Should you put hardware on fake drawers? This is a question that many homeowners ask themselves when designing their kitchen or bathroom cabinets.
While fake drawers may not serve a functional purpose, adding hardware can enhance the overall aesthetic of the space.
In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of putting hardware on fake drawers and help you make an informed decision.
Key Takeaways
- Whether or not to put hardware on fake drawers depends on several factors, including the location and purpose of the fake drawer, the type of hardware, and your personal preferences.
- Hardware can enhance the look of your cabinets and make it easier to open and close the fake drawer, but not all fake drawers require hardware.
- Choosing the right hardware is crucial to achieving the desired look and feel of your cabinets.
Understanding Fake Drawers
If you’re remodeling your kitchen or installing new cabinets, you may come across fake drawers. These are decorative panels that look like drawers but don’t actually open.
They are often found in front of sinks or stovetops, where a real drawer would be impractical.
Fake drawers can be made from the same material as the surrounding cabinets, or they can be a different color or style to add visual interest. They can also be used to hide unsightly pipes or other fixtures.
When it comes to adding hardware to fake drawers, opinions are divided. Some people believe that you should always add a pull or knob to a fake drawer, while others think it’s unnecessary.
One argument in favor of adding hardware is that it makes the fake drawer look more like a real one. It can also make it easier to open the adjacent drawers, since the hardware provides a place to grip.
On the other hand, adding hardware to a fake drawer can be a waste of money and effort. If the fake drawer is purely decorative and won’t be used for storage, there’s no need to add hardware. It can also be a safety hazard if the hardware is sharp or protruding.
Ultimately, the decision to add hardware to a fake drawer is up to you. Consider the purpose of the fake drawer, the style of your cabinets, and your personal preference.
| Pros of adding hardware | Cons of adding hardware |
|---|---|
| Makes the fake drawer look more like a real one | Can be a waste of money and effort |
| Provides a place to grip when opening adjacent drawers | Can be a safety hazard if the hardware is sharp or protruding |
Why Put Hardware on Fake Drawers
If you are wondering whether you should put hardware on fake drawers, the short answer is that it is up to personal preference. However, adding hardware to fake drawers can serve several purposes, including aesthetic and functional ones.
For aesthetic purposes, adding hardware to fake drawers can enhance the visual appeal of your kitchen.
It can make your cabinets look more appealing and give them a cohesive and balanced look. By adding hardware to all of your cabinets and drawers, including the fake ones, you can create a uniform and polished look for your kitchen.
From a functional standpoint, adding hardware to fake drawers can make them easier to identify and access. Without hardware, fake drawers can be difficult to distinguish from real ones, and you may waste time trying to open them.
By adding hardware, you can easily identify which drawers are real and which ones are fake, and you can open them with ease.
When choosing hardware for your fake drawers, consider the style and finish of your cabinets and other hardware. You want to choose hardware that complements your existing hardware and creates a cohesive look.
You can choose from a variety of hardware styles, including knobs, pulls, and handles, depending on your personal preference and the style of your kitchen.
How To Choose the Right Hardware For Your Fake Drawers
When it comes to choosing hardware for your fake drawers, there are a few things to consider.
First, you want to make sure the hardware matches the style of the rest of your kitchen.
If you have a modern kitchen, you may want to consider a sleek stainless steel bar pull. If you have a more traditional kitchen, a classic cabinet knob or pull may be a better fit.
Another factor to consider is the material of the hardware.
Plastic hardware may be a more affordable option, but it may not be as durable as metal hardware. Matte black, brushed nickel, and chrome are all popular finishes for hardware and can add a touch of sophistication to your kitchen.
When it comes to placement, you want to ensure that the hardware is placed in a way that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Handles and pulls are typically placed in the center of the drawer front, while knobs can be placed in the center or towards the top edge of the drawer.
If you’re unsure about what type of hardware to choose, consider consulting with a professional. They can help you select the right hardware for your kitchen based on your style preferences and budget.
Here’s a table summarizing some of the most popular types of hardware:
| Type of Hardware | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Cabinet Pull | A long, horizontal handle that spans the width of the drawer | Modern kitchens |
| Cabinet Knob | A small, round knob that is centered on the drawer front | Traditional kitchens |
| Bar Pull | A sleek, straight handle that can be mounted horizontally or vertically | Contemporary kitchens |
| Cabinet Handle | A handle that is typically mounted vertically on the drawer front | All kitchen styles |
| Stainless Steel | A durable and modern finish that is easy to clean | Modern kitchens |
| Plastic | An affordable option that may not be as durable as metal hardware | Budget-conscious homeowners |
| Matte Black | A sophisticated finish that can add contrast to light-colored cabinets | Modern and contemporary kitchens |
| Brushed Nickel | A classic finish that can complement a variety of kitchen styles | Traditional and modern kitchens |
| Chrome | A shiny finish that can add a touch of glamour to your kitchen | Contemporary kitchens |
Installation Process
When it comes to installing hardware on fake drawers, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First and foremost, it’s important to determine whether or not the fake drawer is designed to be functional or purely decorative.
If it’s purely decorative, then adding hardware may not be necessary. However, if the fake drawer is designed to be functional, then you’ll need to follow the proper installation process to ensure that the hardware is secure and functional.
Tools Required
Before you begin the installation process, you’ll need to gather the necessary tools. Here’s a list of tools you’ll need:
- Drill
- Screwdriver
- Screws
- Washers
- Clips
- Locking mechanism (if necessary)
- Latch (if necessary)
- Padlock (if necessary)
Steps for Installation
Once you have all of the necessary tools, you can begin the installation process. Here are the steps you should follow:
- Determine the location for the hardware. Use a ruler or measuring tape to ensure that the hardware is centered and level.
- Mark the location for the hardware using a pencil or marker.
- Use a drill to create pilot holes for the screws. Be sure to use a drill bit that is slightly smaller than the screws you’ll be using.
- Insert the screws into the pilot holes and tighten them using a screwdriver.
- If necessary, add washers or clips to ensure that the hardware is secure.
- If you’re installing a locking mechanism or latch, follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
- If you’re installing a padlock, be sure to choose one that is the appropriate size for the hardware and that is designed to fit the locking mechanism.
By following these steps, you can ensure that the hardware on your fake drawers is secure and functional.
Location and Size Considerations
When it comes to deciding whether or not to put hardware on fake drawers, location and size are two important factors to consider. Let’s take a closer look at each of these considerations.
Location
The location of the fake drawer can play a role in whether or not you should put hardware on it. For example, if the fake drawer is located in a high-traffic area, such as near the kitchen sink, you may want to consider adding hardware to make it look more like a functional drawer.
On the other hand, if the fake drawer is located in a less visible area, such as in a bathroom, you may be able to get away with leaving it without hardware.
Size
The size of the fake drawer is another factor to consider. If the fake drawer is larger in size, adding hardware can help to balance out the look of the cabinets and make them appear more symmetrical. However, if the fake drawer is small in size, adding hardware may not be necessary and could even make the cabinet look cluttered.
When deciding whether or not to put hardware on fake drawers, it’s important to consider both location and size. By taking these factors into account, you can make an informed decision about whether or not to add hardware to your cabinets.
| Factor | Considerations |
|---|---|
| Location | High-traffic areas may benefit from hardware, while less visible areas may not need it. |
| Size | Larger fake drawers may benefit from hardware, while smaller ones may not need it. |
Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to whether or not you should put hardware on fake drawers. It ultimately comes down to your personal preference and the overall look you’re trying to achieve with your cabinets.
Material and Color Choices
When it comes to fake drawers, you have a lot of options when it comes to the material and color choices. The material you choose should match the rest of your kitchen cabinets. You can choose from wood or laminate materials.
If you have wooden cabinets, you can choose to have a fake drawer made of the same wood as the cabinets. This will give your kitchen a cohesive look. If you have laminate cabinets, you can choose a laminate material that matches the color and texture of your cabinets.
When it comes to color choices, you can choose from a wide range of colors. You can choose a color that matches your cabinets, or you can choose a contrasting color to add a pop of color to your kitchen. Some popular colors for fake drawers are white, black, gray, and brown.
Shapes of fake drawers can also vary. You can choose from a variety of shapes, including square, rectangular, and curved. The shape you choose should match the style of your kitchen.
It’s important to note that when it comes to hardware on fake drawers, it’s a personal preference. Some people choose to add hardware to fake drawers for aesthetic reasons, while others choose to leave them without hardware to prevent people from accidentally pulling on them. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide whether or not to add hardware to your fake drawers.
Functional and Aesthetic Alternatives
If you’re not a fan of hardware on fake drawers, there are other functional and aesthetic alternatives you can consider. Here are a few options:
Magnets
If you want to keep your fake drawers looking sleek and uncluttered, you can use magnets to secure them shut. This is a great option if you’re using your fake drawers for storage and don’t need to access them frequently. You can place a magnet on the inside of the drawer front and another on the inside of the cabinet frame to keep the drawer securely closed.
Towel Rack
If you have a fake drawer in your kitchen or bathroom that’s located near the sink, you can install a towel rack on the front of it. This will give you a convenient place to hang your hand towel, and it will also make the fake drawer look like a functional part of the space.
Extra Storage
If you’re short on storage space in your kitchen or bathroom, you can turn your fake drawers into functional drawers by adding some simple hardware. You can install a pull-out drawer or a drawer organizer that will allow you to use the space for extra storage.
Functional Drawer
If you have a fake drawer in your kitchen that’s located under your sink, you can turn it into a functional drawer by installing a tilt-out tray. This will give you a convenient place to store your sponges and other cleaning supplies, and it will also make the fake drawer look like a functional part of your kitchen.
Cabinet Space
If you have a fake drawer in your kitchen that’s located above a cabinet, you can turn it into extra cabinet space by installing a pull-out shelf. This will give you more storage space for your pots and pans, and it will also make the fake drawer look like a functional part of your kitchen.
In conclusion, there are many functional and aesthetic alternatives you can consider if you don’t want to put hardware on your fake drawers. Whether you’re looking for extra storage, a functional drawer, or just a way to keep your space looking sleek and uncluttered, there’s an option out there that will work for you.
Mixing and Matching Hardware
Choosing the right hardware for your kitchen cabinets can be a daunting task. However, mixing and matching hardware is an excellent way to add visual interest to your kitchen. Here are some tips to help you mix and match hardware effectively:
- Mix knobs and pulls: A mix of knobs and pulls is a great way to add variety to your kitchen cabinets. For example, you can use knobs on your cabinet doors and pulls on your drawers. This mix of hardware will give your kitchen a unique look and feel.
- Coordinating hardware: When mixing and matching hardware, it’s essential to ensure that the hardware coordinates well with each other. For example, if you have white cabinets, you can use black hardware to create a dramatic contrast. Alternatively, you can use hardware with the same finish as your appliances to create a cohesive look.
- Two pulls: In larger kitchens, you can use two pulls on larger drawers to create a more balanced look. This technique works well with shaker cabinets, which have a simple and clean design.
- Visual interest: Mixing and matching hardware is an excellent way to add visual interest to your kitchen. For example, you can use hardware with unique shapes or textures to create a focal point in your kitchen.
Here is an example of how you can mix and match hardware in your kitchen:
| Cabinet Type | Hardware Type |
|---|---|
| Cabinet Doors | Knobs |
| Drawers | Pulls |
| Large Drawers | Two Pulls |
By mixing and matching hardware, you can create a unique and personalized look for your kitchen. Just remember to keep the hardware coordinated and visually interesting to achieve the best results.
Conclusion
Overall, the decision to put hardware on fake drawers is a personal one that depends on your individual preferences and needs. If you’re looking for a sleek and modern look, hardware-free fake drawers may be the way to go. However, if you want to add a finishing touch to your cabinets or make it easier to distinguish between real and fake drawers, adding hardware may be the best choice for you.