When it comes to home design, small details can make a significant impact. Door handles, often overlooked, play a key role in both functionality and aesthetics. The right handle can complement a room’s style, enhance ease of use, and even improve accessibility. Among the various options available, lever door handles have become a popular choice for homeowners looking to upgrade their interiors with a blend of practicality and elegance.
Why Choose Lever Handles?
Compared to traditional doorknobs, lever handles offer several advantages that make them a superior choice for modern homes.
1. Ease of Use
Lever handles require minimal effort to operate, making them ideal for all age groups, including young children and elderly individuals with reduced grip strength. Unlike round knobs, which require twisting, a simple push-down motion is all that’s needed to open a door.
2. Enhanced Accessibility
For those with mobility challenges or arthritis, lever handles provide a more accessible solution. They comply with accessibility standards in many building regulations, ensuring ease of operation for everyone.
3. Modern and Elegant Appeal
Lever handles offer a sleek, contemporary look that can elevate the appearance of any room. Their streamlined design suits both traditional and modern interiors, making them a versatile choice for various décor styles.
4. Hygienic and Practical
Unlike knobs, which require a full grip, lever handles can be operated with an elbow or forearm—particularly useful when hands are full or after washing. This feature also makes them a more hygienic option, reducing the spread of germs.
Styles and Finishes to Match Your Décor
One of the key advantages of lever handles is the wide range of styles and finishes available. Whether your home has a minimalist, industrial, or classic aesthetic, there’s a design to suit your space.
1. Modern and Minimalist
For contemporary homes, sleek lever handles in matte black, brushed nickel, or stainless steel provide a clean and sophisticated look. These finishes complement modern interiors with neutral tones and minimalist furniture.
2. Classic and Timeless
For traditional or period-style homes, lever handles in brass, antique bronze, or polished chrome add an elegant touch. Ornate designs with intricate detailing can enhance the character of older properties.
3. Industrial and Rustic
Homes with an industrial or rustic design aesthetic benefit from lever handles in wrought iron, aged brass, or oil-rubbed bronze. These materials work well with exposed brick, reclaimed wood, and vintage-inspired décor.
4. Customised and Unique
For those who want a bespoke touch, some lever handles come with decorative elements like crystal accents, ceramic finishes, or engraved patterns, allowing for personalisation that complements your home’s style.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Upgrading to lever door handles is a simple DIY-friendly task, but a few key steps ensure a smooth installation and long-lasting performance.
1. Choosing the Right Fit
Before purchasing, check whether your doors are pre-drilled for lever handles or if adjustments are needed. Consider whether you need passage handles (for rooms without locks), privacy handles (for bathrooms and bedrooms), or dummy handles (for decorative use on wardrobe or pantry doors).
2. Easy DIY Installation
Most lever handles come with a straightforward screw-in mechanism, requiring only basic tools like a screwdriver. Ensure that the handle is aligned correctly before tightening the screws to prevent misalignment.
3. Regular Cleaning and Care
To maintain the appearance of lever handles, clean them with a soft cloth and mild soap. Avoid using abrasive cleaners that could damage the finish. For brass or bronze handles, an occasional polish helps retain their shine.
4. Checking for Loose Fixtures
Over time, screws and internal mechanisms may loosen with frequent use. A quick tightening of screws every few months ensures the handle remains secure and functional.
Enhancing Both Function and Style with Lever Door Handles
Lever door handles are more than just practical fixtures—they are a stylish addition that enhances both the form and function of your home. Their ergonomic design, accessibility benefits, and wide range of finishes make them a smart choice for any homeowner looking to refresh their interiors. Whether you’re renovating a single room or upgrading every door in your home, selecting the right lever handle can add the perfect finishing touch to your décor.
