Cabinet hardware is not just a critical piece of a cabinet’s overall functionality, it also adds a considerable amount of personality to a piece and enhances the overall look of the cabinets.
But before you rush out to purchase cabinet knobs and pulls, understand that (as always) the new year has ushered in a variety of new trends for hardware finishes and designs.
If you are looking for fashionable hardware choices in 2022, look no further. Here are three major hardware design trends to be aware of this year.
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1. Minimalist Cabinet Hardware
Minimalism was a popular interior design trend that has stuck around. In 2022, this look will continue to inspire homeowners. Some of the characteristics of this kind of cabinet hardware include clean lines and neutral color palettes.
Minimalist cabinet hardware is streamlined, blends into the background of the space and, therefore, tends to have a matte finish.
That said, if you want to go hard and fast into this design trend, there is also the option to build handles directly into the cabinets themselves. However, this assumes that you are going to potentially be replacing your existing cabinets.
Ultimately, the goal of this hardware design trend is to reduce the number of elements and achieve a “less is more” kind of feeling. Therefore, select hardware that is clean in appearance and avoid mixing and matching different kinds of pulls and knobs.
2. Vintage Cabinet Hardware
Another hardware trend that will be incredibly popular in 2022 is the vintage hardware scheme. Part of the reason for this look coming into vogue is that (aside from the character that it imbues) many homeowners are looking for environmentally conscious materials that will lessen their impact on the climate.
Therefore, as a result of this trend, more interior designers and homeowners are opting to buy antique hardware, leather and even recycled aluminum and glass for their cabinet hardware.
What is great about this hardware trend is that it is incredibly rich in character and allows homeowners to achieve a much more unique look and feel than some other design options.
Where finish is concerned – because folks will be seeking out that weathered look for antique hardware – oil rubbed bronze will continue to be a popular option. Similarly, while brass has been shunned for many years, people will now be seeking out antique and satin finishes on brass hardware.
No matter which of these looks suits you best, the vintage, “eco-style” trend in cabinet hardware is a wonderful one that is fantastic for blending function and charm.
3. Industrial Modern Hardware
Taking a page out of both of the aforementioned hardware trends and blending them together is the industrial modern hardware movement. Under this paradigm, homeowners are seeking to achieve a sleeker, more contemporary look with hardware that contrasts against cabinets or by mixing different elements.
If you are a fan of uniqueness and appreciate utilizing unusual materials, this might be the best option for you.
As far as finishes are concerned, industrial modern tends to lean toward bold colors like shiny brass, high polished nickel, chrome or even stainless steel. This can be excellent for those whose homes feature darker colors (particularly darker cabinetry) as the lighter hardware can create a wonderful contrast that adds a good amount of character to a kitchen, bathroom or other space.
That said, lighter colored hardware is not a hard and fast rule as there are many darker options that homeowners might favor such as cast iron, bronze, brass and the like.
Moreover, don’t be afraid to be creative and think outside of the box when it comes to different hardware options. For instance, you might consider some that don’t exactly fit the mold but still achieve a similar feel, such as silver, gold or black finishes.
Finally, when it comes to industrial modern hardware, feel free to mix and match knobs and pulls on your cabinets. Much of this style is centered on character, so adding further personality to a space by mixing up the kinds of hardware used will only enhance the look and feel.
Hardware Design Trends in 2022
Selecting the right hardware is essential as it is the final touch to a cabinet and helps to add in those small details that tie a room together. While the functionality of cabinet hardware is certainly critical, it also gives you the ability to express your style and creativity.
However, do be aware that design trends for 2022 are not a rule book by which to abide but suggestions to implement. If you have a different idea in mind for your kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, laundry room or other space, by all means follow your heart and intuition.
