes, or go old-school and tape sketches or printed-out photographs of your favourites to your doors, then stand back and assess. In small spaces, don’t forget to check the projection of your hardware, too.
5 How to choose a finish for your hardware
Choosing a hardware finish can sometimes be the hardest decision to make, and it’s very personal. To start with, do you want your knobs or handles to blend in with the rest of the room, or to stand out? Are there other features that you wish to complement? Do you prefer a ‘warm’ or ‘cool’ finish? In general, brass and bronze are good choices for a traditional property (and look great against dark timber or paint colours), chrome and graphite look more modern, and nickel has a timeless appearance.
6 What hardware is best for high-traffic areas?
First, always choose quality ironmongery items made from durable materials that resist rust and corrosion, and that are easy to keep clean. Select heavy-duty pieces where necessary, and ensure that each piece is comfortable and ergonomic for frequent use. In terms of style, cupboard knobs and drawer pulls with backplates not only have a charmingly traditional appearance, but will also help protect the finish on kitchen, wardrobe or other painted cabinetry.
7 Hardware for heavy doors
To spread the load when opening and closing a particularly heavy door, long pull handles are a good choice. Oversized pulls can also add to the impact of the overall look. If a pull is not an option, ensure the knob or handle is easy to grip. For integrated appliances behind wooden panels, choose a heavy-duty appliance pull, which will match other hardware in the room but can cope with the additional weight.
8 What about sliding doors?
Pull handles can work well on sliding doors, although recessed handles, that sit flush with the surface of the door, are often the most practical solution. They also complement the sleek and minimal look of your doors.
Need more expert help and advice? Just contact us – we’ll be delighted to advise.
