While there is no set rule, we generally recommend that the pull length is approximately 1/3 of the cabinet or drawer width. 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.
What usually looks best is a pull length that is about 1/3 the height of the cabinet door and 1/3 the width of the cabinet drawer. Your eyes follow the length of the pull up the height of the door or across the width of the drawer.
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.
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.
Oversize Drawers (36″ or larger)
For larger drawers, consider investing in longer-length stainless steel pulls such as 6”, 8”, 10” or even 12”. Another alternative to this is by using double smaller pulls, such as two 3” or two 5” pulls.
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.
The 36-inch wide drawer is one of the most spacious options available for kitchen cabinets. It can store almost anything, from large pots and pans to serving dishes or even bulky food containers. This drawer size is popular in large kitchens, where ample storage space is needed.
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.
Cup bin pulls are a great option for kitchen cabinets. They have a timeless look that can complement a variety of decor styles, they are easy to grip and use. If you're looking to update the hardware on your kitchen cabinets, consider using cup bin pulls for a simple and classic look.
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.
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.
Pulls are generally considered more modern than knobs, especially when they are sleek and linear. Options like chrome cabinet pulls, gold bar pulls, and modern brushed brass cabinet pulls create a streamlined, contemporary look that suits modern and transitional kitchen designs.
There is also the walkway to consider, where passersby go through the kitchen. A walkway is not part of the kitchen triangle because it is not part of the kitchen's working and prep area. The recommended minimum width for a walkway is 36 inches, but a walkway can be as wide as you wish.
Small Knobs (1/2" to 1" Diameter): These are perfect for small drawers, doors, and cabinets.
Cabinet Pulls Placement
And just like with knob placement, cabinets will look busy when the pull handles are placed flush with the door frame. When placing your pulls, remember that the 1'' to 4'' range (based on your personal preference) from the top or bottom edge of the drawer is the ideal placement.
Knobs can be placed on both cabinetry doors + drawers. Mounted on the door stile, cabinet knobs are placed on the opposite side of the door hinge + typically 2-½” to 3” from the bottom corner of the door for upper cabinets. While on base cabinets knobs are usually placed 2-½” to 3” from the upper corner of the door.
Bar pull handles, knob handles, and T-handles are among the most popular due to their modern designs and stylish appeal. They bring a fresh look to a kitchen update while aligning with trendy styles.
Knobs. Introducing knobs into the mix is a classic companion to cup pulls. Perfectly rounded knobs offer a soft offering to cabinets and they work well on smaller cabinets or compartments where cup handles wouldn't work.
Creating a Timeless Look Through New Interior Doors & Hardware. Choosing hardware is a small decision that makes a big difference. By opting for classic finishes like matte black, brushed nickel, warm brass, or oil-rubbed bronze, you're investing in the lasting beauty of your home.
Shaker-Style Cabinets
Known for their simple design and recessed-panel doors, Shaker cabinets have been in style for more than 100 years. Shaker cabinets are popular in farmhouse kitchens, but they also work with a variety of home decor styles.
The most popular hardware finishes are satin or matte black, brushed or polished brass, and copper.
For those who prefer a more subtle, understated look, brushed nickel and stainless steel finishes remain popular in 2025. These finishes are timeless, versatile, and easy to incorporate into almost any design style.
There is no standard number of kitchen cabinets. One major factor to consider is the size of the kitchen. You can put more cabinets into a bigger kitchen but incorporate fewer cabinets if the kitchen is small. Another factor to think about is the room's layout.
Standard dresser drawers pull out toward you, usually on a metal track, to reveal an open and empty storage space. The standard dresser drawer depth is 14 to 18 inches, and it is usually about 8 inches tall.
I use a gap size of between 1/16” for small drawers to 3/32” for larger dresser-sized drawers. If you size a gap larger than that it starts to stand out as an unintended design element, while a gap smaller than that can lead to a drawer sticking during humid weather.