Top 10 Vintage Hardware Trends for Home Renovation

Homeowners and designers are embracing vintage hardware to add character and authenticity to their homes and projects. For restoring a historic home or adding charm to a modern build, the right hardware can make all the difference. Vintage hardware is an opportunity to give your home a sense of the historic style of the past and give a glimpse into your personality through your design choices.

Antique Doorknobs

One of the prominent trends this year is the resurgence of antique doorknobs. These pieces, crafted from glass, porcelain, or intricately designed metal, are making a strong comeback. Homeowners are increasingly seeking out authentic designs that reflect historic quality and the craftsmanship. Because glass knobs are able to catch and reflect light, they add a touch of brilliance to any door. Glass knobs (for doors, cabinets, and furniture) work beautifully in traditional settings and as a surprising element in more contemporary spaces.

Vintage Window Hardware

Another trend that’s capturing the hearts of renovators is the use of vintage window hardware. Window latches, sash lifts, and casement fasteners are becoming statement pieces in their own right. This year, there’s a particular emphasis on pieces that harken back to the early 20th century, with finishes like oil-rubbed bronze and aged brass taking the lead. These items add a subtle but significant layer of authenticity to any room, especially when paired with original or replica period windows. The beauty of these pieces lies in their simplicity and durability, ensuring that they not only look good but are also reliable and enduring.

Brass Finishes

Brass finishes are making a triumphant return, but with a twist. Instead of the high-gloss brass of the 1980s, today’s renovators are gravitating toward unlacquered brass that ages naturally over time, developing a unique patina. This trend is particularly evident in cabinet hardware , where simple brass knobs and pulls can completely transform the look of a kitchen or bathroom. The beauty of brass is its ability to fit seamlessly into both modern and vintage-inspired settings, offering a warm, rich finish that evolves with use.

Period-Specific Hardware

Trends toward period-specific hardware extend beyond knobs and pulls. Hinges, keyhole covers, speakeasy grilles, and even door knockers give a historic and authentic flair. If you’re restoring historic homes, then selecting hardware that matches the architectural period of the house is crucial. Victorian era homes often feature ornate, intricate designs, while Arts and Crafts homes are more likely to have simpler, handcrafted pieces. This attention to every detail enhances the visual appeal of the home while also respecting its historical integrity.

Oversized Pulls and Handles

In kitchens and bathrooms, appliance pulls are another area where vintage trends are making a mark. These oversized handles, often seen on refrigerators and dishwashers, are being chosen to complement other vintage-inspired hardware in the room. Brass and bronze finishes are popular choices here, especially in designs that echo the industrial chic of early 20th-century commercial kitchens. The result is a cohesive look that ties together the entire space, giving it a sense of history and craftsmanship.

Decorative Hinges

Decorative hinges are also seeing a resurgence. No longer hidden away, hinges are being celebrated for their design potential, particularly in spaces where cabinetry or doors play a central role. Whether it’s a butterfly hinge on a kitchen cabinet or a strap hinge on a gate or barn door, these pieces add a layer of visual interest that is both subtle and striking. The key is to choose hinges that match the overall aesthetic of the space, whether that’s rustic, industrial, or traditional.

Patinaed Metals

For those who love the look of aged materials, patinated metals are a trend worth exploring. This year, we’re seeing an increase in the use of metals that have been intentionally aged to develop a rich, worn look. Copper is a favorite for its ability to take on a deep, verdant patina over time. This trend is especially popular in kitchens, where copper cabinet hardware and sinks create a warm, inviting atmosphere. At Van Dyke’s Restorers, you’ll find a range of patinated metal hardware that can bring this trend into your home, offering a perfect blend of style and substance.

Did you know that copper has anti-microbial properties? Copper ions break down the cell membranes of certain germs and bacteria, making it a naturally beneficial metal to use--especially in kitchens. The National Institutes of Health reports copper’s effectiveness in killing bacteria including E. coli, Salmonella, and Listeria among others. Learn more.

Bold Patterns and Hardware

Art Deco influences are another exciting trend. The bold, geometric designs of the Art Deco period are being reinterpreted in hardware that feels both vintage and modern. From drawer pulls with sleek lines to doorknobs with intricate patterns, these pieces add a touch of glamour and sophistication to any space. This trend is particularly appealing in homes with a modern or transitional aesthetic, where the boldness of Art Deco can shine. You can achieve a similar effect with wallpaper, another popular trend this year.

Backplates for Doorknobs

In addition to these trends, ornate backplates are gaining popularity to add detail and depth to otherwise simple hardware. Backplates, which sit behind doorknobs or drawer pulls, are available in a variety of styles, from the highly decorative to the understated. They’re an easy way to enhance the look of your hardware, adding a sense of history and craftsmanship that’s hard to achieve with knobs or pulls alone. You can get the look of a Victorian, Colonial, or even Mid-Century Modern aesthetic with our broad selection of backplates.

Mixed Metals

Finally, mixed metals are continuing to be a strong trend. The idea of mixing finishes, like brass and nickel or copper and bronze, adds depth and interest. This trend is particularly appealing in kitchens and bathrooms, where different finishes can be used to highlight different areas of the room. The key to making mixed metals work is to ensure that the finishes complement rather than clash with each other, creating a harmonious and balanced look.

SHOP FOR ANTIQUE HARDWARE

These vintage hardware trends offer endless possibilities for adding character, charm, and authenticity to your home. So, if you’re drawn to the elegance of antique doorknobs, the rugged appeal of patinated metals, or the bold lines of Art Deco, there’s a vintage-inspired trend you can use to transform your space.

Explore the selection at Van Dyke’s Restorers to find the perfect pieces for your renovation project and bring a touch of timeless style into your home.