Handles are the final choice to make when planning on your next joinery project. They are available in all types of materials, finishes and can help to define the mood and style of your project. But how do you work out which handle with suit your cabinetry? Read here to find out more.
1. QUALITY AND FUNCTIONALITY
When choosing handles it is important to make sure they are good quality and well designed. Think about how many times you open and close the cabinet doors and drawers on said project. You will want your handles to be as comfortable as they are stylish.
Get a hold of a sample of the handle you intend to buy. Hold one against your cabinet doors and check how easy they are to grip and how they feel in your hand. Take note of these points:
- Can you get an adequate grip?
- Do they have sharp corners which will catch on clothing?
- If the user has arthritis or RSI, will the chosen handles be suitable for daily repetitive use?
2. STYLE
Think about the overall style you have chosen for your project. Will the chosen handles tie in with this style?
3. TYPES
When choosing a handle, there are many types to choose from. Here is a break down of the types available:
- Edge Pull
This handle is suited to a project with a more contemporary design, and can streamline the look. Be wary of using such handles on any vinyl wrap project, as the installation method can void your vinyl warranty.
- Knobs
Knobs are usually the easiest to choose, and have one screw fixing them. Round knobs are the most hassle free design to choose. If you choose a knob (like the style below) these will need to be adjusted periodically to keep them looking horizontal.
- Handle-less (Finger pull)
If you would like to streamline the design of your project, perhaps consider having no handles at all. This method has a recessed lip at the top of each door and drawer front which creates a channel that allows you to open them without handles (below):
- Handle-less (Push Open)
A great option for those not wanting handles. Note that this setup usually requires you to forgo soft close on the hinges. There is also a delay between pushing to open and the door actually opening. If this system is used at the rear of an island bench with a breakfast bar overhang, little legs accidentally kicking the door will trigger them to open.
4. SIZES
Many handles are available in various lengths. Determining the length to use is usually a matter of personal taste. To keep the look less busy, using similar length handles is often a great idea. Try to go for an “in-between” length handle that won’t look too short on long drawers or too long on shorter drawers. If you’re not sure how long is right, ask your cabinet maker to suggest a size they would recommend based on the size of the cabinets on your project.
5. FINISHES
Once you have chosen the handles, determining the finish will be a lot easier. Traditional handles, for example, are available in a huge variety of finishes – from stainless steel to brass, pewter and even black.
Consider other feature elements of your kitchen design when choosing the finish (and style) of your handles. For example, black handles look sophisticated on light grey or white cabinets – and if black appliances are used, can tie in with these also. There are also many new finishes on the market. One of them is the “knurled” finish (below):
6. POSITIONING
MDC Furniture Design recommends the installation of handles once your joinery is on site and installed. This is a great way for one to ascertain exactly where the handles should go. In general, drawers require a horizontal installation position, and doors a vertical position. You could consider placing the handles horizontally on your doors also – but try out the feel of this first because it doesn’t feel as natural as opening a door with a vertical handle.
Also, make sure the handles are placed in a position where they won’t hit one another when you open your cabinets, particularly in corners.
For a great choice in handles and knobs MDC Furniture Design recommends Kethy Australia.
