Should All My Door Hardware Match?
Wondering if every door handle in your home needs to match? You’re not alone. Here's what designers—and savvy homeowners—are doing now.
When Matching Makes Sense
Keeping your door hardware consistent throughout your home can create a sense of calm and cohesion, especially in smaller homes or open-concept spaces. A single finish or style feels intentional and polished—and makes decision-making a lot easier during renovations or new builds. If your style leans minimalist, modern, or traditional, matching might be your best move.
Explore Matching Sets
Shop our door hardware collection to find timeless options for a unified look.
But You Can Mix—Here’s How
In larger homes or unique layouts, mixing styles or finishes can actually enhance the character of your space. You might use one finish for your main living areas and something a little different for bedrooms or a powder room. It adds personality—and tells a subtle story from room to room.
Designers often mix finishes like matte black with brushed brass or combine shapes, like square levers in common areas and round knobs in bedrooms. The trick is to be intentional. Repeating a finish or style at least twice throughout your home helps keep it cohesive.
A Balanced Approach Works Too
Designers often mix styles but keep finishes consistent, or vice versa. Here are two simple strategies designers use to create balance:
Same finish, different shape: Use round knobs in bedrooms, square levers in the hallway.
Same shape, different finish: Try satin brass upstairs and matte black downstairs.
This keeps the design interesting—without feeling chaotic.
Looking to Mix and Match With Confidence?
Shop matte black finishes or browse modern styles to find pieces that work beautifully together.
Tips for a Polished Look
- Repeat each finish at least twice in the space
- Use one consistent backplate style across all doors
- Don’t forget hinges and door stops—they should coordinate too
- Prioritize function in high-traffic areas (e.g., privacy levers in bathrooms)
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to follow a single rule—follow your layout and lifestyle. Whether you match, mix, or find a happy medium, what matters most is that your space feels cohesive, functional, and aligned with your personal style.
Need help deciding between styles or finishes? Laurie, JSL Hardware’s in-house designer (and the author of this blog), offers both online and in-home design consultations to support you in making the right selections.
Laurie Orsino
JSL Hardware In-House Designer