The wide array of cabinet hardware available today makes the selection process a difficult task. Many features, including the finish and the material, influence the overall look of any piece and its effect on your room's décor. While hardware might seem like a simple and insignificant decision, the hardware you opt for demonstrates your personal taste and expresses the mood of the room; the right hardware can make or break all of your design efforts. Education in this matter can help to ensure that you select the most suitable hardware to create a beautiful, perfect look.
A sensible starting point is to decide whether you want handles or knobs. Both have hallmarks that will enhance your cabinets, while each possesses a distinct set of qualities. By taking a closer look, you will be able to see the distinctions between the two and make a more educated decision for yourself.
First, you must consider what is already used on your cabinets. If a knob has been installed, you will be left with one screw hole, while a handle bears two screws. While there are products to cover up old holes, such as back plates, the easiest solution is to choose hardware that fits into the old holes. Take this into consideration when removing the old hardware and beginning to search for new knobs or handles.
Knobs offer certain unique advantages. While once limited to simple round shapes, knobs have evolved. Chic designs are a modern influence on the classic knob. Multi-colored glass is another beautiful and subtle option. Themed knobs and kitschy ones are available in a myriad of choices. Knobs offer you an array of animals, a variety of foods and all sorts of novelty items. Coca-Cola bottles, sporting goods and even sea-life can all be found on knobs. The variety of knob patterns creates a diverse pool from which to choose. The shape and construction of knobs make them better suited for lighter doors and drawers, and they are easy for little hands to grasp.
While knobs have their advantages, so do handles. Handles are more limiting due to their shape, but they are enhanced by their many style options. Due to the elongated nature of handles, they have a mature, distinguished look. Modern, classic, and traditional looks are all options with handles. You can choose from cupped designs, scroll work, or antique shapes. Handles also have two supportive screws, making them sturdy enough for heavy drawers and even appliance lifts. The shape also facilitates the use of the entire hand, taking the strain off of the wrist.
While both knobs and handles have their advantages and disadvantages, the major factor to consider is your design scheme. You should weigh the assets of both knobs and handles, and then consider which look you prefer. It's always practical to resort to the standard practice; if you have a doorknob on your kitchen, use knobs; if there is a door handle, then choose handles. This customarily yields highly satisfactory results. On the other hand, this is not a rule and you are welcome to experiment. Perhaps you would like to use knobs on the doors, and handles on the drawers. This creates an innovative, trendy look.
With so many choices in designing a kitchen or other room, it may be tempting to close your eyes and choose your hardware at random; but don't fret! The fundamental distinctions between knobs and handles and the advantages and disadvantages of each should enable you to make a clear decision; a decision with which you will feel satisfaction for years to come.