Trends in cabinet handles, pulls

Updating hardware is simple way to change look of the kitchen

One thing’s for sure: Cabinetry hardware is an important accessor y that can modernize the look and feel of a kitchen. Whether you’ve still got ’90s-era ceramic handles or you need to pick out new pulls for a renovation, updated hardware ser ves more than just a functional purpose. Handles and pulls turn plain cabinets and drawers into instant beauties. Need another reason to make a switch: Cabinet hardware can be as affordable as $3 each. Here are some of the most popular today:

Matte black finishes

For a striking look, dress up glossy white cabinets with matte (flat) black finished pulls and handles. The rich finish is sleek and sexy.

Oversized drawer pulls

Sometimes bigger is better when it comes to cabinetry hardware, but use it correctly. “We like oversized handles or pulls on large cabinet doors, such as pantr y pull-out cabinets or refrigerators where they are more functional,” said Damon Liss of Damon Liss Design in New York. “They’re also ver y beautiful in a minimal, modern kitchen.”

Gold-toned finishes

Gold-toned finishes work in both formal and informal kitchens. They’re particularly lovely when they have a patina, which can lend itself to more lived-in kitchen styles, Liss said. “Gold-toned finishes look great on white and light gray cabinetr y but can look equally beautiful on rich, dark jewel tones, such as navy.”

Brass finishes

Its durability and warm personality have kept brass on the popular-metals list year after year. Go for a solid brass pull or handle with a simple graphic for the most up-to-date look.

Mixing knobs and pulls

The classic rule was cabinets have knobs and drawers have pulls, but today that edict has been thrown out the window. Mix and match knobs and pulls

but to keep the look cohesive, choose the same finish.

Mixed metal finishes

With so many other finishes to consider in a kitchen — on appliances, plumbing fixtures, lighting — the success of a room is in the mix, Liss said. “Not only does it add visual interest and layers, but it keeps the look timeless, not adhering to what’s on-trend,” he said.

As long as there’s some consistency with the metals, most combinations work. Recently, Liss paired darkened metal lacquer cabinetr y with oversized industrial aluminum cabinet pulls for a stunning look. One pairing to avoid, though: chrome and polished gold-toned finishes, which will compete with each other.

Brushed nickel finishes

Much like brass, this metal finish is on ever y hot list ever y year, and no wonder: It goes with cabinets of ever y color and works well with stainless steel sinks.

GETTY IMAGES Freshen up the look of a kitchen with new handles and pulls. Mixing and matching styles is OK if the finishes are all the same.