Although we walk through many doors every day, we sometimes overlook one crucial detail: door handles. Although overlooked on a daily basis, this small element of our home plays a much more important role than we think! Not only functional, the door handle is also a decorative element which, in the blink of an eye, can enhance the style of our interior. 

Whether you're building a new home or renovating an existing space, choosing the right door handles can seem like a daunting challenge, given the many possibilities available! How do you choose between the different styles, materials, locking mechanisms and, above all, how do you decide on the color?

In this article, we'll take a look at these questions to help guide you. Choose the perfect door handle for every room in your home. Whether you're a fan of the modern or prefer the charm of the old, at Intermat, your ideal handles and our expert advice on how to choose them are waiting for you!

How to choose door handles?

Choosing door handles may seem straightforward, but there are several factors to consider to ensure you make the right choice. Here are a few points to consider:

Door and room style: Door handles should match the style of the door and the room. For example, if you have a Victorian-style home, you might choose chrome door handles with ornamental details. If your home is more modern, chrome or black door handles with clean lines might be a good option.

Material: Door handles are available in a variety of materials, including bronze, stainless steel, chrome and nickel. Each has its own advantages. For example, bronze is very durable and can develop a beautiful patina over time, while stainless steel and chrome have a more modern appearance and are highly resistant to corrosion.

The locking mechanism: You also need to consider the type of locking mechanism you need. If the handle is for an entrance door, you'll probably want a key lock. For a bathroom or bedroom door, you might prefer a push-button lock.

Use and accessibility: Think about who will be using the handle. If there are elderly people, children or people with reduced mobility living in the house, it would be wise to choose handles that are easy for them to use. For example, a lever handle may be easier to use than a knob handle.

In short, when choosing door handles, take time to consider your needs and preferences, as well as the style of your home. Don't hesitate to visit one of our showrooms to see our different models in person and make a better choice.

What are the different types of door handle?

There are several types of door handle, each with its own characteristics and advantages. Here are a few commonly used door handle types:

Knob handles: These are the most commonly used type of handle. They are generally round and must be turned to open the door.

Lever handles: These handles have a lever that must be pushed down to open the door. They are generally easier to use than knob handles, especially for people with dexterity problems.

Plate handles: These handles are mounted on a rectangular or oval plate, often used for front doors. They can have knobs or levers.

Locking lever handles: These are equipped with an internal locking mechanism, ideal for bathrooms or bedrooms. They can have a variety of locking mechanisms, such as a push-button or twist lock.

Keyed handles: Used on entrance doors, these handles have a cylinder lock where a key is inserted to lock or unlock the door.

Private-entry handles: These have a lock, but do not require a key. They are often used for bedrooms and bathrooms.

Each of these door handle types is available in a variety of styles, materials, and finishes, so you can find the one that best suits your needs and décor.

How to choose the color of door handles?

Choosing the color of your door handles depends mainly on the aesthetics of your home and your personal preferences. Here are a few points to consider when choosing the color of your door handles:

House style: The color of your door handles should match the overall style of your home. For example, for a rustic home, bronze or aged brass handles may be an excellent choice. For a contemporary home, chrome handles will give a modern look.

Durability: Some colors and finishes are more durable than others. For example, brass or brushed nickel finishes can hide scratches and wear better than glossy finishes.

Follow the 2023 door handle trends

As in ready-to-wear, interior design is also subject to trends. In recent years, black door handles have become increasingly popular. But it's all about matching the handles to your décor.

Home accents: If you have other color accents in your home, consider matching them with door handles. For example, if you have black accents in your home (such as decor, furniture or the frames of your doors and windows), choosing black door handles can help unify the aesthetic of your interior. 

Gold is another good example. If your cabinet handles, faucets or light fixtures are gold, choosing handles in the same color will create an interesting symmetry in your decor.

Door color: The color of your handles should also match the color of your door. For example, if you have a black door, a gold door handle can create an interesting contrast. If you have a dark wood door, a black or bronze handle could complement the warmth of the wood.

Ultimately, the choice of color for your door handles should reflect your personal taste and the aesthetics of your home. Don't be afraid to experiment with different colors and finishes to find the look that suits you best.

If you need advice, don't hesitate to contact the experts at Intermat. Their knowledge of recent trends and experience in the industry will enable them to advise you well!