Where to position handles on kitchen cabinets
by Laura Styles Tue, Jun 16, 26This is one of the questions our team are asked most often. While there’s no strict rule for handle placement, considering the type of hardware you’ve chosen whether that’s a knob, pull handle, or cup pull alongside the style of your cabinetry will help you achieve a look that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Yester Home’s Resident Style Advisor, Laura Styles
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Wall Cabinets
For wall cabinets, we recommend positioning handles on the lower corner of the door, on the side opposite the hinges. As a guide, place them around 1 inch from the edge, with pull handles fitted vertically.
Image Credit | Savage Group LucyRebeccaPhotography
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Lower Cabinets
For lower cabinets, handles are typically installed on the upper corner or centrally, again opposite the hinges. Positioning them approximately 2 to 3 inches below the top edge helps prevent them from catching on the worktop above.
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Drawers
When it comes to drawers, knobs, pull handles, and cup pulls can be fitted either centrally on the drawer front or at the top centre, just above the inset panel. For wider drawers, a longer pull handle or a pair of handles can make opening easier while creating a more balanced appearance.
Image Credit | Savage Group LucyRebeccaPhotography
Product Shown | Burcote Knurled with Oval Backplate
Ultimately, it is always worth testing a few positions with masking tape before drilling. This allows you to step back, assess the overall look, and make sure the handles feel comfortable to use. Try not to overthink it: if the handles look right by eye and feel comfortable to use, they are in exactly the right place.