Should You Use Colored Hardware On Cabinets? Our Expert Weighs In

One of the last finishing touches on any cabinet project is new hardware, which is like the jewelry of the space, adding personality and visual interest. Hardware is also a generally inexpensive way to upgrade existing cabinets for a fresh new look. We are used to seeing hardware finishes like matte black, brass, bronze, and nickel, with the occasional copper or rose gold selection thrown in for a bit of unexpected color. But what about actual colorful hardware, as in options showcasing hues from all over the color wheel? Is using colored hardware a fun, unexpected visual element, or a design no-no that you will get sick of?

The short answer is: it depends. As an interior designer and lover of vibrant palettes, achieving the right balance in a space is crucial, but a bold statement like lots of colorful hardware could easily tip the scales in the wrong direction when not used properly. However, there are certain scenarios and types of hardware that lend themselves towards embracing options with saturated hues better than others, so stick with these guidelines to know when to reach for those colorful beauties and when to walk away.

Let's start with where I think it is hardest to pull off the colorful hardware look, which is trying to use them on your entire kitchen. Because they are so bold and a little goes a long way, having every cabinet in your kitchen featuring colorful hardware is likely to feel like overkill. That being said, while I am also usually a proponent of mixing hardware types in a space, only using colorful pulls or knobs on some of your kitchen cabinets could feel disjointed and jarring. For a space you usually pay a pretty penny to look high-end, it is a fine line between having colorful hardware bring the kitchen to life versus cheapening your design, so perhaps it is best to steer clear in this room (but make sure to read through the caveats below though so I don't deter you from the vivid hardware of your dreams!).

Now let's have some fun — where does this hardware trend work best? In order to avoid getting sick of it quickly because the space is out of balance, opt for using colorful hardware in spaces with only a few cabinet doors or drawers, such as a bathroom vanity, dresser, nightstand, and standalone storage/closet with only a few doors. By introducing hardware with saturated hues in small doses, you are less likely to tire of them, not to mention the investment to change it up is much less for only a few pieces.

So what hardware types work best for introducing fun shades? Antique pulls or knobs (or well-crafted reproductions) always get a free pass to boast some color, whether they are vintage green glass, ceramic Talavera, or ornate brass with colorful gem inlays. If you are selecting funky, one-of-a-kind antiques, it is likely you have an eclectic home aesthetic that has no problem pulling off this type of historical charm. Similarly, hardware made of natural materials, such as pink quartz, green marble, or rust-colored agate also works well, as their colors are organic to the material itself. These feel less cutesy and more timeless because they are more earth tones than overly vibrant and are grounded with their roots to the outdoors.

The other scenario when I think colorful hardware works great is when they are tone-on-tone with the cabinet color itself. By matching the hardware to the cabinet finish, they blend in seamlessly, creating only a small variation in texture and depth. The monochromatic hardware look with colorful cabinets is sophisticated and effective, letting the cabinets and hardware shine as one colorful statement.

However, take all of this advice with a grain of salt! Ultimately, it's your home, and designing with an anti-trend approach by showcasing elements that speak to your heart will ensure the space always feels joyful rather than tiresome, regardless of what design trends (or designers) say. If that means a kitchen full of colorful hardware, then have at it!