Getting the right look in your kitchen or bathroom is all about nailing the cabinet hardware placement.
Sure, picking out the perfect cabinetry is a must, but if it isn’t in the right place (A.K.A the most functional while still complementing the space’s aesthetic), then it will change how the entire room looks and feels.
Think about when you add accessories to your outfits – the right pieces in the right places will truly make it pop! It’s no different when it comes to placement and sizing of your cabinets. The right cabinets in the right spots are what is going to make or break a space.
Whether you're a fan of sleek pull handles or charming moon handles, knowing where and how to position them will transform the look and functionality of your cabinets.
This guide we’ve created is designed to help you make sure the hardware complements your space beautifully, no matter how many times you change things up.
Understanding Cabinet Hardware Placement
The placement of your cabinet hardware can significantly affect the overall aesthetics and ergonomics of your kitchen or bathroom. Functionality is just as important as design or aesthetics, which is something that should be at the forefront of your mind whenever you’re dealing with handles for your cabinets.
Here’s a fun fact: There really is an art to it! Just like finding the perfect spot for a picture on the wall, there's a sweet spot for your cabinet handles and knobs that combines functionality with style.
Standard Placement
When it comes to standard placement, there's a method to the madness that ensures both aesthetic appeal and functionality. For base cabinets, we suggest placing hardware on the corner opposite the hinge, roughly 2.5 to 3 inches from the bottom corner of the door.
This not only creates a visually balanced look but also makes for an ergonomic grab point that feels natural when reaching to open a cabinet. For wall cabinets, the approach isn’t too different – hardware is positioned on the lower corner of the door, opposite the hinge, which makes sure that the hardware is easily within reach without having to stretch or strain.
This traditional placement strategy isn’t just about following the rules – it's about creating a cohesive and harmonious design throughout your space.
Drawers Love Centre
There’s something undeniably satisfying about the symmetry and balance achieved by centring handles and knobs on drawer fronts.
Centre placement makes sure that the drawer faces look unified and proportional, lending to a sleek and streamlined appearance.
Plus, when it comes to the science-y side of things, this positioning creates an equal distribution of force when opening the drawer, which makes everything smoother and lets your drawers carry a heavier load.
Whether you opt for minimalist handles that underscore a modern vibe or ornate knobs that suggest a more traditional or eclectic aesthetic, central placement makes these design elements stand out.
The Vertical Rule for Tall Cabinet
Tall cabinets, such as pantries or linen closets, are a little more challenging when it comes to hardware placement, but there’s a secret – put hardware vertically in the top corner opposite the hinge for the best looking and most ergonomical design.
This placement not only lets you easily reach the handle, but also draws the eye upward, amplifying the visual height and stature of the cabinetry. It’s a subtle gesture towards design sophistication that can elevate the overall ambience of your space.
These thoughtful details in cabinet hardware placement underscore the importance of balancing both form and function in design.
Sizing It Right – Cabinet Hardware That Fits
Not all handles are created equal, especially when it comes to size. The size of your cabinet handles should be in proportion to your cabinet doors and drawers.
Here's how to get it right:
- The Rule of Thirds – A good rule of thumb is that handles should be approximately 1/3 the width of the drawer. So, for a standard 24-inch kitchen drawer, a 7 to 8-inch handle works wonders.
- When Bigger is Better – Large drawers, especially those used for pots and pans, can benefit from larger handles. Going up to 1/2 the width of the drawer not only looks proportionate but also makes it easier to open heavy drawers.
- Knobs and Small Doors – For smaller cabinet doors, a single knob or a small pull handle that is about 1/3 the width of the door is typically perfect. It provides balance without overwhelming the door’s design.
Choosing Your Style
Three of the most common cabinet hardware styles include knobs, pull handles, and moon handles, which are, as the name suggests, shaped like a crescent moon.
Let’s break these down so you can decide which are best for you:
- Think of knobs like the jewels of cabinets, offering a small but significant way to showcase your style. They come in an array of shapes, from classic round designs to more intricate forms, and a variety of finishes, including brushed brass and stone.
Cabinet knobs are perfect for smaller drawers and cabinets where a pull handle might be too large. Their compact size makes them a subtle yet impactful way to add detail and texture to your cabinetry.
- Pull handles are incredibly versatile and functional. Available in a wide array of lengths, materials, and finishes, they offer something for every taste and design theme.
Got a high-traffic area? Pull designs are the way to go. They offer ease of use and durability in one stylish package.
- Known for their distinctive crescent shape, moon handles bring a touch of whimsy and elegance to any cabinetry. Their unique design can add a soft, decorative touch to your space, making them ideal for adding personality to minimalistic designs.
Moon-shaped handles are especially suited to spaces where aesthetic appeal is as important as functionality. They give you a comfy grip and an interesting visual element without overwhelming the cabinet's design.
Top 3 Placement Tips You Need to Know
- Decide whether you want a uniform look with the same hardware throughout or an eclectic mix that uses different styles for drawers and doors. Both approaches can work beautifully when done thoughtfully.
- Always measure before you drill! Use a template to ensure that the placement of your hardware is consistent across all cabinets and drawers. This attention to detail can make or break the finished look.
- Think about how you use your space. Cabinet hardware should not only look good but feel good too. The placement should allow for easy access and comfortable use, without making you stretch too far or strain.
Hardware Placement – What To Consider
When it comes to jazzing up your cabinets with shiny new hardware, think of it as setting up a playdate between form and function.
You want to make sure that everyone, from the little tykes pulling at drawers to make their morning cereal to the tall ones reaching for secret stashes of cookies, can do so without a fuss.
This means eyeballing the height and reach of all your family members and placing those knobs and handles right where they need to be – accessible but still looking snazzy.
Now, before you go making any grand design declarations by drilling into your cabinetry, why not take those handles on a test drive?
Slap on some temporary adhesive and stick those pieces where you think they'll go. Live with them for a bit. Open a drawer. Close a cabinet. See how it feels. This is your chance to make sure that not only does everything look as good as a glossy magazine cover but also works nice and smoothly.
It's all about striking that perfect balance between looking fab and being functional, without committing to the first spot you think of. Give it a go, and make sure it's love at first pull!
Bringing It All Together
Choosing and placing your cabinetry’s hardware is a crucial step in creating a space that's both beautiful and functional.
No matter what type of handles you go for, the right placement and sizing will elevate your home's design from good to great. Remember, the best design choices are those that reflect your personal style and meet your practical needs.
Revamping your cabinets with new hardware is a small change that can make a big impact. With these tips, and the perfect hardware to suit your needs, you're well on your way to creating a space that's not just functional but also truly yours.
