When you’re updating your kitchen with new cabinet fronts, choosing the right hardware is only half the decision—the other half is deciding where to place it.
While it might seem like a small detail, hardware placement plays a big role in both the function and overall look of your kitchen. That’s why we’ve created a simple guide to help you visualize the most popular options for both panel and slab styles.
Why Hardware Placement Matters
Great hardware placement should:
- Feel natural and comfortable when you open a cabinet or drawer
- Complement the lines and proportions of the door style
- Contribute to a clean, consistent look across your kitchen
There’s no one “right” option—but there are some best practices, depending on your door style and how you use your kitchen. Below are our most common placement options, broken out by panel and slab designs.
Paneled Door & Drawer Placement
Panel-style doors have built-in detailing and structure, so placement often aligns with those visual elements for balance.
For Doors:
- Aligned: Pulls or knobs are aligned with the top rail of the door frame—clean and traditional.
- Offset: Slightly offset from the rail and stile intersection—adds a modern twist.
- Centered: Centered within the corner of the door frame—symmetrical and eye-catching.
For Drawers:
- Centered (both vertical and horizontal): A classic choice for balanced visual appeal.
- Above Rail: Great for multi-panel drawers where the top pull sits just above the panel’s rail for easy access.
Slab Door & Drawer Placement
Slab-style doors have a smooth, modern face—so placement decisions are often about proportion and visual weight.
For Doors:
- Standard placement is 2″ from the bottom and side, which keeps it functional and clean, while maintaining a modern feel.
For Drawers:
- Centered: Straightforward and balanced.
- Top Down Match: Aligns the placement from drawer to drawer for a unified stacked look.
- Raised: Shifts the pull slightly upward on each drawer for easier reach and a more contemporary vibe.
Tips for Choosing the Right Option
When choosing your hardware placement, consider how you use your space on a daily basis. If comfort and ease of access are top priorities, raised drawer pulls may offer a more ergonomic option. In modern kitchens, slab doors paired with clean, minimal hardware placement help maintain a sleek, streamlined aesthetic. For more classic or transitional styles, aligned or centered hardware on paneled doors provides a timeless, balanced look. And if you’re ever unsure, centered placement is always a safe and stylish choice.
Not quite sure which placement is right for your space?
Seeing your hardware options up close can make all the difference. Try testing a few placement ideas with painter’s tape or a paper template before you commit. And if you’re looking for the perfect knobs or pulls to complete your look—explore our hardware today! Our team is always here to help you make the best choice for your kitchen.