Designing a kitchen to outlast trends requires a careful balance of functionality and classic style across every detail, from cabinetry and countertops to hardware and decor. But what is the most timeless kitchen hardware? Enduring cabinetry designs are easy to come by, but these smaller finishes are just as important.
It's no secret that the kitchen is one of the larger investments in a home, so it's important to consider timeless kitchen design elements to ensure your scheme endures trends. And while colors, cabinetry, and countertops are key to your design, so is the hardware you choose.
So, what is the most timeless kitchen hardware? From the style to the finish color, we've asked interior designers how they add enduring appeal to kitchen schemes with hardware to curate designs that never date.
What's the most timeless kitchen hardware?
There are two parts to choosing timeless kitchen hardware: the style and the finish. Combine the right pair, and you will have hardware that feels endlessly in style and a kitchen that feels ever-elevated.
'When I think of timeless kitchen hardware, I think European kitchens and love a good, heavy brass round knob or a cup pull. We love the classics and both of those simple shapes travel well over time,' says interior designer Tama Bell.
Simplicity is key when choosing a timeless hardware style – anything too fussy or detailed is not only impractical, but they usually have a design that quickly becomes a dated kitchen hardware trend. Plus, more paired-back designs can work across interior design styles.
'We believe that traditional pulls and knobs are the most timeless kitchen hardware styles. Their classic design seamlessly fits various kitchen aesthetics and remains stylish across different kitchen trends,' says Kailee Blalock and Taylor Troia, co-founders and principal designers at House of Hive Design Co.
These simpler, timeless designs also offer more opportunities to personalize your scheme. 'Adding backplates to these traditional styles can also spice up the look while maintaining a timeless appeal,' they add.
And when it comes to the most timeless kitchen hardware finish, it seems warmer metals reign supreme. 'We love using bronze or antique brass because they add warmth to a room and feel like jewelry in a space,' says Tama.
However, if gold tones aren't to your taste, opting for typically cool-toned metals in a warmer finish is a lovely compromise, and still feels timeless and classic. 'We consider polished nickel to be the most timeless finish. Its warm-toned silver hue makes it a versatile choice, allowing for the integration of other finishes such as brass or iron,' says Kailee and Taylor.
Or, for a more interesting design – that they assure still offers timeless appeal – a blend of finishes in those simplistic styles can add interest to your kitchen. 'Mixing finishes like polished nickel for cabinet pulls and knobs, and brass or iron for light fixtures or faucets, helps create a balanced and enduring look.'
Choosing the finishes will, of course, depend on your personal taste and kitchen aesthetic, but whether you prefer nickel or brass, designers recommend embracing something with an aged look that will instantly add a timeless look.
'Vintage and aged metals, such as burnished brass and gold, are taking the spotlight when it comes to door handles, hinges, and taps – infusing timeless charm and character into both traditional and contemporary cabinetry,' says kitchen designer Tom Howley.
The key to timeless kitchen hardware? It's the fact that simplistic designs with a vintage or aged finish transcend trends – and these hues complement almost any color scheme. 'Ultimately you want finishes to be as versatile and durable as possible so they stand the test of time and will work in any kitchen color scheme,' says Alexander Shepel, founder of SHEPEL.
'Over the years you may want to update the cabinet color or change the lighting, so these finishes must seamlessly blend into any design. A kitchen is the heart of the home and in a bustling family home these small elements must last.'
So, for interior designers, the most timeless kitchen hardware is designed in simple styles, such as classic pulls, cup pulls, and round knob handles. When it comes to the finish, it's best to opt for warm metals with an aged or brushed finish if you want to ensure your kitchen details transcend trends.
