Essential guide to kitchen cabinet handles

Kitchen cabinet handles are the finishing touch to any kitchen design. Despite being small kitchen components, cabinet and drawer handles play an important role in bringing together the overall style and functionality of a space. And, as we all know, it’s the attention to small details that makes the biggest impact when it comes to kitchen manufacturing.

To help you choose the perfect style of kitchen cabinet handle to bring your vision to life, we’ve created this essential buyer’s guide detailing key features, differences, pros and cons of each handle type.

Types of kitchen cabinet handles

Here are some of the most popular and stylish kitchen handles available at SPL components…

Bar handles

Bar handles are sleek, modern, and versatile, offering a clean look that suits contemporary kitchen designs. They’re easy to grip and come in various lengths, making them ideal for both drawers and cabinets.

T-bar handles

T-bar handles are a type of bar handle that offers a minimalist yet functional design, with a distinct “T” shape that adds a subtle, stylish touch to any kitchen. They’re perfect for modern kitchens, offering a good grip and durable feel. They’re also a cost-effective option that’s popular with contract work.

D-bar handles

D-bar handles, another type of bar handle, are named for their rounded shape. They’re a classic choice that combines comfort and style. As well as being easy to use, D handles work well in both traditional and modern kitchen designs.

Bow handles

Bow handles feature a gently curved design that adds a soft, ergonomic touch to your kitchen. Their arched shape makes them comfortable to use and ideal for a contemporary look.

Kitchen cabinet knobs

Knobs are a timeless option, offering a simple and functional solution for kitchen cabinets. They’re versatile, coming in various shapes and materials, and can easily complement any kitchen style.

Pull handles

Pull handles are straightforward and functional, providing an easy grip for opening cabinets and drawers. They come in a variety of styles, from simple to ornate, making them a flexible choice for any kitchen.

Cup handles

Cup handles are classic and practical, with a half-moon design that offers a firm grip. They’re often used in traditional or farmhouse and shaker-style kitchens, adding a touch of vintage charm.

Handleless profiles

Handleless profiles, like our Gola handleless range, offer a sleek, seamless look for ultra-modern kitchens. They allow cabinets to be opened by gripping the edge or using a push-to-open mechanism, creating a clean, uncluttered appearance.

What kitchen cabinet handle finishes and materials are available?

The material has just as big of an impact on the overall appearance of your kitchen as the style of handles you choose. Whether you’re creating a traditional or contemporary look and feel, we’ve got you covered with a range of attractive options.

Core offering:

Brushed nickel

Brushed nickel handles have a subtle, matte finish that’s smooth and fingerprint-resistant. They offer a warm, sophisticated look that works well in both modern and traditional kitchens, making them a timeless choice.

Chrome

Chrome handles are bright and reflective, adding a sleek, modern touch to any kitchen. They’re durable and easy to clean, making them a popular choice for contemporary designs.

Copper

Copper handles offer a warm, rich hue that adds character and sophistication to your kitchen. Copper is ideal for rustic, or eclectic kitchen designs, bringing a touch of elegance and warmth to the space.

Brass

Brass handles provide a warm, luxurious golden tone that exudes timeless elegance. They’re durable and versatile, fitting well with both traditional and modern kitchen styles.

Black

Black handles provide unparalleled versatility and work well in a range of kitchen designs, from traditional to modern.

Available on selected ranges:

Aluminium

Aluminium handles are lightweight, durable, and resistant to rust and corrosion. They offer a sleek, modern appearance, making them a great choice for contemporary kitchens. Aluminium is also easy to maintain, ensuring your handles look great over time.

Bronze

Bronze handles bring a rich, warm tone to your kitchen, offering a classic, timeless appeal. With their naturally aged patina, they’re perfect for adding a touch of elegance and depth to traditional or rustic kitchen designs.

Champagne

Champagne handles have a soft, understated finish that blends metallic tones with a hint of warmth. This elegant option adds a touch of luxury to any kitchen, working beautifully in any space.

Stainless steel

For kitchen handles that are built to last, look no further than stainless steel. Stainless steel handles are known for their durability and resistance to rust and corrosion. They have a clean, industrial look that complements modern kitchens, and they’re easy to maintain.

3 things to consider when choosing kitchen handles

1. Style

The style of your kitchen handles should complement the overall design of your kitchen. Whether you’re going for a modern, traditional, or rustic look, the handles you choose should enhance the aesthetic. Consider whether you want handles that blend in or stand out as a focal point. Why not experiment with different types of handles in the same material for a unique look?

2. Material

The material of your kitchen handles affects both their appearance and durability. Options like stainless steel and brushed nickel offer a sleek, modern look, while cast iron and antique brass add a more traditional touch. Choose a material that matches your kitchen’s style and meets your durability needs. For example, if you’re designing a kitchen for a young family, brushed nickel is less prone to fingerprint smudges than polished chrome.

3. Functionality

Functionality is key when selecting kitchen handles. Think about how often the handles will be used and how comfortable they are to grip. For example, bar handles and bow handles provide an easy grip, whereas handleless profiles offer a sleek, minimalist option.

What kitchen cabinet handles are in style right now?

Now more than ever, creative expression is at an all time high. This means consumers are less inclined to follow trends, and are instead opting for kitchen designs that suit their own personal taste and preferences. While many are opting for farmhouse charm in older properties, those in modern flats may be more likely to go with something a little more modern.

Which type of handle is best for kitchen cabinets?

The “best” handle ultimately depends on your kitchen’s aesthetic, your customer’s functional needs, and personal preference. If you’d like more specific advice and support on your handle requirements, our team of kitchen handle experts is more than happy to advise. Get in touch with any queries or questions and we’ll do our best to help.

Discover the full range of kitchen handles at SPL Components

Whether you’re looking for modern minimalism or timeless elegance, we have the styles and materials to suit every kitchen cabinet. Browse the full kitchen handle range and start building your online quote!