The Rise of Appliance Pulls: The Must-Have Detail for Designer Kitchens

A beautifully designed kitchen isn’t just about what you see — it’s about what you don’t. As kitchens become more streamlined, seamless cabinetry and integrated appliances are reshaping the way designers create these spaces. And with this shift, a new design hero has emerged: the appliance pull.

Once purely functional, these oversized handles have evolved into a powerful design statement — one that feels just as intentional as the stone benchtop or sculptural lighting overhead.

“Appliance pulls are key to achieving that curated, seamless look,” says Rosanne Spagnolo, interior designer and Castella hardware specialist. “They’re functional, of course — but the right design can feel like jewellery for your kitchen.”

From sleek brass bars to bold, oversized pulls in dramatic finishes, here’s how appliance pulls are redefining the modern kitchen.

The Allure of Seamless Kitchens

The kitchen is no longer just a workspace — it’s the heart of the home, a space to entertain, connect, and unwind. With this shift has come a desire for kitchens that feel more like beautifully designed living spaces — curated, calm, and uncluttered.

Integrated appliances have played a huge role in this evolution. Fridges, dishwashers, and even wine coolers are now discreetly concealed behind cabinetry, blending effortlessly into the design. But while this trend leans minimalist, the details — like appliance pulls — ensure the space still feels elevated and expressive.

“The beauty of appliance pulls is in their presence,” says Rosanne. “They break up expanses of cabinetry and offer a moment of materiality — whether that’s a bold metal finish or a textured detail that catches the light.”

Form Meets Function

While appliance pulls are undeniably beautiful, their design is equally about strength and practicality. Integrated appliances — particularly fridges, freezers, and dishwashers — require hardware that can withstand greater weight and frequent use.

Unlike standard cabinetry handles, appliance pulls are purpose-made with specialised fixings that provide added strength and stability. These reinforced mountings ensure the pull can comfortably handle the extra force required to open heavy integrated doors without loosening or weakening over time.

“An appliance pull is one of the most frequently touched elements in the kitchen,” explains Rosanne. “It has to feel good in your hand — something rounded, softly curved, or substantial to grip will always feel better to use.”

Choosing a design that offers both strength and ergonomic comfort is key to achieving a kitchen that feels as effortless as it looks.

Material Matters: Strength First, Style Second

In high-traffic kitchens, appliance pulls aren’t just decorative — they’re workhorses. While cabinetry handles can be chosen for aesthetics alone, appliance pulls need to combine form with exceptional durability.

“Appliance pulls need to pull double duty,” says Rosanne. “They’re one of the most frequently touched features in the kitchen — they need to look incredible but, more importantly, they need to last.”

Choosing the right material ensures your appliance pulls maintain their beauty and function for years to come.

• Stainless Steel – A go-to for durability, stainless steel is naturally corrosion-resistant, making it ideal for coastal homes, humid climates, or kitchens prone to splashes and spills. Its strength makes it perfect for heavier appliances like integrated fridges or full-height pantry doors.
• Solid Brass – Known for its strength and longevity, brass is a smart choice for high-use areas. While unlacquered brass will develop a natural patina over time, brushed and lacquered brass finishes offer excellent resistance to fingerprints, watermarks, and daily wear.
• Aluminium – Lightweight yet strong, aluminium is highly resistant to rust and corrosion. Its durability makes it ideal for modern kitchens with a clean, minimalist aesthetic.
• Timber – Surprisingly durable when well-crafted, timber appliance pulls can be a striking feature in kitchens that embrace organic warmth. Opt for hardwoods like oak or walnut, which are naturally hard-wearing and age gracefully.
• PVD-Coated Finishes – For designers seeking brass, bronze, or gunmetal looks without ongoing maintenance, Physical Vapour Deposition (PVD) coatings offer exceptional scratch resistance and colour stability — ideal for appliance pulls that need to perform under pressure.

“Choosing robust materials is key,” says Rosanne. “Stainless steel and brass are my go-to for longevity, while PVD finishes give you that beautiful metallic look with far greater durability.”

By investing in materials that balance strength, corrosion resistance, and design impact, appliance pulls will not only complete your kitchen’s aesthetic — they’ll stand up to years of constant use.

Designing with Appliance Pulls

Appliance pulls have moved beyond pure function — today, they’re an intentional design element in their own right. Whether you’re designing a contemporary kitchen or a more traditional space, they offer an opportunity to introduce texture, contrast, or warmth.

Sleek and Seamless:
 In minimalist kitchens, opt for elongated appliance pulls in brushed or matte finishes. Slimline designs enhance the clean-lined aesthetic while maintaining visual flow.

Bold and Sculptural:
 For kitchens designed to make a statement, embrace oversized appliance pulls in polished brass or antique bronze. The scale becomes part of the drama — a grounding detail that ties the cabinetry together.

Heritage-Inspired Spaces:
 In classic or heritage-style kitchens, textured designs — such as knurled, hammered, or aged brass finishes — add character and warmth without feeling too traditional.

Where to Position Appliance Pulls

Unlike standard cabinetry handles, appliance pulls require thoughtful placement to feel natural and functional.

• On fridge doors, Rosanne recommends placing the pull vertically, positioned roughly one-third from the top for ergonomic comfort.
• For dishwashers, a horizontal pull across the upper third of the door ensures balance and practicality.
• On pantry doors, vertical placement at door handle height ensures a consistent look with nearby cabinetry.

Pro Tip: “Before drilling, use painter’s tape to map out your appliance pull placement,” suggests Rosanne. “It’s a simple way to test alignment and ensure everything feels balanced before committing.”

The Detail That Changes Everything

As kitchens continue to evolve into showpieces of design and personality, appliance pulls are emerging as a defining detail — no longer just a practical addition, but a thoughtful design feature that leaves a lasting impression.

“An appliance pull might seem like a small choice,” says Rosanne, “but it’s one of the most powerful ways to elevate your kitchen. It’s the detail that guests instinctively reach for — the touchpoint that feels luxurious underhand and quietly says: this space was designed with intention.”

In the end, the perfect appliance pull doesn’t just complement your cabinetry — it completes the story of your kitchen.