Who doesn't like free advice from an interior designer. When designing your kitchen, hardware seems like such a small detail, but it can really make a big impact on the overall design. As marketing director for Designing Dreams, I see a lot of kitchen photographs and boxes of hardware arrive at the Folsom showroom. So how do you choose the right hardware for your kitchen? I asked El Dorado Hills based designer Jerilynn Ratcliff to spill her secrets.
Q: How do you select the right hardware style for your kitchen?
A: Think of hardware as the jewelry of your kitchen. Consider the overall style, and color palette of your kitchen and let that guide your choices. Don't be afraid to use texture and unique finishes like wood, rattan and glass. While style is important, make sure the hardware is comfortable in your hands and suits your lifestyle.
Q: Does your kitchen hardware have to match your kitchen faucet?
A: No. Mixing metals are more common than not. However, your kitchen faucet should be cohesive with something else in the room, like a light fixture. You might also consider if the finish shows water spots and how it will integrate with your sink and kitchen layout.
Q: Can you mix kitchen hardware styles?
A: Yes, blending different styles or collections of pulls, knobs, and sizes can enhance the visual appeal of your kitchen cabinets. When using several different styles, choose one consistent finish for a cohesive design. Consider using cup pulls for trash bins or decorative hardware for pantry doors.
Q: Can you mix and match kitchen hardware finishes?
A: Absolutely. Consider incorporating a thoughtful mix of finishes, such as honey brass and black enamel across different zones of your kitchen to create visual interest and harmonize with surrounding elements. If your lighting has brass and black accents, use brass and black pulls in designated areas, like brass for your perimeter cabinets and black for your island.
Q: How do you know where to place hardware on your cabinets?
A: While there are some general rules, I like to take hardware samples to the job site and put them directly on the cabinet door to get a real visual for sizing and placement. Sometimes the cabinet profile may dictate the style of hardware and where it needs to be placed. A recent client of mine in Folsom, placed all her hardware on the top portion her drawers, so the hardware on her lowest drawers didn’t require so much bending.
Q: What is your favorite kitchen hardware trend right now?
A: I Love back plates on hardware. These can be ordered separately and used on just about any knob to add dimension and visual interest. I also have a deep appreciation for classic cremone bolt-style hardware. Basically, it's a decorative lock that operates on vertical rods. Both add a bit more to the hardware budget but are worth the splurge.
Send us Your Home Remodeling Questions
We hope the answers to these kitchen hardware questions have inspired you to explore new possibilities and transform your kitchen into a harmonious blend of personal style and practicality. Have a remodeling question for our designers? Email Designing Dreams.
Why Choose Designing Dreams Flooring & Remodeling
With over 40 years in business, we have designed and remodeled homes all over the Sacramento area. Recognized as the Best Home Remodeler in Folsom by Style Magazine, we work with designers who are committed to helping you expertly design a space that fits your lifestyle. Contact us today to begin your kitchen renovation.
Caroline Sanders
Design Blogger for Designing Dreams Flooring & Remodeling
Jerilynn Ratcliff
Interior Designer
