Design Notes
Hardware is an essential part of designing an amazing and functional cabinet, as it enables you to open and close doors and drawers easily, while also adding a touch of your personality to the space. New hardware is also an excellent and easy way to upgrade or refresh your current cabinets, as it can change the style and add value to your space. Another bonus of hardware is its versatility, which includes sizes that can accommodate everything from appliances to small drawers, as well as finishes such as timeless brass and elegant black matte. As with each new year, trends are announced to highlight what’s popular and the reasons behind them, not to mention they could be the spark you have been needing for your renovation. We are sharing a list of 2023 cabinet hardware trends and the reasons it could be the one you have been looking for, so let’s explore.
Considered a timeless choice, brass hardware has many wonderful qualities that make it a fabulous option, not to mention it is absolutely gorgeous. For those who want hardware with health benefits, brass has antimicrobial properties, meaning it can kill harmful microbes, making it ideal for kitchens. Brass is also an elegant finish that complements multiple styles, including traditional, transitional, and modern, when combined with the right elements. No matter what area of the home it is used in, this finish adds instant luxury vibes to the space because it is so stunning; however, too much of it can be overpowering. One extra benefit of brass hardware is its minimal maintenance; simply wipe with a damp cloth, and it will shine again. This particular finish is a beautiful complement to light cabinets and a striking contrast to darker colors or wood stains, so be sure to add it to your list of possible hardware choices.
Bold colors, ornate glass, organic shapes, and unique hardware are trending in 2023, as homeowners seek to break with tradition and create a look tailored to their own style. This permission for using creative flair in hardware has opened the door for designers to enhance their clients’ designs with unique hardware choices. This has also led manufacturers to produce new and intriguing hardware that draws inspiration from various sources, including the past, different shapes, and even nature itself. No longer confined to the typical knob or pull, homeowners can select from geometric shapes like hexagons and pentagons, or nature-themed options, such as uneven twig-shaped or leaf-patterned designs. Color has made a cheerful appearance in the world of hardware as well, with companies offering options such as green, blue, and even amber. Antique stores can be another wonderful way to find one-of-a-kind hardware pieces that are perfect for a grand millennial design style or to add a unique look to a specific piece. Don’t be afraid to break new ground with your hardware selections; your home is your story.
Typically, when we think of hardware, lighter tones such as gold and silver come to mind; however, black, specifically black matte, has risen to the top of the options list for both designers and homeowners alike. Working with both traditional and contemporary designs, black hardware presents a confidence and elegance that adds a touch of distinction to your space. It is also a color that pairs well with everything, providing contrast against lighter colors and complementing the darker tones. Wood, whether natural or stained, also pairs well with the black matte hardware choice, which is why many designers are increasingly opting to use it. An added benefit is that it does not easily show fingerprints like chrome options may, which means less cleaning is required. Of course, like any dark color, too much of it can quickly overpower a room. Consider using smaller amounts to achieve the greatest impact.
While this may be a surprising choice to include in a list about hardware choices, minimalism remains a popular design style, one that creates an elegant space with clean lines. While it may seem odd that homeowners might opt for no hardware, this look can be amazing in its own way, as the natural design of the cabinets is either undisturbed or seamless altogether. There are, however, a few ways to integrate “hardware” into the actual design of the cabinets, such as notches and lip pulls built directly into the wood. This option can even add a touch of something special to the overall design, elevating it to a completely new level. You can still incorporate a few pieces of hardware into the design, as designer Tracy Zeller did in this project we worked on. This is especially a good idea if you have panelized appliances that require a strong pull to open them. Be sure to discuss with your designer which options would be best for you and your specific space.
Sometimes, size really does matter, especially when it comes to the purpose of the cabinet door, such as for paneled appliances. However, designers are also integrating elongated pulls into other parts of the design. Typically eight inches or more in length, elongated pulls provide several benefits to your cabinets, including easier access and an elegant appearance. When you are busy cooking, with hands that may not be super clean or covered in grease, it is always easier to open a drawer or door with just one or two fingers instead of the whole hand. Additionally, elongated pulls work well with minimalist designs, and they look particularly well with the shape of drawers, as they tend to complete the horizontal design. They can also be placed either vertically or horizontally while still producing a unified final design. Functional and stylish are the two sides of elongated pulls, so be sure to ask your designer about using them in your renovation project.
While not the most common metal in the design world, copper has been making a strong comeback, whether in sinks, metal backsplashes, or hardware. It’s rich, unique color tone makes it instantly appealing and works well with both wood and painted cabinets. This is one reason it is a strong contender this year, but it is also a bit more expensive, making it an investment piece that may require a larger portion of your budget. Copper hardware can be a great option for areas that do not require as much as the kitchen, such as your home office or living room. The results can be well worth the increase in price, though, as it adds a touch of luxury to your home, so don’t be afraid to explore this option.
2023 promises to be a year of elegance with these hardware trends, and the possibilities are endless. Cabinet hardware is a worthwhile investment that not only ensures your cabinets stay in good condition, but it is also an opportunity to showcase your unique style in your home, whether that is your kitchen, bathroom, laundry room, or even home office. A designer can help you find just the right pieces that combine function and style to suit your specific needs, so be sure to share which ones you’re interested in exploring.
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