When it comes to renovating your kitchen, choosing the right cabinet handles and hardware is crucial to achieving the perfect look. But just as important as selecting the right hardware is knowing where to place it. After all, even the most beautiful hardware can look awkward if it's not positioned correctly.
When considering the placement of the cabinet hardware, it's crucial to remember that there is no one right answer. It all depends on personal preference and the overall aesthetic you are trying to achieve. That being said, there are some general guidelines you can follow when deciding on kitchen cabinet knob placement.
In this article, we will discuss where to place knobs on kitchen cabinets to achieve a harmonious and practical layout.
Types of Cabinet Pulls and Knobs
Cabinet knobs and pulls are the small details that can elevate the look of your space and make it feel more cohesive. However, with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which type of hardware is right for your cabinets.
Let's take a closer look at some of the most popular types of cabinet knobs and pulls available on the market today.
Knobs
Cabinet knobs are the most traditional type of hardware and are often used on smaller cabinet doors and kitchen drawers. They come in a wide range of materials, finishes, and styles. Some popular options include brass knobs, glass knobs, crystal knobs, and ceramic knobs. This type of kitchen cabinet hardware can be simple and classic or decorative and ornate, depending on the look you are going for.
Pulls
Cabinet pulls are a bit more modern, and we can often see them on larger cabinet doors and drawers. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, including bar pulls, cup pulls, and ring pulls. Some popular materials for pulls include stainless steel, bronze, and nickel. Pulls can be sleek and minimalistic or more detailed and decorative, depending on your personal taste.
Knobs and Pulls Combined
If you're having a hard time deciding between knobs and pulls, you can always opt for a combination of the two. This can create a unique and personalized look for your cabinets. For example, you could use knobs on the upper cabinets and pulls on the base cabinets or use pulls on larger drawers and knobs on smaller cabinet drawers.
What To Consider When Choosing the Cabinet Hardware Placement?
The placement of knobs on cabinets is largely a matter of personal preference, which is good because you have all the freedom in the world to design the kitchen of your dreams. However, there are a few general rules to consider when deciding on the placement of knobs, and knowing them can prove very useful.
Let's discuss it now.
Size
One of the most important considerations is the size and shape of the cabinet door and drawers you're selecting the hardware for. A larger cabinet door may require two knobs for balance, while a smaller door may only need one.
The same can be applied to pulls. Smaller drawers and cabinet doors will need smaller handles, while large base cabinets and wall cabinets can require larger hardware.
Height
Another factor to consider is the height of the cabinet. If the cabinet is at eye level or above, the knob should be placed at the bottom corner of the door. This will allow for easy access to the contents of the cabinet without the need to reach too high.
Conversely, if the cabinet is below eye level, the knob should be placed at the top of the door. This will allow for easy access to the contents of the cabinet without the need to bend down too far.
Spacing
The spacing between cabinet knobs is equally important as the height at which they are placed. The spacing should be consistent across all cabinets to achieve a balanced and uniform look.
The standard spacing between cabinet knobs is usually between 2.5 to 3 inches apart. However, this can vary depending on the size and style of the cabinets. For larger cabinets, you may want to space the knobs further apart, while for smaller cabinets, you may want to space them closer together.
Most traditional pulls are installed vertically, and their spacing follows the same recommendations as with knobs.
Style of Hardware
In terms of style, there are a few options to consider. One popular option is to use the same style of knob throughout the kitchen or other areas of the home. This creates a cohesive look and ties the space together.
Another option is to mix and match knobs for a more eclectic look. This can be achieved by using different styles of knobs on different types of cabinets or by using a different style of a knob on each cabinet door. For example, our Mid Century Modern Oval Knob with our Modern Handles in the same color is a great way to mix and match hardware, will maintaining a cohesive look.
Popular Cabinet Hardware Placement Options
The placement of cabinet knobs can also vary depending on the design and functionality of your cabinets. Here are some common placement options:
Center placement: This is the most popular placement option, where knobs and handles are placed in the center of the cabinet drawer or door. This placement works well for cabinets with a minimalist or modern design.
Offset placement: In this placement option, knobs and handles are placed closer to one edge of the cabinet door. This cabinet pulls placement is ideal for cabinets with a traditional or vintage design.
Corner placement: The last placement option involves placing the knob on the corner of the cabinet door. This placement works well for corner cabinets or cabinets with an angled design, but it is often implemented in regular base and wall cabinets too.
Hardware Placement on Base Cabinet Doors
When it comes to cabinet knob placement on doors, the general rule of thumb is to place them in the center of the door panel. You also want to make sure they are always installed opposite the door hinges. Generally speaking, it's best to place the knob in the right upper corner of the panel doors, around 2.5 to 3 inches from the edge of the said corner, to ensure the best accessibility.
When installing finger pulls on your cabinet doors that open in opposite directions, you want to ensure that the pulls vertically create a clean line. To achieve this effect you should install each pull in the bottom corner of the door rail.
Cabinet Hardware Placement on Drawers
When it comes to cabinet knob and pulls placement on drawers, you should place them in the center of the drawer front. However, if you have larger drawers, you may want to consider placing two knobs or pulls on either side of the drawer to ensure that it is easily accessible.
If you're choosing finger pulls for your kitchen drawers, they need to be installed on the top edge of the drawer.
Cabinet Hardware Placement on Wall Cabinets
When installing cabinet hardware on wall cabinets, it's important to keep in mind the height of the cabinets. If your wall cabinets are higher up, you may want to consider placing the hardware slightly lower on the door or drawer to make it more accessible. A general rule of thumb is to place hardware about 2.5 to 2 inches from the bottom of upper cabinet doors or drawers.
Tips for Placing Cabinet Hardware
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Consider the overall aesthetic of your kitchen.
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Choose hardware that complements the style and finishes of your cabinets, countertops, and appliances.
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Use a template to ensure that all of your knobs and pulls are evenly spaced and aligned.
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If you're unsure about placement, mock up the hardware placement with painter's tape to get a better idea of how it will look.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Installing Knobs and Pulls on Cabinets
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Placing the hardware too close to the edge of the cabinet door or drawer.
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Placing the hardware too low on the door or drawer.
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Using hardware that is too large or too small for the cabinet.
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Using hardware that doesn't match the overall style and finishes of the kitchen.
Secret to a Proper Cabinet Knob Placement
The placement of knobs on cabinets may seem like a small detail, but it can have a big impact on the overall look and functionality of your cabinetry. When deciding where to place your knobs, consider the height, spacing, and placement options that work best for your specific cabinets.
Remember to keep your design style in mind and choose knobs that complement your cabinetry and the overall decor of your space. That's how you will gain the perfect finishing touch to your cabinetry.
At ROUS Hardware, we strongly believe that you can change your home with the smallest of details. Check out our Collection of Mid Century and Art Deco knobs and pulls that will bring out the true character of your space. Available in a wide range of colors, our kitchen hardware makes all the difference in the world.
