5 Home Interior Challenges & How to Easily Fix Them
Upgrading hardware might seem like a small detail—but in design, it’s often the finishing touches that bring a space together. From clashing finishes to tricky installations, there are a few common challenges that many homeowners encounter when updating knobs, pulls, or handles.
Here’s a look at these challenges and practical ways to navigate them.
Matching New Hardware to Existing Decor
The challenge: A beautiful pull can quickly throw off a room if it clashes with cabinetry, light fixtures, or other finishes.
Designer tip: Look for curated collections with coordinated finishes and styles. Collections that offer guidance on mixing metals or matching tones can make the process much simpler and more cohesive.
Ensuring Quality That Lasts
The challenge: Hardware that chips, tarnishes, or loosens after a few months is frustrating and costly.
Designer tip: Invest in pieces crafted from solid materials like brass or zinc. Durable finishes and products backed by lifetime warranties help ensure hardware stays beautiful and functional in high-use spaces.
Navigating Tricky Installations
The challenge: Even seemingly simple installations can become stressful without clear instructions or the right tools.
Designer tip: Choose hardware designed with installation in mind. Products with straightforward guides make DIY projects approachable and help avoid mistakes, keeping the upgrade process smooth and satisfying.
Limited In-Store Options
The challenge: Local stores often offer dated or limited selections, making it hard to find pieces that truly complement a space.
Designer tip: Online sourcing from trusted brands expands the range of modern, high-quality hardware available. Reliable shipping and return policies make experimenting with new finishes and styles much easier.
Uncertainty When Buying Online
The challenge: Hardware is tactile—how it feels in your hand matters as much as how it looks, which can be hard to gauge online.
Designer tip: Look for brands with clear product images, detailed descriptions, and verified customer reviews. Seeing the hardware in context through photos and reading about others’ experiences helps reduce surprises and builds confidence in your selections.
Final Thoughts
Hardware updates are one of the simplest ways to elevate a space without a full renovation. Thoughtful selection—from style to material—can modernize a kitchen, elevate a bathroom, or unify mismatched cabinetry. Paying attention to these details ensures your upgrades are both beautiful and lasting.