Where Do You Put Handles On Kitchen Cabinets?
When it comes to designing a kitchen, one of the most important decisions you’ll have to make is where to put the handles on your kitchen cabinets. This seemingly small detail can have a big impact on the overall look and functionality of your kitchen. As someone who has gone through this process myself, I know firsthand how overwhelming it can be to navigate all the different options and opinions out there. In this article, I’ll share my personal experience and offer some tips and ideas to help you make the best decision for your kitchen.
Step-by-Step Guide for Current Trends on Where to Put Handles on Kitchen Cabinets
Step 1: Consider Your Overall Kitchen Design
Before you start thinking about where to put your cabinet handles, it’s important to have a clear idea of your overall kitchen design. Are you going for a modern, sleek look or a more traditional, rustic feel? Do you want your handles to blend in with your cabinets or stand out as a design element? Once you have a sense of your overall style, you can start to narrow down your handle options.
Step 2: Determine Your Cabinet Material
The material of your cabinets can also impact where you put your handles. For example, if you have a high-gloss cabinet finish, you may want to avoid handles that will leave fingerprints. If you have a natural wood finish, you may want to choose handles that complement the wood grain.
Step 3: Consider the Size and Shape of Your Handles
Handles come in all shapes and sizes, from long and narrow to short and wide. Think about how the size and shape of your handles will impact the overall look of your cabinets. For example, long, horizontal handles can make your cabinets appear wider, while round or square handles can add a more modern, geometric touch.
Step 4: Decide on Placement
There are several options for where to place your cabinet handles, including vertical, horizontal, and diagonal. Vertical handles can give your cabinets a more traditional look, while horizontal handles can create a modern, streamlined effect. Diagonal handles can add visual interest and break up the lines of your cabinets.
Top 10 Tips and Ideas on Where to Put Handles on Kitchen Cabinets
- Consider the overall style of your kitchen and choose handles that complement that style.
- Choose handles that are easy to grip and comfortable to use.
- Think about the size and shape of your handles and how they will impact the look of your cabinets.
- Consider the placement of your handles and how it will impact the functionality of your cabinets.
- If you have a small kitchen, consider using handles that are less obtrusive to save space.
- Experiment with different handle placements before making a final decision.
- Consider mixing and matching different handle styles for a unique look.
- Don’t be afraid to make a statement with your handles and choose something bold and eye-catching.
- Consider using handle-less cabinets for a sleek, modern look.
- Remember that the handles are not just a design element, but also a functional one, so choose something that is easy to use and durable.
Pros and Cons of Different Handle Placements
Vertical Handles
Pros: Traditional look, easy to grip, can make cabinets appear taller.
Cons: Can make cabinets appear narrower, may not be as comfortable to use as horizontal handles.
Horizontal Handles
Pros: Modern, streamlined look, easy to grip, can make cabinets appear wider.
Cons: Can make cabinets appear shorter, may not be as traditional as vertical handles.
Diagonal Handles
Pros: Adds visual interest, breaks up the lines of your cabinets.
Cons: Can be more difficult to grip, may not be as common as vertical or horizontal handles.
My Personal Review and Suggestion on Where to Put Handles on Kitchen Cabinets
After going through the process of choosing handles for my own kitchen cabinets, I’ve come to the conclusion that there is no one “right” answer. Ultimately, it comes down to personal style and functionality. For my kitchen, I chose horizontal handles because I liked the modern, streamlined look and found them comfortable to use. However, I could see how someone with a more traditional kitchen might prefer vertical handles. My suggestion is to take the time to experiment with different handle options and placements before making a final decision. And remember, at the end of the day, it’s your kitchen and you should choose what makes you happy.
Question & Answer and FAQs
Q: Can I install handles on my cabinet doors myself?
A: Yes, installing handles on cabinet doors is a relatively simple DIY project. Just be sure to measure carefully and use a template to ensure that your handles are level and evenly spaced.
Q: How many handles should I use on each cabinet door?
A: This will depend on the size and style of your cabinets. As a general rule, most cabinet doors will require two handles, spaced evenly apart. However, larger doors may require three or more handles.
Q: Should I use the same handles on all my cabinets and drawers?
A: This is a matter of personal preference. Some people prefer to use the same handles on all their cabinets and drawers for a cohesive look, while others like to mix and match different handle styles. Just be sure that whatever you choose complements your overall kitchen design.