The Best Handles for Oak Cabinets
Upgrading the handles on oak cabinets can completely transform the look of a kitchen without the need for painting or replacing the existing cabinetry. Carefully chosen new handles can modernize the style, better complement other finishes, and tie the whole room together.
When selecting the best handles for oak cabinets, there are a few key considerations to ensure they properly fit the cabinet doors, match the intended aesthetic, coordinate with other fixtures, and stand the test of time.
Handles That Complement Oak Cabinets
The style of the handles should align with the existing cabinetry design. More traditional shaker-style oak cabinets often pair best with brass, bronze or antique brass handles for a classic, warm look. Modern handles in black, brushed nickel, or chrome can add nice contrast and a contemporary touch.
For particularly ornate oak cabinets with intricate carvings and detail work, consider more decorative handles in finishes like antique brass or antique copper to complement without competing. Simpler handle shapes help maintain focus on the craftsmanship of the cabinets themselves.
Traditional Styles
- Antique brass - Provides a softened, complementary contrast against light or medium oak cabinets
- Oil-rubbed bronze - Has an old-world, weathered appearance that suits traditional kitchen aesthetics
- Pewter - Offers an aged silver appearance that pairs nicely with natural wood tones
Contemporary Options
- Matte black - The popular shade gives oak cabinets a modern, bold update
- Polished chrome - Provides bright contrast and feels sleek and current
- Brushed stainless steel - Has an industrial vibe that livens up traditional oak
Transitional Picks
- Brushed brass - Warmer than chrome, with a soft glow that bridges styles
- Satin nickel - Subtly contemporary but works with many color schemes
- Patinated bronze - Has an aged, almost weathered appearance
Material Considerations
Beyond the finish, the material used to construct the handles makes a difference in the overall look, feel and durability. Ceramic, crystal and glass handles add an eye-catching touch and coordinate beautifully with natural wood cabinetry. Metal handles offer exceptional strength.
Ceramic, Crystal and Glass Handles
These handles make a beautifully subtle statement by picking up colors and light. Crystal and glass choices should have steel or brass bases for support. Care is required as materials can chip or break if struck.
Metal Handles
Stainless steel, brushed nickel, chrome and other metals like wrought iron and copper offer sleek, modern options. Metal choices should have a durable, scratch-resistant coating to maintain their luster for years. Brass and bronze pair particularly nicely with oak.
Factors Impacting Handle Selection
Beyond the finishes and materials, a few other considerations come into play when selecting the perfect handles.
Cabinet Door Style
The right handles properly fit the cabinet door style. For example, cup pulls suit Shaker style doors well. Handles should also align with the overall kitchen aesthetic - modern, transitional, traditional, etc.
Desired Aesthetic
Is the goal a contemporary, streamlined look or a more aged, traditional feel? The hardware finishes, shapes, sizes and materials should align with the overall desired aesthetic.
Budget
Hardware costs can vary greatly depending on materials and construction. Having a budget helps narrow options; investing in higher quality often pays dividends long-term.
Getting the Right Size and Spacing
Properly measuring and spacing cabinet handles helps ensure functionality and enhances the overall look.
Measuring Cabinet Doors
The handles should fit the door size without overhanging. Allow proper clearance space between the handle edge and adjacent door or drawer front. Standard allowance is often 1/8 inch.
Consistent Spacing
Maintain consistent spacing between handles for harmony and symmetry. Center handles on doors and evenly space multiple handles on drawers.
Double Doors
For double cabinets, allow proper clearance for both door handles to open and close cleanly. Position the handles aligned vertically, with equal space above and below.
Installation Best Practices
While new handles can be simple DIY upgrades, proper installation helps ensure they both function as intended and align aesthetically.
Required Tools
- Drill
- Screwdriver
- Tape measure
- Pencil
Materials
- New handles and hardware
- Filler material (optional)
Step-by-Step Process
Refer to manufacturer instructions. Generally:
- Measure and mark new hole positions
- Drill screw holes
- Insert handle and fasten with screws
- Use filler if old holes are still visible
Alignment Tips
- Use door frames as guide for consistent spacing
- Laser levels or tapes help keep things straight
- Work slowly and double check
Caring for Handles
Taking proper care of oak cabinet hardware ensures it maintains its good looks and withstands years of regular use.
Regular Cleaning
Gently clean with mild soap and water. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive pads.
Checking Hardware
Periodically check that screws and mounts remain tightened. Tighten as needed with a screwdriver.
Replacing Damaged Handles
Replace cracked, loose or missing handles. Fill old holes, redrill and install new hardware.
Where to Buy The Best Handles
Quality cabinet handles tailored for oak cabinets are available from multiple retailers at various price points.
Big Box Stores
Major home improvement stores like Home Depot offer various handle styles and finishes at affordable pricing.
Specialty Shops
Boutiques specializing in kitchen and bath hardware provide more unique, high-end options with customization capabilities.
Online
A wider selection of styles ships directly from e-tailers like Wayfair, Amazon and hardware specialists.
Cabinet Manufacturers
Replacing handles through the original cabinet maker ensures the best integrated look and fit.
Cost Considerations
Several factors impact the cost of cabinet handles. Budget plays a role in materials, styles and retailers selected.
Materials & Construction
Pricing varies greatly by material, with glass and crystal being most expensive, followed by metals, then ceramic, wood and composites.
Buy in Bulk
Purchasing full handle sets offers cost savings over individually priced pieces.
Mix & Match
Balancing a few higher end statement pieces with basic handles controls costs.
Expert Style Recommendations
Design specialists provide recommendations for finishes and styles to suit specific cabinet door designs.
For Shaker Cabinets
Consider substantial brushed metal bar pulls around 8 inches long, in finishes like brass, bronze and graphite.
For Glass Front Cabinets
Minimalist contemporary cup pulls blend seamlessly against the transparent glass fronts.
For High-End Kitchens
Opt for custom, handcrafted hardware elements that reflect the overall luxury design esthetic through the space.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Some simple but key missteps compromise both aesthetics and functionality.
Wrong Sized Handles
Ensure handles fit cabinet door width to avoid issues opening or closing.
Mismatched Metals
Keep handle finishes consistent to present a unified, intentional design.
Over Accessorizing
Restrain handle choices to 1-2 complementary styles for a clean, composed look.
When selecting replacement handles for oak cabinets, consider the existing cabinet style, current decor trends and the desired aesthetic. Carefully measure doors and maintain even spacing between handles for proper alignment and functionality. Quality materials withstand wear while contributing to the overall design.