When redesigning your kitchen, one of the smallest yet most impactful choices is the hardware you choose for your cabinets. Knobs and pulls—those little handles we all use daily—can elevate the overall look of your kitchen, adding a personal touch to your style.

But there’s a growing trend that’s caught the attention of many homeowners: mixing knobs and pulls on kitchen cabinets. Not only does it provide a unique aesthetic, but it also helps create a space that’s functional and visually intriguing.

Here’s a deeper dive into how to mix knobs and pulls in your kitchen remodel, making sure your decisions work together to create a seamless, stylish, and practical design.

For years, kitchen hardware has followed the “one or the other” rule—either knobs or pulls for all the cabinets. However, mixing these two types of hardware has gained traction in recent years. Why? It’s about creating a kitchen that’s not just functional but also stylish and personal.

Mixing knobs and pulls allows you to break free from uniformity and add visual interest. The kitchen is no longer just a space for cooking—it's a place to show off your style. By combining the different shapes and sizes of knobs and pulls, you can create a dynamic kitchen that still feels cohesive.

When mixing knobs and pulls, one of the first things you need to decide is which cabinets will get which hardware. There’s no strict rule, but there are some general guidelines that can help you make the right choice:

• For doors, consider using knobs. They're simple, easy to grip, and don't overwhelm a cabinet door's look. Knobs are often the preferred choice for upper cabinets because they don’t obstruct the view of the contents inside, keeping everything streamlined.
• Pulls on cabinet doors are sometimes needed, particularly if you want a more industrial or modern look. The horizontal line created by pulls can add structure and sleekness to a design, especially when paired with larger, heavier doors.

• Pulls are often the go-to for drawers, especially if they’re large. They provide a larger grip, making them easier to pull out. A pull will give you better leverage if you’ve got deep drawers filled with pots and pans. Pulls also add a bit of sophistication and work better on longer or broader drawers.
• If your drawers are small—think utensil drawers or shallow cabinets—a knob can work perfectly. The small, delicate appearance of a knob won’t overpower these small spaces.

• One popular method is to use pulls for large drawers and knobs for smaller cabinets or doors. This creates a visual distinction between the two while maintaining a cohesive look.
• Another approach is to alternate knobs and pulls on the same type of cabinet. For example, you can use a pull on the top cabinet door and a knob on the bottom one or mix up hardware on different sides of a large drawer. This technique works best in kitchens that have more eclectic or contemporary styles.

Mixing knobs and pulls isn’t just about throwing different hardware together and hoping for the best. There needs to be a balance between your hardware's size, shape, and finish to create a cohesive design.

When mixing knobs and pulls, aim for a balance in size. If you have large pulls, make sure the knobs don’t look too tiny or out of place. On the flip side, if your knobs are large and bold, more minor pulls may get lost. Typically, the size of your hardware should correlate with the scale of your cabinets and drawers. Large, chunky cabinets with long drawers look great with large pulls, while smaller, more delicate cabinets can go with smaller knobs.

You don’t have to match the shape of your knobs and pulls, but they should complement each other. For example, if you have sleek, modern pulls, you might want to pair them with round, simple knobs instead of something overly ornate. Keep the shapes complementary to avoid the look becoming chaotic or mismatched.

A matte black pull might look great next to a shiny brass knob, especially in a transitional-style kitchen. If unsure, it’s best to stick with two finishes that contrast but don’t clash. Popular combos include chrome with matte black or gold with brushed nickel. Keep in mind that when you mix finishes, you should keep the overall style in mind—mixing modern and traditional hardware, for example, might feel out of place.

While aesthetics are important, functionality should always be a consideration. Mixing knobs and pulls isn’t just about looks—it’s about choosing the proper hardware for your needs.

For instance, consider the location of the hardware. On a cabinet, the frequently accessed cabinets offer a better grip and more leverage. On cabinets that are used less often, a knob might be a better, more subtle option.

Think about ergonomics, too. If you have children or family members with arthritis, knobs may be challenging to use—so you’ll want to prioritize pulls in those areas. Alternatively, for top cabinets that are harder to reach, pulls can give you more control, whereas knobs might require more precision when pulling.

Trends come and go, but your kitchen remodel is an investment in your home, and you want to make sure knobs and pulls is an on-trend design choice, but it can also stand the test of time if done correctly.

Focus on timeless finishes like brushed nickel, matte black, or oil-rubbed bronze, which will work well with any style for years. Dodo the trend—opt for subtle, thoughtful mixing, ensuring that your hardware complements other features in your kitchen (countertops, backsplash, etc.) rather than competing with them.

When done right, mixing knobs and pulls can be one of the most exciting aspects of your kitchen remodel. It allows you to incorporate personality, style, and practicality into your kitchen in a fresh yet timeless way.

Consider your kitchen's layout, the functionality of the cabinets and drawers, and the overall style you want to achieve. With careful thought and attention to detail, mixing knobs and pulls can transform your kitchen from a standard space into a truly personalized hub of your home.

At KBA Kitchen and Bath Design and Build, we are expert installers of islands, classic granite and marble countertops, and luxury kitchen cabinets. Call for a free quote on your design.