Exploring the Diversity of Door Handles
Door handles may seem like a small and mundane aspect of everyday life, but they play a significant role in our homes, offices, and public spaces. Beyond their utilitarian function, door handles come in a dazzling array of designs and styles, showcasing the creativity and craftsmanship of designers and manufacturers. In this deep-dive exploration of different types and styles of door handles, caddetails.com will delve into the world of architectural hardware, from classic to contemporary, functional to artistic.
Photo by Jonathan Petersson
1. Lever Handles:
Lever handles are among the most common and versatile types of door handles. They consist of a lever that can be pushed down or pulled up to open a door. Lever handles come in various materials, including stainless steel, brass, and bronze, and can feature minimalist, modern designs or more ornate and traditional styles. They are a popular choice for both residential and commercial settings due to their ease of use and accessibility, making them suitable for individuals with mobility issues.
2. Knob Handles:
Knob handles are timeless classics, often seen on interior doors. They offer a traditional and elegant look, making them a popular choice for older homes or spaces with a vintage aesthetic. Knob handles are available in an assortment of materials, including crystal, porcelain, wood, and metal, and can be found in a range of finishes and decorative motifs. While they may not be as ergonomic as lever handles, knob handles add a touch of old-world charm to any door.
3. Pull Handles:
Pull handles, also known as door pulls or door grips, are commonly used on entrance doors, sliding doors, and large doors like those found in commercial and industrial settings. These handles come in various lengths, allowing for a comfortable grip, and are often made from durable materials such as stainless steel, aluminum, or solid brass. Pull handles can be sleek and contemporary, featuring minimalist designs, or more elaborate, showcasing intricate patterns and textures.
4. Thumb Latch Handles:
Thumb latch handles combine the elegance of a knob handle with the functionality of a lever handle. They feature a thumb latch on one side and a knob or lever on the other. These handles are commonly found on interior doors, particularly in older homes and historical buildings. Thumb latch handles provide a unique and nostalgic feel and are often crafted from materials like wrought iron or antique brass.
5. Electronic and Smart Handles:
In the digital age, door handles have evolved to incorporate electronic and smart technologies. Electronic handles can be found in keyless entry systems, where a PIN code, card, or smartphone app is used to unlock the door. Smart handles take this a step further by allowing remote access control and integration with home automation systems. They offer convenience and security, making them increasingly popular for modern homes and businesses.
6. Sliding Door Handles:
Sliding doors, whether they are pocket doors, barn doors, or glass patio doors, require specialized handles. Sliding door handles are typically designed for flush mounting or have a low-profile design to prevent obstructions. They come in various styles and materials to complement the overall aesthetic of the door and the surrounding space. For example, barn door handles often have a rustic, farmhouse-inspired design, while sliding glass door handles tend to be sleek and modern.
7. Antique and Vintage Handles:
Antique and vintage door handles are highly sought after for their historical significance and unique designs. These handles may come from different eras, such as the Victorian, Art Deco, or Mid-Century Modern periods, and are often salvaged from old buildings or meticulously replicated. They bring a sense of nostalgia and character to interior and exterior doors, becoming focal points of architectural interest.
8. Custom and Artistic Handles:
For those seeking something truly unique and personal, custom and artistic door handles offer a world of possibilities. Skilled artisans and craftsmen can create one-of-a-kind handles that reflect your individual style and preferences. These handles can be made from a wide range of materials, including glass, wood, metal, and even unconventional materials like recycled materials or driftwood. The possibilities are limited only by your imagination.
9. Flush Handles:
Flush handles are a sleek and minimalist choice, often used on modern interior doors. They are designed to be nearly flush with the surface of the door, creating a seamless and unobtrusive look. Flush handles are ideal for contemporary and minimalist spaces, where clean lines and simplicity are emphasized. They can be found in various finishes, such as matte black, satin nickel, or polished chrome, to match the overall design scheme.
10. Art Deco Handles:
Art Deco door handles are a subset of vintage handles that deserve special attention. This iconic design style emerged in the early 20th century and is characterized by its bold geometric shapes, luxurious materials, and intricate detailing. Art Deco handles often feature stepped patterns, sunburst motifs, and exotic materials like Bakelite and mother-of-pearl. They are statement pieces that can transform any door into a work of art.
11. Coastal and Nautical Handles:
Coastal and nautical-themed door handles are a popular choice for beachfront properties and homes with a seaside vibe. These handles often incorporate elements like ship wheels, anchors, seashells, and other maritime symbols. They are typically made from materials like brass or stainless steel with a weathered or brushed finish to withstand the coastal environment.
12. Minimalist Handles:
Minimalism is a design trend that emphasizes simplicity and functionality. Minimalist door handles follow suit with clean lines, understated shapes, and a focus on practicality. These handles are often seen in contemporary and Scandinavian interior designs, where the emphasis is on decluttered spaces and a sense of calm. Often these handles
13. Sustainable/Recycled Handles:
Sustainability is a much discussed topic and is hugely important in design and architecture. Door handles crafted from sustainable or recycled materials exemplify eco-conscious design. Utilizing reclaimed wood, metal, or plastic, these handles minimize environmental impact. By repurposing and salvaging antique door furniture, as mentioned earlier, they reduce waste and promote a circular economy, making them a stylish and eco-friendly choice for conscious consumers and designers.
Ultimately the list is potentially endless. The point is that door handles seem the most functional of fittings but, with a little bit of thought, are a signature design detail for a project. You only have to look at the works of some of the most famous designers, artists, and architects to appreciate this. A tour of Gaudi’s Pedrera reveals an attention to detail that encompasses each and every element, door handles included. They are perhaps the simplest way to showcase the design vision from the first moment a visitor arrives.
Author: Stuart Brandwood
Cover image by Jilbert Ebrahimi on Unsplash
