Today, there is an endless array of door handles and door pull styles and mechanisms available. Mostly made of brass, aluminum, steel, stainless steel, ceramic, cast iron, bronze, and wrought iron but, manufacturers will also use materials such as glass, plastic, cellulose, and Bakelite.

In the decision to purchase, you will want to consider style, cost, durability, and functionality. Ease of use is important, especially for universal design. For example, the texture is key to the grip, so how does it feel in your hand? Is there a smooth release? Will it make a loud ‘click’ with every use?  We don’t often think about it, but door hardware is a very tactile experience.

Levers are much easier to use than knobs. You don’t need to grip tightly to use them, so they are perfect for the elderly, children, and anyone with any medical condition that inhibits the use of their hands.

There are many finishes available, well–brass plate, porcelain, bronze, gold, chrome, polished chrome-plated, and satin antique nickel, to name a few. The most popular finish is brass, which comes in multiple colors and patinas. New on the scene for 2019 is matte black, which adds a bold modern statement to homes both in interiors and exteriors. Non-reflective finishes like satin are becoming more and more popular because they work well with natural materials like stone and lightly finished or waxed woods. 

A question I get asked often is whether all door hardware needs to match. Most of the exterior door hardware should be consistent in style and finish. Several manufacturers offer “families” of door hardware with knobs and levers; however, for some interior rooms, such as a bathroom or a kitchen, it is okay to use a different finish, one for inside,  and one outside of the room. Try to keep the hardware consistent as rooms should flow together, and it can be a cohesive element.