Choosing a door handle finish is one of those small decisions that makes a surprisingly big difference to the look and feel of your home. The right finish ties your hardware, tapware, lighting and cabinetry together, creating a cohesive style that feels intentional and considered. Whether you’re restoring a character home or updating a modern build, this guide will help you choose a finish that suits your space, your lifestyle and your long-term design plans.

1. Start With the Style of Your Home

Think about the architectural style you’re working with. Different finishes naturally suit certain eras and design directions.

Heritage & Character Homes

• Antique Brass Door Handles — ideal for Federation, Victorian, Edwardian and early Bungalow homes.
• Unlacquered Brass Door Handles — perfect if you want a genuine aged patina over time.
• Bronze Door Handles — suits period homes with darker timber, fireplaces and traditional joinery.

Modern & Contemporary Homes

• Black Door Handles — clean, bold, and ideal for modern, minimalist or industrial interiors.
• Satin Brass Door Handles — warm without being traditional; perfect for Hamptons and modern coastal homes.
• Brushed Nickel Door Handles — versatile and easy to coordinate with appliances and contemporary finishes.

2. Consider the Mood You Want in Each Room

Your hardware doesn’t need to be identical throughout your house — but it should feel intentional.

Warm Tones for Cosiness

Antique brass, unlacquered brass, satin brass — works beautifully with timber floors, warm lighting and neutral colours.

Cool Tones for Calm, Modern Spaces

Brushed nickel, satin chrome, polished chrome — ideal for bathrooms, laundries and contemporary interiors.

Bold Finishes for Statement Spaces

Black and bronze — perfect for adding contrast against light walls or cabinetry.

Browse all finishes: Shop Door Handle Finishes

3. Match (or Complement) Your Existing Fixtures

Consider the other elements in your space:

• Tapware
• Lighting
• Cabinet handles
• Hinges & door stops
• Window hardware

Helpful links:

• Kitchen Cabinet Knobs
• Pull Handles
• Casement Window Fasteners
• Door Hinges

Matching isn’t essential — complementary finishes often feel more natural and intentional.

4. Think About the Finish Over Time

Low-Maintenance Finishes

• Brushed Nickel
• Satin Chrome
• Polished Chrome
• Black

Finishes That Naturally Age

• Unlacquered Brass
• Antique Brass
• Bronze

5. Consider How Much Wear the Area Gets

High-traffic areas benefit from finishes that resist fingerprints and daily wear.

For front doors:

• Front Door Handle Sets
• Entry Pull Handles

6. Don’t Forget How It Looks in Your Lighting

Lighting can completely change the appearance of a finish. View your chosen finish in daylight and under warm indoor light.

Explore finish collections:

• Antique Brass Hardware
• Black Hardware

7. Coordinate Your Handles Throughout the Home

You don’t need every handle to match, but using a consistent finish family creates flow throughout your home.

Popular handle types:

• Lever Door Handles
• Mortice Knobs
• Sliding Door Handles

8. Final Checklist Before You Buy

• Suits your home’s style
• Coordinates with tapware and lighting
• Works with cabinetry, flooring and wall colours
• Matches your maintenance preferences
• Looks good in natural and artificial light
• Available in a full range of matching hardware

See all matching items: Door Hardware & Accessories

Need Help Choosing?

Restoration Online offers one of Australia’s largest ranges of door handles and hardware finishes. If you’re unsure which finish suits your home, our team can help you choose the right hardware for your style, your space and your budget.