LET'S TALK SELECTIONS

with

DANIELLE BONELLO-DUNSFORD
From
DANIELLE VICTORIA DESIGN STUDIO

Choosing cabinetry hardware might seem like a small detail, but it can make a big impact, both aesthetically and functionally. We recently sat down with Australian Interior Designer Danielle Bonello-Dunsford to talk through the finer points of selecting the right handle, knob, or pull for a space.
 
Whether you're dreaming up a breezy, coastal cool kitchen or refining the final details of a warm country-style laundry, Danielle breaks down what to consider, what to steer clear of and why your hardware choice should never be just about looks.
 
Danielle shares the biggest mistakes people make, why functionality always comes first and the timeless finishes she trusts to last.

 
1. Start with the finish
“The first key factor we consider for our clients is whether they would prefer a hardware finish that will patina or one that will stay stable over time,” says Danielle.
 
From there, style leads the way. “We select our hardware according to the home and concept we're designing for. For a recent countryside manor inspired project we chose the Surrey range in acid washed brass, it felt solid and timeless. In a classic Hamptons-style home, we specified the Kew, which has beautiful, intricate detailing.”
 
 
2. Know what's behind the panel

When choosing between a knob, handle, or pull, Danielle says to consider the cabinet's function.
- For heavy, integrated fridge or freezer doors: always an appliance pull.
- For tall pantry doors: appliance pulls again, for consistency.
- For swing cupboard doors: often a knob (they're lighter to open).
- For integrated bins and dishwashers: go for a sturdy 256mm handle.

3. Don't let looks fool you
“The biggest mistake we see is when people choose hardware purely for aesthetics,” Danielle says. “Ergonomics are just as important. Your hardware should feel good to touch, pull, push or turn.”
 
4. Design for the way you move
In high use areas like kitchens and bathrooms, it's about more than just looks. “Consider the projection and edge profile of your hardware,” says Danielle. “You don't want to catch clothing or bump your hip every time you walk past.”
 

5. Scale and placement matter

“We always consider the scale of the joinery panel when deciding on a handle or knob. And placement depends on the style of the joinery. For example, on a 60mm shaker, we'll often position the hardware on the centre of the shaker rail profile. 
For a 10mm or 20mm shaker, we'll position it on the central panel.”
 
6. What's trending (and what's not)
“Half-moon pulls had their moment, but we're seeing less of them now,” says Danielle. “What's here to stay? Mixed metals. They offer so much flexibility when styling the rest of the space.”


7. Installation insight
“Always choose a reputable cabinet maker and don't be afraid to ask for references. We're always on site with our clients when hardware is installed to make sure it's placed at the right height and aligned with our drawings.”


8. Materials that age gracefully
“Solid brass hardware is always our top choice for quality and longevity,” says Danielle. “In coastal properties where clients don't want their hardware to patina, finishes like chromes and nickels are great stable options.”
 
 
 

At Hepburn Hardware, we believe great design lives in the details and cabinetry hardware is no exception. We're grateful to Danielle for sharing her thoughtful approach to hardware selection, and for continuing to use Hepburn pieces in her beautifully resolved spaces. If you would like to connect with her for your project, you can learn more at www.daniellevictoria.com.au
 

Looking to bring these insights into your next project?
Explore our curated hardware collections or book a complimentary consult 
with our team.