<font size="3"><font color="#990000"><strong>Kitchen Fixtures</strong></font></font> <p><span style="line-height: 200%; font-family: ‘Verdana’,’sans-serif’; letter-spacing: 1pt; font-size: 10pt">Cabinet handles, bolts, hinges and knobs are often called the ‘jewelry’ of a kitchen and for good reason. These are the elements that sparkle and catch the eye and the things that most dictate the tone of a kitchen, whether it is a contemporary or country design. More than any other element of kitchen decorating, they are also the most practical, mixing form with function.</span></p><p><span style="line-height: 200%; font-family: ‘Verdana’,’sans-serif’; letter-spacing: 1pt; font-size: 10pt">One of the easiest and most inexpensive ways to remodel a kitchen is to replace the hardware. Sometimes, a dramatic effect can occur simply by updating the cabinet knobs and hinges in a traditional kitchen, giving it a sleek and contemporary look. A modern kitchen can also take a trip back in time simply by installing hardware that will give the room an antique feel. Updating kitchen hardware can also be the most cost-effective part of any remodeling job. Well-designed hardware made of durable materials can last for years, making it a wise and frugal investment. </span></p><p><span style="line-height: 200%; font-family: ‘Verdana’,’sans-serif’; letter-spacing: 1pt; font-size: 10pt"></span></p><p><span style="line-height: 200%; font-family: ‘Verdana’,’sans-serif’; letter-spacing: 1pt; font-size: 10pt">There are hardware choices available for any budget, large or small. Hardware is also a tactile experience as well as a design feature, so knobs or handles with protruding designs might look attractive, but catch at clothing or fingers when using. Avoid the temptation to pick a design that is trendy to look at but uncomfortable to use. Attaching hardware does not require any special skills or obscure tools, so it is a good DIY project for those so inclined. Cabinet doors can be fitted with hinges and knobs quite quickly, making the hardware remodeling project one that can be completed over the course of a day or less. </span></p><p><span style="line-height: 200%; font-family: ‘Verdana’,’sans-serif’; letter-spacing: 1pt; font-size: 10pt"></span></p><p><span style="line-height: 200%; font-family: ‘Verdana’,’sans-serif’; letter-spacing: 1pt; font-size: 10pt">If the project is fitting new hardware to existing cabinet doors, make sure the new designs line up with pre-drilled holes before purchasing. It will save a trip back to the store. Because hardware comes in a myriad of designs and colors, decisions will have to take into consideration what fabric themes or wall colors the kitchen will have. Brass hardware looks best with warm colors such as browns or golds, while cooler colors like blue or lavender will be accented by silver-hued hardware. Whether a kitchen has stainless steel appliances will also dictate a color palette, as it is customary to match drawer and cabinet hardware to metal appliances for a uniform look. Mixing brass hardware with silver appliances will clash and cause a design disaster.  </span></p><span style="line-height: 200%; font-family: ‘Verdana’,’sans-serif’; letter-spacing: 1pt; font-size: 10pt"></span><span style="line-height: 200%; font-family: ‘Verdana’,’sans-serif’; letter-spacing: 1pt; font-size: 10pt"><p><span style="line-height: 200%; font-family: ‘Verdana’,’sans-serif’; letter-spacing: 1pt; font-size: 10pt">Beyond design, the materials the hardware is made of will also have an impact on any kitchen remodel. Consideration should be placed on the design elements within the room, as well as what kind of durability is needed. For example, professional kitchens often use <a href="http://www.ironmongerydirect.co.uk/Products/Bolts_Stops_and_Accessories" target="_blank">stainless steel bolts</a> and fittings, because they are a particularly good choice for kitchens. They will resist rust or tarnish in an environment that is often wet and will last for many years even with constant use. With just a little planning, a fresh kitchen makeover is possible by simply replacing cabinet hardware, giving a dramatic new look to a tired kitchen.</span></p></span>