Cabinet Hardware

 

Cabinet Hardware is the crowning jewel for your kitchen project.  Cabinets are a dominating feature and important factor in the overall look and feel of your kitchen. Thus, the cabinet hardware is an important accent and accessory to demonstrate design concept, sense of style and individual flair.  With so many choices, selecting cabinet hardware can be daunting, yet very fun.

The experts at Atlas Homewares, a high-end hardware company in Los Angeles, California, agree that the four main factors that assist in selecting cabinet hardware are style, size, finish and price. Atlas CEO and Creative Director, Adrienne Morea says, “It’s all about creating a comfortable décor and evoking a sense of style.”

Discovering what style you want for your kitchen really narrows your hardware search. Whether it’s modern, classic, decorative, novelty or whatever your design inspiration, every style of hardware can put a different spin on the finished project.

Size selection touches on the senses; how does it feel and fit in your hand? When looking at it, is it a proper size ratio for your cabinet or drawer? Do you want one size of cabinet hardware for your project or a mixed bag of sizes? Size can also affect the style. For example, hardware that is the same size throughout the project is a more modern design.

Finish is important because it attributes to the design concept. Finish also encompasses the material of the hardware. The material is important because it determines durability and affects individual preference. For example, stainless steel is a durable substance. It is also considered sustainable and more environmentally-friendly. However, since it has these qualities, the price will be higher than other materials, which is where price comes in…

Price plays a role in any home-building project. Keep in mind that certain finishes are more expensive for certain reasons. It is a buyer’s choice to pay more for something that will potentially last much longer. Also, weigh in the fact that this may be your cabinet hardware for decades. Is it worth extra money in the long run to be satisfied with your decision?

Current trends also influence your hardware selection. A popular kitchen trend is appliance overlay, where the cabinets ‘hide’ the appliances. Do you want your appliance pulls to match your surrounding cabinet and drawer knobs and pulls? In addition to the appliance pulls, does your hardware collection offer matching wall plates and switch covers? These are all contributors to the overall effect the hardware can have on your completed kitchen.

Can’t decide on knobs or pulls? While always a personal preference, some designers choose to coordinate with the kitchen door hardware. Meaning, if the doors have doorknobs as opposed to door handles, the cabinet hardware selection can be knobs over pulls. 

Cabinet hardware is often referred to as the “shoes” to your kitchen or bath “outfit.” Whether your choice is fashionable or practical, you want to be comfortable and happy with your selection!