Handleless kitchens, praised for their modern appeal and minimalist charm, have become more popular in the UK in recent years. However, when it comes to kitchen cabinets, traditional kitchen handles continue to have a significant presence in both style and function. You may be wondering if you should go with sleek handleless kitchen doors or kitchen doors with handles if you're remodeling or creating a new kitchen.
This article explores the many reasons why installing knobs on your kitchen doors might be the wiser, better option. We'll go over the long-term, functional, and aesthetic advantages of using handles in your kitchen design, as well as why they might be the finishing touch that unifies the entire area.
1. Functionality and Ease of Use
Handles make accessing your kitchen cabinets and drawers significantly easier, especially in busy households.
Accessibility
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Elderly-Friendly: Handles provide an easy grip, making it simpler for older family members or those with limited dexterity to open cupboards.
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Child-Friendly: With soft-close hinges and properly installed handles, doors are safer and more accessible for children.
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Effortless Use: Opening and closing doors with handles is intuitive. There is no learning curve, unlike with some handleless push-to-open systems.
Practicality During Cooking
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Imagine cooking with greasy or moist hands. Without applying pressure to the cabinet front, which might cause smearing or strain, handles provide a distinct object to grasp onto.
Wear and Tear
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Without handles, you're contacting the door surface all the time, which causes fingerprints, smudges, and wear on glossy or painted surfaces. The cabinet's surface integrity is maintained by the handles.
2. Style, Versatility, and Visual Impact
Handles aren't just functional — they can define the entire look of your kitchen.
A Wide Range of Styles
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Traditional: D-shaped and knob handles suit shaker and country kitchens.
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Modern: Sleek bar or square-edge handles complement high-gloss or slab doors.
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Industrial: Matte black or brushed brass finishes are trending across UK kitchens.
Customisation Opportunities
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Changing the handles in your kitchen is a simple way to update it. It's a fast, reasonably priced update with a big visual impact.
Focal Points
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On cabinets, handles serve as understated yet fashionable visual accents. They provide dimension and break up huge surface areas.
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In two-tone kitchens, well-chosen handles can help tie upper and lower units together.
Cohesive Design
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Coordinate handles with light fixtures, taps, and even bar stools in the kitchen. This makes the space's design consistent throughout.
3. Durability and Long-Term Value
Investing in quality kitchen handles ensures your cabinetry withstands the test of time.
Reduced Maintenance
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Door surfaces stay cleaner, meaning less frequent deep cleaning is needed.
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Handles are easy to wipe down and replace if needed.
Mechanical Reliability
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Handleless kitchens often rely on push-to-open mechanisms that can wear out or misalign over time.
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A solid handle attached to a sturdy hinge or drawer runner is often more dependable.
Cost-Effective in the Long Run
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Despite their cost, high-quality handles prolong the life of cabinets, lessen wear on door finishes, and save replacement expenses.
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Replacing handles is easier and more affordable than replacing entire fronts or push systems.
Adds Resale Value
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Kitchens that strike a mix between functional functions and beauty are frequently preferred by buyers. A kitchen that fits nicely and has fashionable handles may sell.
Design Tips for Choosing Kitchen Handles
Proportion & Placement
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For drawers, horizontal handles work best.
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For tall units, vertical handles placed in the middle of the edge offer best leverage.
Material Matters
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Chrome and stainless steel are durable and easy to clean.
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Brass and matte black add a contemporary or industrial edge.
Finish & Feel
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Satin and brushed finishes show fewer fingerprints.
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Try to match the finish with your appliances or sink.
Handle Styles That Suit UK Kitchens
1. Cup Handles
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Perfect for traditional, shaker-style kitchens.
2. Bar Handles
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Ideal for modern kitchens, available in various lengths.
3. Knob Handles
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A timeless choice that fits both classic and cottage kitchens.
4. Edge Pulls
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A low-profile alternative that offers a minimalist look with the convenience of a handle.
When Handles Might Not Be the Right Choice
While there are many reasons to choose handles, there are situations where a handleless kitchen might be more appropriate:
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If you’re working with an ultra-modern, open-plan space and want a seamless finish.
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If you prefer push-to-open technology and don’t mind occasional maintenance.
Still, even in these cases, hybrid designs are gaining popularity, such as using handles on lower drawers for functionality and handleless wall units for visual appeal.
Final Thoughts
In the larger picture of a kitchen makeover, selecting kitchen door handles can seem like a minor choice, but it's a detail that offers an amazing combination of functionality and design. In addition to being comfortable, handles add character to your kitchen and lessen wear. There is a handle to fit your style, whether you want a modern kitchen with striking features or a classic country kitchen.
Therefore, take into account these three strong arguments for adding handles to your kitchen doors before deciding on a handleless design. They might be the final component needed to create a kitchen that is both aesthetically pleasing and long-lasting.
For more information about Bryan Turner Kitchen Furniture and accessories, give us a call at 01953 660762 and speak to a member of our expert team today or email us at enquiries@bryanturnerkitchens.com. We look forward to hearing from you.
