How to Choose the Right Finish for Your Hardware
How to Choose the Right Finish for Your Hardware
If the idea of committing to one definitive finish for your hardware seems daunting, you are not alone. In fact, this small detail is often left as more of an afterthought or last-minute decision by those who want to avoid it altogether.
At Archant, we’re aware of just how many options there are to choose from, and the confusion this can create. Yet, our team has also seen the way stylish handles, knobs, and pulls can add real impact to a design.
The secret many interior designers already know is this: It’s the little things that bring the big picture together with beautiful harmony.
Thousands of customers around New Zealand have purchased hardware from us. Those who are most pleased with the results follow a similar path. The key to their success is based on a thoughtful selection process rather than an inconvenience.
Not to worry, this is not overly time-consuming. The effort you invest now will surely pay dividends over the long term. Here are some quick tips to help you find the perfect hardware finish for your space.
Consider the Look You Want to Create
For most homeowners, the best hardware is not necessarily what’s trending right now, but what will look great for years to come. Perhaps you already have a vision in mind. That’s a fantastic start! Build on that momentum by making some kind of tangible notes.
Whether you jot it down on paper or digitally is irrelevant. The goal is to record your main ideas in one place to streamline the process. This will prove to be quite a valuable resource when you visit showrooms, look at samples, or browse the web.
Here are five questions to ask yourself when shopping for cabinet hardware. Your answers will help narrow down the potential options to a more manageable selection.
- Did you envision the finished space as modern, or something more traditional?
- Do you want the colour of the hardware to match your appliances (oven, refrigerator, dishwasher)?
- Would you prefer ornate hardware that’s rich in design detail, or something understated?
- How much do you plan to budget for hardware?
- Do you want all the hardware to match, or would you prefer to mix it up with knobs and pulls as well as handles?
Study the Various Collections and Finishes
Whether you browse the Archant website for inspiration or find it elsewhere, the important thing is to gain an understanding of the most prominent types of finishes. Here are six essentials to get you started.
- Brushed Nickel – This finish is unique as it doesn’t show fingerprints and is a quick match with many standard appliances such as refrigerators, and dishwashers.
- Matte Black - A very trendy and modern option, matte black can be used throughout the entire space. It has a sophisticated appearance, is smooth to the touch, and pops against light-coloured cabinets and drawers.
- Inox Look – If you are interested in accentuating existing items made from stainless steel, the Inox Look is a fantastic match. Its appearance offers a beautiful complexity which Samsung recently describedas “When silver is too light and black is too dark, there’s Inox. It gives you the effect of silver but in a much deeper hue.”
- Brushed Anthracite – Another compelling finish that blends a variety of tones from natural coal. Between the shimmering tones of black and silver, you’ll find brushed anthracite to be a luxurious option.
- Satin Chrome - Simple but alluring, those looking for a clean, understated hardware option will appreciate the subtle appeal of chrome.
- Timber – Hardware made from wood has been a top trending item for the past two years, and for good reason. With an organic feel and natural appearance, timber adds a hint of warmth to a design. It’s a clever way of infusing an interior with the timeless appeal of nature. Note, that timber hardware will come in a variety of shades from light to dark. of course, will be based on the wood, stain, and finish.
Prepare a Moodboard
Do you have your wall colours picked out already? Use them to create a moodboard that includes palettes, materials, and finishes. When you lay out all the options this way, it makes it easier to quickly eliminate items that may not gel with your vision. For example, the cooler tones of chrome won’t work well when paired with elements featuring warmer hues.
If you’ve never made a moodboard before, there is no right or wrong way. Some clients we speak with simply use Pinterest or similar apps. Others assemble physical elements by hand including paint chips, hardware, and stone samples.
The key is for the moodboard to represent the entire room. Don’t forget to include the appliances, especially the smaller ones like toasters and microwaves. In looking at the big picture, you can create the cohesive look you’re after.
The Finished Project
The hardware finish you choose will likely be in place for quite some time. As such, it pays to get it right the first time. We recommend running through the above tips with a few different hardware options.
If you’ve created a physical moodboard, you can even place it in the space you plan to update. Observe the way the colours and finishes change with the shifting of natural light throughout the day. Once you’ve lived with it for a few days, you’ll be more confident to finalise your design.
Order Your Free Hardware Samples
If you’re excited to take the next step and start creating the space of your dreams, we have a great option for you! We offer free handle sample orders up to the value of $20.00 incl GST. Feel free to mix and match to find the perfect finish for your home. To order yours, simply contact our customer service team with your requested items.
