Choose Your Hardware Type

Choosing which type of hardware to use in your space - knobs, pulls, or both - can be overwhelming. We're here to help!

Let's start with the basics - what's the difference between a knob and a pull?

Knobs

Traditionally have one stem, meaning you have one drilled hole in your door or drawer
Come in many shapes (round, square, oval, t-knob, etc)
Generally smaller and less expensive than pulls
Easier to install than pulls since there is only one screw hole and less measurement involved

Pulls

Traditionally have two stems, meaning you have two drilled holes in your door or drawer
A linear shape with stems at or near either end
Generally larger than knobs and come in different center to center lengths, which refers to the distance between both stem holes
Easier to grip than knobs since they have more surface area (i.e. better for heavier drawers or doors)
Installation requires more measurement and involvement based on the varying center to center lengths

Okay, now let's dig into how knobs and pulls are used in different types of spaces.

Traditional Spaces

In more traditional spaces, the general rule is knobs on cabinet doors and pulls on drawers.

That being said, keep in mind there are many use cases where this is not followed - baseboard cabinets (especially in kitchens and bathrooms) often use pulls, bigger drawers sometimes have two knobs on either end instead of a long pull, those small tiny drawers in your bathroom sometimes work better with a knob, etc etc etc. Don’t feel bound to anything!

Modern Spaces

In more modern or transitional spaces, you can use knobs and pulls interchangeably.

Many kitchens opt for a singular “all knobs” or “all pulls” look for visual simplicity and cohesion. You can also play with the orientation of pulls, placing them horizontally or vertically depending on the cabinet use.

For built-in appliances or tall pantry doors, we highly recommend using appliance pulls. Appliance pulls are designed to provide the right leverage needed to interact with heavier and bigger panel doors and will be proportionately sized.

At the end of the day, the knob and pull combinations are endless, and ultimately the choice is always yours. There’s actually no wrong answer here. It all depends on your aesthetic and preference.

Now, onto choosing hardware size!