Coordinating, complementing, or contrasting? Our cabinet and vanity hardware has more pull than we think. It communicates and confirms the style we’ve chosen. It can make a cupboard look outdated, or a whole room look effortlessly put together.
Today, we’re discussing a small but mighty part of your kitchen or bath remodel: hardware options. We’ll discuss what factors matter most, what’s trending now, and where to find everything you need.
What to consider when choosing remodel hardware options
When you approach a wall of knobs and or a bin full of pulls, what are you looking for? A professional designer won’t have you sorting through stock options waiting for the most eye-catching piece. They take all of the following into account.
Function
Where will the hardware be installed, and how will you use it? Your largest and most-used drawers don’t call for something fussy or flimsy. Your ease of use is even more important. The right home hardware for accessibility suits your grip and makes sense for the size and mechanics of the cabinetry.
Style
Looks still matter. Clean contemporary, raw rustic, the subtle curve of something classic. Here’s where we compare hardware to other fixtures like faucets and lighting. They don’t have to match, but can bounce off one another to create a cohesive design.
Scale
Do you want your hardware to be proportionate to the cabinet or vanity? Some love a dramatic pull that flouts the 1/3 rule (hardware length not exceeding one-third the length of a drawer or height of a cabinet). Even when choosing knobs, we have to consider how much they stand out.
Finish
Finishes are the fun part. Sorting and mixing satin, polished, brushed, and aged finishes across hardware and fixtures is a key opportunity for dimension and interest. Don’t forget to factor in countertops and backsplashes. A chunky, satin-finish nickel pull can make an unexpectedly stylish statement alongside pronounced veining in engineered quartz.
Material
This is where color and tone come into play. Some brass can be sunny and bright, while others stay mute and cozy. Cool chromes, neutral nickels, or even ceramic knobs for a vintage look. As you choose, continue to bear in mind the durability of the material.
The latest in kitchen remodel finishing touches: Geometric knobs and a return to the classics
Shaped knobs with satiny shine and a bit of heft are one of the most notable emerging hardware trends. Squares and hexagons are already in wide circulation, but be on the lookout for irregular shapes, too. Eclectic or abstract pieces are part of the shift to organic shapes.
Matte black hardware is still a go for adding contrast to lighter cabinetry. However, oiled bronzes and other dark, low-sheen pieces are nudging them to the side. Furthermore, they’re taking on a less angular, classic shape. An easy way to create a timeless, down-home look on shaker cabinets.
Bath hardware trends: Mixed metals and countertop inspiration
Geometric knobs are arguably even bigger in bathrooms. However, the design headline is really about creating layered, character-laden looks with mixed metals. The superstar combination in 2026 appears to be warm brass or bronze with chrome.
Dark matte pieces provide a shot of contrast to classic brushed nickel. Ideal for homeowners who don’t want to spend too much time polishing off water spots.
In the warm-neutral-cool debate, bathroom remodelers are removing some guesswork. The secret? Consulting the countertop. This will be the design element they decide to coordinate or contrast with. Bolder black and white marble looks even more dramatic with sunnier polished brass pieces.
The reflective surface of polished chrome or nickel knobs can take on the tone of other surrounding design elements, such as hardwood flooring. This can create a visual blend that means it won’t be competing with a great slab of stone.
Find a better hardware selection at The Designery
Pro tip: You don’t buy basic hardware at the hardware store. Or the home improvement giant down the street. Your bath and kitchen remodel’s finishing touches are an opportunity to add personalization and taste.
A professional designer can help select remodel hardware options that align with your design vision.
“The Designery is truly exceptional. From the moment we walked into the showroom, we were impressed—it’s absolutely stunning, thoughtfully curated, and immediately inspires confidence in their design expertise. What really sets The Designery apart is the combination of high-level design taste with a genuinely approachable, client-first process.”
Elise, Designery client
Find your local Designery showroom or contact us to book a complimentary consultation.
Remodel hardware options for kitchen and bath FAQ
What hardware finishes are timeless?
Polished and brushed nickel are widely considered some of the most timeless hardware types. Unlacquered or antique brass is also a selection that ages well in countless spaces.
How should I coordinate my cabinet hardware with appliances?
If the relationship between appliances and hardware is important to your design, consider a coordinating finish. Brushed nickel complements many stainless steel appliances. Or, have The Designery customize your appliances. We create a flawless fit with the rest of your kitchen remodel–including the hardware.
Can I update my hardware myself?
Switching cabinet hardware is often regarded as a DIY-friendly endeavor, but it’s not always as easy as it looks. Getting each piece perfectly level across all drawers and cupboards isn’t a cinch. Plus, your options can be limited if you’re dealing with pre-cut holes for pulls and knobs.
What are the kitchen hardware trends for 2026?
Warmer tones and lots of texture are among the most outstanding kitchen and bath hardware trends. Etching, aging, and natural patinas are in higher demand. Satin finishes are joining brushed as popular looks for nickel. For those who prefer cool metals, polished chrome is still big in bathrooms.
