Photography: Hannah Puechmarin
They may be small, but kitchen cabinet handles can have a transformative effect. A well-chosen handle can introduce personality and add the finishing touch to your kitchen cabinetry, especially when paired thoughtfully with your chosen profile. “Whether you decide on an integrated handle, a fitted statement handle or knobs, it really has a big impact on the overall look of the kitchen,” says Laura Pittaway, interior designer at Sunday Homes.
Whether you’re seeking a subtle update or an eye-catching statement, here are our tips for choosing the perfect kitchen cabinet handles.
1. Choose a standout finish
Classic pairings include bar or cup styles with Shaker looks, ornate designs suit heritage or country-style cabinetry, and simple designs work well with contemporary and flat profiles. “We’re seeing a rise in the use of organic-shaped knobs and handles as standout accessories, particularly in matte black, brushed stainless steel, brass and gold finishes,” says Giorgia Manenti, content lead at Kaboodle Kitchen.
2. Play with shapes
Small, circular knobs are the go-to for Shaker and country-style kitchens, but you can also make a quiet statement by opting for something different: think square shapes or metallics to bring in a bit of bling. And where you have knobs and handles in the same space, make sure their materials and finishes match.
3. Go for sleek and simple
The routed handle – in essence, a recess or grip that’s carved into the surface of your cabinetry – is growing in popularity. “Not only is it sleek and contemporary, it also looks fresh and is easier to clean,” says Laura. Routed handles can have a tone-on-tone look or be given a contrasting finish to add a dash of detail.
4. Hide your handles
Cabinetry with concealed handles or handle-free designs lets your finishes shine, while delivering a modern, uncluttered feel. “Discreet grip handles are gaining popularity for their ability to seamlessly blend into kitchen designs, while still offering practical functionality,” says Giorgia of barely-there options.
5. Make a bold statement
It often pays to consider something unexpected. “If you want to make a statement, then choose something that pops,” says Laura. “We love to play with scale, and to mix and match handles and knobs. We also love a statement handle, like Sibella Court’s range at The Society Inc, or the beautifully curated offering at Noble Elements.” Such designs can inject character and visual interest, but might require a little bravery. “Don’t be afraid to try something new, order samples and think of a few different options,” suggests Laura. “Just don’t get the drill out until you are certain that you have the right ones.”
Shop kitchen cabinet handles
01
Momo Handles Graf Knurled Knob in Brushed Dark Brass
$15, The Blue Space
Best for: The perfect grip
Petite yet intricately detailed, the Momo knob has a modern look and robust construction for everyday wear and tear. Better yet, the textured surface ensures a secure grip while adding visual interest without overshadowing the rest of the kitchen.
Size: 60mm x 8mm
Colours: Brushed Black, Brushed Dark Brass and Dull Brushed Nickel finishes
Material: Aluminium
Key features:
- Suitable for kitchens and bathrooms
- Knurled texture
- Industrial aesthetic
02
Art Nouveau Poppy Handle in Gold Brass
$52.30, Etsy
Best for: Cottage kitchens
It’s hard not to love these botanical beauties with two delicate poppies on a brass handle that immediately transform any cabinet. Available in both left and right styles, these handles have a quaint allure, bringing the garden into the home.
Size: 14mm long
Colour: Gold Brass finish
Material: Solid brass
Key features:
- Available individually or in pairs
- Comes with two 25mm M4 screws
- Whimsical design
03
Marley Cabinet Knob in Matte Black
$11.95, Temple and Webster
Best for: Doing-it-yourself
The ‘Marley’ brass knob comes with everything needed for easy installation such as a wall plug, hook fitting screw and spring washers. Plus, the ‘Marley’ knob is made from durable brass to prevent corrosion ensuring it stays looking perfect.
Size: 25mm x 28mm
Colours: Brushed Brass, Brushed Nickel and Matte Black finishes
Material: Brass
Key features:
- Powder-coated finish
- Knurled texture
- Geometric design
04
Sola Half Round Lip Pull in Brushed Brass
$25, The Blue Space
Best for: The modern kitchen
An elegant round design with four stylish finishes – need we say more? The Sola Half Round Pull has high-end appeal and when installed in pairs forms a complete circle on cabinets for added cohesion.
Sizes: 80mm, 120mm, 160mm and 240mm
Colours: White, Stainless Steel, Matt Black and Brushed Brass finishes
Material: Stainless steel
Key features:
- Forms a full circle when mounted in pairs
- Suitable for kitchens and bathrooms
- Contemporary design
05
‘01’ handle in Saddle Tan
$28, Made Measure
Best for: Adding warmth and comfort
Leather isn’t a typical material choice for the kitchen, but these soft and durable leather handles add a sophisticated and effortless touch. With high-grade leather, black edges and a flexible feel, you’ll love the comfortable grip of these handles on both drawers and joinery.
Size: 30mm x 200mm
Colours: Olive, Slate, Black and Tan
Material: Leather
Key features:
- Tight grain texture
- Simple to install
- Flexible
06
‘Almond’ knob in Black
$39, Lo & Co
Best for: Creating a Scandi aesthetic
For those who love Scandinavian style, these handles have a simple beauty. Sculpted in solid brass with nine finishes, these handles effortlessly blend charm and elegance making them a delightful addition to contemporary kitchens.
Sizes: Small and large
Colours: Black, Aged Brass, Brass, Bronze, Live Brass, Nickel, Tumbled Brass, Tumbled Nickel and White finishes
Material: Solid brass
Key features:
- Minimalist look
- Black electroplated finish
- Solid brass base
07
‘Moana’ timber cabinet handle in Walnut
$29.95, Handle House
Best for: Function and style
These timber handles offer a fun twist on traditional cabinetry hardware. A whimsical wave design is paired with luxe finishes for a practical but charming approach that’ll transform your kitchen into the heart of the home.
Sizes: 128mm, 192mm and 320mm
Colours: Walnut and White Oak finishes
Material: Timber
Key features:
- Available in three sizes
- Distinctive design
- Made from timber
08
‘1954’ drawer pull
$65, The Society Inc
Best for: Old-world charm
Inspired by mid-century designer Carl Auböck, this vintage-inspired pull combines cane and brass for timeless elegance. Perfect for both drawers and cupboards, the handle rod can be trimmed to size for bespoke customisation.
Size: 175mm x 18mm
Materials: Cane and brass
Key features:
- Handmade
- Cane finish
- Strong and durable
09
‘Hegman’ pull in Ash
$14.90, Abi Interiors
Best for: Classic functionality
The ‘Hegman’ pull takes cabinetry hardware back to basics but with style and warmth. The Ash Timber handle boasts natural beauty in a sleek design to seamlessly fit into most kitchen designs. With water resistance and easy installation, it’s no wonder this is a classic.
Size: 20mm x 130mm
Colour: Ash Timber finish
Material: Timber
Key features:
- Sealed with a natural-wax oil
- Easy installation
- Water resistant
10
Armac Martin ‘Queslett’ cup pull in Aged Brass
from $105, Noble Elements
Best for: Making an impression
For a striking style statement, look no further than these opulent brass handles from the ‘Queslett’ collection. Crafted in England, these handles boast a solid brass finish for a decorative flair in traditional New England style.
Sizes: 40mm x 64mm up to 40mm x 432mm
Colours: Lacquered, Plated and Living finishes
Materials: Solid brass
Key features:
- Made in England
- Sustainably made
- New England aesthetic
11
‘Tezra’ textured round knob in Brushed Brass
$39.90, Abi Interiors
Best for: Timeless texture
The ‘Tezra’ cabinetry knob is all about the finer details, featuring a two-texture finish in solid brass for a unique and tactile appeal in both kitchen and laundry cabinets.
Size: 28mm diameter
Colours: Brushed Brass, Brushed Copper, Brushed Gunmetal, Brushed Nickel and Matte Black finishes
Material: Solid brass
Key features:
- Physical vapour deposition
- Easy installation
- Timeless finish
12
‘Tubby’ pull in Aged Brass
$89, Lo & Co
Best for: A seriously smooth touch
The ‘Tubby’ collection takes art and sculpture to the next level with a smooth cylindrical design in a brass hand-brushed finish. Plus, with three sizes available, these easy-to-grip handles are a pleasure to hold.
Sizes: Small, medium and large
Colours: Aged Brass, Black, Brass, Bronze, Nickel, Tumbled Brass and White finishes
Material: Solid brass
Key features:
- Electroplated aged brass finish
- Hand-brushed
- Contoured ends
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