In a time when customization is king, both decorative and functional hardware remain integral to the success of kitchen and bath designs. Pulls, knobs and handles have continued their evolution from design afterthought to design necessity, and now come in every size, shape, finish and design style imaginable. Likewise, functional hardware helps to personalize how cabinets are used, creating more accessible interiors that can be customized for the user’s specific storage needs and preferences.

“There is definitely a growing trend in demand for unique design,” says Jack Fase, president, Alno, Inc. in Sylmar, CA. “The market has seen a wide array of new choices enter the market and there seems to be a much wider spectrum of design in the kitchens and bath than ever before. As such, the variety of choices in the market must provide a wider range of styling to meet the need.”

“We’ve seen a continuing desire for both Old World and contemporary designs,” reports Warren Ramsland, president, Top Knobs USA in Belle Meade, NJ. Other manufacturers report transitional styles and unusual finishes are gaining popularity, as well.

“Design trends keep moving toward more contemporary design and evolving in that direction. A lot of traditional styled hardware is being updated with cleaner, bolder lines,” says Doug Mockett, CEO of Doug Mockett & Co., in Manhattan Beach, CA.

Meanwhile, functional hardware continues to prove the old adage that it’s what’s on the inside that counts. From soft-close mechanisms that preserve the quiet ambience of a spa bath, to kitchen drawers that open with only a light tap for the cook who’s got his hands full, innovation marks this hardware category.

“The trends in functional hardware are focused toward ease of use, accessibility and the perceived value the product brings to a project,” says Susan Kearns, creative services specialist for Santa Fe Springs, CA-based Accuride.

“These issues are especially important in remodels that are initiated to address changing needs such as more children, accommodating aging parents or pre-planning for aging-in-place,” she notes. Dennis Poteat, marketing communications manager for Blum in Stanley, NC, reports, “More and more customers are requesting the quiet-close innovation. It is becoming the standard at just about every price point.”

Flourishing Finishes

Manufacturers have seen a continued rise in warm or “rustic” finishes this year.