10 Creative Ways to Upgrade Your Kitchen with Cabinet Hardware

• Posted on 5 October 2024
• By Handles and More Team
• 0

Upgrading your kitchen doesn’t always require a complete renovation. Sometimes, all it takes is a few stylish changes to your cabinet hardware to give your space a fresh, new look. At Handles and More, we offer a wide range of cabinet handles, hinges, and accessories that can transform your kitchen. Here are ten creative ways to enhance your kitchen using our premium hardware.

1. Mix and Match Finishes

Gone are the days of matching every piece of hardware in your kitchen. Create a more eclectic look by embracing the trend of mixing metals. Matte black and brushed gold are a dynamic duo to mix and match and create a stunning display with your cabinet hardware. Two-toned handles such as the Emtek Select are another great option to get the best of both worlds on one handle. 

Mixed metallics is a common trend that has been on the rise lately. Gold handles meld well with Brushed Nickel faucets to create a striking combination. 

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2. Opt for Oversized Handles

Make a bold statement by choosing oversized cabinet handles. These eye-catching pieces can add a modern flair to your cabinets while making them easier to open. Our collection includes a variety of large handles that can elevate the design of your kitchen instantly.

The typical rule of cabinet handle sizing is that 1/3 of the door length should be the handle, however, we've seen a recent shift for contemporary kitchens of incorporating oversized handles to create a stunning feature of cabinet hardware. 

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^{3. Upgrade to Soft-Close Hinges}

Enhance both functionality and aesthetics by upgrading to soft-close hinges. These hinges prevent slamming and ensure your cabinets close gently, making your kitchen quieter and more enjoyable. 

An added benefit to soft-close hinges is extending the life of your cabinetry. Soft closing hardware reduces impact and daily wear and tear making it a great choice for a quick upgrade. 

Not sure if soft-close hinges are for you? Check out our top 5 Benefits to Using Soft Close Hinges blog post. 

4. Incorporate Unique Shapes

Ditch the standard rectangular handles and opt for uniquely shaped ones that add a touch of artistry to your cabinets. Curved or geometrically designed handles can serve as conversation starters, adding a layer of creativity to your kitchen.

Unique shapes not only enhance the visual appeal but can also align with specific design themes—be it modern, rustic, or eclectic—making your kitchen feel more curated and thoughtfully designed.

Our collection of Designer Pulls is curated to add a touch of uniqueness and boldness to your space so that your handles stand out. 

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5. Use Cabinet Hardware as Accent Pieces

Choose hardware that stands out against your cabinet color to create striking visual contrasts. For instance, if you have dark cabinetry, consider light-colored handles or bright metallics. This approach can help create a layered look that draws the eye and adds interest to your space.

Accent hardware can also highlight particular design elements, such as your kitchen island or open shelving, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the room.

6. Create a Vintage Look with Antique Finishes

If you love the charm of a vintage kitchen, consider using antique-finish hardware. This type of hardware can evoke a sense of nostalgia and warmth, perfect for creating a cozy farmhouse-style kitchen.

Antique finishes not only add character but also allow you to combine modern appliances with classic design elements seamlessly, resulting in a space that feels both functional and timeless.

^{Source: Emtek}

7. Add Stylish Drawer Organizers

Upgrade your kitchen's functionality by adding stylish drawer organizers that complement your cabinet hardware. These organizers can help you maximize storage space while keeping your utensils, gadgets, and pantry items neatly arranged.

Look for organizers made from durable materials that not only serve a practical purpose but also enhance the overall aesthetic of your kitchen. This combination of style and functionality can make your daily cooking experience much more enjoyable.

Whether it's our Spice-Tray Drawer Insert or our Wire Cookware Lid Pullout, these organizers are stylish and functional to make your kitchen look good and flow seamlessly. 

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8. Embrace Two-Toned Cabinetry

One of the hottest trends in kitchen design is two-toned cabinetry, which involves using different colors or finishes for upper and lower cabinets. This approach can create a dynamic visual contrast and add depth to your kitchen. For instance, pairing navy blue lower cabinets with crisp white upper cabinets can make your space feel both modern and inviting.

To tie the look together, choose hardware that complements both colors, creating a cohesive design that feels intentional and stylish. Brushed Gold or Satin Nickel are great finishes to compliment a wide array of cabinet colours. 

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9. Go for Cabinet Pulls Instead of Knobs

Consider using cabinet pulls instead of traditional knobs for a modern update. Pulls not only provide a sleek and contemporary look but also offer better functionality, especially for larger cabinets. They make it easier to open drawers and doors, particularly in a busy kitchen where efficiency is key. By choosing stylish cabinet pulls, you can create a streamlined look that enhances both form and function.

10. Incorporate Lighting to Highlight Your Hardware

To truly make your cabinet hardware shine, consider incorporating lighting elements that highlight their beauty. Under-cabinet lighting can illuminate your handles and knobs, creating a warm glow that enhances their design. This not only adds ambiance to your kitchen but also makes your hardware more visible and inviting. Choose LED strips or puck lights that are easy to install and can be adjusted to showcase the hardware effectively.

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Upgrading your kitchen with new cabinet hardware doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With these ten creative ideas, you can transform your space into a stylish and functional area you’ll love. Embrace the possibilities and let your kitchen reflect your personal style!

If you're ready to start your kitchen transformation, browse our extensive selection of high-quality cabinet hardware and kitchen accessories. Our team is here to help you find the perfect pieces that suit your design vision and enhance your space. Don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or for personalized recommendations!