The Complete Guide to Contemporary Kitchen Cabinet Hardware
Contemporary kitchen cabinet hardware brings a modern edge to any space.
From unexpected sculptural pulls to the latest hands-free technologies, contemporary hardware makes a unique statement. By investing in quality materials, striking finishes, and pieces that align with your personal aesthetic, your hardware can become a true focal point rather than just a utilitarian necessity.
An Introduction to Contemporary Cabinet Hardware
Contemporary cabinet hardware refers to modern, cutting-edge hardware styles defined by minimalist shapes, artistic details, and unexpected materials. This type of hardware embraces simplicity in form but often utilizes luxurious, eye-catching finishes in metals like brass, stainless steel, chrome, or glass.
While influenced by mid-century modern and Bauhaus styles, contemporary hardware has evolved with current trends toward bolder expressions. You'll find abstract geometric shapes, asymmetrical angles, and large-scale sizes that command attention. These hardware pieces feel imaginative, radical, and sculptural.
Characteristics of Contemporary Style
Some hallmarks of contemporary hardware style include:
- Minimalist shapes like rectangles, cylinders, or cubes
- Creative manipulation of negative space
- A mixture of matte and shiny metal finishes
- Asymmetrical angles and imbalanced visual weight
- Oversized hardware that makes a striking artistic statement
- Unexpected mixed media like wood, marble, or glass
Benefits of Contemporary Hardware
The unique flair of contemporary hardware offers several advantages:
- Artistic expression to showcase your distinctive style
- Durability of materials like stainless steel, glass, and solid brass
- Ease of cleaning smooth, non-porous surfaces
- Sleek complement to modern cabinetry
- Unexpected visual impact that starts conversations
Key Materials Used in Contemporary Cabinet Hardware
From stainless steel to glass, contemporary hardware utilizes both traditional and unexpected materials for eye-catching appeal. Here we explore some popular contemporary hardware materials to consider:
Stainless Steel
With its silver sheen and extreme durability, stainless steel brings a refined yet rugged vibe to any space. Laser-cut steel allows for intricate modern designs. Pros include sleek aesthetics, strength, and low maintenance. The industrial look may not suit all decors.
Glass and Acrylic
For a transparent minimalist look, glass hardware in smoked, patterned, or colored varieties makes a unique choice. Acrylics offer vibrant pops of color too. Glass easily fits clean, contemporary spaces but requires gentle care. We recommend tempered glass for enhanced durability.
Brass, zinc, chrome, nickel and other metals also bring high-end contemporary appeal...
The Latest Trends in Contemporary Hardware Design
Contemporary hardware offers almost endless possibilities for innovation and self-expression. Some current trends you may spot include:
Minimalist and Geometric Influences
From rounded rectangles to intersecting diagonals, contemporary hardware embraces mathematical beauty in abstraction. Negative spaces and asymmetry also create visual intrigue.
Unexpected Avant-Garde Shapes
Look for inventive contemporary pulls taking on comma, elongated capsule, and trapezoidal shapes. This hardware feels imaginative, radical and sculptural.
Creative Designers Pushing Boundaries
Visionary designers like Tom Dixon, Eric Pfeiffer, and Michael Graves are creating hardware that feels like art...
Choosing the Right Finish for Your Contemporary Kitchen
With an array of metal finishes from brushed brass to matte black, selecting hardware finishes aligning with your kitchen decor takes some consideration...
Innovative Contemporary Hardware Technologies
Beyond aesthetics, contemporary hardware also incorporates cutting-edge innovations like touchless opening mechanisms, LED lighting, and voice-activated functionality for ultimate convenience.
Touchless and Hands-Free Opening
For hygienic, high-tech appeal, touchless drawers and cabinets are gaining popularity. Wave sensors open drawers as your hand approaches.
LED Lighting
Task lighting built right into your hardware provides both form and function. Opt for handle strips or variable settings to spotlight surfaces.
Voice Command Activation
Combining your cabinet hardware with home automation allows voice control for the ultimate hands-free experience...
Making a Statement with Contemporary Hardware
The right contemporary hardware expresses your unique style while creating an artistic focal point. Here's how to make it shine...
Sourcing Sustainable Contemporary Hardware
Eco-consciousness extends to hardware as well, with recycled materials and manufacturing processes minimizing environmental impact...
Contemporary Hardware By Renowned Designers
For true works of functional art, explore designer collaborations from acclaimed names like Tom Dixon, Eric Pfeiffer, and Ginger & Jagger...
Designing Contemporary Kitchens Around the Hardware
Thoughtfully planning your contemporary kitchen around your hardware ensures a cohesive, showstopping look. From color scheme to visual flow and lighting, the details matter...
To keep your hardware looking pristine as the focal point of your space, proper care and maintenance are essential. Follow material-specific cleaning instructions for best results.