Door handles are not only functional, they're an important design element when you're redecorating or remodeling a client's home. Although door handles are often overlooked or taken for granted, they will most assuredly be noticed if they're out of place or don't match the door (i.e. you put a chintzy door handle on an elegant, hand-carved wood door).

Keeping up on the latest trends in door handles is important. When a client contracts you to come up with a great design for her home remodel or redecoration, you have to be ready to impress her. Stay knowledgeable about different styles and handle options so you're ready to give your clients what they're looking for.

1. Find door handles that complement the style of your client's home. It's important to match the handles to other design elements that are already in place.

2. Take your client's needs in account. Certain disabilities or diseases may demand specific types of door handles.

3. Consider your client's budget. Door handles are available in a wide range of prices, so you're sure to find something that fits the decor as well as the budget.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Buy from an exterior door handles provider

The front door to a home makes a statement, however subtle or extravagant it may be. A plain painted door with a simple handle can look great, if it fits with the rest of the look of the house. Alternatively, double wooden doors with elaborate handle sets give an air of elegance and set the tone for what guests can expect to see once they step into the home.

I recommend: Pick from the multitude of thumb-grip handle sets at Knobs and Hardware. Check out the ornate handles available at House of Antique Hardware, some of which would look great on a historic home restoration project.

Present your client with a great selection of interior door handles

Interior doors come in many varieties. There are plain hollow wood doors and then there are painted solid wood doors with panels or insets, and you'll want to coordinate the handle you choose with the door itself. But unlike the front door handle, these handles have to be more user-friendly since they're most likely used more frequently than the handle on the front door. Lever-style handles look great and are easy to work, even for people who have functional difficulties with their hands such as arthritis.

I recommend: Select from the unique lever-style handles at MyKnobs.com. You can also find a nice selection of door knobs from many manufacturers at DoorKnobDiscountCenter.com.

Find door handles for kitchen cabinet doors

Many cabinets have knobs, but some folks find it easier to get their hands around a handle instead of a small knob. There is a multitude of options for these types of handles, so pick something that complements the cabinets as well as the rest of the kitchen.

I recommend: Choose from a variety of handles for cabinets at Southco. Check out the products at eBuilderDirect.com, which offers both handles and knobs in many different finishes.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Regularly attending trade shows can ensure that you always have the latest door handles information. Trends change rapidly and new styles are always coming out. At these trade shows, many designers and manufacturers provide each interior design professional with a door handles list that contains many of the products offered; you can use this list when working with clients.