Although they may seem like a minor detail, the handles on kitchen furniture play a crucial role in terms of both the visual and functional aspects. The choice of handles influences not only the overall design of the kitchen, but can also improve the experience of everyday use, by making it easier to open and close the doors and drawers. In this guide, we look at the various aspects to consider when choosing the best handles for your kitchen, examining materials, design and functions.

1. Handle materials: appearance and resistance

The material used to manufacture the handles is a decisive factor not only for appearance, but also for the duration and resistance to wear and tear. Modern kitchens are exposed to intense use, so it is essential to choose materials that are both attractive and resistant.

Common options for materials:

• Stainless steel: stainless steel is elegant, modern and resistant, making it one of the most popular choices for kitchen handles. This material combines well with contemporary kitchens and is also long-lasting.
• Brass and bronze: brass or bronze handles are perfect for anyone seeking a more classic and traditional look. These materials add a touch of warmth and refinement to the kitchen and are particularly popular for country or retro style kitchens.
• Aluminium: lightweight but resistant, aluminium is a practical choice for modern and minimalist kitchens. It is available in various finishes, from glossy to satin-finish, which adapt easily to various styles.
• Plastic: ideal for anyone who wants an inexpensive option, plastic handles are easy to clean and available in a vast range of colours. However, they might not be as resistant as metal materials.

2. Handle design: from modern to classic

The design of the handles contributes significantly to the overall appearance of the kitchen. Based on the type of furnishing, it is possible to choose handles with a minimalist design or more elaborate and decorative solutions.

Design types:

• Bar handles: these handles are a very common choice for modern kitchens and have a simple and linear appearance. They are available in various lengths and are suited to minimalist and contemporary kitchens.
• Knob handles: perfect for kitchens with a classic or country look, these knobs are elegant and discreet, easy to install and available in a broad range of materials and shapes.
• Built-in handles: these handles are ideal for kitchens with a minimalist style and are integrated directly into the door or drawer, creating a “clean” effect with no protruding elements. They are particularly suited to modern or industrial kitchens.
• Finger rails: this is a modern and minimalist option in which the doors have no handles, because finger rails and specific door profiles are present, guaranteeing a continuous and uniform design. They are perfect for kitchens with smooth surfaces and no visual interruptions.

3. Handle functions: handy and accessible

In addition to appearance, function is another fundamental aspect in choosing the handles. It is important for them to be comfy to grip, easy to use and to satisfy the family's everyday needs.

Factors to consider:

• Size and shape: the handles should have dimensions to ensure a secure and comfy grip. For large doors and drawers, it is recommended to use longer handles or double handles to make opening easier.
• Accessibility: the handles should be easy to reach and use for children and people with reduced mobility as well. In this case, bar or lever handles can be more practical than knobs or built-in handles.
• Frequency of use: in areas of the kitchen where doors and drawers are used frequently, it is important to choose sturdy handles that are easy to clean. Stainless steel or aluminium, for example, are excellent materials that are highly resistant to everyday use.

4. Coordination between handles and the style of the kitchen

The handles must fit perfectly into the overall style of the kitchen. A modern kitchen needs handles in line with a clean and contemporary design, whereas a rustic or traditional kitchen can benefit from decorative and vintage handles.

Style combinations:

• Modern kitchens: slender and linear handles, in steel or aluminium, are perfect for a kitchen with a contemporary or minimalist look. Built-in handles or finger rails are also an excellent choice to maintain a clean and seamless design.
• Classic kitchens: kitchens with a classic or country style benefit from more decorative handles, such as brass knobs or bronze handles with antiqued finishes.
• Industrial kitchens: if your kitchen has an industrial look, rough steel handles or handles with opaque finishes adapt well to the setting, adding a touch of sturdiness.

5. Handles or handle-free doors? A modern choice

A growing trend in modern kitchens is the use of handle-free doors. This solution creates an ultra-minimalist and contemporary design, in which the doors are opened with pressure systems (push-pull) or integrated finger rails.

Advantages of handle-free doors:

• Minimalist appearance: the absence of handles creates a continuous and clean line and is perfect for modern and designer kitchens.
• Easy to clean: handle-free doors are easier to clean and do not accumulate dust or dirt around the edges.
• Contemporary look: this choice gives the kitchen a state-of-the-art look and is particularly suitable for modern and trendy spaces.

Disadvantages of handle-free doors:

• in everyday use, the most frequently used doors are touched repeatedly to open and close them, so they need to be cleaned more often than doors with handles.

Conclusions: how to choose the right handles for your kitchen?

Choosing the handles for kitchen furniture requires a careful assessment of various factors, including the overall style of the kitchen, the functions and the material. Whether you prefer a modern and minimalist look or a more classic and decorative style, numerous options are available to customise your kitchen properly. The handles are not just a visual detail, but also a key element in guaranteeing that your kitchen is practical and functional.