Cabinet Hardware

Cabinet hardware will be a major decision towards the end of the Planning Phase. It can add a great deal of accent and interest to the style of your kitchen--your unique touch. Hardware as a group has many materials, colors, prices, styles, and sizes from which to choose. Materials range from various metals, woods, plastic, ceramic, porcelain, glass, and stone. Color can play an important role in the way your hardware contrasts or blends with your cabinetry. In today's market, you can find hardware pricing to fit anyone's budget.

Whether you call it a "door or drawer pull" or a "handle or knob"--it functions just the same. But style, size, and fit are truly what you will functionally experience each day. Thus it is very important that you physically sample the styles in which you are interested--this includes everyone in the household. What might look great on the showroom wall, may not fit you and/or your family. Look in our Resource Index for hardware manufacturers who have Universal Design handles and knobs suitable for people with limited dexterity. Visit your local hardware showroom or store and ask for assistance when needing hardware to complement these needs.

When you order cabinetry, some cabinet manufacturers supply you with the hardware while others don't. Make sure that if it is not included you add a hardware amount into your budget. You may be able to order cabinets with or without pre-drilled holes for hardware. If possible, order your cabinetry without pre-drilled holes so that you can make that determination after the cabinets are installed. You may find that you prefer the handles and pulls at a slightly different location than factory specs.