Does all cabinet hardware have to match?

Author: Jena Johnson  |  Last update: Thursday, May 22, 2025

The quick answer is no, they don't, but they should complement each other and blend with the rest of the house. For instance, brushed nickel hardware in a kitchen with chrome lights doesn't work because the finishes look too similar, and they are different styles (traditional vs. contemporary).

What is the 1/3 rule for cabinet hardware?

The 1/3 rule in cabinet hardware is a design guideline that helps achieve balanced proportions when selecting drawer pulls and cabinet handles. According to this rule, the length of the pull should be approximately one-third the width of the drawer or cabinet door.

What is the rule of thumb for cabinet hardware?

Using a pull that is approximately 1/3 the length of the drawer is a good rule of thumb. When in between sizes, size up. Cabinet doors do not follow the 1/3 rule. Generally, pulls between 5 - 7" for uppers are a safe choice - go larger for a more contemporary look.

Is it OK to mix cabinet hardware?

Mixing cabinet hardware used to be a design faux pas, but now it's one of the top trends in kitchen handles for 2024. This shift is driven by the aesthetic benefits of mixing hardware, from creating a customised look to effortlessly highlighting focal points in your kitchen.

Should a faucet match a sink or hardware?

Many ask, should kitchen faucets match cabinet hardware? and luckily, there is not a strict rule to follow. It's all about personal preference, harmony, and balance. Whether you're a matchy-matchy enthusiast or a fan of contrasting elements, remember, it's your kitchen. Whip it up the way you like!

Cabinet Knobs Vs Pulls

Can you have gold cabinet hardware with stainless steel appliances?

Yes, it's ok to mix metals in the kitchen—especially with hardware, lighting, fixtures, and appliances.

Can you mix brushed nickel and stainless steel?

We often get questions about which metals work best together, and the answer is: They all can go together…as long as there is clear design intent! Metals are meant to be mixed, so don't worry too much about whether they'll “go together” and instead make sure each finish is a thoughtful addition to your space.

Do light fixtures have to match cabinet hardware?

To that, we answer: absolutely not. Don't be afraid to pair natural brass cabinet hardware with black pendants, surface mounts, or wall sconces. When it comes to home styling, mixing tones and eras can make a compelling interior statement.

Should cabinet hardware be the same throughout the house?

The quick answer is no, they don't, but they should complement each other and blend with the rest of the house. For instance, brushed nickel hardware in a kitchen with chrome lights doesn't work because the finishes look too similar, and they are different styles (traditional vs. contemporary).

Can you mix chrome and brushed nickel in a kitchen?

O'Brien suggests mixing brass and dark bronze, brass and chrome, or brass and nickel, but never mix nickel and chrome. Also, he cautions that there is a limit to how many metal finishes you can mix together in one room. “There should be a main finish choice and maybe one accent,” he says.

What kitchen hardware is in style in 2024?

Matte black kitchen hardware remains a top choice for 2024, continuing to dominate as a versatile and sophisticated option for modern kitchens. This sleek finish adds a touch of elegance that pairs beautifully with various cabinet colors and styles, and offers the perfect balance of boldness and refinement.

What size cabinet pulls for 36 inch cabinets?

Pulls 3-7 inches in length will sit the most comfortably on doors less than 24 inches tall. Cabinet doors 24-36 inches tall are best adorned with pulls 7-12 inches long, while cabinets taller than 36 inches such as pantries, built-in appliances and pullouts should be accompanied by pulls longer than 12 inches.

What pulls look best on shaker cabinets?

The best handles for shaker style kitchen cabinets can depend on personal preference and the desired aesthetic, but popular choices include oil rubbed bronze cup pulls, tubular bar pulls, and matte black hardware. These options complement the classic look of shaker cabinets while adding a touch of modern elegance.

What is the trend in kitchen cabinet hardware?

Classic cabinet hardware finishes such as chrome and brushed nickel will always be in style. In recent years, however, we have seen a surge in demand for warmer-toned metal finishes such as honey-bronze and caramel-bronze in addition to satin brasses, brushed golds, and polished coppers.

Should I get knobs or pulls on my cabinets?

When choosing between knobs and pulls for your kitchen cabinet hardware, consider cabinet pulls for a modern, sleek look. Pulls are also a great choice for big, heavy drawers. Opt for knobs for a more traditional feel and for use on cabinet doors.

What size pulls for 30 inch drawers?

Small Drawers that are 12” or less typically work best with a pull that is 3” to 4” long or a knob that is 1” in diameter. Large Drawers that are 30” to 48"will require a pull that is longer than 8" or a knob that is 1" in diameter or greater. Using two pulls or knobs for a large drawer also works great.

Does all hardware in the house have to match?

Consistency is key. While each room does not have to match throughout the house, there is a consistent theme. Every room will have an individual colour scheme and design, but there will be a common theme throughout them all.

What door handles are in style in 2024?

What Are the Biggest Door Handle Trends in 2024? The black door handle trend shows no sign of slowing down in 2024 and no wonder – the clean finish will suit most décor styles and goes perfectly with the current minimalist trend.

Is brass kitchen hardware too trendy?

With its warm, golden tones and durable qualities that remind me of French style, brass hardware is a popular choice for good reason; it's no surprise it's trending!

Does faucet match cabinet hardware?

Does cabinet hardware have to match your faucet? No. But, traditionally kitchens and bathrooms will match hardware finishes to the faucet to tie the finishes in the room together. Matching cabinet hardware to your faucet creates a cohesive look.

Do vanity lights have to match faucets?

While not required, matching fixtures can help a bathroom look more polished. Most bathrooms have a uniform style and use the same color palette throughout. The sink, faucet, towel bar, cabinet hardware, and lighting all fall within this category.

What is the best color for kitchen hardware?

You can go for popular choices like brushed nickel, chrome, brass, bronze, black, or even more unique finishes like matte gold or antique copper. Consider the finish's texture and how it compliments your cabinet material and color.

What should you not use with brushed nickel?

Be sure to avoid using acid, alcohol, or solvent-based cleaners. These types of cleaners can ruin or discolor the more delicate surface of the brushed nickel finish. Vinegar is a popular faucet cleaning solution, but should be avoided on brushed nickel.

Is it OK to mix brushed nickel and gold?

Using metals too similar to each other can make your space look sloppy and inconsistent. Some better metals to mix would be brushed gold and brushed nickel, champagne bronze and matte black, or chrome and matte black. These combinations give your space tasteful depth and visual interest.

Is brushed nickel warm or cool?

Satin/Brushed Nickel (Warm Undertone)

One of the most popular finishes, it is an available finish option for nearly every hardware design.

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