Door hardware can be one of the most effective yet simple ways to give your home an instant refresh - and it can be done without breaking the bank. Here at The Blue Space, we consider door & cabinet handles to be one of the most important fixtures in the home. So to help make the process easier for you, we have pulled together our top tips when upgrading your home hardware.
Door hardware can be one of the most effective yet simple ways to give your home an instant refresh - and it can be done without breaking the bank. Here at The Blue Space, we consider door & cabinet handles to be one of the most important fixtures in the home. So to help make the process easier for you, we have pulled together our top tips when upgrading your home hardware.
Consider what style is going to work with the rest of your home alongside the design and type of room it will be used in. Often the finishing touch to a room, door handles and accessories should blend in seamlessly and complete a space rather than being a feature on their own. If you are drawn to a more contemporary feel, then handles with sleek edges and straight angles in a matte black finish might be for you. Looking for something with a coastal feel? Our recommendation would be a flat design with rounded edges in a brushed brass or gold finish - complementing the soft hues & natural finishes often used for this design choice. For a classic finish that is timeless yet modern, satin chrome is a finish that works with multiple handle styles and can be easily matched to other fixtures and fittings throughout your home.
Alongside style and design, the handle function should be a key consideration. Each room has a different purpose and therefore so too does the handle. Master bedrooms might require a lock for added privacy whereas a kid’s playroom might just need a fixed handle to allow easy access. Make the decision easier by looking at designs such as the Delf Madrid range which includes three different functions depending on where the handle will be installed.
See below the difference between passage, privacy and dummy levers.
A dummy handle is a fixed handle and works with either a magnet or door catch to stay closed. These are typically found on cupboards, pantries or wardrobes.
A passage handle will have an operating lever and latch although it has zero locking capabilities. This is often used in spaces you wouldn’t need to lock such as a living room or spare bedroom.
A privacy handle is used when you might want to lock a room. They will have either a snib or push button internally, and an emergency release function externally. These are typically used in bathrooms, an office or main bedroom.
A dummy handle is a fixed handle and works with either a magnet or door catch to stay closed. These are typically found on cupboards, pantries or wardrobes.
A passage handle will have an operating lever and latch although it has zero locking capabilities. This is often used in spaces you wouldn’t need to lock such as a living room or spare bedroom.
A privacy handle is used when you might want to lock a room. They will have either a snib or push button internally, and an emergency release function externally. These are typically used in bathrooms, an office or main bedroom.
After finding the perfect finish and style for your main door handles, it is time to consider your cabinet handles! Whether it's in the kitchen, laundry or even your wardrobe, selecting the perfect handle for your space ensures continuity of style and design choice. Pair your door handles with a matching finish or don’t be afraid to mix it up a little by choosing a complimentary finish i.e. Matte Black & Brushed Brass. Check out our favourite door and cabinet handle combos from Delf, Zanda & Momo, no matter what your style is:
An age old saying for good reason!
Whether you are simply updating existing handles or adding new ones to cabinets or doors, take note of a few measurements before ordering your new hardware. Be sure to measure the distance from the edge of your door to the centre of the hole or of the mark where you plan on securing your new handle. For cabinet handles that require two fixing points, be sure to measure the distance between each centre point (hole centres) as this will determine the length of handle you can use. The last thing anybody wants is to be patching up holes in their cabinetry.
The exterior of the home should not be overlooked and a simple upgrade to your locks is made even easier by ensuring all locks are keyed alike. Keyed alike is a fantastic way to centralise all of your locks so that they all use a single key. Not only does this keep things neat and tidy but also ensures your key chain is kept light. Simply add your keyed alike selection at time of purchase and both lock and keys will be delivered straight to your home.
Here are some of our favourite entrance handles that work perfectly with the Keyed Alike technology:
If you have just upgraded your handles to a beautiful matte black or brushed brass finish, then don’t forget about your hinges and doorstops! Often an afterthought, ensuring your hinges and door stops match your handle is a simple touch that quickly elevates a space and completes a look. At The Blue Space, we favour any chance we get to colour match and this thoughtful touch is a simple step that adds class and charm while still optimising function.
When it comes to upgrading your home fixtures and finishes, don’t skimp out on quality. Luckily for you, door hardware is one of those things that can be replaced without breaking the budget! Not only will purchasing from reliable brands with credible product warranties (such as Delf, Zanda & Momo to list a few) ensure your door hardware will last the test of time, it will also add style and character to your home in a matter of minutes! Remember, the little things often make an impact and door hardware is no exception.
Now we say this lightly as the two can work harmoniously together if done correctly, however in certain spaces the combination can be a real eye sore. If you are after a cohesive look and have the same doors throughout your home (i.e. hallways), keep things cohesive and select matching handles - whether they be levers or knobs. However, if your doors are unique, then have fun with your door hardware and match the handle to the door! Levers are more common in modern designs and are extremely functional for busy people as they can be easily operated when your hands are wet or full. Knobs offer a more traditional look and are less likely to snag your clothes, however, can be difficult to use if you have your hands full.
Beginning a home renovation can be hard, especially when you don't know where to start. Let us take the guess work out of beginning your Bluespace Renovation with a FREE consult with one of our helpful interior designers.
