The Ultimate Guide to Kitchen Cabinet Handles

When planning a kitchen renovation, cabinet handles might seem like a small detail but they can have a huge impact on the finished look. Whether you’re after sleek sophistication, heritage charm, or something unique, your choice of handles helps define your kitchen’s personality. Here’s everything you need to know before you decide.

How Much Do Kitchen Handles Cost?

Kitchen handle prices vary widely, depending on material, style, and finish. Here’s a quick guide:

• Budget handles (often zinc or aluminium): from £3 – £8 each
• Mid-range handles (brass, brushed nickel, or matt black): £8 – £20
• High-end designer handles (solid brass, knurled finishes, bespoke styles): £20 – £60+

For a typical kitchen with 20 – 30 doors and drawers, handles and knobs can add anything from £100 up to £1,000 to your overall budget. It’s a small percentage of the total cost, but a key visual detail so it’s worth taking the time to think it through and looking at product samples if possible.

Which Kitchen Handles Are in Style Right Now?

Current trends focus on tactile finishes and elegant simplicity. Some of the most popular handle styles we’re seeing in 2025 include:

Knurled handles.

While bar cabinet handles seem to be on the out, their textured equivalents are soaring in popularity. Industrial style bars with texture are proving a hit with homeowners and designers alike.

Leather handles.

Probably the most recent style to see an uptick, leather pulls and handles can be either feminine or masculine, depending on the kitchen.

Image credit: Pushka Home

Slim bar pulls.

With a minimal and modern style, the slim bar pull style handles and cabinet knobs are perfect for a more modern style kitchen, especially in matt black.

Which Kitchen Handle Styles Are Timeless?

Most people will keep their kitchens for around 10 years so it’s an idea to pick cabinet handles that feel timeless to ensure longevity. Fortunately, some handles never go out of fashion. If you want something that won’t date, consider:

• Shaker-style cup pulls and cabinet knobs – perfect for classic or country kitchens
• Solid brass bar handles – for understated luxury
• Round knobs in chrome or nickel – simple, smart, and adaptable
• Inset or edge pulls – subtle and functional for a refined look

The key is choosing something that complements your cabinetry rather than competing with it.

Cabinet Handle Colours: What to Choose & How to Pair

Matching your handle colour with your kitchen cabinet finish can bring everything together beautifully. Here are a few reliable combinations:

Deep jewel tones like navy blue or jade green are enhanced by gorgeous brushed brass and gold tones.

If you’re after a more industrial style, grey cabinets look great with matt black accessories.

Thinking of a fresh white or cream? Chrome or nickel is a classic pairing. 

Don’t be afraid to mix metals in your kitchen either just keep it intentional. For example, brushed brass handles with a black tap can create a curated, layered look.

Where Should You Position Handles?

Handle placement affects both aesthetics and ergonomics. Here’s a general guide:

• Drawers: Centre the handle horizontally and vertically
• Base cabinet doors: Position horizontally 50 – 75mm from the top edge
• Wall cabinets: Position vertically 50 – 75mm from the bottom edge
• Tall cabinets: Use two handles or long vertical bar pulls for balance.

We always test different positions on site using masking tape before drilling small tweaks can make a big difference to how everything feels.

Have a unique vision? Discuss it with your designer – we’ve seen some recent trends focus on all handles being centralised on the cabinetry, it’s always an option.

The most important thing is that you end up with a kitchen you’ll love for years to come.

What About Handleless Kitchens?

Of course, there’s always the option of having no handles at all!

Handleless cabinets offer a clean, contemporary look and are ideal for modern or open-plan spaces. There are a few different options to choose from: recessed J-pull doors; push-to-open mechanisms or true handleless style. If you want a sleek, uninterrupted finish, this might be the best option for you.

Explore our full guide to handleless kitchen cabinets 

Still not sure which style is best for you? Our architectural designers can walk you through samples, moodboards, and mock-ups to help you make the best choice for your kitchen.

Need help choosing your kitchen handles?

Book a visit to our showroom to see and feel the difference in person. Our friendly team here to help you make every detail count.