By Nigel F. Maynard
If you’re a design professional or if you’ve ever renovated a design-forward house, you know the power of good hardware. After all, the door knob (more than likely) is the very first piece of hardware that homeowners and visitors see and touch, which is why so many people consider it the handshake of the home.
Because the entry door knob is a prominent feature, it’s worth serious consideration. The prevailing wisdom is that items that you touch everyday (even multiple times a day) should be the best quality you can afford.
Looks matter and design is important, but let’s not kid ourselves–safety is the number one priority. It makes no sense if the hardware looks good but provides little security. Whatever design you choose, the entry door hardware needs to hold up to the weather, constant use and would-be home invaders (just in case). Avoid flimsy locks and opt for robust pieces made from solid, forged-brass. For the exterior, a PVD finish is a good idea.
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Build.com recommends that specifiers and design pros pay attention to the grading standards set by the American National Standards Institute. Stick with Grade 1 or Grade 2. Grade 1 locks provide the highest security for residential or commercial standards and are considered bump-proof, while grade 2 locks provide high residential or light commercial security and are more difficult to pick. Avoid grade 3.
“Some thieves will ‘bump’ a tumbler-equipped cylinder lock, tapping in a special key to loosen the tumbler placement enough to open the door,” Build says. “Bump-proof locks can resist such break-in efforts to help keep your family safe.”
These days brands have elevated their design offerings, making product selection particularly challenging. Customers might be suffering from too many options. Modern and contemporary designs are hot, so are dark finishes, bright or matte brass, stainless steel and matte black. For the interior, brands are offering handles in ceramic (not new), but they are also adding wood, composite resin, concrete and even leather.
We did some digging and rounded up nine door options in case you want elevate your style just a wee bit:
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The Kamen Kali demonstrates that versatile elegance doesn’t always need to be soft. Fusing an industrial aesthetic with the perception of delicate craftsmanship, the Kamen interior handle was inspired by the increasing popularity of high-end residential warehouse conversions. It comes in three finishes.
This lever is part of the brand’s Select Lever program that offers a new level of customization: choose the textured lever grip, stem design and pair with any of the company’s available rosette options. A wide variety of finishes are available.
Hand-applied, hammered detailing gives the Traeger Entrance Set a stylish look to increase your home’s curb appeal, the brand says. Sturdy, solid brass construction ensures this product will safeguard your home, while a flip cover conceals the exterior keyhole. The interior plate also boasts an easy-to-grab round knob to complete the design.
The brand says the minimalist, Sabani solid brass lever handle brings a sophisticated touch to a home’s living space. Its handles blend a bold round rose with a sleek, angular grip, reflecting a decidedly contemporary flair. It’s made from solid brass and is designed for interior use.
Featuring an ultra-slim design, the Tumalo is a modern upgrade for any door. Streamlined and modern, it has no visible fasteners, a solid walnut handle and a minimalist round backplate. It uses a locking pin rather than an additional bolt.
The iconic brand introduced a Bespoke Multi-Metal Collection at the 2025 Kitchen and Bath Industry Show in March. Taking customization to the next level, it allows designers to mix and match up to 14 finishes across multiple product categories. The brand says it’s designed to create a truly personalized luxury experience.
The British brand known for their industrial-style lighting also makes door hardware. Made from anodized black metal, this door knob features the company’s signature, diamond-cut, cross-knurl pattern and is refined by hand. In addition to black, it comes in brass and steel.
The brand has expanded its digital smart lock offerings with the introduction of EOmnia, a collection of electronic door locks that includes three handleset designs and deadbolts with either electronic or push-button keypads. Fingerprint access is available on the deadbolt with an electronic keypad. All products in the collection are available in pearl nickel or matte black finishes.
Part of the Italian brand’s prestigious Fusital collection of handles, the H 330 by architect Matteo Thun is a contemporary reinterpretation of the classic lever. It features a fluid design with curves and rounded profiles that give the lever a sculptural shape. The handle comes in matte bronze and satin chrome.