The Art of Selecting Cabinetry Handles with Lesley McClennan
Published on
March 3, 2025 at 2:11:16 PM PST March 3, 2025 at 2:11:16 PM PSTrd, March 3, 2025 at 2:11:16 PM PST
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On the 20th of February 2025, the Momo Handles team proudly welcomed KBDi Members to our Studio, introducing them to the brand and its new home. As part of the evening, Lesley McClennan shared invaluable insights into the art of selecting cabinetry hardware, drawing from her extensive experience in interior design and functional aesthetics.
She guided attendees through the essential considerations for choosing the right handles—balancing design, practicality, and ergonomics—to create spaces that are both visually cohesive and effortlessly functional.
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Selecting Handles for Cabinetry
Choosing the perfect handle is about more than just style—it’s about cohesion, function, and personal preference. Lesley emphasized that when selecting handles, it’s crucial to consider the overall aesthetic of the space. For renovations, especially when updating only part of a home, matching finishes is essential to maintain visual harmony and avoid a disjointed look. Consistency is your friend—whether that’s in material, finish, or design language.
Creating a unified look throughout the home
A well-designed home feels seamless, and hardware plays a key role in achieving that. Lesley advised that unifying hardware across different spaces requires careful balance between design and functionality. The key? Stick to a cohesive palette of finishes and styles that complement the home’s architectural elements. This doesn’t mean every handle has to be identical, but they should feel like they belong together.
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Size, Placement & Proportion: Getting it Right
Size and placement of handles can make or break a design. Lesley spoke about the importance of proportion and balance, ensuring handles are scaled correctly to cabinetry size. Too small, and they become impractical; too large, and they overwhelm the design.
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She also touched on the ergonomics of placement, considering the user’s height and how they naturally reach for a handle. The space available on
the cabinet door should also dictate the choice, making sure the handle enhances rather than disrupts the flow of the design.
Designing for the Elderly: Function Meets Comfort
When designing for elderly homeowners, ergonomics become critical. Lesley highlighted the importance of choosing handles with texture, grip, and enough protrusion for ease of use. Many elderly individuals may experience issues such as arthritis, hand tremors, or reduced dexterity, making easy-to-grasp handles a necessity. Additionally, high-contrast finishes can aid those with diminishing eyesight, ensuring handles remain visible and accessible.
Lesley’s insights reinforced that cabinetry handles are more than just decorative functional pieces —they are integral to the way we interact with
our spaces daily. Whether selecting for style, function, or accessibility, the right choice ensures a seamless and comfortable experience.
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For those considering their next project, visiting the Momo Handles showroom is the perfect way to explore options firsthand.
Our team is always here to help you find the perfect fit.