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.

This month, and the first for 2025, we are excited to shine the spotlight on Alex and Janette Stritt.

Stritt Design and Construction specialises in traditional coastal homes on Sydney's Northern Beaches and North Shore. 

After the success of our Designer Spotlight Series we wanted to showcase the work of the hardworking Builders & Trade in our Industry.

Please enjoy our Q & A with Tim and Lauren from Kai Konstruct.

What are your top 3 tips when planning your build?

• Take photos of messy areas and use them to plan cabinetry that meets your storage needs.
• Gather your entire team-building designer, interior designer, and construction team-at the outset for better results.
• Keep a 10% buffer in your budget for unexpected expenses or design changes.

What's your best advice when planning a kitchen?

• Stay authentic to your family's kitchen habits.
• If you cook a lot, add bench space and storage. If not, opt for a minimalist design.
• Conceal everyday appliances for a streamlined look, and integrate them where possible.

Which materials do you find the most effective in your projects?

Natural materials like travertine, marble, and handmade tiles are timeless and develop a beautiful patina over time. Proclima and Wedi Board aren't visible but provide significant benefits to our builds.

What do you like about Hepburn Hardware products?

We love the variety of colours and how all the styles complement each other beautifully.

Three main things to consider when designing a bathroom?

• Wet areas can be more compact yet highly functional-avoid wasted space.
• Tailor the bathroom to your family's needs to reflect your lifestyle.
• Install a pan fan to remove odours, viruses, and bacteria from the toilet.

How do you ensure your projects stay on schedule and within budget?

Collaborating as a team from the beginning helps avoid budget overruns. Our in-house carpentry team and proactive planning ensure we stay on schedule.

What trends do you see emerging in home building and renovation?

We prioritise quality over quantity, preferring smaller, well-built spaces. Cabinetry is being designed to look like furniture, integrating with the surroundings.

Thank-you to Lauren and Tim for sharing their wealth of knowledge with us all.
HEAD TO https://kaikonstruct.com.au/ to learn more about their business.

We recently chatted with Kate Walker on her BARRINGTON project & got into the finer details with how she selects her hardware on her projects & important things to consider when selecting.

Q: Can you tell us about the inspiration behind the Barrington project?

A: We aimed to capture the essence of an English gentleman seaside manor while infusing it with modern conveniences. The facade was meticulously crafted to exude a sense of age and history, resembling a renovated heritage property rather than a new build.

Q: How would you describe the overall aesthetic of Barrington?

A: Barrington embodies a distinguished English seaside charm with a contemporary twist. The interior evokes a sense of nostalgia and romance, providing a welcoming retreat for a large family.

Q: What elements contribute to the masculine flavour of the design?

A: The design incorporates a blend of materials to bring a masculine sophistication to the space. Every detail is carefully considered, adding to the overall refinement and character of the home.

Q: Could you elaborate on the attention to detail in Barrington?

A: Attention to detail is paramount in Barrington. From the moment you enter through the front gates, you'll notice the meticulous craftsmanship and thoughtful design choices that enhance every space, creating a truly comfortable and inviting environment for its inhabitants.

Q: Can you talk us through your hardware selections?

A: Selecting cabinetry hardware for a project is never an afterthought or adjunct to a design. We see it as the jewellery that adds flair and a foundation.

 The selection of finishes now available ensures that you can marry the hardware finishes to, or contrast them with, the tapware selection and the detailing in the joinery design. 

The way each knob and handle feels to the touch, and the way the finish ages and patinas over time, is a very important consideration for every design project.

It’s so important to pay attention to those items that are used multiple times a day in a home, from the doorknobs to the tapware, to the handles and knobs on cabinetry doors and drawers.

 This selection process leans into our design ethos of blending form and function to achieve the best possible outcome.

Q: What would you say were the top 3 things for someone to consider when selecting hardware?

1. Quality
2. Aesthetic compatibility
3. Touch, feel, texture and tone.
   
    
   

Some excellent tips & info here we hope you enjoyed.
Thank you to Kate for sharing her insights & inspo.

Please feel free to reach out if you need any assistance with your hardware selections.