Kitchens and Baths as Individual as You Are

When it comes to selecting decorative hardware for your kitchen and bath, the choices are endless and should reflect your individual taste. Colors, materials, textures and styles seem infinite and can be overwhelming. After you pinpoint what appeals to you with the help of Blackhawk Hardware's experienced associates, you're on your way to customize the finishes, colors, designs, and other details for your project.

One basic rule is to be sure your decorative hardware's finish doesn't clash with exposed functional hardware such as hinges and other hardware. For example, polished chrome pulls in a kitchen with a bronze faucet most likely will not provide the visual appeal and coordinated look you are seeking.

Since opening in 1977, family-owned Blackhawk Hardware has been Charlotte's most popular source for door and cabinet hardware along with many other decorative kitchen, bath and household items. Chris Gabriel, Blackhawk's cabinet hardware purchasing manager, shares some of the local market's trends.

Regarding bath fixtures and decorative knobs, some current favorites are holding their own. "Everyone still loves Venetian Bronze, which is dark with copper flecks in it," Chris says. "Sandcast Bronze finishes also remain popular." These choices can be found in all types of hardware from freestanding toilet-tissue holders to towel bars to cabinet knobs and pulls, door knobs and more.

Since Venetian bronze finish can fade with time and use, Chris says that a new finish making inroads is flat black because the color remains consistent and won't change like bronze colors do. "Also emerging is a weathered-nickel appearance which is an antique version of the stainless-steel color," he says. "These are the two newcomers trying to pick up the former Venetian Bronze crowd in local kitchens."

When you're ready to outfit a new home or remodel your kitchen or bath - particularly the cabinets and doors - Blackhawk offers a complimentary in-store consultation. Bring in swatches or sections of your cabinets and door styles to show the finish and color. Blackhawk's associates will advise you on hardware finishes to complement your cabinetry and doors.

Stop by today to see all the fine offerings before starting a remodel or when deciding on your initial hardware and finishes for your new home.

Blackhawk Hardware is located in Charlotte's Park Road Shopping Center. Hours are Mondays-Fridays from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sundays from 1 to 6 p.m. For more information call 704-525-2682.