Kitchen cabinet hardware may seem like a small detail in the larger scheme of a kitchen design, but old hardware can date a kitchen more than old cabinets. By making a change in knobs and pulls, it’s possible to make a small update with big results.
Updated Styles
One way to bring an updated appearance to the kitchen cabinets by changing the pulls is to pick up another design element from the kitchen, or adjacent rooms. If new, stainless appliances have been installed with old cabinets, try using new, stainless pulls in angular and simple designs to bring a more modern look to the space.
Brighten an old and dark kitchen by using knobs of multiple colors throughout the space. Pull the colors from those used in a backsplash, wall art or throw cushions in an adjoining room.
For traditional kitchens, try replacing the standard cabinet pulls with cup style pulls. These can be installed on both the doors and drawers, in multiple finishes to match other metals in the room. Look for weathered finishes like bronze or copper for extra depth and interest. Antiqued and pitted metals are also available, to bring a rich and unique appearance to the kitchen, without modernizing the style.
Mix and Match
For eclectic style kitchens, try using two or three styles of complimentary pulls or knobs. Use drawer pulls in a cup style with cabinet pulls in a traditional handle, both in the same finish. Or mix knobs and pulls together that have a similar design element, such as a ceramic inlay or handle.
For kitchens that have multiple metal finishes, use two toned pulls, or mix knobs in one color, with the pulls in a second color. Be consistent when in the placement of the hardware, such as all the pulls on upper cabinets matching, and pulls on lower cabinets in a secondary color, with drawers in a third, and allow different design elements to show.
Use Art Pulls
Handpainted knobs and pulls, and those made from ceramic can add a unique touch to the kitchen design. Look for ceramic pulls made in the shape of twists, or animals, and hand painted knobs with flowers or abstract designs. Choose colors that will compliment the rest of the kitchen, while standing out against the cabinet to draw attention and accent the space.
Change the Size
Try replacing small knobs with larger, oversized knobs or pulls. Replacing an older pull, with a longer, more modern look can also help update the entire cabinet.
Simply fill old holes with wood putty, and touch up the paint or stain to cover. If the paint or stain on the cabinet is also dated, try stripping it, filling the holes and painting the cabinet fronts a fresher, more updated color. Drill holes for the new pulls, once dry and update the entire kitchen in a matter of days, rather than replacing the cabinets and being without use of a working kitchen for weeks.
Changing out the pulls and knobs on the kitchen cabinets is easy and much less expensive than a complete kitchen renovation. Replace the knobs and pulls to update the look today, and save for a complete renovation for tomorrow.
Sarabeth Asaff - Sarabeth Asaff is a freelance writer and artist with a passion for cooking and good food. Growing up in the kitchen of her Lebanese ...
