Mastering the Art of Mixing Knobs and Pulls on Kitchen Cabinets

Are you looking to elevate the design of your kitchen cabinets but aren’t sure where to start? The decision to use knobs, pulls, or a combination of both may seem like a small detail, but it can make a big impact on the overall look of your kitchen. Mixing knobs and pulls throughout your kitchen requires some thought and planning, but with the right guidance, you can achieve a stylish and cohesive look that reflects your personal style.

Table of Contents

Meet the Experts

Mike and Wendee Freeman, owners of Sunset by Freeman Home, have over 30 years of experience building new homes and offering cabinet-making services. They understand the importance of selecting the right hardware for your kitchen cabinets to achieve the desired design aesthetic. According to Wendee, mixing knobs and pulls should be a thoughtful decision that aligns with the overall design style you are trying to achieve.

Consider the Overall Design Style

Before diving into the world of mixing knobs and pulls, it’s essential to consider the overall design style of your kitchen. Wendee suggests starting with the end in mind and basing your hardware choices on your design goals. Whether you are aiming for an English cottage look, a modern aesthetic, or a traditional heirloom style, your choice of knobs and pulls can help bring your vision to life.

For an English or cottage look, consider using all wooden knobs.
To achieve a modern or contemporary look, opt for all bar pulls.
Mixing knobs and pulls can create a traditional, heirloom look that adds character to your kitchen.

Choose Versions With Commonality

When mixing knobs and pulls, it’s important to create cohesion by selecting versions that have commonalities in material or style. For example, pairing ornate brass pulls with brass knobs or iron knobs with simple nickel pulls can help tie the look of your kitchen together.

Use Either, But Keep Function in Mind

There is no strict rule when it comes to using knobs or pulls on cabinet drawers and doors. However, it’s essential to consider the functionality of your hardware choices.

Reserve pulls for cabinet drawers and knobs for cabinet doors for a cohesive look.
Use one knob for smaller drawers (less than 20 inches) and two knobs for larger drawers.
For heavier pull-out drawers, consider using one larger bin pull centered on the drawer.
When using knobs on pull-out drawers, ensure they are placed in a way that allows for smooth operation.

Switch Things Up on an Island

To add visual interest to your kitchen design, consider mixing knobs with pulls on your kitchen island. For example, using wooden knobs on cabinets along the wall and metal pulls on the island can create a dynamic and stylish look that sets your kitchen apart.

Remember that Quality Matters

While the decision between knobs and pulls is important, the quality of the hardware you choose will ultimately impact your satisfaction in the long run. Mike and Wendee emphasize the importance of selecting high-quality, natural materials for your knobs and pulls.

Opt for real materials like brass that will stand the test of time and wear well over the years.
Quality hardware may be more expensive upfront, but it will be worth the investment in the long run.

In conclusion, the choice between knobs and pulls for your kitchen cabinets depends on your design style and personal preferences. Whether you prefer a traditional, modern, or contemporary look, there are ways to mix and match hardware to achieve the aesthetic you desire. By considering the overall design style, choosing versions with commonality, prioritizing functionality, switching things up on your island, and investing in quality materials, you can create a kitchen that is both functional and visually appealing.

Remember, the devil is in the details when it comes to kitchen design, and selecting the right knobs and pulls can make a significant difference in the overall look and feel of your space. So take your time, do your research, and have fun experimenting with different combinations until you find the perfect mix that reflects your unique style and personality.