What Your Kitchen Cabinet Handles Say About Your Space

When it comes to kitchen design, every detail counts and kitchen cabinet handles are no exception. They may be small in size, but kitchen cabinet handles can significantly impact the aesthetics and functionality of one of the most important spaces in your home. If you’re looking for a bit of inspiration for your next kitchen project, or you’d love to know what your cabinet handles say about your kitchen, then you’re in the right place. We’re delving into the world of kitchen handles, exploring the latest trends in colour, designs, and technologies, and offering you insight on how to match these with various kitchen styles, palettes, and finishes. 

Discover the entire range of kitchen products in our product library.

Image credit: Hemma Interiors | The Palm Co   

Image credit: Hemma Interiors | The Palm Co   

The Importance of Cabinet Handles in Kitchen Design

Cabinet handles are more than just functional components; they are also key elements in the overall design narrative of your kitchen. The right handles can complement and enhance the style of your space, while the wrong choice can have an impact on your aesthetics. They offer a unique opportunity to infuse personality and detail into your kitchen, acting as the finishing touch that ties the design together. Need we say more?

Discover more ways to tie your kitchen design together with 14 Kitchen Splashback Ideas to Elevate Your Space.

Image credit: The Palm Co  

Image credit: The Palm Co  

Trending Kitchen Handle Colours in 2024

The colour of your cabinet handles can dramatically influence the look and feel of your kitchen. Let’s take a look at the trending colours for 2024:

Matte Black Kitchen Handles

Matte black handles are popular for their sleek, modern appearance, providing a striking contrast in lighter kitchens or a seamless look in darker designs. 

Gold Kitchen Handles

Gold kitchen handles are a bold choice in any kitchen, but they offer a touch of luxury. Plus, they can also be a classic choice which creates a timeless look. 

Brushed Brass Kitchen Handles

Brushed brass kitchen handles not only look good, but they’re easy to look after. They’re strong, and durable and will add an elegant element to your kitchen.

White Kitchen Handles

White kitchen handles have definitely become a favourite within the interior design industry. These modern pieces are subtle, yet are sure to make a statement. 

Terrazzo Kitchen Handles

Terrazzo kitchen handles are everywhere right now. And while terrazzo isn't a colour itself, it's the multi-colour aesthetic of this product everyone loves. They’re bold, stylish, creative and oh-so-chic. We can’t get enough of these unique products and the character they will bring to your kitchen. 

Looking to explore more trends? Discover 11 Contemporary Kitchen Design Trends to Look Out For.

Image credit: Evoque Interiors | Kristian van der Beek   

Exploring Handle Designs

The design of cabinet handles ranges from simple and understated to intricate and ornate. Minimalist designs, characterised by clean lines and soft finishes, are perfect for contemporary or modern kitchens. These handles can blend into the background or stand out as a feature, depending on the contrast with the cabinetry.

For traditional or classic kitchens, handles with more detail and texture, such as those with a vintage finish, can add a layer of sophistication and charm. 

If you’re looking for kitchen cabinet inspiration, then we’ve got all the tips and tricks in our Kitchen Cabinetry - Everything You Must Know article.

Image credit: Bone & Blanc | Katie Wade Studio 

Image credit: Bone & Blanc | Katie Wade Studio 

Innovative Handle Technologies

There’s no denying the functionality of cabinet handles has been revolutionised by technological advancements. Soft-close mechanisms, integrated LED lighting, and touch-responsive materials are just a few innovations enhancing kitchens. These features not only add convenience but also contribute to the longevity of the cabinetry by reducing wear and tear.

Image credit: AMA Studio Interiors | The Palm Co  

Image credit: AMA Studio Interiors | The Palm Co  

What Your Kitchen Cabinetry Handle Says About Your Interior Design Style

Kitchen Bar Handles 

Kitchen bar handles, the most versatile choice with the widest selection. There are so many colours, styles, and finishes to choose from the only hard part is which one you go for. If you select a matte black bar handle, like the Momo Handles Momo Strano D Handle, you like a sleek, contemporary space that’s decorated simply, maybe your kitchen is more on the minimalist side. Or if you select a brass bar handle in an oval shape, like the Eclair Solid Brass Pull from Hardware Concepts, you’ll achieve a bold yet timeless design.

Kitchen bar handles are definitely a popular choice with plenty of options that give you versatility and flexibility. 

Mood board created by Hardware Concepts on Style Sourcebook. View mood board here.

Terrazzo Kitchen Handles 

Oh, we just love this bold choice. Terrazzo kitchen handles, like the Hemi Milky Terrazzo Handle, are the perfect option for creating visual interest within your kitchen. And going bold with your kitchen handles doesn’t mean you’ll automatically achieve a maximalist either, terrazzo handles can also suit contemporary or Meditteranean-style kitchens. Selecting these just means you’re looking for something unique that adds a bit of flair to your kitchen.

Want to visualise how terrazzo kitchen handles will look in your space? Visit our mood board tool before bringing your kitchen to life.

Mood board created by Playa Interiors on Style Sourcebook. View mood board here.

T-Bar Knob Kitchen Handles

Similarly to the original bar handles, T-Bar knob kitchen handles are versatile and oh-so-chic. They’re a smaller, more subtle option, which means you love the look of a classic style, yet want something a little more understated. If this sounds like you, we recommend the Aged Brass Fluted T-Bar - Athena from Manovella. It’s small enough to not be the centre of attention, but its fluted finish and aged brass tones make an interesting and timeless choice for your classic kitchen. 

Mood board created by Rounded Edge Style on Style Sourcebook. View mood board here.

Round Knob Kitchen Handles

A round knob kitchen handle is maybe as classic as you can go. These small pieces have made appearances alongside cabinetry since the beginning. If you’re opting for one of these, your interior design style is as classic as you can get, but that doesn’t mean you’re limited either. Round knobs come in some incredible designs, colours, and sizes, meaning they work with every space. For example, if you love a classic coastal kitchen, we recommend the White Round Profile Cabinet Knob from Manovella.

Mood board created by MEL MAR DESIGN on Style Sourcebook. View mood board here.

Timber Kitchen Handles

Timber kitchen cabinet handles come in many different styles, ranging from bar handles to knobs. They’re a unique choice that we just had to highlight. If you’re a little more retro and love a Palm Springs/mid-century modern vibe, this is the kitchen handle for you. We love the Timber Furniture Bow Twisted Handle in Walnut from Häfele. It’s smooth yet such a statement piece that’s sure to enhance your kitchen. 

If you like the idea of kitchen cabinet handles in different materials, you can also opt for leather straps. These masculine pieces would suit perfectly in an industrial-style kitchen. 

Mood board created by Alexandra Paul Interiors on Style Sourcebook. View mood board here.

Image credit: Bone & Blanc | Katie Wade Studio 

The selection of kitchen cabinet handles is a crucial aspect of kitchen design that should not be overlooked. These small fixtures play a significant role in defining your kitchen’s style, functionality, and overall feel. By carefully considering the latest trends in colours, designs, and technologies, and matching these with your kitchen's style and needs, you can transform your kitchen into a space that is not only practical but also a true reflection of your personal taste and lifestyle. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most popular handles for kitchen cabinets?

Currently in the interior design industry, the most popular kitchen cabinet handles tend to be sleek and functional, reflecting contemporary design preferences. Bar pulls are particularly favoured for their ease of use and classic aesthetic. Additionally, minimalist designs in brushed nickel or matte black finishes are widely chosen for modern kitchens, while more traditional spaces often feature antique brass or polished chrome handles to add a touch of elegance.

What is the rule for cabinet handles?

There isn't a strict rule for selecting cabinet handles, but there are guidelines to ensure they complement your kitchen's style and functionality. Generally, the handle should be proportional to the door or drawer size. For large drawers or cupboards, longer handles or pulls can be more practical and visually appealing. The placement is also crucial; handles should be installed where they are most ergonomic and accessible, with a consistent position across all cabinets to maintain visual harmony.

What colour hardware is timeless?

Chrome and brushed nickel finishes are considered timeless choices for cabinet hardware. These colours offer versatility, blending seamlessly with various kitchen styles, from modern to traditional. Brass and black are also enduring choices, with the former adding a touch of warmth and providing a sleek, contemporary look. These colours have stood the test of time in kitchen design, offering enduring appeal regardless of industry trends.

Should kitchen cabinet handles all be the same size?

Not necessarily, but it is a personal choice. While consistency in handle size can create a cohesive look, varying the size based on the cabinet's dimensions can enhance functionality and aesthetics. Large drawers can benefit from longer pulls, which provide a balanced look and easier access. On the other hand, smaller drawers and cabinets may require shorter handles or knobs to maintain proportionality. The key is to achieve a balanced design that complements the cabinetry's overall appearance and usability.

How do you layout cabinet handles?

The layout of cabinet handles should prioritise both aesthetics and functionality. Typically, handles are placed horizontally on drawers and vertically on doors. The standard placement is to position the handles for doors at the corner opposite the hinge, while drawer handles are usually centred both vertically and horizontally. However, this can vary based on design preferences and the specific style of the cabinets. It's essential to consider the ease of access and the visual balance of the handles when planning their layout.