Vintage kitchen hardware is the simplest way to add character to your space – here's everything you need to know, according to designers

If you haven't yet considered introducing vintage kitchen hardware into your scheme, this is your sign to do so. It adds so much character to a kitchen and promises a unique feature that makes your design stand out.

While decorating with vintage isn't a new concept, it's often overlooked in the more practical rooms, particularly when it comes to kitchen cabinet hardware ideas. But this small yet impactful addition can transform the overall look of your design.

If you're ready to start introducing vintage kitchen hardware to your scheme, here's everything you need to know according to experts, and their tips on the best way to introduce these preloved pieces in a tasteful way.

What's the appeal of vintage kitchen hardware?

This year's kitchen trends have championed eclectic, lived-in schemes, and vintage kitchen hardware gives that sense of style without compromising on the functionality of the space.

'Vintage kitchen hardware can provide a sense of cozy nostalgia to a room that otherwise features all the conveniences and up-to-the-minute technologies desired by home cooks in the 21st century,' says Anthony Barzilay Freund, editorial director at 1stDibs.

'Much like vintage jewelry paired with a contemporary dress or an antique object included in a room scheme composed of mostly new and custom pieces, vintage hardware provides your kitchen with gravitas and warmth.'

Like in every room of a home, it's those unexpected finishing touches that give the scheme personality and interest – a vintage door handle is far more impactful than a sleek, modern one that matches your cabinets.

How to choose vintage kitchen hardware

Sourcing vintage kitchen hardware isn't quite as simple as shopping for new pieces. It's rare to find sets with enough knobs or handles to furnish your entire cabinetry, so you may need to consider an alternative approach.

'Expect that it may be hard to find a complete set of cabinet pulls. That being said, your vintage hardware finds may need to complement newly made hardware, so ensure you feel good about how the different hardware interact,' says Anthony.

'Don’t be afraid to mix it up! If your heart is set on all vintage, you might not find enough pieces for your entire kitchen, in which case, go for something different on the island or the wall cabinets,' adds Rebekah Zaveloff, co-founder and creative director at Imparfait Design Studio.

The interior design style of your kitchen will also come into play when you're choosing your vintage kitchen hardware. Try to have an idea of either the finish, style, or even era of hardware you gravitate towards to narrow down your search.

'It can impact the color and texture scheme significantly depending on the hardware design and materials. For example, the 1950s artisan malachite pulls set in patinated brass, are sure to infuse depth and visual intrigue,' says Anthony.

'The joy of vintage kitchen hardware is that it has a reassuring kind of heritage feel about it. For cabinetry I particularly like those aged brass Georgian drop handles because they’re timelessly lovely; ceramic handles with a brass trim also look great,' adds interior designer Benji Lewis.

But, above all, choose vintage kitchen hardware that you love, cherish, and will enjoy looking at in your space. After all, your kitchen should reflect the people living in it, not just what is proving most popular, and vintage pieces are the perfect solution.

Whether you introduce a mix of old and new or an eclectic selection of collected pieces, vintage kitchen hardware is a fool-proof way to add charm and character to your scheme. And if you want to add more than just hardware, find out how to bring vintage pieces into a kitchen in our dedicated feature.