Dear Danica, What Color Of Door Knobs Look Best In Traditional Homes?

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Dear danica,

I’m building a new house that’s more traditional in style. What color and finish of interior door hinges and knobs would be best in a traditional home?

– Kristine

When it comes to hardware finishes in traditional interiors, consider a finish that’s period appropriate. What door knob and hinge hardware would look best in a traditional home? Well there’s one predominantly used finish and 4 alternatives not far behind.

But before selecting the finish for your door knobs and hinges, consider the other hardware finishes in your house. Selecting complementary finishes will create a more harmonious home. Read this post to see what finishes work well together. Assuming you have the freedom to select any hardware finish you want, let’s cover the most common hardware colors in traditional homes.

The most common hardware finish in traditional homes

Perhaps the most predominantly seen hardware finish in traditional interiors is brass. Unlacquered brass that ages into a beautiful antique brass finish adds a layer of character and history. On the other hand, we’re seeing more and more polished brass in today’s interiors. The elegance of polished brass brings a glamour that aligns with the character of a traditional interior. The one brass finish I would avoid is brushed brass. In my experience, it tends to look cheap.

Antique brass is perhaps the most “period appropriate” hardware finish, but polished brass is a beautiful way to blend classic designs with a contemporary adaptation.

Other hardware finishes seen in traditional interiors

While brass might be the most common finish, there are several alternatives that aren’t far behind – bronze being the closest in the lineup. While you can opt for oil rubbed bronze, I much prefer the look of unlaquered brass that ages into a deep bronzey finish. Unfortunately, mass produced oil rubbed bronze finishes often look cheap and manufactured. You kind of gotta dig to find a bronze finish that looks authentic, but the cost is often higher. (Note: Some manufacturers produce better oil rubbed bronze finishes than others. Always buy a sample first to test the coloring.) Natural materials on the other hand will always provide an authentic aesthetic.

Glass knobs, white porcelain, and ceramic knobs are also a classic option. Glass of course is the most formal of the three. I also have a personal affection towards polished chrome in traditional interiors. It’s a stately finish that brings an unexpected layer to the home.

The truth is, there’s not one cut and dry answer to what finish looks best in traditional interiors. The style and feeling you want to create can help you decide on a finish. Are you drawn to elegance and formality? Opt for glass, polished brass, or polished chrome. Do you like the look of a home that ages gracefully with character? Opt for antique brass or unlacquered brass.

What hinge color looks best with traditional door knobs?

I almost always prefer hinges that match the finish of the door knobs. Brass door knobs with brass hinges. Of course when it comes to glass or porcelain knobs, matching hinges aren’t an option. If the knobs happen to have any other metal finish on them, match that. If not, I’d lean towards brass or bronze hinges.

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