Interior Door Handles - Whatsinterior

Interior Door Handles: A Guide to Choosing the Right Handles for Your Home

Interior door handles are an often overlooked but crucial element of home design. They serve a practical purpose, allowing you to easily open and close doors, but they also play a significant role in the overall aesthetic of a space. With a wide variety of styles, finishes, and materials available, choosing the right interior door handles for your home can be an exciting but challenging task. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to understanding the different types of interior door handles, factors to consider when choosing them, and tips for creating a cohesive and stylish look throughout your home.

Types of Interior Door Handles

Interior door handles come in a variety of styles, each offering unique functionality and aesthetic appeal. The most common types include:

Lever Handles: These handles are typically curved or angled, offering easy operation with a single hand, making them ideal for people with limited mobility. They are available in a wide range of designs, from modern and minimalist to traditional and ornate.
Knobs: Traditional and classic, knobs are typically round or square and require twisting to open the door. They are often associated with a more formal or traditional style and can be found in various materials, such as brass, crystal, or porcelain.
Pull Handles: These handles are designed to be pulled, often featuring a long, rectangular shape. They are commonly used on sliding doors or doors with a large surface area and can add a modern or industrial touch to a space.
Privacy Handles: Designed for bedrooms or bathrooms, privacy handles offer a locking mechanism for privacy. They typically feature a small button or lever that allows you to lock the door from the inside.
Passage Handles: These handles operate without a lock and are typically used on doors that do not require privacy, such as hallways or closets.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Interior Door Handles

Choosing the right interior door handles involves considering several factors, ensuring they meet both your functional and aesthetic needs. Key factors include:

1. Style and Design

The style of your interior door handles should complement the overall design of your home. Consider the architectural style of your house, the existing furniture, and the desired mood or feel for each room. Modern homes may opt for sleek, minimalist handles, while traditional houses may prefer more ornate or decorative options. Explore various styles and finishes to ensure a cohesive and harmonious look throughout your home.

2. Material

Interior door handles are available in a variety of materials, each with its own unique characteristics and durability. Common materials include:

Brass: A classic material known for its durability and ability to be polished to a high shine. It can be either polished or brushed to create different aesthetic effects.
Stainless Steel: A popular choice for its modern look, durability, and resistance to corrosion and fingerprints. It comes in different finishes such as brushed, matte, or polished.
Chrome: A sleek and modern material, often chosen for its reflective properties and ability to create a sense of space. It's also relatively easy to clean and maintain.
Nickel: Offers a similar look to chrome but with a slightly warmer, more muted tone. It's also a durable and versatile option.

3. Finish

The finish of your interior door handles can significantly impact their aesthetic appeal. Finishes can range from polished or brushed to matte or satin, each offering a distinct look and feel. Consider the overall color scheme of your home and the existing hardware to ensure a cohesive and harmonious look.

4. Functionality

Functionality is a crucial factor to consider when choosing interior door handles. If you have young children or elderly individuals in your home, it's important to select handles that are easy to operate and grip. Consider factors like ease of use, lever versus knob, and the presence of locking mechanisms. If you need privacy handles for certain doors, ensure they offer a reliable and secure locking system.

5. Budget

Interior door handles come in a wide range of price points, from budget-friendly options to high-end designs. Set a budget before you start shopping, considering the number of handles you need and the desired material and finish. Remember that quality handles often come at a higher price, but they can last longer and enhance the value of your home.

Tips for Choosing Interior Door Handles

Once you have considered the key factors above, here are some tips to help you choose the right interior door handles for your home:

Visit a local hardware store or showroom: This allows you to see and feel various handles in person, helping you visualize how they would look in your home. You can also ask for assistance from knowledgeable staff.
Consider the flow of your home: Choose handles that provide a smooth and comfortable experience when opening and closing doors, especially if you have high traffic areas or narrow hallways.
Think about the overall aesthetic: Select handles that complement the existing décor and create a cohesive look throughout your home.
Don't be afraid to mix and match: You can create a dynamic and stylish look by using different types of handles in various rooms based on their function and desired aesthetic.