How to Choose the Perfect Doorknob or Door Handle for Your Interior Design

As you browse through IKEA or Amazon, you might find yourself captivated by the beautiful doorknobs from brands like Baldwin Hardware. It’s tempting to add a variety to your cart and imagine them brightening up your home. However, selecting the right doorknob is as crucial as picking any other decor element for your dream home. Doorknobs are not just functional—they are the final touch that can transform a plain door into a standout feature.

Not every doorknob will seamlessly blend with your home’s style, no matter how creatively you incorporate it. That’s why we’ve created this guide to help you navigate the different styles, types, and materials of doorknobs. We’ll explore which categories might best suit your home. Ready to dive into the world of doorknobs with us? Let’s get started!

When choosing doorknobs, keep these key factors in mind:

Function: Consider ease of childproofing and ensure the doorknob’s placement won’t cause discomfort. If remodeling, check if the existing door’s hole placement is suitable; otherwise, adjustments or a new door might be needed.

Design Elements: Decide on the style—classic chrome, bold gold, or trendy matte black. Match or complement other hardware and hinge colors, and choose the finish (glossy, satin, or matte) accordingly.

Hardware: Select the shape of the backplate (round, square, or oblong) that best suits your door and overall style. Don’t overlook this detail as it complements the doorknob.

Door Style: Contrast a traditional door with a modern doorknob or match subtle lines in the doorknob with those on the door for a cohesive look. Assess the doorknob from all angles to ensure it complements your interior.

Security: For exterior doors, prioritize robust, secure doorknobs. The material and finish may vary based on their placement, but security should always be a top consideration.

Ease of Installation: Opt for simpler doorknobs if you’re installing them yourself. For professional installation, you can choose more sophisticated designs.

Types of Doorknob/ Door Handle Designs

Doorknobs have a rich history and are commonly designed in a ball-shaped or spherical form. They are crafted from various materials such as stainless steel, brass, bronze, or other finishes, depending on the look you’re aiming for.

Beehive Doorknob

Featuring a beehive shape with parallel lines running along its spherical form, these doorknobs may or may not include a keyhole at the outer end. They can be crafted from materials such as wood, nickel, aged brass, black metal, or other metals that suit your decor.

Deadbolt Doorknob

This type of doorknob is equipped with a bolt mechanism and only includes a keyhole, without additional turning capabilities. On the interior, it has a simple thumb-turn mechanism for locking and unlocking the door. The term "deadbolt" refers to the fact that the bolt doesn’t retract, which often leads to a separate knob being installed above it for ease of use.

Electronic Panel Doorknob

Featuring an electronic keypad or touchpad above the doorknob, this design requires a fingerprint or password to unlock. It’s commonly used in modern and smart homes, offering enhanced security for exterior doors and high-security areas.

Keyed Entry Doorknob

Available in two types: single-cylinder doorknobs, which can be keyed only from the outside with a thumb turn on the inside, and double-cylinder doorknobs, which can be keyed from both sides for greater accessibility.

Privacy Doorknob

Perfect for bedrooms and bathrooms where privacy is essential. These doorknobs should be sturdy and match the overall design of your space while providing secure locking.

Passage Doorknob

Designed for doors that don’t require security, such as those leading to other rooms, wardrobes, or storerooms. These doorknobs are primarily decorative and do not provide any locking mechanism.

Interior Mortise Doorknob

These doorknobs are straightforward and easy to use but are often paired with skeleton keys and deadbolts to combine aesthetic appeal with security.

How to Mix and Match Doorknob Sets

Experts agree that doorknobs should align with the overall interior design style of your home and individual rooms. Consistency is key, whether it's through color, texture, style, or material.

When mixing and matching doorknobs, aim for a touch of uniformity. For instance, you might coordinate the doorknobs on bathroom doors with the style of the bathroom’s sconces or faucet. This approach helps maintain a cohesive look throughout your home.

Choosing the Right Doorknob for Your Interior Design

Selecting the ideal doorknob involves matching its design and finish with your overall interior style. Refer to our guide to help you make a choice that enhances the look and feel of your space.