Different types of kitchen cabinet handles and how to use them best

Written by

10 July 2023

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6 min read

When you're building or renovating a kitchen it's easy to get distracted by prominent furnishings but sometimes it's the details that make the difference. The types of kitchen cabinet handles that are available reflect this sentiment perfectly and show just how varied and diverse your choices are as well as the looks that can be achieved.

Kitchen cabinet handles are an important part of the day-to-day use and appearance of your kitchen cabinets. As you'll soon see, there are a few different types to choose from, each with its own distinct qualities that influence both these factors. Understanding what these are will help you make an informed choice that best suits your space.

1. Arch handles

We begin with arguably one of the most elegant types of kitchen cabinet handles available on the market in New Zealand today — the arch handle.

With its graceful design, the arch handle has a timeless quality that is versatile and uplifting when it comes to interior styling. On top of this, it is highly practical too, presenting a nice comfortable shape to hold when opening and closing your cabinet doors and drawers.

They are often found in transitional style kitchens that incorporate both contemporary and traditional touches in their design. Shaker style cabinets are also a good pairing along with raised panel doors which complement their refined look.

Arch handles, like those featured in this villa renovation in Wellington, add an air of elegance to the kitchen design.

2. Bar handles

Bar handles, sometimes called pull handles, are straight bars that can be positioned horizontally or vertically on cabinets. They are very popular in New Zealand and you'll find no shortage of options including wooden handles, glass handles and a wide range of metal handle finishes.

Practically speaking, they are very easy to grip and use with plenty of room for your hands and fingers to wrap around them. Aesthetically, their clean lines and streamlined look make them well-suited to modern and contemporary styled kitchens

You can also find large, extravagantly designed options for those looking to make more of a design statement, which can highlight a kitchen space with a bit more intrigue and drama.

The Pull Bar Handle by Buster + Punch shows how dynamic and stylish cabinet hardware can be.

3. Cup handles

For a bit of rustic charm, it's hard to beat a cup pull handles when it comes to kitchen cabinet hardware. They are defined by their semi-circular and curved shape cup which allows your fingers to fit snugly into for easy use.

A lot of interior designers will insist on cup handles for vintage and farmhouse style interiors given the warm vibes they project, but in truth, they suit any style of kitchen where a relaxed atmosphere is desired. As a matter of fact, they are often found in contemporary kitchens that embrace a retro look with a modern twist.

Its smooth, curved surface makes it easy to clean and safe to use for adults and children alike. These are typically available in a range of metal hardware finishes.

Cup handles are perfect for a rustic kitchen with a relaxing vibes as seen here in this award-winning kitchen by Ingrid Geldof Design.

4. Half moon handles

Half moon handles are one of the more unique options on this list as a more recent innovation that is quickly becoming a popular trend. Featuring a semi-circular shape like that of the aforementioned cup handles, the main difference is that half moon handles have a flat surface, functioning more like a pull handle.

The mix of these styles makes for comfortable ergonomics and an aesthetic that is easy and soft on the eyes. While they are often used independently, they can also work in combination with cabinet doors that meet in the middle, where two half moons become one.

It's a bit of fun and something different to consider when it comes to thinking about all your options for cabinet hardware.

ABI's IMES Cabinetry Pull Handle with it's half moon design can work independently or paired with another.

5. Knobs

Kitchen cabinet knobs are a classic option, timeless and versatile to such an extent that they work in just about any style of kitchen. They are an extremely popular choice with an equally wide range of styles and finishes to consider.

They are typically very cost-effective compared to other types of kitchen cabinet handles making them a great solution if you have a particularly high number of drawers that need to be fitted. They are also very easy to install making it a quick job for a professional or a competent DIYer.

Their petite size makes them a great space-saving solution ideal for small kitchens where every increment of space is crucial. Families with children may also opt for cabinet knobs as they are very easy for small hands to grip with no risk of injury.

Cabinet knobs are a great option that are user-friendly and versatile, seen here with the stylish Single Sided Roller Door.

6. T-pull handles

T-pull handles, often called T-bar handles, take a t-shaped form and can be placed horizontally or vertically on drawers and cabinet doors. Similar to traditional pull and bar handles, they offer a sleek look that fits in well with modern and contemporary kitchen settings.

The T-pull design allows for a comfortable grip and slightly more room for your fingers, obviously dependent on the size which can vary quite considerably. They can also be a practical choice for small cabinets too which are otherwise too small for standard bar handles.

Long-lasting, durable and easily retrofitted into existing cabinetry, you'll find a wide range of finishes including brushed nickel, polished finishes, antique finishes and more giving you plenty of styling versatility.

Contemporary aesthetics and tremendous functionality with the ABI Terza Cabinetry T Pull Handle.

7. Recessed handles

For fans of minimalism, recessed handles offer the perfect solution for your cabinet doors. Mounted flush against the cabinet, they provide a recess for your fingers to fit into and open with no trouble at all.

Their design is completely unobtrusive in a kitchen space which is why they are so well suited to minimalist styled homes. This quality also makes them perfect for kitchens in smaller homes and apartments. With no protruding parts, they are also very safe with no chance of snagging or accidental clipping when passing by.

Like many types, they are also known by other names which in this case include pocket handles and finger pulls, so your research should include these alternatives to reveal the full range of options.

Recessed kitchen cabinet handles seamlessly allows the immaculate design of this Mairangi Bay home to shine.

A range of kitchen cabinet handles for everyone

The great thing about these different types of kitchen cabinet handles is that they are all incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of ways. Whether it's kitchen cabinet knobs for a small space, recessed handles for a minimalist aesthetic or large bar handles to draw the eye, you'll be able to find something that works for you on multiple levels.

Explore an extensive range of high-quality kitchen handles on ArchiPro