On Our Wishlist: 2022 Hardware Trends

Whether you're renovating a kitchen or building a bathroom from scratch, hardware, opens in a new tab may sometimes come as an afterthought. After all, the cabinets and counters take up the most real estate. But, finding the right styles, opens in a new tab can often add an eye-catching element that elevates the room to a new level. As firm believers that the design is in the details, we thought we’d help by simplifying the many options on the market. Here’s how to choose among this year’s hardware trends for a timeless look that is both stylish and enduring.

Polished + Pattern

Subtle yet sophisticated, the luxurious look of polished and satin nickel hardware has wide-reaching appeal. Polished nickel, opens in a new tab is similar to chrome, but casts a warmer shade, while satin nickel, opens in a new tab shares the qualities of the option above, but takes on a muted or matte finish. While this metal has been around for a while, we've been seeing this classic finish paired with playful pops of pattern, opens in a new tab — specifically in bathrooms.

Pro Tip: Adding a wallpaper accent is a simple and impactful way to add fun personality to your space.

, opens in a new tabVia @home_ec_op, opens in a new tab

1980s Brass

It is abundantly clear that brass and gold finishes are here to stay. Polished, royal, or natural brass, opens in a new tab delivers an elegant look and feel that is saturated but not too shiny. Although it’s not a new trend per se, we have been seeing a new take on it with 1980s brass fixtures, faucets, and hardware. Lately, we've also seen these brass beauties paired with warmer wood detailing.

As a counterpoint to the wood + brass style, we've also found that pairing this traditional finish with color modernizes it. If you want to go for a classic look but add an unconventional element, try sprucing up your space with creamy pastel cabinets, cool blue tile, or a vibrant green light fixture, opens in a new tab.

Pro Tip: One way to coordinate cabinet hardware is to match the visual weight. For example, when selecting a minimal drawer pull, try to find an equally sleek style for the knob.

, opens in a new tabVia @thecastillocollective, opens in a new tab

Mixing Metals

While mixing metals, opens in a new tab has traditionally been taboo, we find it adds a modern and interesting interior aesthetic. For this look, we generally recommend picking black as the base (simply because it will always be on trend).

Another reason why we love black hardware, opens in a new tab is because it is neutral. It offers a clean palette for shared apartments, as well as for a modern couple moving into their first home. Better still, it ages well as kids, pets, and house guests slowly move in over time. Try pairing your black cabinet knobs with polished nickel lighting or install black pulls with a brass mirror.

Pro Tip: Contrasted with white cabinets or brass wall sconces, black finishes can feel unexpected and classy.

, opens in a new tabVia @carlanatalia__ , opens in a new tab

Bonus Points

If you want to go bold, consider coupling a hardware trend with unconventional placement. Edge handles, opens in a new tab can draw new sight lines to a square, boxy room. The same goes for curved and cup-like hardware, opens in a new tab, which offers a vintage mod look that is ideal for the top of lower cabinets. At the end of the day, your space is yours to play — so experiment and have fun to see what works for you.

Shop Hardware

Written by Nafeesah Allen, opens in a new tab