Close-up of custom drawer fronts and pulls
Hardware Choices

Knobs, pulls & soft-close hinges.


Cabinet hardware is the finishing touch that ties a kitchen or bath together. The right pieces make doors and drawers easier to open, protect finishes from daily wear, and give the whole room a sense of intention.

On this page we break down three of the most common choices: decorative knobs, functional pulls, and soft-close hinges that keep cabinets quiet and safe.

Knobs & Pulls

Finding the right handle.

Knobs and pulls do the same basic job, but they change the look and feel of a cabinet in different ways. Most kitchens use a mix of both, with knobs on doors and pulls on drawers.

Cabinet fronts with matte black pulls
One screw hole

Knobs

Knobs are compact, versatile, and available in nearly every material and finish. A simple round knob reads classic, while geometric or sculptural shapes feel more contemporary. They work well on upper cabinets and any door where you want a minimal profile.

Materials range from solid brass and zinc to ceramic, crystal, wood, and acrylic. Installation usually requires a single hole, which makes retrofits easier. Center the knob on the door stile, or offset it toward the hinge for a more traditional look.

Two screw holes

Pulls

Pulls give fingers more room, which is why they are a natural fit for drawers and lower cabinets. Lengths typically run from three inches up to eighteen inches or more, with larger drawers looking best with longer pulls or two pulls side by side.

Bar pulls are easy to grip, cup pulls sit flush for a vintage look, and appliance pulls scale up for paneled refrigerators and dishwashers. Drawer fronts usually get pulls, but pulls can also be mounted vertically on tall doors for a clean, modern line.

Placement comes down to comfort and proportion. We will help you test heights and spacing so every door and drawer feels right in your hand.

Soft-Close Hinges

A smoother way to close.

Soft-close hinges slow the door just before it shuts, preventing slamming and reducing wear on the cabinet box. They are one of the most popular upgrades in custom kitchens because they add quiet function without changing the look of the door.

01

Quiet Operation

The built-in damper absorbs the last few inches of travel, so doors close gently even when nudged or pushed. That means fewer thuds during busy mornings and a calmer feel overall.

02

Safety Features

Fingers are less likely to get pinched when a door cannot slam shut. Soft-close hinges are a practical choice for families with young children and for anyone who wants a little more peace of mind in the kitchen.

03

Cost Considerations

Soft-close hinges add a modest cost per door compared to standard hinges, but they also extend the life of the finish and hardware by reducing impact. Most homeowners find the upgrade pays for itself in daily convenience.

Common hinge types
Overlay Inset Frameless Face-frame Concealed Self-closing
Common Questions

Good to know.

What is the difference between a knob and a pull?

A knob uses one screw and is often placed on cabinet doors. A pull uses two screws and gives more grip, so it is common on drawers. Many kitchens mix both.

What size pull should I use on drawers?

Small drawers usually look balanced with pulls around three to five inches. Wider drawers often need pulls seven inches or longer, or two pulls placed symmetrically, to avoid a stretched look.

Are soft-close hinges worth the extra cost?

For most homes, yes. They reduce noise, protect the cabinet finish, and lower the chance of pinched fingers. The cost per door is modest and the daily benefit is immediate.

Can I add soft-close hinges to existing cabinets?

Often yes, if the existing hinge type and door overlay are compatible. We can check your current cabinets and recommend the right hinge or soft-close adapter.

Which hardware finish is easiest to keep clean?

Brushed or satin finishes hide fingerprints and water spots better than high-polish options. Matte black and oil-rubbed bronze are also forgiving in busy kitchens.

Start Your Project

Get in touch.

Whether you're ready to begin or simply gathering ideas, we'd love to hear about your project. Book a consultation and let's talk about your space.

(306) 728-2182After hours: 1-855-68-EVOKE820 45th Street West, Saskatoon, SK
Mon-Fri 8am-5pm, Sat by appointment