What Type of Cabinet Knobs Are in Style?
Updating cabinet knobs may seem like a small detail, but it can dramatically refresh the look of your kitchen, bathroom, or furniture. In 2025, new finishes, shapes and materials are defining what “in-style” means in cabinetry hardware. From bold statements to subtle touches, here’s a guide to the key trends—plus how to choose what works for your space.
1. Trending Finishes
Matte Black
Matte black remains a dominant finish in 2025. Design experts note it works across many cabinet styles—from modern farmhouse to minimalist contemporary—offering strong contrast against light cabinetry and a sophisticated edge. If you have white, light grey or pale wood cabinetry, matte black knobs will deliver maximum visual impact. At the same time, when paired with dark cabinets they offer subtle elegance rather than stark contrast. However, because matte black shows water spots and fingerprints more easily than some lighter finishes, regular gentle cleaning is wise.
Brushed Gold & Champagne Bronze
Warm metallic tones such as brushed gold and champagne bronze are rising stars in 2025. These finishes add a luxe feel without being overly shiny. The “warm metallic” trend has been identified by design firms as one of the major directions this year. These finishes pair exceptionally well with neutral palette cabinets (white, light grey) and also with darker cabinetry when you want to add warmth. They are ideal in transitional or classic styled kitchens.
Polished Nickel & Stainless Finishes
For those who prefer something more understated, polished nickel and stainless finishes offer elegance and versatility. According to style guides, these remain solid choices for 2025 thanks to their durability and timelessness. They work well in traditional and transitional design schemes and are especially favourable where you want the hardware to integrate rather than dominate.
Mixing Metals
Rather than matching all the hardware in one finish, the “mix-metal” approach is gaining traction. Think a set of cabinet knobs in brushed gold paired with pulls in matte black; or brushed nickel paired with warm bronze accents. Experts advise using two finishes maximum to avoid a cluttered look. If you have lighting, faucets or other fixtures in one finish, you can complement rather than exactly match, thereby creating visual interest.
2. Trending Shapes & Size
Rounded, Soft Shapes
Hardware shapes are shifting from sharp, square edges to softer, more organic curves. Designs now feature ovals, softened edges and sculptural forms that feel both modern and approachable. If your cabinet doors are classic or minimalist, a rounded knob can soften the overall look and add a subtle design flourish.
Statement & Oversized Knobs
One of the bold moves in hardware: oversized knobs and pulls. These become focal points, almost like jewelry for your cabinetry. If you have large drawer fronts or big cabinet doors, using larger-scale knobs can help balance proportions and make a stylish statement.
Mixed Materials and Texture
Texture matters. Knobs with hammered metal, knurled grips, or combined materials (wood + metal) are getting attention. These add tactile interest, which is especially relevant in 2025 as homeowners look for genuine craftsmanship. If you have flat or sleek “slab” cabinet fronts, a textured knob can provide a nice contrast.
3. Material & Sustainability
Eco-conscious choices are rising in hardware just as in other design elements. Many homeowners and designers are favouring materials that are durable, responsibly sourced and characterized by genuine craftsmanship. For example, hand-finished metals or reclaimed brass hardware are gaining ground. A well-made knob that develops character over time (for instance, with brass patina) is also considered a design plus.
4. Practical Selection Tips
| Consideration | Detail |
|---|---|
| Scale to cabinet size | Make sure the knob size fits the door or drawer dimension. Oversized for large doors; moderate for smaller drawers. |
| Finish coordination | Choose a finish consistent with other major fixtures (faucets, lighting) or use complementary finishes rather than exact matches. |
| Material durability | For high-use areas like kitchen cabinetry, choose finishes that resist wear, smudges and corrosion (e.g., brushed metals over polished). |
| Ease of grip | Ergonomics matter—knobs should be comfortable to grasp and operate. |
| Lifecycle & trend-resistance | While trends change, choosing a finish and style you’ll feel comfortable with for years helps avoid early replacement. |
| Installation consistency | Use templates to ensure uniform spacing and alignment across all doors/drawers. Small mis-alignments can undermine the look. |
5. Where to Source Stylish Knobs
When looking for quality cabinet hardware, consider manufacturers who specialise in precision metal-work and finished hardware. One such option is HUZHAN, a brass hardware manufacturer based in China specialising in furniture and cabinet accessories. Their capabilities include CNC engraving, automatic polishing and dust-free spraying. HUZHAN offers a wide variety of single-hole handles, knobs and decorative hardware in brass, antique finishes and modern finishes. If you’re sourcing in bulk for a cabinetry project or want custom finishes, HUZHAN may be worth exploring.
6. Summary
To update cabinet knobs with style in 2025, focus on:
Finishes that are contemporary: matte black, brushed gold, champagne bronze, and polished nickel.
Shapes that reflect design intent: rounded forms, oversized statement knobs, textured surfaces.
Materials and craftsmanship: sustainable, artisanal finishes and mixed materials.
Practical details: size, coordination with fixtures, durability and installation consistency.
Quality sourcing: working with a reputable manufacturer helps ensure the final product meets expectations.
With the right choice of knobs, you can dramatically refresh the visual feel of your cabinetry without a full remodel. Whether you lean toward sleek minimalism or bold statement hardware, aligning your selection with these trends will help create a timeless, modern and cohesive design.