Choosing the Right Handles for Your Home: A Designer's Perspective

As a kitchen designer with years of experience, I've had countless conversations with clients about the seemingly small but crucial detail of cabinet handles. Today, I'd like to share some insights on this topic, inspired by a recent chat with a client who was torn between different handle options.

Let's start with my personal favourite: traditional handles. There's a reason why these have stood the test of time in kitchen design. They're practical, especially for integrated appliances, bins, and drawers. The ease of access and cleaning they provide is unmatched. Plus, with the wide array of stylish designs available, they can complement any kitchen aesthetic. One of the biggest pros? No fingerprints! That's why handles remain my top choice for most kitchen designs.

However, it's important to consider alternatives. Push-to-open mechanisms have gained popularity for their sleek, handle-free look. But they come with drawbacks. I've had clients complain about accidental openings when leaning against cabinets or bumping them with a knee under an island bench. They're also a tad slower to open than traditional handles. In fact, I once had a client who, after living with push-to-open cabinets for a while, asked me to come back and install handles!

Electric servo-driven cabinets are another option, offering a high-tech solution. But they're costly and come with a significant downside - they won't work during a power outage. Imagine not being able to access your kitchen essentials just because the power's out!

For a compromise between handleless design and practicality, we sometimes use overhang units on wall cabinets. These create a lip for easy opening and pair well with handled lower cabinets for a balanced look.

Lastly, there are shadowline rails. While they offer a sleek, modern appearance, they do have some practical issues. They reduce drawer space and open in an unconventional way. Plus, that sleek line can become a dust and crumb collector - not ideal in a kitchen setting.

So, what handles do you have in your kitchen? What works best for you? Would you change or add anything different to your cabinetry? I'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences.

Remember, when it comes to kitchen design, it's all about balancing aesthetics with functionality. What looks great in a showroom might not always work best in daily life. That's why I always encourage my clients to think about how they use their kitchen and choose options that will make their daily routines easier and more enjoyable.

In my years of designing kitchens, I've found that traditional handles often provide the best balance of style and practicality. But every kitchen and every homeowner is unique. What's your handle of choice?

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