Knobs and handles are an attractive way to add character and visual interest to any kitchen. Plus, they’re easy to install and compatible with many styles of cabinetry; just be sure you know exactly where they should go on your cabinets for optimal aesthetic appeal as well as ease of use.
Where to Place Knobs on Kitchen Cabinets
The most common place for knobs and handles on cabinet doors is on their exterior edges (stile). Generally speaking, these are placed at the top and bottom corners opposite hinges, though you have complete freedom to decide where you would like them located.
Drawers are less frequently used, but they can still be accessorized with knobs or pulls. On drawers 24″ or larger, knobs and pulls should be centered horizontally across the face of the drawer about 1.5″-2″, measured from both bottom and left or right edges.
Knobs and pulls on drawers give your kitchen a polished, cohesive appearance that makes it easier to locate items when you need them. Furthermore, properly placed knobs and pulls create an efficient drawer by making it simpler to open.
Where to Place Handles on Kitchen Cabinets
Handles, or knobs, are the most commonly used type of kitchen cabinet hardware. Usually small and round in shape, they provide a secure grip when in use – perfect for modern or minimalistic designs but also adding an elegant touch to traditional homes.
They come in an assortment of shapes, sizes and finishes. Plus, you can find them crafted out of glass, acrylic or natural stone.
Nelson suggests that when selecting handles, you should take into account how your hands tend to approach a cabinet or drawer. If you tend to reach down below eye level with your hands, lower cabinets may offer better safety when opening or closing them.
If you tend to stand up and use your hands above eye level, knobs on upper cabinets may make them more comfortable to operate.
Installing a handle or knob on any kitchen cabinet is possible, but the key is figuring out where it will be most functional for you. This will depend on your height, how often you open and close the cabinets, and whether or not you prefer the compact, easy-to-grip design of knobs.
If you’re uncertain where to place your handles, try testing them on an empty drawer first. If the results aren’t what you expected, simply reposition them or swap out the drawer for one that works better for you.
Unless you have extensive experience installing cabinets, it’s best to entrust the hardware selection process to a professional. While they may be costly, hiring an expert will save you the trouble of trying to fix mistakes. Furthermore, they have access to special drilling jigs for cabinets so holes are precisely placed every time.
