Where to Properly Install Knobs and Handles on Your Kitchen Cabinets

When it comes to designing your kitchen, every detail matters. From choosing the right color scheme to selecting the perfect hardware for your cabinets, every decision you make plays a role in creating a functional and aesthetically pleasing space. One important aspect of cabinet design that often gets overlooked is the placement of knobs and handles. Properly installing knobs and handles on your kitchen cabinets is essential for both functionality and style. In this guide, we’ll explore the importance of hardware placement and provide you with practical tips on where to put knobs and handles on your kitchen cabinets.

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Why Does Hardware Placement Matter?

The placement of knobs and handles on your kitchen cabinets may seem like a minor detail, but it can have a significant impact on the overall look and functionality of your space. Here are some reasons why hardware placement is important:

Accessibility: Placing knobs and handles in the correct position ensures that everyone in your household can easily access and open the cabinets. Improperly placed hardware can make it difficult for shorter individuals or those with mobility issues to reach and open the cabinets.
Ease of Use: Properly positioned knobs and handles make it easier to open and close cabinet doors and drawers. Placing hardware too high, too low, or too close to the center of the door can make it awkward and inconvenient to grip and open the cabinets.
Aesthetics: Well-placed hardware can enhance the overall aesthetic of your kitchen. Properly aligned knobs and handles can create a more cohesive and visually appealing design, while haphazardly placed hardware can detract from the overall look of your space.

When it comes to hardware placement, there are two common options to consider: knobs and pulls. Knobs are typically used for drawers and have a round, metal design, while pulls are a broader category of hardware that resemble traditional handles. Pulls are often preferred for cabinet doors or heavy drawers due to their ease of grip and leverage.

Where to Put Hardware on Drawers

Properly placing knobs and pulls on drawers is essential for both functionality and aesthetics. Here are some guidelines on where to put hardware on drawers:

Knobs:
For drawers less than 24 inches wide, install one knob in the center of the drawer.
For drawers wider than 24 inches, install two knobs spaced evenly on the drawer.
Pro Tip: Use painter’s tape to divide the drawer into nine equal parts for accurate placement of knobs.
Pulls:
Standard pulls should be centered on the drawer, with one pull for drawers less than 24 inches wide and two pulls for wider drawers.
Cup pulls should be installed on the top third of the drawer, centered in the second column.
Finger pulls should be positioned on the top edge of the drawer, centered in the second column. Install two finger pulls for drawers wider than 24 inches.

Where to Put Hardware on Base Cabinets

Properly placing knobs and pulls on base cabinets is crucial for easy access and functionality. Here are some tips on where to put hardware on base cabinets:

Knobs:
Install knobs about two-and-a-half to three inches from the top of the cabinet door and about one inch from the edge opposite the upper hinge.
Positioning knobs opposite the hinges improves leverage and makes it easier to open the door.
Finger Pulls:
Make finger pulls flush to the upper corner, opposite the hinges.
For two cabinet doors that open in opposite directions, position the finger pulls flush to the edge of each door to create a seamless look.

Where to Put Hardware on Wall Cabinets

When installing hardware on wall cabinets, it’s important to place knobs and pulls in a way that maximizes accessibility and ease of use. Here’s where to put hardware on wall cabinets:

Knobs:
Install knobs at the bottom corner of the door, about two-and-a-half to three inches from the bottom and one inch from the edge opposite the hinges.
Placing knobs lower on the door improves accessibility and leverage.
Pulls:
Follow the same guidelines for installing pulls on wall cabinets as you would for drawers, ensuring they are centered on the door for optimal functionality.

By following these guidelines for hardware placement on your kitchen cabinets, you can create a functional and visually appealing space that is easy to navigate and use. Properly installed knobs and handles not only enhance the overall look of your kitchen but also make it more convenient and enjoyable to cook and entertain in your space. So, take the time to carefully consider where to put knobs and handles on your kitchen cabinets, and enjoy the benefits of a well-designed and efficient kitchen!