Coordinate with your Cabinets
Choosing the right cabinet hardware color can transform your kitchen. Interior designer Jane McConnell says, "Think of hardware as a finishing touch. It pulls everything together." Different cabinets need different hardware colors to feel complete. Whether your cabinets are white, black, or colored, there's a hardware color that fits perfectly.
Coordinating Hardware with Cabinet Colors for a Minimal Look
Interior designer Sophie Bell recommends coordinating your cabinet hardware with the cabinet color to create a minimal, cohesive look. "Keeping hardware subtle lets the overall design shine," she says. For white or light-colored cabinets, she suggests using brushed nickel or soft brass tones that blend seamlessly. For darker cabinets, matte black or dark bronze can maintain a refined, understated style. Bell emphasizes that matching hardware to cabinet tones creates a polished, modern look without overwhelming the space.
Creating Bold Contrast with Cabinet Hardware
Designer Nate Berkus is a fan of making hardware stand out for a bold, modern statement. "Hardware is a chance to add personality," Berkus says. He often pairs black hardware with white cabinets for a stark contrast that draws attention. For colorful cabinets, he suggests shiny brass or chrome to create a visual pop. The contrast between cabinet color and hardware can make the kitchen feel more dynamic and intentional, turning simple cabinets into a design feature. "Contrast makes a space feel curated and gives it that high-end look," Berkus adds.
White Cabinets
White cabinets are versatile. You can go with almost any hardware finish. Designer Mark Rivers says, "For a clean look, go with brushed nickel or chrome. For warmth, brass is a great choice." Matte black hardware is also a popular option. It adds contrast and gives a modern edge to white kitchens.
Black Cabinets
Black cabinets look bold, and the right hardware makes them pop. Gold or brass hardware adds warmth and contrast. Interior designer Lisa Brown says, "Black cabinets with brass pulls feel rich and inviting." If you prefer a sleek look, go for black hardware in a different texture. Matte black on glossy black cabinets works well. Chrome or polished nickel can also brighten dark cabinets.
Colored Cabinets
For colored cabinets, the hardware color depends on the shade. Deep blues and greens pair well with brass or gold. Lighter colors like sage green or pale blue work with nickel or matte black. "Let the cabinet color guide your hardware choice," says designer Emily Carter. "Muted colors need subtle hardware. Bold colors can handle stronger finishes."
Matching Other Fixtures
Match your hardware to your kitchen's fixtures for a cohesive look. If your faucet is brushed nickel, use nickel pulls. If your light fixtures are brass, go for brass hardware. Designer Sarah White says, "It’s all about creating flow. Matching finishes keeps things balanced."
Contrasting for Impact
Sometimes, contrast works better than matching. Black hardware on white cabinets or brass on dark cabinets makes a statement. "Contrast draws the eye," says Mark Rivers. "It makes your hardware stand out and gives the kitchen personality."
Consider Your Kitchen Style
Your hardware should fit your kitchen style. Modern kitchens look great with matte black or brushed nickel. Traditional kitchens suit brass or bronze finishes. Mixed metals are also trending. "Don’t be afraid to mix hardware finishes," says Lisa Brown. "It adds character."
Test Before You Commit
Before making a decision, try a few samples. Place different hardware on your cabinets to see how they look. Check how the finish works with your lighting. "Seeing it in your space is the best way to decide," says Emily Carter. Hardware should feel right in your kitchen.
