Introduction-
When we talk about home design,
we often think of colours, materials, lighting and furniture. But what about
the humble door handle? Much more than just functional items, designer external
door handles are making their mark in the world of interior design −they’re
aesthetically pleasing, yet practical.
Designer
external door handles are essentially pieces of hardware that allow us
to open and close doors. Beyond functionality, they are significant design
elements that can tie together a room’s overall style. They are the finishing
touches that, although small, can make a big impact on the overall aesthetic of
your home.
Indeed, whether you’re building a
new house or revamping an old one, selecting the right door handles is crucial.
It’s like choosing jewelry to complement an outfit; the right choice can pull
everything together and elevate the overall look.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll
walk you through the process of choosing the perfect designer external door
handles – blending style and usability with safety and practical
considerations.
The Interplay of Form and Function-
When choosing designer external
door handles, the first step is to strike the right balance between form and
function. While it might be tempting to select handles based purely on their
aesthetic appeal, we need to remember that they serve a primary, functional
purpose.
For instance, a beautifully
designed doorknob might catch your eye, but if it is difficult to turn or grip,
it’s not fulfilling its primary function effectively. On the other hand, a
rugged industrial door handle might be easy to use but may not fit in well with
your minimalist or classical home design.
The key to finding that perfect
balance is to consider who will be using the door. For example, if you have
elderly family members or young kids, lever handles are generally easier to use
than knobs. From there, you can start to consider aesthetic elements like
material, colour, and style.
All About Materials-
Designer door handles are
manufactured from a variety of materials, with the most common ones being
brass, stainless steel, bronze, and even glass. Each material has its own
unique qualities and can significantly affect the look and experience of the
door handle.
Brass handles, for instance, are
known for their durability and resistance to corrosion, making them perfect for
exterior doors exposed to the elements. They are also easy to cast into
intricate designs, which makes them a popular choice for vintage or classical
aesthetics. Stainless steel, on the other hand, gives a sleek, modern and clean
look, and can be the best choice if you aim for a contemporary, minimalist
design.
It’s important to remember,
however, that the choice of material will also influence the cost, maintenance,
and longevity of your door handles. While you might love the look of a crystal
or glass handle, they may require more frequent cleaning and delicate handling
compared to more robust materials.
The Types and Styles Available in the Market-
Selecting designer external door
handles is more than just picking a material; it’s about choosing a type and
style that fits your home’s overall look. From traditional to modern, antique
to futuristic, the moulds of door handles have evolved significantly over the
years.
Modern homes might look best with
sleek lever handles with straight lines and crisp edges. Traditional or period
homes, on the other hand, could benefit from round doorknobs, be they made from
polished brass for a Victorian look or black iron for a country or rustic
style.
In choosing the right style, you
should also consider the architecture of your home. For instance, if you have a
period home with traditional architectural features, you will want to choose a
door handle that complements rather than contrasts these features.
Size and Installation Considerations-
When purchasing door handles,
size is an important factor that should never be overlooked. People often make
the mistake of purchasing a stylish handle, only to find that it doesn’t fit
their door. To ensure the best fit, take time to understand measurements like
door thickness and backset before making your purchase.
And various door varieties like
French, sliding and bi-fold doors have their own installation requirements. For
instance, lever handles are typically unsuitable for sliding doors, while
bi-fold doors often require specific types of locksets for proper functioning.
Ensuring that the handles you
select suit the door type and the way it operates can spare you unnecessary
stress and cost.
Safety Considerations-
Safety is paramount when it comes
to choosing designer
external door handles. This includes features like lock types and child
safety features. Deadlocks, for example, are often more secure than latch
locks.
For homes with young children, it
would be worthwhile to consider door handle types that can incorporate
child-proof safety features or locks that children can't easily open, such as
lever handles with safety locks.
Selecting door handles with
integrated locks can enhance the security of your home and provide peace of
mind. Remember, the most beautifully designed door handle is of little use if
it doesn't provide the security your family needs.
Designer Door Handles Trends in Australia-
Australia is home to a vibrant
design scene, and this is reflected in its trending door handle designs. One of
the big trends in Australia right now is the use of natural and tactile
materials, reflecting a reaction to our digital age. Think aged brass and
hammered surfaces with a 'lived-in' feel.
Well-known designers like Lane,
Tradco, and Delf are making waves with their signature styles. Australian
design houses are also setting the trend with minimalist, Scandinavian-inspired
designs, proving that simplicity can indeed be the ultimate sophistication.
The Art of Budgeting for Designer Door Handles-
Despite their importance, door
handles are often an overlooked aspect when setting a home improvement budget.
Also, with designer door handles, it's all too easy to be attracted to
extravagant styles, but these almost always come with a bigger price tag.
To avoid blowing your budget,
think about the type, style, and material for your handles. Natural materials
and intricate designs will likely cost more than simple, industrial designs.
There are also several online and
physical stores, both retail and wholesale, in Australia where you can find
budget-friendly designer handles. Remember to compare prices and don't be
afraid to ask for discounts –many suppliers offer them on bulk purchases.
Shopping Tips and Recommendations-
Shopping for the perfect designer
external door handles can be exciting but also overwhelming. It helps to know
reliable online and physical stores where high-quality selections can be found.
Some trusted online stores
include Door Hardware Online, Keeler Hardware, and Handles Plus, offering a
wide range of designer handles from top brands. For physical shopping, Bunnings
and Door Plus have impressive door handle selections available.
When shopping, pay attention to
the return and warranty policies. Ensure the retailer offers a fair return
policy in case the handle does not fit or meet your expectations. A warranty is
also crucial as it protects you against manufacturing defects.
Conclusion-
Selecting the perfect
designer external door handles is a critical aspect of home design. It
offers the chance to infuse your personal style into a functional item,
enhancing both the usability and aesthetic of your home.
From understanding the balance of
form and function to exploring different materials and styles, safety
considerations, and budgeting, this guide empowers you in making an informed
choice.
Now that you’re armed with the
knowledge needed, go forth and find the perfect designer external door handles
for your home. Happy shopping!
