Interior door knobs with backplates add an elevated, polished look to any room. The backplate, a decorative base surrounding the knob, provides a subtle yet impactful detail. Backplates create a cohesive aesthetic when mixing and matching knob styles and finishes throughout your home. Whether you’re seeking a traditional, modern, or eclectic look, backplates offer the flexibility to complement your decor.
You’ll learn about popular styles and finishes to match your existing decor. We’ll provide tips for seamlessly mixing and matching backplates and knobs to achieve a unique style. And we’ll cover practical considerations from durability to installation. Let’s dive in!
Backplates 101: Styles, Finishes and Materials
Before choosing a backplate, it helps to understand the range of available options. Backplates come in a variety of shapes, sizes, materials, and finishes to suit any aesthetic.
Styles and Materials
Backplates are commonly made from brass, bronze, stainless steel, or zinc alloys. While metal plates are the most popular, some backplates incorporate glass or crystal accents for extra polish. The shape of the backplate also varies. Minimalist rectangular plates offer a clean-lined contemporary look. Intricately carved backplates bring traditional, old-world charm. Floral motifs, geometric patterns, or nature-inspired shapes like seashells provide whimsical flair.
Finishes
From satin brass to antique nickel, backplate finishes span the spectrum. Polished chrome and brushed nickel provide an ultra-modern vibe, while oil-rubbed bronze and antique brass lend a timeworn, vintage appearance. For a luxe touch, opt for polished brass or aged copper finishes. And for chic contrast, try matte black plates against light walls.
Matching Backplates to Decor
When selecting a backplate style, consider your existing decor. For contemporary, minimalist spaces, choose a simple rectangular plate in a sleek finish like matte black or brushed steel. In traditional homes, an antique brass backplate with a sculpted floral design enhances ornate trims and mouldings. Go bold with hand-etched plates or geometric shapes in modern rustic or farmhouse rooms. The options are unlimited.
Mixing and Matching Backplate Styles and Finishes
One of the best aspects of backplates is the ability to effortlessly mix and match. Blending designs, metals, and finishes creates an eclectic, curated look. To guide you in styling a cohesive yet unique interior door aesthetic, we’ll share professional mixing and matching tips.
Keep Backplates Consistent
A common approach is to maintain the same backplate style throughout your home while varying the knob designs. For example, install rectangular backplates in antique brass on all doors, then mix glass, porcelain, and metal knobs depending on the room. This allows creativity with knob shapes while retaining a cohesive backplate look.
Vary Knobs By Room
Consider each room’s purpose when selecting knobs paired with consistent backplates. For bedrooms, choose knobs with latch locks for privacy and security. In bathrooms, select knobs that are ADA compliant for accessibility. And for closets and pantries, go for bifold knobs without turning mechanisms.
Repeat A Unifying Finish
To reinforce continuity when mixing knob metals and shapes, opt for the same backplate finish throughout. For instance, combine brass, nickel, iron, and glass knobs unified by an antique brass backplate finish. Then, if your style evolves, just swap out the knobs for an instant update.
Mixing Finishes
Some designers prefer to blend backplate finishes for an eclectic, collected look. One approach is to use contrasting finishes from room to room, like matte black plates in modern spaces and chrome in transitional rooms. Or mix multiple finishes within a room, using the same knob design in different metals. Just be sure finishes relate, like pairing satin nickel with aged bronze rather than clashing bright brass with black.
Backplates for Bifold Doors
For bifold doors like closets that lack a turning mechanism, opt for backplates with matching bifold knobs. Many manufacturers offer backplates with integrated bifold knobs so you can maintain a polished finished look even on doors without latches. Popular for pantries, laundries, and closets, these backplates easily mount onto swinging doors of all types.
Shopping for Backplates and Installation
Finding the perfect backplates for your interior doors is just the first step. You’ll also need to decide where to purchase them and tackle the installation. We’ll explore logistics like cost, labor, and where to shop to get your new backplates on doors smoothly.
Where to Shop
The best selection of backplates can be found through online retailers like Wayfair, Amazon, and Houzz. Etsy also offers unique handmade backplate options. For discounted prices, check home improvement stores like Lowe’s and Home Depot. And for high-end designer backplates, visit manufacturer websites directly.
Cost and Pricing
Backplate prices vary based on the material and style. Simple steel backplates can cost as low as $5, while hand-carved brass plates run over $50. On average, expect to invest around $15 to $30 per backplate. The finish also impacts price, with basic finishes like satin nickel on the lower end and polished brass or antique copper at the higher end. Buy in bulk rather than individually to save.
DIY vs Professional Installation
Installing backplates takes some basic handyman skills but can certainly be a DIY project. It involves using a screwdriver to remove existing knobs, then securing the backplate and remounting the knob. However, if juggling multiple finish combinations, hiring a handyman to tackle the install project may make sense. Pros can efficiently swap all hardware and ensure proper installation.
Achieving a Cohesive Yet Unique Look
With so many options for mixing backplates and knobs, keeping your interior doors looking cohesive yet unique takes finesse. Follow these design tips when selecting backplates room-by-room to create a seamless aesthetic.
Limit the Number of Finishes
To prevent a disjointed look, we recommend using no more than two or three finish colors. For example, stick to just polished chrome and satin brass finishes throughout rather than introducing five different options.
Repeat Design Elements
Notice how all the backplates share a rectangular shape? Repeating this simple design element creates consistency. Echo shapes, lines, and motifs to reinforce cohesion.
Match Architecture and Decor
Keep your backplate finishes and styles cohesive with your existing architecture, trim, lighting, and decor details. For instance, complement antique brass fixtures with vintage backplate designs.
Make Finishes Flow
When using different backplate finishes from room to room, opt for finishing colors that naturally transition. Warm metallic finishes like brass and bronze connect spaces, while cool silvers bridge the divide.
By carefully designing your backplate selection, you can enjoy an interior door hardware aesthetic both unified and unique. And don’t hesitate to swap out backplates down the road if your style shifts. The key is embracing creativity within harmony.
Eco-Friendly Backplates
With growing concern for the environment, there is a demand for eco-friendly interior door knobs with backplates. Manufacturers are now producing knobs and backplates made from recycled materials or using sustainable production methods. This not only helps to reduce waste but also contributes to a greener and healthier living space.
Backplates with Smart Home Integration
Smart homes have become increasingly popular, and interior door knobs with backplates are now being designed with smart home technology integration. These knobs can be programmed to automatically lock or unlock doors, provide access to specific individuals, and even notify homeowners of any unusual activity. This provides an additional layer of security and convenience.
Voice-Activated Backplates
Some manufacturers are now incorporating voice-activated features into interior door knobs with backplates. This allows homeowners to lock and unlock doors, open and close blinds, and adjust thermostats using voice commands. This eliminates the need for physical contact with the knob, which is particularly helpful during times of illness or injury.
Customization Options
Interior door knobs with backplates are now being offered with a wider range of customization options. Homeowners can select customized shapes, materials, finishes, and even engraved designs to reflect their personal style. There are also options for smart home integration and voice activation to be customized. This creates a personalized, one-of-a-kind look for interior doors.
Interior door knobs with backplates elevate doors from functional to distinctive. By understanding the range of backplate options and how to mix and match, you can curate a look that’s cohesive yet unique to your home. Whether you prefer sleek and modern or vintage and ornate backplates, embrace personalized creativity as you design your interior hardware aesthetic. Just remember – when in doubt, keep backplates consistent to unify your look. Our complete guide outlined everything from shopping tips to installation, giving you the confidence to install chic, polished backplates that transform ordinary doors into extraordinary design statements.
