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by Vivian Garzon

How to Choose Kitchen Cabinet Handles That Match Your Kitchen’s Style

How to Choose Kitchen Cabinet Handles That Match Your Kitchen’s Style

Kitchen cabinet handles don’t seem like a big decision… until you’re standing in the hardware aisle staring at 37 versions of “brushed something.” The truth is, these small details make a huge difference. They’re the part of your kitchen you touch the most, and the ones that quietly shape the whole look of your space. Whether you're doing a full kitchen renovation or just giving your cabinets a quick refresh, here’s how to choose kitchen cabinet handles that actually match your style and feel good to use.

1. Start with Your Kitchen Cabinet Style

Not all handles suit all doors. Shaker cabinets, for example, love classic knobs or cup pulls. Flat-front cabinets lean more modern, pairing well with long, slim handles. And if your cabinetry already has decorative panelling or texture, a simpler handle will help balance things out. If you're working with a cabinet maker, ask them where handles will sit on your doors and drawers (placement can impact what styles are comfortable and what proportions feel right). 

2. Choose a Finish That Ties It All Together

Handle finishes are where you can have a little fun, or create harmony. A few popular options:

Chrome or stainless is timeless and clean, especially alongside stainless steel sinks or chrome tapware.

Antique brass kitchen cabinet handles bring a very cool, vintage look to your kitchen. 

If you want handles that are as functional as they are beautiful, take a look at Momo handles, known for clean lines, comfortable grips, and finishes that play nicely with most kitchen palettes.

Momo handles are incredibly popular for a good reason!

3. Think About Shape and Function

Kitchen cabinet handles aren’t just about aesthetics, they need to feel good in your hand too. Knobs can be easier to grasp on upper cabinets, while longer pulls offer more leverage on wide drawers. If you’ve got kids or multitasking hands (hello, doughy fingers), think about how easy they’ll be to clean and grab quickly. You can also mix it up (knobs on top, pulls on drawers) as long as you stick with a consistent finish to keep things cohesive.

4. Match (or Intentionally Mismatch) with Sinks and Taps

Handles don’t need to match your sink and tapware exactly, but they should speak the same language. For example:

  • A brushed brass tap pairs effortlessly with warm-toned handles like antique brass or timber.

  • A matte black kitchen mixer works beautifully with black or charcoal handles.

  • Going for a farmhouse look? Consider pairing a fireclay farmhouse sink with vintage-style cup pulls in a soft brass or pewter finish.

Want more style ideas? This guide to creating a cottagecore kitchen breaks down how to tie your handles in with basins, taps, and accessories.

Black tapware with black kitchen cabinet handles always look polished!

5. Don’t Forget the Practical Stuff

A few quick things to tick off before you buy:

  • Check screw hole spacing, especially if you’re replacing old handles.

  • Order a sample or two if you’re unsure — seeing them in your space matters.

  • Think about how many you actually need (including spares!).

  • Choose a finish that wears well — brushed finishes are great at hiding fingerprints and smudges.

Go with What Feels Right

There are no hard-and-fast rules when it comes to choosing kitchen handles, just a few guidelines to help things flow. Pick what feels good to use, looks great with your cabinetry, and ties into your overall kitchen style.

And if you’re starting your reno from scratch, you might also want to check out these 6 tips for a successful kitchen remodel to help plan the whole space around the things you use most.

Ready to pick your perfect fit?

Explore our curated range of kitchen cabinet handles, including home-owner favourite Momo handles, and bring your kitchen vision to life,  one detail at a time.