Different Types of Kitchen Cabinet Handles & Finishes

The best handle for kitchen cabinets is one that matches the style and aesthetic of the room. It should have the right size, material, and finish to complement larger design elements. The cabinet fitting needs to conform with the desired placement for better access. Otherwise, the hardware may not fulfill its purpose: to allow easy opening and closing of the door panels.

With these factors to consider, it’s quite daunting to decide which way to go. Should the color be prioritized first? Would it be better to focus on the cabinet handle material? Here’s a pro tip: it’s good to start by learning the different types of kitchen handles.

T bar kitchen handles

Perhaps the most common of the lot are T-bar kitchen handles. Typically, this type of fitting consists of a long tube-shaped bar supported by two shorter bars. These petite sections serve as points of attachment to the door or drawer.

Bar handles have a minimalistic look and are one of the most practical options in the market. It is also comfortable to grip and easy to match with other elements in the design. In fact, it’s a versatile piece that has a wide range of styles that tie with modern or traditional themes.

Bar handles with ornate detailing and an iron composition are traditional in every way. Still, today’s advanced technologies ensure that the hardware has a modern construction. For contemporary kitchens, a bar handle with a sleek chrome finish is a go-to design standard.

Bow kitchen handles

The distinctive curvature of a bow kitchen handle is the perfect mix of practical and elegant. Like the T-bar, it allows a better grip since the whole hand can hold it to open or close the panel. It’s an ideal fitting for smaller kitchen spaces because clothing cannot get caught in it, unlike the bar handles.

The rounded profile of the bow handle softens the look of the hardware, allowing the cabinetry to shine. It’s acceptable to choose a bold material for this type. For instance, brass or copper adds warmth to the space and provides a trendy accent to the furniture.

Bow handles go together with vintage themes and country-style pantries. Its simple yet elegant hardware delivers a classic and homey feel to a newly renovated kitchen.

Kitchen cabinet knobs

Nothing screams vintage more than kitchen cabinet knobs. These fittings are spherical and mounted at a fixed point, usually at the opening corner of the door panel. Knobs are much easier to install compared to pulls because they only require a single screw attachment. They can be as simple as a circular shape or elaborate with animal or flower designs.

In some ways, a cabinet knob is ornamental since it adds a decorative accent to the furniture. As a rule of thumb, experts use knobs for cabinet doors and not on drawers. Since it has a limited area for gripping, knobs are not suitable for people with mobility issues or disabilities.

With knobs, one needs to remember to inspect the attachment at regular intervals. Cabinet knob handles can get loose over time, especially if it gets used daily.

Cup cabinet pulls

Cup pull handles are another traditional option for cabinet hardware. As with the name, the shape is an upside-down cup that features a grip from underneath. Its form provides a stable grasp when opening or closing a cabinet.

Metal looks best for cup handle styles because they boost the antiquated effect of the hardware. Materials like brass or pewter with an aged finish can match farmhouse kitchens. It’s also a lovely addition to industrial kitchens. For this application, going for a mixed metal construction gives the handle an extra oomph.

Recessed cabinet handles

A recessed pull handle does not protrude like other types of drawer handles. Instead, it has an inwards grip concealed in a housing unit. Also called a flush handle, this style sinks into the product and creates a flat exterior. It does not have bars or levers; rather, it is typically a rectangular-shaped handle that takes up less space for installation.

However, not all furniture can support a recessed handle. For example, it’s not easy to swap a bar or bow-type handle for a flush pull. In short, the furniture must accommodate the sunken unit, which entails cutting a section of the panel.

C-type cabinet handle

C-type pulls are some of the most modern styles today. It is a grab handle that often has an aluminum construction, providing a streamlined aesthetic to the furniture. Rather than the usual front-facing installation, C-type handles attach to the edge of the door panel. It gives the illusion that the drawer or cabinet does not have any handles installed.

The C-type handle is easy to install and is one of the most long-lasting styles in the market. It is suitable for cabinet doors and offers a great way to protect the furniture’s finish.