Décor Details: How to Choose the Right Door Handles for Your Home

Looking for subtle ways to upgrade your home décor? Don’t want to do a complete renovation but still want that fresh, new feeling? Sometimes, all you need are some details that can really make a difference. And one such detail that’s often overlooked is the door handle.

Handles may seem like insignificant and purely functional elements, but the right ones can really elevate the look of your home. Not to mention, they can also be a great way to add a personal touch. So, if you’re looking for some inspiration on which finishes and types to choose, keep reading to find out.

What Door Handle Finish Should You Get?

In most cases, the specific finish and style of your handles will be dictated by the overall aesthetic of your home. If you have contemporary decor, for instance, then you’ll want to go for something more modern. If you prefer a more classic look, then there are plenty of beautiful antique-style options. That said, some of the most popular finishes include:

Matte Black

Starting off with what is perhaps the most sophisticated and timeless option, the stylish door handles black matte finishes can really make a statement. Their sleek and elegant look is perfect for adding a special something, whether you’re going for a gothic vibe or something more industrial.

Imagine black door handles against a light-coloured background. The contrast would be stunning, adding depth and dimension to your space. Not to mention, black is also a great neutral that can easily be worked into any existing colour scheme. Even if you’re a fan of brightly coloured hues and vibrant patterns, a few matte black details can really help tie everything together.

For a truly cohesive look, pairing door handles black matte finishes with a background of the same colour can create a powerful and luxurious effect. Having both the handles and the door itself in black can really make a space pop, whether it’s in your kitchen, bathroom or even bedroom.

Some might say it can close off a room and make it feel smaller, but when it’s done right, black details can actually be quite visually striking. Just be careful not to overdo it – too much black can start to look a bit heavy-handed. Look for ways to mix and match different materials, like pairing black metal with glass or wood.

In this way, you can create a beautiful and balanced aesthetic that’s both dramatic and chic. The end result will surely leave a lasting impression on anyone who lays their eyes on it.

Satin

For a softer and more refined look, consider opting for door handles in satin finishes. A great alternative to the standard polished look, these offer a bit of texture and can really add interest to your space. The muted sheen of this particular design creates a unique visual effect that’s sure to stand out.

Satin-finished door handles are perfect for those who want a bit of shine without going overboard. They also work well in both formal and informal settings, so you can use them pretty much anywhere in your home. It doesn’t matter if you’re going for a traditional or contemporary look – satin can be a great way to add just the right amount of detail.

Chrome

And of course, you can’t go wrong with classic chrome. This particular finish has been around for decades and shows no signs of going out of style anytime soon. Elegant, shiny and oh-so-sophisticated, it’s no wonder chrome has made such a lasting impression in the world of home design.

One of the great things about chrome is that it’s incredibly versatile. It doesn’t matter if you’re going for a good ol’ fashioned country kitchen or a minimalistic and modern space – chrome can always be worked into the mix.

Unlike satin, which can sometimes come across as being too formal, or matte black, which can look a little too dark, chrome strikes the perfect balance. It’s shiny and attention-grabbing, but not so much that it looks gaudy or over-the-top.

What Types of Door Handles Are There?

Aside from the specific finish, the way a door handle is designed can also make a big difference in the overall look and feel of your space. Not only that, but it can have a tremendous impact on overall functionality as well.

Lever Handle on Backplate

One of the most widely used designs, this style features a flat plate with a lever attached to it. The backplate is then mounted directly onto the door, usually with two screws that go through the lever.

These kinds of handles are primarily found on interior doors, like bedrooms and bathrooms. But you’ll also see them from time to time on exterior doors, especially those that lead into a garage or shed.

The great thing about lever handles is that they’re relatively simple to install. And because they don’t protrude out too much, they’re less likely to get caught on clothing or bags as you’re walking through the door.

Lever Handle on Rose

A rose is a small, circular plate that’s placed underneath the lever. The handle itself is shaped a bit differently as well, with a more curved and ergonomic design. This type is also found on both interior and exterior doors, although they’re a bit more common on the latter. Its robust design makes it ideal for high-traffic areas, like a front or back door.

The main downside to this design is that it can be a bit more difficult to install. But if you’re handy and have a bit of experience with home improvement projects, you should be able to get the job done without too much trouble.

Mortice Door Knob

This type has been used for centuries and it features a round, knob-like shape that’s positioned directly on the door. A small keyhole is usually cut into the centre of the knob, although this isn’t always the case.

Mortice door knobs are usually seen on interior doors, particularly those that lead into a room that’s meant to be private and intimate, like a bedroom or study. They’re also quite popular on closet doors, as they provide a bit of extra security.

Rim Door Knob

A rim door knob is very similar to a mortice door knob, except that it’s attached to the door with a small plate known as a backplate. This type is also normally round in shape, although it can sometimes be oval-shaped as well.

In contrast to mortice models, rim knobs are more often seen on exterior doors. This is because they have a sturdier build and can withstand the elements a bit better.