The door handle is the first thing you will touch on a door. Choosing the right handle will really help to complete your entrance. Using high quality handles on your bespoke doors will make a huge difference. Whereas a cheap handle will make your luxurious door look out of place.Here we show you how to choose the right handles and accessories for your home.
Why Handles are Important on Luxury Doors
Handles are used regularly. They need to be smooth and sturdy to grip with wet hands, fully extended arms and tired fingers. They are the jewellery of your door. A slim handle will give your door a modern look whilst a round knob gives a more homely feel. Be careful when choosing your handle to create a completed look.
Consider the Style of Your Home
Before purchasing handles consider what style your home is. If you have a Victorian terrace then you will want to choose curved levers and warm metals. New build homes look great with slim handles and plate handles. Since you’re using bespoke doors you can be very flexible. Joiners can cut your door to fit any handle you love. Choose 3 words to describe your home. For example; Homely, Sleek and Rustic.
Pick a Metal Finish
Pick a metal that creates the right atmosphere in your hallway. Brushed brass is great for adding warmth to oak and deep greens. Matte black will make your white and grey stand out. Chrome is great for a cool bathroom. Satin nickel works with most colours. If you have a cottage then antique bronze would be perfect. Pick one or two metals per floor. Too many different metals can cause confusion.
Types & Shapes of Handles
There are lots of different types of handles. Levers work well with most doors. They are great for small hands and busy arms. Knobs give a traditional look. Pull handles will create a bold look on your front door. Built in handles have a minimalist look. Choose the right shape to suit how you use your home.
Hinges & Locks
- Whilst not obvious, your hinges and locks are just as important.
- Heavy hinges work well with solid timber doors.
- Built in hinges will create a neat look.
- Choose matching finishes for your hinges.
- Use a multi point lock on your front door.
- Thumb turn on your bathroom door.
Front Door Handles
Front doors are exposed to the elements and thieves. They need to be tough. Stainless steel and solid brass are great for resisting the elements. Doorlux create luxury external doors with matching handles and locks. A long pull handle will add a bold look to your dark green or navy door. Add a letter box and knock in the same metal to keep it neat.
Internal Handles
You can be more playful with your internal handles. Oak and walnut luxury doors look great with brass levers. White doors look great with black bars. A heavy handle is great in a study to give a peaceful feel. A quiet latch is needed on the bedroom door so no one will wake. Try to keep the same style of handle throughout the floor.
Feel the Weight of the Handle
Before purchasing try holding the handle. Try to get a handle that is heavy enough. A hollow handle will feel light and cheap. A solid handle will feel sturdy and cool. Check that the handle is springy. If it is not then your levers will sag. Many bespoke doors will be heavy so you will need a heavy handle.
Small Extras
Adding small extras will really complete your door. Thin finger plates will protect your painted doors. A door stop will protect your wall from a swinging handle. Adding hooks, house numbers and a smart letter box will add some character to your front door. Try to keep these in the same metal. Small details can make a big difference. When ordering bespoke doors plan your hardware so your whole set will look planned.
Door Ideas & Upgrades
- Changing your handle is an inexpensive way to upgrade a room. Doorlux create premium doors and bespoke door solutions for homes of all ages. Go through the list below.
- Try holding a sample against your door in the daylight.
- Check the weight and spring.
- Choose 1 metal per floor.
- Ensure your hinges and locks match.
- If you have unusual frames or a bespoke shaped door ask for bespoke doors.
- Ensure your handle will fit the thickness of your door.
FAQs
What metal finish will last the longest?
Solid brass and stainless steel will last for years. Use a good lacquer to keep them shiny.
Can I use different handle finishes?
Yes you can. However stick to 1 colour per floor.
Do my handles need to match my hinges?
No they don’t however they will look neater if they match. Choose the same finish.
How do I clean my brass handles?
Wipe with a soft damp cloth. Don’t use harsh sprays as they will remove the coating.
Does Doorlux fit handles?
Yes. We provide matching handles and locks to your internal and external doors.
Conclusion
Choosing a good quality handle will really complete your luxurious door. Ensure you match the metal, shape and weight to your home. Doorlux provide premium doors and bespoke door solutions to homeowners up and down the country. Speak to our team about bespoke doors and matching hardware.
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If you’re curious about a sleek door slab then check out our blog Are Flush Doors a Good Choice for Modern UK Properties? to see if it would suit your home. Open the guide and get started.