How to Choose the Right Hardware for Your Kitchen Cabinets
Why Cabinet Hardware Matters
Think of your hardware as the handshake of your kitchen. It’s what you touch daily. It affects your workflow. And it contributes to the overall aesthetic in a big way.
The right hardware can:
Tie together your kitchen’s color scheme
Add elegance or rustic charm
Improve ease of use
Reflect your personality
Poor hardware choices, on the other hand, can look dated, clash with finishes, or wear out quickly. That’s why we guide every client through a thoughtful hardware selection process as part of their custom cabinet design.
Knobs vs. Pulls—What’s the Difference?
Both knobs and pulls are functional, but they serve slightly different roles:
Knobs are smaller and typically used for cabinet doors.
Pulls are longer, more modern, and ideal for drawers and larger cabinet doors.
There’s no hard rule—you can mix both styles depending on the design. Many of our clients prefer the look of matching pulls throughout for a clean, uniform appearance.
Material and Finish: Match or Contrast?
Here are a few common finishes that pair well with popular cabinet styles:
Cabinet ColorHardware Finish IdeasWhite ShakerMatte black, satin brass, polished chromeNavy BlueBrushed gold, antique brass, matte nickelNatural WoodOil-rubbed bronze, matte black, brushed copper
You can either match the hardware to your fixtures (like your faucet and lighting), or create contrast for a designer look.
Our Favorite Hardware Brands
We proudly source from top-quality hardware brands, including:
🔗 Hardware Resources – Known for a wide variety of timeless styles and reliable construction.
🔗 Top Knobs – A designer-favorite offering luxury hardware that makes a bold statement.
We’ll guide you through finish samples, size options, and trending styles so you can choose with confidence.
What to Consider When Choosing Cabinet Hardware
Here are a few quick tips:
Comfort: Make sure it feels right in your hand
Size: Larger drawers need longer pulls for ease
Durability: Avoid thin or flimsy materials
Style Cohesion: Think of your kitchen as a whole
Not sure where to start? We offer hardware mockups during your 3D design consultation so you can see how it all ties together before installation.
Design It All With SDC
At Southern Designer Cabinetry, we don’t just stop at cabinet boxes and doors. From layout to lighting to cabinet hardware selection, we’re here to make sure every detail is perfectly planned.
Need help designing your dream kitchen? Get in touch with our design team today and let’s bring your vision to life.