Choosing the right handles for your furniture in a design project is a key decision for the final result. Their small size means they are sometimes overlooked in favour of other decisions, such as which finish to choose or what the final dimensions of the furniture will be.
The handle is a direct point of contact between the user and the design. Knowing how to choose the right handles has a direct impact on the aesthetic coherence and functionality of the space.
In this guide, you will discover how to choose furniture handles and what aspects you should consider to ensure they add real value.
Functionality and ergonomics
A handle that is too small will be uncomfortable to use, while one that is too large can clash with the shape of the furniture and even overwhelm it. It is also important to bear in mind that there are different types of handles depending on their use and design and some are used more frequently than others. The same piece does not have the same importance on a living room cabinet that is mainly decorative as it does on a kitchen drawer that you open every day. That is why it is important for it to be, above all, practical and comfortable.
Aesthetics and design coherence
The handle is the accent of the furniture, the finishing touch that adds personality to the project. If the kitchen you have chosen for your home has a classic style, it is important that the handle follows the same aesthetic. There are handles that are visually very appealing but do not fit coherently within the overall project.
Recommended materials and finishes
Metal, stainless steel and solid wood are the best materials you can choose for a handle. Especially in areas with high humidity, it is important to opt for models that can withstand these conditions effectively.
Environment and type of use
The handle you choose for a residential project may not be the same as the one you choose for an office. The choice should take the context of use into account to ensure durability and coherence.
Current trends
Handles can make a real difference to a project. Choosing innovative and distinctive models will add value to your design.
Budget and quality
Not all handles cost the same. Just as we need to carefully consider our budget and allocate a proportional amount to each element according to its value, it can also be tempting to choose the cheapest option without questioning why. Choosing a high-quality handle creates a superior experience and conveys a greater sense of prestige.
Proportion and the rule of thirds
There are also other tips to bear in mind, such as the Rule of Thirds, which suggests that for large pieces of furniture, a larger handle design works better as it balances the surface. For smaller pieces of furniture, choosing a discreet knob creates a more harmonious result.
Updating furniture with new handles
In fact, choosing a handle is not only important when designing a piece of furniture from scratch; it is also a very practical way to renew an existing piece of furniture and give it a second life. It can turn a simple wardrobe into a piece with a unique character.
In these cases, there is another aspect to consider. For example, the distance between the mounting points (C-C), that is, the space between the holes where the handle will be fixed. It is a detail that can easily go unnoticed, but it can be decisive if you do not want to drill new holes or damage the surface of the furniture.
The result:an old piece of furniture takes on a modern feel, or a characterless piece becomes the centre of attention in the room.
This is where the power of the handle as a design element becomes truly apparent.
