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Cabinet hardware is like your kitchen’s jewelry— the subtle detail that can elevate the entire space from drab to fab. Whether you’re doing a full kitchen remodel or just looking for a quick refresh, swapping out your cabinet handles can make a difference. It’s incredible how such a small change can greatly impact your kitchen’s overall look and feel.
You might be thinking, “Handles are just handles, right?” But trust me, there’s a whole world of options, from sleek and modern to quirky and eclectic. So, whether you’re a fan of classic styles or crave something a little more unique, get ready to be inspired by these 17 fresh ideas that will give your kitchen cabinets a whole new personality.
Classic & Timeless Choices
1. Sleek Bar Pulls:
You can’t go wrong with sleek bar pulls. These are the tried-and-true workhorses of cabinet hardware, and for good reason. They’re incredibly versatile, available in various finishes (think brushed nickel, polished chrome, oil-rubbed bronze) and lengths to fit any cabinet size.
If you’re looking for a safe bet that will never go out of style, bar pulls are the way to go. And for top-notch quality, I highly recommend the Cosmas Cabinet Hardware Euro Style Bar Pull. Its sturdy construction and elegant design will instantly upgrade your cabinets.
2. Traditional Knobs:
If you’re a fan of classic charm, traditional knobs are the perfect choice. Think round or mushroom-shaped knobs in porcelain, ceramic, or glass. These are the quintessential farmhouse or cottage-style handles, adding a touch of nostalgia and warmth to your kitchen.
Traditional knobs are available in a wide variety of colors and patterns, so you can easily find ones that match your kitchen’s color scheme. And if you’re looking for something with a bit of rustic flair, check out Amerock’s Revitalize Collection Cabinet Knob.
3. Bin Pulls (Cup Pulls):
Bin pulls, known as cup pulls, are the epitome of vintage charm. These cupped handles are often seen in historic homes or rustic kitchens, adding a touch of old-world elegance. Bin pulls are perfect for drawers and cabinets with a more traditional or antique look.
They come in various sizes and finishes, from antique brass to polished nickel, so that you can find the perfect match for your kitchen. Consider the Franklin Brass Classic Kitchen Cabinet Hardware Bin Pull for a truly authentic look.
4. Drop Bail Handles:
Want to add a touch of drama to your cabinets? Look no further than drop bail handles. These handles feature a curved, swinging design that adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to any kitchen. They’re perfect for cabinets with a more formal or traditional look.
Drop bail handles are available in various finishes, from antique brass to polished chrome, to perfectly match your kitchen’s style. The Brainerd Brinks 3-inch CC Drop Bail Pull is a great option that combines classic design with modern durability.
Modern & Minimalist Styles
5. Tab Pulls:
Tab pulls are the epitome of modern minimalism. These sleek, flat handles are perfect for flat-panel cabinets and drawers, creating a clean and contemporary look. Tab pulls come in various finishes, from brushed nickel to matte black, so you can easily find ones that match your kitchen’s style.
They’re also available in different sizes to choose the perfect size for your cabinets and drawers. The Homdiy Cabinet Pulls are an excellent option for a sleek and modern look.
6. Recessed Pulls (Finger Pulls):
If you’re going for an ultra-modern look, recessed pulls, also known as finger pulls, are the way to go. These handles are integrated into the cabinet door or drawer, creating a seamless and minimalist look.
Recessed pulls are also an excellent option for families with small children, as they don’t have any protruding parts that little hands can grab onto. You can find a variety of recessed pulls on Amazon, including the Richelieu Hardware Contemporary Metal Pull.
7. Edge Pulls:
Edge pulls are the ultimate in modern design. These handles are installed on the top or side edge of the door or drawer, creating a sleek and discreet look. Edge pulls are perfect for kitchens with a minimalist or contemporary design.
They’re also a great option to make a statement with your cabinet hardware. The Hettich TopLine XL Edge Pull is a popular choice, and it is known for its smooth operation and sleek design.
Unique & Statement-Making
8. Leather Pulls:
Are you looking for something a little different? Leather pulls are a great way to add warmth and texture to kitchen cabinets. They’re available in various colors and styles, from classic brown to trendy cognac. Leather pulls are a great way to add a touch of personality to your kitchen. They’re also surprisingly durable and easy to clean.
Leather pulls are a great option if you’re looking for a unique and stylish way to update your kitchen cabinets. Consider the Leather Drawer Pulls Handles from Amazon for a stylish and durable choice.
9. Glass Knobs:
Glass knobs are a classic choice that can add a touch of vintage charm to your kitchen. They come in a variety of styles, from clear to frosted to colored. Glass knobs are perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your kitchen cabinets. They’re also a great way to add a pop of color.
If you’re looking for a classic and timeless way to update your kitchen cabinets, glass knobs are a great option. For a classic and timeless look, the Glass Cabinet Knobs are a perfect choice.
10. Ceramic Knobs:
If you want to inject some personality and charm into your kitchen, ceramic knobs are the way to go. These knobs are often hand-painted with intricate designs or playful patterns, making them a true work of art. They come in various colors and styles, from classic floral motifs to modern geometric shapes.
Ceramic knobs are perfect for adding a touch of whimsy or a pop of color to your kitchen cabinets. They’re also a great way to showcase your unique style and taste. And if you’re looking for something truly special, consider the Anthropologie Gleaming Primrose Knob – it’s a guaranteed conversation starter.
11. Mixed Metals:
Who says you must stick to one finish for all your cabinet hardware? Mixing metals is a hot trend in kitchen design, and for good reason. It adds a curated, eclectic feel to your kitchen, making it look like a space that’s been collected over time. Think brushed nickel knobs with oil-rubbed bronze pulls.
The possibilities are endless! Mixing metals is a great way to add visual interest and depth to your kitchen. If you’re worried about it looking too busy, stick to two or three finishes and use them consistently throughout the space. For a high-quality mixed metal option, check out the Liberty Hardware 3-inch Satin Nickel and Flat Black Cabinet Pull.
Functional & Practical
12. Appliance Pulls:
Want a seamless and cohesive look in your kitchen? Appliance pulls are the answer. These handles are designed to match the finish of your appliances, creating a unified look throughout your kitchen. Appliance pulls are available in various finishes, from stainless steel to black stainless steel to white.
Appliance pulls are also available in different sizes to fit a variety of appliances, from refrigerators to dishwashers to ovens. They’re a great option if you’re looking for a way to create a professional and polished look in your kitchen. Consider the KitchenAid Architect Series II Appliance Pull for a sleek and modern look.
13. Oversized Pulls:
Oversized pulls are not only stylish but also incredibly practical. These large, easy-to-grip handles are perfect for people with limited dexterity or arthritis. They’re also great for busy kitchens where you need to open and close cabinets and drawers quickly. Oversized pulls are available in various styles.
They’re also available in various finishes to match your kitchen’s style. Oversized pulls are an excellent option for stylish and functional handles. The Jeffrey Alexander Lynbrook 12-inch Center-to-Center Appliance Pull is excellent for larger appliances and drawers.
14. Backplates:
Backplates are a small but mighty detail that can significantly impact your kitchen cabinets. These metal plates are installed behind knobs and pulls, protecting the cabinet finish from wear and tear. But backplates are more than just functional – they’re also a decorative element that can add a touch of style to your cabinets.
They come in various shapes and sizes, from simple squares to ornate ovals. Backplates are also available in various finishes to match your cabinet hardware. Backplates are a great option to add a touch of detail and protect your cabinets simultaneously.
Budget-Friendly & DIY
15. Upcycled Handles:
Who says you have to buy new handles for your kitchen cabinets? Upcycling old hardware is a great way to save money and add a touch of personality to your kitchen. You can find all sorts of interesting handles at thrift stores, antique shops, and even flea markets.
With a little bit of creativity, you can transform these old handles into something new and exciting. You can paint them, stain them, or even wrap them in fabric. Upcycling old handles is a fun and affordable way to update your kitchen cabinets.
16. Painted Knobs:
Another budget-friendly option is to paint your existing knobs simply. This is a great way to give them a fresh look without spending much money. You can use spray paint or even regular acrylic paint.
Just be sure to sand the knobs first to help the paint adhere. You can get creative with your paint colors and patterns. You can even use stencils to create unique designs. Painting your knobs is a fun and easy way to add a personal touch to your kitchen cabinets.
17. Rope or Fabric Pulls:
If you’re looking for a truly unique and DIY option, consider making your own handles out of rope or fabric. This is a surprisingly simple project that anyone can do. All you need is some rope or fabric, a drill, and a few screws.
You can find tutorials online for making rope or fabric pulls. This is a great way to add a touch of whimsy or a nautical vibe to your kitchen cabinets and use up leftover fabric scraps.
Additional Tips & Considerations
How to choose the right size and finish for your cabinets:
The size of your handles should be proportional to the size of your cabinets. Larger cabinets can handle larger pulls, while smaller cabinets should stick to smaller knobs or pulls. The finish of your handles should complement the overall style of your kitchen.
For example, if you have a modern kitchen, you might want to choose brushed nickel or matte black handles. You might select antique brass or oil-rubbed bronze handles if you have a traditional kitchen.
Mixing and matching different types of handles:
Don’t be afraid to mix and match different handles in your kitchen. For example, you could use knobs for the upper cabinets and pulls for the lower cabinets.
You could also use different styles of handles for different kitchen areas. For example, you could use more ornate handles in the dining area and more streamlined handles in the cooking area.
Installation tips and resources:
Installing cabinet hardware is a relatively simple project, but it’s important to do it correctly. Many resources are available online and in home improvement stores that can teach you how to do it. You can also hire a professional to do it for you.
Final Thoughts
There you have it – 17 fresh ideas for kitchen cabinet handles that will elevate your space and give it a whole new look. Remember, cabinet hardware is the jewelry of your kitchen, so don’t be afraid to experiment and find handles that reflect your personal style.
Even this small change can have a big impact on your kitchen’s overall aesthetic. So, go ahead and give your cabinets a makeover—you’ll be amazed at the difference they make!
