Cabinet hardware may be a small detail, but it plays a powerful role in defining the look and feel of your space. Whether you’re designing a new kitchen, upgrading bathroom vanities, or giving existing cabinets a refresh, the right knobs and pulls can tie everything together. At SWARC Supply in Vero Beach, we help homeowners, builders, and designers find high-quality cabinet hardware that suits both function and aesthetics.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to choose between knobs and pulls, how to pair hardware styles and finishes, and what to consider before making a final decision. You’ll find links to our available product lines at SWARC Supply Hardware.

Knobs vs. Pulls: Which Is Right for You?

Before diving into finishes and shapes, decide whether your cabinets call for knobs, pulls, or a mix of both.

Knobs are generally smaller and made from hard materials, making them a popular choice for cabinet doors. They offer a subtle accent without drawing too much attention.
Pulls provide more surface area to grip, making them ideal for drawers and larger cabinet doors. Their linear shape can contribute to a more modern or transitional aesthetic. They can be either a hard metal or a softer material like leather.

Design Tip: Many designers use knobs for upper cabinets and pulls for lower drawers. Mixing the two adds visual interest while enhancing practicality.

Style and Finish: Finding a Cohesive Look

Once you’ve decided on the type of hardware, it’s time to narrow down the style and finish. The goal is to create a cohesive look that complements the overall design of your space.

Match Your Style

Modern and Minimalist: Sleek bar pulls in matte black or polished chrome.
Traditional or Transitional: Curved pulls or detailed knobs in antique brass or brushed nickel.
Coastal or Organic: Soft finishes like satin brass or hardware made with natural materials like leather or wood.

Choose a Coordinated Finish

Hardware finishes should echo other accents in the room—like faucets, light fixtures, or appliances—without necessarily matching them perfectly. SWARC is more than happy to consult on pairing options.

Warm finishes like brass or bronze pair well with wood cabinetry or earthy tile.
Cool finishes such as chrome or stainless steel complement white or painted cabinets.
Mixed metals can also work if done intentionally. For example, matte black pulls with a warm brass faucet can feel curated rather than chaotic.

Visit our hardware collection at SWARC Supply to see what’s in stock or available to order.

Practical Considerations: Size, Placement, and Comfort

Looks are important, but so is usability. Be sure to factor in these practical tips:

Scale matters. Oversized drawers often need longer pulls—don’t let small hardware get lost.
Test comfort. Choose hardware that feels good in your hand, especially for high-use areas like kitchens.
Drill holes wisely. If you’re replacing hardware, try to match the existing drill hole placement—or be prepared to patch and refinish surfaces.

Pro Tip: If you’re unsure, order a few sample knobs and pulls to try them out at home before committing to a full set.

Let SWARC Supply Help You Decide

Cabinet hardware is more than just a finishing touch—it’s an opportunity to express your style and enhance everyday use. Whether you lean toward bold and modern or understated and timeless, we carry an array of premium options to suit your taste and project needs.

Visit SWARC Supply’s hardware page to explore our collections, or stop by our Vero Beach showroom for personalized guidance.

Client Guide: Choosing the Right Cabinet Hardware for Your Space