October 31, 2024

How to Choose the Perfect Door Hardware for Every Design Style

When it comes to designing a home, it’s often the smallest details that leave the biggest impression. Door hardware—the knobs, levers, and handles you touch every day—may seem functional, but it’s these elements that define how a space feels. Selecting the right hardware for your doors isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about enhancing the architecture of your home and harmonising with your overall design vision.

We spoke with Rosanne Spagnolo, interior designer and Castella hardware specialist, to explore how choosing the perfect door hardware can transform your home—whether it’s a sleek modern retreat or a heritage Victorian masterpiece.

Minimalist Marvels: Hardware for the Modern Home

Clean lines, open spaces, and minimal clutter—modern homes thrive on simplicity, but that doesn’t mean they lack personality. For these spaces, door hardware should be equally understated yet refined, effortlessly blending into the architecture.

Matte black or Brushed nickel finishes are the go-to for modern interiors,” says Rosanne Spagnolo. “Think slim profiles, square handles, and subtle geometric shapes that echo the linear design of the home.” The beauty of modern hardware lies in its simplicity—it doesn’t shout for attention, but rather complements the space with quiet sophistication.

Image: Honey-toned timber storage featuring our Terrace pull handles in Matt Black Photographer: @jamesgeer Designer: @mannamade

Victorian Drama: Hardware That Tells a Story

Stepping into a Victorian home is like stepping back in time. Rich textures, ornate detailing, and layers of history create an atmosphere of grandeur. Choosing hardware for these homes requires a certain respect for the architecture—a balance between authenticity and modern convenience.

“In heritage homes, hardware is like jewellery,” Spagnolo explains. “Brass knobs with intricate detailing or Cup pulls can add that timeless elegance while staying true to the home’s roots.” Look for pieces that feel like they belong, that could have been part of the home’s original design, yet bring a fresh, functional touch.

Image: Laundry renovation featuring Castella Decade Dome knob in Satin Brass Builder: @plunketthomes

Industrial Edge: Bold, Raw, and Unapologetic

For those with an appreciation for the raw, industrial interiors embrace the beauty of exposed materials—concrete, steel, and aged timber. Door hardware in these spaces should reflect that unapologetic, utilitarian edge.

“Industrial style is all about boldness,” Spagnolo says. “Opt for Gunmetal or Oil-Rubbed bronze finishes, and don’t be afraid to choose pieces with visible screws, knurling or rivets. The more rugged, the better.” These handles should feel as though they were crafted from the very materials that define the room itself, becoming an integral part of the architecture rather than just an accessory.

Image: Castella Chelsea Appliance pull handle in Bronze finish Designer: @designsby.gabriella

Mid-Century Warmth: Organic Forms and Subtle Curves

Mid-century modern homes revel in the harmony between form and function. Soft curves, organic materials, and a seamless flow between indoors and outdoors define this style. For door hardware, it’s all about maintaining that warmth while adding a subtle modern twist.

“Think Brushed brass, Chrome or Timber, with handles that feel tactile and sculptural,” advises Spagnolo. “Rounded knobs or teardrop levers work beautifully here, bringing that nostalgic touch while staying true to the home’s sleek, streamlined look.”

Image: Castella Macquarie cabinet handle in Charred Oak finish Photographer: @southernstudiosproductions

Rustic Farmhouse Charm: Inviting and Timeless

The farmhouse aesthetic has moved beyond its rural roots, becoming a beloved style in homes across the world. With its mix of vintage and contemporary elements, farmhouse interiors call for hardware that feels both warm and robust.

“Rustic finishes like Bronze or Antique brass are perfect for farmhouse homes,” Spagnolo shares. “Pair these with Barn door hardware for a more authentic touch, and you’ve got a look that’s cosy, inviting, and endlessly timeless.”

Image: Castella Tuscan Foundry Hand-Forged cabinet handle in Dark Bronze finish

Final Thoughts

Every home has its own architectural narrative, and the door hardware you choose should contribute to that story. Whether your home is a modern minimalist haven or a Victorian sanctuary, the right handle or knob can do more than simply open doors—it can transform a space.


At Castella, we believe that hardware is more than just functional. It’s the final touch, the detail that completes the design. With a wide selection of finishes and styles, we offer pieces that elevate any space, from classic heritage homes to contemporary designs.