Cathy from Denver asks:

What advice can you give me about kitchen cabinetry hardware?

Hi Cathy! Cabinet hardware can tie the aesthetics of your kitchen together. I’m glad you asked as this is important! Here are a few kitchen cabinet hardware ideas and tips for your kitchen remodel!

Did you know that the average kitchen remodels cost $54,909? Or, that the overwhelming majority of the remodel budget, a hefty 29 percent, goes towards hardware and cabinetry?

Finding the right hardware for your kitchen cabinets can feel overwhelming. Most cabinets aren’t sold with hardware. And you’ve got a nearly endless supply of kitchen cabinet hardware ideas to choose from.

So, how do you pick the perfect hardware to compliment your kitchen? Read on for nine surefire tips to help you find cabinet hardware to suit your kitchen remodel.

1. Consider Unexpected Hardware Options

Go to any home store in the country, and you’ll see a wide variety of conventional kitchen hardware pieces. From brushed nickel to gunmetal and bronze, these represent timeless choices for your cabinet.

But they aren’t always the best choice. Consider stepping outside of the box by choosing something unique and different. For example, have you thought of giving mirrored or glass hardware a try?

Both options work just as well as their more traditional counterparts. Yet, they stand to imbue your kitchen with a one-of-a-kind custom vibe. From quirky to luxurious, they’re a great way to take your kitchen cabinetry to the next level.

2. But Don’t Get Carried Away with Esthetics

As you begin your search for the perfect kitchen cabinet hardware, it can feel all too easy to give in to the urge to go with something that’s aesthetically gorgeous. Whether or not it makes sense from a durability perspective.

But if you do this, you could end up disappointed and down some serious cash.

Yes, you want your cabinet hardware to look stunning. But this should be tempered by a commitment to quality. After all, kitchen hardware sees lots of traffic and use. Always opt for hardware that’s sturdy, durable, and easy to grab a hold of.

3. Understand When to Opt for Pulls Versus Knobs

It has become more common these days to see knobs used on all kinds of cabinets. Especially when it comes to kitchens with a country or traditional vibe.

But you should know when to choose pulls over knobs. Knobs prove handy on cabinets that aren’t ornate or overly decorated. They give your hand a firm spot to place your grip, and they’re easier to use.

In terms of their look, pulls prove quite attractive under the right circumstances. They make a big statement and work well with simple cabinetry.

Knobs are small and work better with cabinets that have lots of decorative elements. In essence, the knobs don’t detract from the look of the cabinet. But they can be slightly more difficult to grab than pulls.

Knobs also prove less expensive in many cases. And they don’t overpower if you’ve got a kitchen with lots of other decorative details going on.

4. Match Kitchen Hardware to Your Cabinets

When it comes to kitchen hardware, ensure that it harmonizes with the color and finish of your cabinets. If you’ve got white cabinets, you’ll have plenty of flexibility when it comes to the color and finishes.

But don’t forget to reflect on the overall theme you’d like to communicate through your hardware.

As for finished wood, particularly dark brown, choose carefully. The dark finish doesn’t prove as forgiving when it comes to picking out cabinet hardware.

5. Take Fixtures and Appliances into Consideration

When picking out cabinet hardware, many homeowners neglect to consider the other hardware in their kitchen such as the finishes and handles on their appliances. You should also keep in mind your sink, faucet, and light fixtures.

For one, mixing metals is currently trending. But there’s a caveat. Don’t go crazy with it.

Although a little metal mix-and-match is okay, the same is not true for colors that clash. This could make your kitchen decor feel scattered and discordant.

6. Keep Your Themes Straight

Think of this as a fitting prologue to the previous tip. The hardware that you choose for your kitchen will convey a specific theme. What do you want that theme to be?

Think this through carefully before making a final decision on hardware. Especially if your appliances and other hardware communicate one strong theme.

Before heading out to the home store for hardware shopping, take photos of anything in your kitchen that speaks to the specific theme that you’re going for. Make sure you consult with these photos while shopping.

That way, you’ll avoid spending money on hardware that doesn’t end up working well with the theme established in your space.

7. Consider Hardware Finishes Carefully

Sometimes you have to mix and match hardware from two different manufacturers. If this happens, don’t despair. You can make this work.

Start by carefully matching the hardware finishes and colors. That way, you’ll create a sense of unity and cohesiveness. In this situation, keep in mind the overall theme of your hardware, too.

8. Ease-of-Use and Comfort

As with the negotiation between esthetics and durability, you need to keep functionality in mind as well. If your hardware isn’t comfortable or easy to use, you’ll end up resenting it. No matter how much you initially loved the look.

There’s nothing worse than hardware that feels uncomfortable in your hand or proves difficult to grip.

You should also consider what your clothes will do around this cabinet hardware. If you’re constantly snagging sleeves or pant legs on it, you’re not going to be happy.

If you’ve got pets or children, find cabinet handles that are safe for them, too.

9. Stay Within Your Budget

A kitchen remodel can add up quickly. You must stay within your budget. The last thing you want to do is go into serious debt over cabinet handles.

Price is important. But you also need to factor in quality. After all, what’s the point if your “cheap” pulls and knobs have to be replaced in a year because of faulty craftsmanship?

To enjoy the largest selection of hardware, shop at a kitchen cabinet showroom. There, you’ll find a wide variety of options at various price points.

Kitchen Cabinet Hardware Ideas

When it comes to kitchen cabinet hardware ideas, your selection will be guided by a wide variety of concerns from the color of your cabinets to the budget that you have available for upgrades.

Fortunately, we’re here to help. Nobody does kitchen remodels better than we do. Contact Kitchen Concepts today to discuss your upcoming project. We have offices in Denver (720.725.0000) and Colorado Springs (719.330.5474).