Unlocking the Power of Hardware
Ah, the wonders of hardware – those little metal marvels that can transform a space from ordinary to extraordinary. If you’re the proud owner of a home built by a builder in Aberdeen, you know the struggle all too well. Those basic, builder-grade cabinet knobs and pulls can make your kitchen or bathroom feel like it came straight out of a catalog, rather than a custom-designed oasis.
But fear not, my friends! Today, I’m here to share the secrets of how you can easily update your hardware and create a truly one-of-a-kind look that’ll have your neighbors green with envy. So, grab a cup of your favorite brew, and let’s dive into the world of cabinet hardware upgrades.
The Metal Madness
Now, I know what you’re thinking – “But Dana, there are so many metal finishes to choose from! How on earth do I pick the right one?” Well, let me break it down for you. As a general rule, I like to keep the different metals in a kitchen or bathroom to no more than two. If you have stainless steel appliances, that counts as one metal. So that leaves one other metal you can bring into the space.
Nickel is the most timeless of the metals, in my opinion. Brass has been gaining popularity with interior designers, but it’s a trendier choice. And let’s not forget about the rise of black hardware, especially in this age of farmhouse-inspired everything (thanks, Chip and Joanna!). I think every room in your house should have a little black in it, so if you can bring in the black as your second metal in the kitchen or bathroom, go for it!
Just remember, when I say black, I mean black – not that outdated oil-rubbed bronze stuff. That’s so last decade, my friend.
Knobs, Pulls, and Handles, Oh My!
Now that we’ve got the metal situation sorted, let’s talk about the hardware itself. Generally speaking, I like to see a combination of knobs and handles or pulls. Knobs or handles for the doors, and handles or pulls for the drawers. This creates a visually interesting and custom-like look.
However, I’ve been noticing a trend towards kitchens or bathrooms that have all handles, and I have to say, I’m kind of digging it. It’s a bold, statement-making choice that can really elevate the space.
If you’re painting your cabinets, the extra holes from the old hardware can be filled, sanded, and smoothed before painting, so you can start with a clean slate and choose any hardware you’d like. This allows you to mix and match to your heart’s content, without being limited by the existing hardware placement.
Mixing and Matching
I’m a big fan of mixing and matching hardware styles. A combination of knobs and bin pulls, or maybe some brass knobs and chrome handles – the possibilities are endless! Just be sure to keep the overall metal finishes to no more than two, or it can start to look a bit chaotic.
For our recent master bathroom update, I went with a mix of brass knobs and handles, paired with chrome faucets. And in our basement bathroom, I chose a combination of white marble pulls and handles on the black vanity. The contrast is just stunning.
Elevating the Ordinary
Changing out your builder-grade cabinet hardware is a simple upgrade that can make a big impact. We just moved into our house a few months ago, and while we upgraded the cabinets, countertops, sink, and faucet, we left the original hardware in place. But let me tell you, as soon as we swapped out those boring old knobs for something more unique, the kitchen went from feeling like a cookie-cutter clone to a true reflection of our personal style.
And the best part? It’s not a difficult task at all. A little measuring, a drill, and some new screws, and you’re on your way to a whole new look. Plus, you can get creative with where you place the hardware – like adding a pull to the bottom of your roll-out trash can drawer, so you can open it with your foot. Genius, right?
Embracing the Wood
Now, I know there are some of you out there who have a deep love for those golden-hued, 80s-style oak cabinets. And you know what? I can totally appreciate the charm and character of wood cabinets. They’re like the wise old oak trees of the home design world – sturdy, reliable, and full of warmth and personality.
But let’s be real, sometimes those honey-toned beauties can use a little sprucing up to keep them looking their best. And that’s where the magic of hardware comes in. By swapping out those dated knobs and pulls for something a little more modern, you can breathe new life into your wood cabinets and create a look that’s truly tailored to your style.
The Power of Paint
Of course, if you’re really looking to give your wood cabinets a major facelift, consider giving them a fresh coat of paint. Now, I know what you’re thinking – “But Dana, you can’t paint wood! It’s sacrilege!” Well, my friends, I’m here to tell you that you absolutely can. And trust me, it can make a world of difference.
Think about it this way – just because it’s wood, doesn’t mean it’s good. If your cabinets are looking a little worse for wear, a little paint can go a long way in updating their look and making them feel brand new. And the best part? You can get creative with color. Maybe a soft, warm white for the uppers and a gorgeous medium-depth green for the lowers. Or how about a bold, statement-making navy blue? The possibilities are endless.
Bringing it All Together
So, there you have it, folks – your guide to unlocking the power of hardware and creating a truly custom look in your home. Whether you’re swapping out those builder-grade knobs for something a little more unique, or diving headfirst into a full-blown cabinet makeover, the right hardware can make all the difference.
And don’t forget, if you need a little extra inspiration or guidance, the team at ABC Home is always here to lend a hand. We’re your one-stop shop for all things home renovation and design, so don’t be afraid to reach out and let us work our magic.
Now, go forth and conquer those cabinets, my friends. With a little creativity and a whole lot of hardware love, you’ll be well on your way to a truly custom-looking space that’ll have everyone asking, “Where did you get that?”
