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A Top Knobs Timeline: The Evolution of Decorative Hardware Design

July 21, 2025

Since 1994, Top Knobs has been designing decorative hardware collections that reflect what’s currently trending in interior design and cabinetry. As the leading manufacturer of decorative hardware, Top Knobs offers the largest selection of products, the greatest number of showroom locations and the most extensive line of premium designs. With over 4,500 styles to choose from, our collections are created to suit every taste and aesthetic. Join us as we take a walk down memory lane and revisit some of the top trends Top Knobs has set over the years:

2000s: Warm and Antique Finishes

In the early 2000s, old-world designs experienced a rise in popularity, emphasizing the desire for warm, familiar elements that evoked styles of the past. To create a rustic aesthetic, finishes that mimicked the natural aging process, such as weathered, burnished or oxidized looks, were embraced in kitchens, bathrooms and more. From Pewer Antique, a muted silver-gray tone, to German Bronze, an aged bronze hue, Top Knobs began offering a wide variety of antique-inspired finishes to capture the essence of old-warm charm and classic European artistry.

2010s: Vintage-Inspired Knobs and Pulls

Rooted in the craftsmanship of iconic design eras such as Victorian, Art Deco and Mid-Century Modern, heritage-style hardware features ornate details and transitional shapes reminiscent of historical elegance. In the 2010s, classic silhouettes like drop and pendant pulls made a strong comeback, reintroducing a feeling of nostalgia and character to interiors. Collections such as Top Knobs’ Edwardian, Britannia, and Normandy refined vintage charm with ribbon-and-reed patterns and intricate detailing that add personality and timeless appeal to any room.

Mid-2010s: Jewelry-Style Accents

By the mid-2010s, homeowners and interior designs began viewing decorative hardware as the “jewelry” of the home. The same way accessories elevate an outfit, hardware pieces were designed to stand out – not blend into cabinetry – bringing sparkle, meticulous details and a touch of glam to spaces. Featuring gem-like knobs, chic finishes, and sophisticated geometric shapes, Top Knobs offers several collections – such as Crystal, Chareau® and Serene – that perfectly bring the glamour that’s at the heart of this trend.  

Late 2010s: Honey Bronze and Ash Gray Finish is Introduced

Launched in 2017, Honey Bronze and Ash Gray quickly took over the interior design world, resonating with designers and homeowners alike. From the late 2010s into the 2020s, design trends veered toward soft metals and transitional styles, with a preference for subtle finishes that complement modern spaces. Rich yet understated, Honey Bronze – Top Knobs’ best-selling finish – brings an elegant glow to interiors. Meanwhile, Ash Gray introduces drama without the intensity of going completely dark, offering a luxe alternative to black finishes.

Early-2020s: Knurled Takeover

Knurled hardware started gaining traction in 2020, as homeowners and designers yearned for a tactile, edgy accent to enhance their cabinetry. Drawing inspiration from industrial designs, the textured hardware trend blends modern sophistication with vintage character. Top Knobs first introduced knurled details in the popular Amwell bar pull and revisited it again in 2024 with the Garrison Collection. These ribbed pieces allow designers to explore adding depth, dimension and visual intrigue to spaces.  

For more products, trends and tips from Top Knobs, be sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X and Pinterest.

Perfect Pairings: Top Knobs Guide to Coordinating Kitchen Finishes

December 1, 2021

In 2022, residential design will focus on creating cohesion throughout the kitchen. The best way to achieve a this is to  pair corresponding fixtures and finishes throughout your space. By incorporating metals of one chromatic scheme in the kitchen, you’ll establish a greater sense of stability and structure in a room where an abundance of activity occurs each day.

With so many details to consider, it can often become difficult to begin the accessory selection process. We recommend it’s best to start with the defining features of a kitchen’s design:  the appliances and cabinet hardware.

Whether your interior style leans more towards keeping up with current trends or you find yourself recreating vintage designs, we’re offering insight on curating the perfect finish scheme.

Read on as we explore the leading finish options from top appliance brands and our complementing hardware to complete the look.

Age of Bronze

Shades of gold are having a moment in kitchens this year. Pops of brass make a bold statement and bring attention to areas that can often be overlooked. Café Appliances summons serious elegance to the kitchen by adding Brushed Bronze accessories to their expansive selection of ranges, refrigerators, dishwashers and more.

When placed in line with cabinetry adorned with our Honey Bronze or Brushed Bronze knobs and pulls, the synthesis of golden hues emits an illuminating brilliance that will cast a soft glow across the entire kitchen.

The New Neutral

Subtle variations of silver embellishments welcome a sense of simplicity and serenity to kitchens. Bridging the gap between modern metallics and classic polishes is a finish that quite literally falls in the gray area. Our Ash Gray and Patina finishes lend an air of sophistication to interiors while remaining in the neutral zone.

Sub Zero Wolf’s answer to a unified style is their delectable Stainless Steel, the standard base choice across all range models. When paired with our daring charcoal-toned decorative hardware, the result is powerful. The slight nuances in color inflection establish balance and harmony in the heart of the home.

Revisiting Timeless Metals

No matter the shape or size, all chef-worthy kitchens have one trait in common – a timeless design scheme. With polished finishes always on-trend, Monogram Appliances refreshes this time-honored metal with a dramatic edge. The Monogram Dual Fuel and All-Gas ranges are all meticulously crafted from one piece of high-sheen stainless steel that covers the cooktop and control panel and are further enhanced with backlight knobs.

Coordinating this precision in appliance technology with our Polished Chrome or Polished Nickel cabinet hardware will craft a kitchen of unmatched detail that is sure to reflect the delicious meals prepared in an equally appetizing space.

Matte and Modern

Matte and flat blacks have long been a stand-out among designers and homeowners aspiring to curate an interior full of high-impact style. This chic and refined varnish satisfies all decor genres, from farmhouse to ultra-contemporary.

To conjure this opulent pigment to residential kitchens, La Cornue invites Brilliant Black and Matte Black as color options for its luxurious Cornufé range and hood collection. These two delectable obsidian coatings leave something to be desired when united with our fan-favorite Flat Black.

Beautifully Brushed

A subtle alternative to its glistening chrome and polished counterparts, brushed nickel fixtures enhance kitchens with its satin and velvety surface. As a staple option for many kitchen appliances and accessories, the textured appearance of this decorative veneer is the top choice for those who wish to outfit their kitchen with versatile pieces that transition with the ever-evolving nature of interior design trends.

With over 1,000 color combinations across their growing line of range, refrigeration and ventilation products, Bluestar is an expert when it comes to design flexibility.  By installing any of Bluestar’s unique appliances in a kitchen with our Brushed Satin Nickel knobs and pulls, the possibilities become limitless in the realm of kitchen design.

For more products, trends and tips from Top Knobs, be sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest.

Top Knobs’ Trending Decorative Finishes

September 9, 2021

Designing a home has never been more exciting. Whether you’re starting a new build or simply redesigning a room, there are more options than ever to bring a space to life.

From material selection to color palette coordination, and every detailed decision big or small, the art of interior decorating allows designers and homeowners to explore their creative roots and infuse each project with dynamism and energy.

At Top Knobs, we believe your home should reflect your personal style and when it comes to furnishings, we say “let the fixtures do the talking”. With over 30 finish options, our knobs and pulls coordinate with schemes to become the finishing touch that completes every design.

Read on as we sound off on our top finishes that are trending this season:

Flat Black

Flat Black has become the go-to decorative hardware finish for designers and homeowners over the last few years and is still proving to reign supreme.

Always in style, this opulent shade pairs well with every vision ranging from traditional to contemporary and style in between.

Ash Gray

Invite drama to interiors without completely going to the dark side dark by adorning cabinetry with decorative hardware in Ash Gray.

A luxe alternative to the deep black finishes that have been trending in home design, this charcoal pigment creates a moody ambiance that complements a range of colors.

Honey Bronze

A perfect marriage of old-world brass and modern gold, Honey Bronze lends a chic twist to the time-honored aurous hue.

Warm, inviting and deliciously captivating, Honey Bronze hardware establishes a relaxing atmosphere to be relished for years to come.

Polished Nickel

Illuminating and refined, Polished Nickel adds classical charm to interior spaces.

Its adaptive color and lustrous surface make it a desirable option for cabinet drawers and doors as well as appliances.

Brushed Satin Nickel

A cool alternative to its polished counterpart, Brushed Satin Nickel lends a smooth velvety finish to kitchen and bath cabinetry.

This versatile hue can be paired with a wide variety of color palettes and decor making it a popular choice for today’s modern designs. 

Oil Rubbed Bronze

Inspired by the glamour of vintage design, decorative hardware in Oil Rubbed Bronze invites a rich and luxurious ambiance to interior environments.

When placed upon cabinetry in a room filled with natural light, Oil Rubbed Bronze instantly catches the eye with its striking metallic sheen.

Tuscan Bronze

With influences rooted in traditional Italian design, Tuscan Bronze elevates a room with deep amber undertones that instantly brighten up cabinetry with a shimmering glow.

Highlighted with nuances of copper accents, knobs and pulls in this ocher overtone blanket interiors in a cozy atmosphere.

For more products, trends and tips from Top Knobs, be sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest.

How to Expertly Mix Metals in the Home

February 18, 2020

There are many tried and true rules for home décor that most abide, but one thing that isn’t so far fetched is the idea to mix and match metals where you reside.

Black, brass, chrome, nickel and bronze, with so many options to choose, picking the right metal for your home can be a difficult process. Rather than dwelling on the right metallic finish for your space, consider mixing them up! Designers and homeowners alike are opting for this contrasting trend to add interest and depth for a one-of-a-kind look.

 

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With over 37 different hardware and bath accessory finishes, Top Knobs has the perfect combination of metallics to complete the look of any space and style. Read on as we explore this popular trends and share tips to incorporate mixed metals in each room of the home.

For most, the kitchen is the heart of the home. It’s a place for gathering and entertaining, therefore thoughtful space planning is required to ensure a kitchen is both inviting and highly functional. When incorporating mixed metals in the kitchen, we recommend beginning with a neutral color pallet. The key to mixing metals in the kitchen is layering. To achieve this look, divide your space into horizontal or vertical sections and select a different metal for each area.

 

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The living room is where designers and homeowners become creative and let their personal style shine. We suggest a bold look by coordinating the contrasting metals with different accessories and elements in the same finishes to emphasize the daring look and draw attention to the design details.

 

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Mixing metals can be a fun experiment in the bedroom but it does require some planning and structure. Bedrooms are a place for relaxation and their design should never be overwhelming. We advise choosing a dominant metal for your furniture then introducing a second metal subtly through accessories and accent pieces. We recommend incorporating no more than two metals in the bedroom for a cohesive look.

 

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Bathrooms used to be a space reserved for chrome and nickel finishes. With brass and bronze leading the finish trend this year, the bathroom has become the ideal spot to harmonize warm and cool tones. This look requires a thoughtful balance that shifts away from the traditional matchy look. Try opting for a cool silver tone as the base for your plumbing and cabinetry hardware and pairing it with warm bronze accents and bath accessories for a style will co-exist.

 

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For more products, trends and tips from Top Knobs be sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram,  Twitter, and Pinterest

Top Knobs’ Guide to Trending Finishes

May 7, 2018

From the color of the walls to the surface of the countertops, your kitchen and bath are a reflection of your personal style – and when it comes to knobs, pulls, and accessories we believe you should have the same opportunity to express yourself. Having the right hardware in your projects draws the eye and accentuates style. That’s why Top Knobs offers 40 sealed finishes, in line with the latest design trends and each with a personality all its own.

With so many quality finishes to choose from, it may seem impossible to pick just one. That’s why we’ve formulated this guide highlighting popular finishes that are in line with the latest interior design trends of 2018:

Flat Black (BLK): There’s no denying that black fixtures have made a comeback as one of the hottest trends in kitchen and bathroom designs. Traditionally chosen for more modern spaces, the matte look and feel of  Top Knobs’ Flat Black finish adds a touch of drama and contrast to designs.

Polished Nickel (PN): Inspired by the timeless sophistication of the Victorian Era, Polished Nickel is lustrous and adaptive to almost any design scheme, making it a desirable finishing touch that will never go out of style.
 

Honey Bronze (HB): Honey Bronze puts a chic twist on classic bronze and brass finishes with a softer, light golden tone. The stunning shade adds the perfect touch of old-world charm to kitchen and bath designs.
 

 

Brushed Satin Nickel (BSN): Satin Nickel saw its rise to fame during the mid-century modern era where it lived with bright colors, bold patterns and modular furniture. Now its popular and visually appealing soft silver tone is used to add a sophisticated touch to rooms without being overbearing.

Ash Gray (AG): A unique alternative to traditional gray finishes, Ash Gray brings a warm feeling to designs with its low-reflecting shine. The versatile color works well with any color scheme and acts as an anchor to bring all parts of the room together.

Brass (BR): Called the “comeback of the year” by the design community, brass finishes add a luxurious feel to room designs. This bright, shining finish instantly updates the space it graces while also adding a warm and welcoming ambiance.

Stainless Steel (SS): Clean and modern, Top Knobs’ stainless steel finish is designed to coordinate with high-end appliances and is ideal for those who want a matching look for their kitchen and a bit of extra shine.

 

Old English Copper (OEC): Featuring an earthy hue and red and orange tones, Old English Copper is one of the most stand-out finishes offered. This accent tone makes a statement while simultaneously creating a warm aesthetic.

Pewter (PT): Found in the darker side of the silver metal family, Pewter perfectly picks up light while also casting a very soft glow. Pewter is often used to complement elegant decor styles and is commonly referred to as an old-world finish.

White (WH): In the era of the white modern farmhouse it’s no surprise that white finishes are trending in the kitchen and bathroom. White decorative hardware accessories brighten up the space and add a clean appearance that keep spaces looking like new.

Top Knobs’ commitment to superior finishes begins with high-grade metals, molds and lacquer. Each hue richly and beautifully crafted for a difference you can clearly see. Plus, our finishes are sealed, allowing them to stand up to the toughest conditions and maintain their good looks over time.

All Top Knobs products come with a lifetime warranty. Visit www.topknobs.com for more information.

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