When it comes to enhancing the aesthetics and functionality of your home, internal door handles and cupboard door handles play a more significant role than you might initially think. These often-overlooked features contribute to the overall style and usability of your doors and cabinets. Choosing the right handles for your interior doors and cupboards involves a balance of design, functionality, and durability. If you’re in the process of renovating or simply looking to update the hardware in your home, there are five essential factors to consider when selecting internal door handles and cupboard door handles.
1. Style and Design
The first and most obvious consideration when choosing internal door handles and cupboard door handles is the design. These small details can have a substantial impact on the overall style of your space, whether you’re going for a modern, traditional, or industrial look.
For internal door handles, you’ll find a wide variety of designs ranging from sleek, minimalist handles to ornate, vintage-style options. Consider the overall aesthetic of your room and select a handle that complements the décor. For example:
- Modern Homes: If you have a contemporary or minimalist home, choose handles with clean lines and a simple design, such as lever handles or round knobs made from brushed stainless steel or matte black.
- Traditional Homes: If your home has a more classic or traditional style, opt for vintage or antique-style handles with intricate detailing, such as brass or chrome finishes.
- Industrial Homes: For an industrial-inspired look, choose bold, heavy-duty handles made from raw materials like black iron or brushed nickel to complement your home’s rugged design.
Similarly, cupboard door handles are available in a variety of shapes and finishes, including pulls, knobs, and handles in materials such as brass, wood, chrome, and ceramic. These small elements can help pull together the look of your kitchen, bathroom, or any room where cupboard space is a key design feature.
2. Functionality and Comfort
While design is crucial, the functionality of your internal door handles and cupboard door handles is equally important. The handle needs to be comfortable to use and efficient in operation, especially for frequently used spaces.
For internal door handles, think about how you’ll be interacting with the door. If the door is frequently used, such as in a kitchen or bathroom, a handle that’s easy to grip and turn is essential. Lever handles are a great option for doors that need to be operated frequently with one hand, while doorknobs may be a better option for doors that are less commonly used.
For cupboard door handles, consider how the doors open and how often they’ll be used. Handles that offer a solid grip are ideal for kitchen cupboards or large storage cabinets where ease of use is key. For smaller, more decorative cupboards or drawers, knobs or smaller pulls might suffice.
Make sure to choose handles that provide a comfortable, ergonomic grip, reducing the strain on your hands, especially if the handles will be used by children, elderly people, or anyone with limited hand mobility.
3. Durability and Material
Durability is another crucial factor when selecting internal door handles and cupboard door handles. These handles must withstand daily use, including the wear and tear from frequent opening and closing. The material you choose will directly impact the longevity and strength of the handles.
Material choices for internal door handles include:
- Stainless Steel: Known for its strength and resistance to corrosion, stainless steel is one of the most durable materials for internal door handles, making it ideal for high-traffic areas.
- Brass: Brass handles offer a classic look, are highly durable, and develop a unique patina over time. They work well for both traditional and modern homes.
- Zinc Alloy: A more affordable option, zinc alloy handles are still highly durable and come in a variety of designs and finishes.
When it comes to cupboard door handles, materials like chrome, nickel, and ceramic are popular choices. Chrome and nickel offer a sleek, modern look and are resistant to rust and tarnish, making them ideal for kitchen cupboards or bathrooms. For a more rustic feel, you can opt for handles made from wood or antique brass.
Always consider the environmental factors that may affect the handle’s durability. For instance, if the handles are located in a high-humidity area like a bathroom or kitchen, choose materials resistant to rust and corrosion.
4. Size and Proportion
When selecting internal door handles and cupboard door handles, size and proportion are essential for ensuring that the handles are both practical and visually appealing. A handle that’s too large or too small can create a sense of imbalance in the room.
For internal door handles, choose a size that matches the scale of the door. A very small or delicate handle might look out of place on a large, heavy door, while an oversized handle can overwhelm a smaller door. For standard residential doors, a lever handle or a traditional doorknob is usually the right size.
In the case of cupboard door handles, make sure the handle fits comfortably in your hand, and consider how many cupboards or drawers need to be outfitted. Large cupboard doors in a kitchen or utility room will likely need sturdier, more prominent handles, while smaller drawers or cupboard doors can feature more delicate knobs or small pulls.
5. Finish and Color
The finish and color of your internal door handles and cupboard door handles can either blend seamlessly with the rest of your interior or stand out as a statement piece. When choosing a finish, think about how it will complement your overall color scheme and furniture.
- Brushed Nickel and Chrome: These finishes offer a sleek, polished look that fits well with modern and contemporary interiors.
- Antique Brass and Oil-Rubbed Bronze: These finishes are ideal for traditional and rustic spaces, offering a warm, vintage feel.
- Matte Black: A popular choice for modern, industrial, and minimalist designs, matte black handles add a bold statement without being overpowering.
Don’t forget to consider how the handles will interact with other hardware in the room, including faucets, light fixtures, and cabinet knobs. Consistency in finish across these elements will create a cohesive look throughout your home.
Conclusion
Choosing the right internal door handles and cupboard door handles requires more than just selecting the first design that catches your eye. It’s important to think about the style, functionality, durability, size, and finish to ensure the handles you select meet both aesthetic and practical needs. Keep these five essential factors in mind when shopping for new hardware, and you’ll be sure to find handles that not only look great but also stand the test of time.
Remember, even the smallest details—like choosing the right cupboard door handles or internal door handles—can have a lasting impact on the overall design and functionality of your home. Whether you’re updating your kitchen or replacing internal doors, the right handle can make all the difference in creating a space that’s both beautiful and functional.
