7 Types of Door Handles That Can Instantly Transform Your Space

When it comes to interior or architectural design, most attention is usually given to walls, flooring, or lighting. But if you’re someone who appreciates subtlety—the kind that defines a well-designed space—there’s one detail you cannot ignore: door handles.

Door handles are more than tools to operate doors. They’re tactile design statements, elements of convenience, and crucial to both style and security.

Understanding the different types of door handles can help you make better choices, whether you’re renovating a home, designing a commercial space, or upgrading just one room.

Let’s dive into the seven most popular types of door handles and how each one can be used to elevate form and function in any setting.

Lever Handles on Backplate

This is one of the most traditional types of door handles, commonly found in both residential and commercial properties.

Lever handles on a backplate combine the handle and the locking or latching mechanism in a single rectangular or shaped plate. These handles can be sprung (to return to horizontal position after use) and are usually used on internal doors.

Why Choose It:

• Ideal for classic or period-style homes
• Combines handle and keyhole or bathroom thumb turn in one
• Available in polished brass, satin chrome, and antique finishes

Real Case Insight:

A heritage-style home redesign included lever handles on decorative backplates throughout. The result? A seamless balance between function and historical charm.

Lever Handles on Rose

Sleek, modern, and highly versatile lever handles on roses are increasingly popular in contemporary spaces. Instead of a backplate, the handle is mounted on a small round or square rose (a cover that conceals the fixing).

They offer a minimalist aesthetic while still being incredibly functional.

Why Choose It:

• Perfect for modern and minimalist interiors
• Can be used with separate keyholes or thumb turns
• Compact, clean look

Testimonial:

“I didn’t want bulky handles that distracted from my flush doors. Lever on rose handles gave me that sharp, tailored finish I was looking for.” — Renovation Client

Door Knobs

Door knobs can be either mortice knobs (turn to operate the latch) or rim knobs (used with surface-mounted rim locks). Their round design is classic and often used in traditional and vintage interiors.

They come in a range of finishes—from shiny chrome to aged brass—and can be either fixed (dummy knobs) or functional.

Why Choose It:

• Great for heritage or classical aesthetics
• Available in various materials and finishes
• Adds character and architectural detail

Real Use Case:

An interior designer outfitted a boutique property with aged brass door knobs throughout. The subtle imperfections in the finish gave the property a lived-in, high-end feel that clients loved.

Pull Handles

Pull handles are most seen on commercial entryways, sliding doors, or modern residential front doors. These handles don’t operate latches; instead, they’re simply used to pull or slide a door open.

They range from short finger pulls to long vertical bar pulls that run almost the full height of a door.

Why Choose It:

• Perfect for front doors, glass doors, or commercial settings
• Excellent for sliding or pivot-style doors
• Available in stainless steel, matte black, bronze, and more

Industry Feedback:

“We switched to pull handles on our showroom entrance and the feedback has been amazing. They feel substantial and really elevate the entry experience.” — Retail Store Manager

Flush Handles

Flush handles are recessed into the door, so they don’t protrude. These are ideal for sliding doors, wardrobes, or tight spaces where standard handles would get in the way.

They can be round, square, or rectangular and are often used in minimalist interiors where clean lines are a priority.

Why Choose It:

• Great for sliding doors or small-space designs
• Flush with the door for a clean, low-profile finish
• Adds a subtle design feature without drawing too much attention

Designer Tip:

Flush handles are often the go-to choice in modern wardrobes, giving them a polished look that doesn’t interrupt the lines of the cabinetry.

Espagnolette Handles

Primarily used on windows or patio/French doors, espagnolette handles operate multi-point locking systems. They’re not common on standard interior doors but are essential for doors that need tight sealing and enhanced security.

They come in lockable and non-lockable versions and are available in stylish modern or traditional designs.

Why Choose It:

• Designed for doors with multi-point locking systems
• Ideal for patio and French doors
• Available in slim, elegant styles or ornate finishes

Client Use Case:

A homeowner modernizing their garden-facing French doors opted for satin chrome espagnolette handles with a locking mechanism. Not only did it upgrade the look, but it also significantly improved security.

Dummy Handles and Decorative Options

Dummy handles are fixed; non-functioning handles used to pull or push a door without latching or locking. These are often seen on double doors or wardrobe panels.

They’re purely aesthetic or functional without mechanical components.

Why Choose It:

• Used for balance on double doors
• Provides symmetry or visual interest
• Great for cupboards or decorative doors

Project Example:

In a gallery space, double doors were fitted with dummy handles on one side for symmetry. Though only one door opened, the paired handles gave a balanced and thoughtful finish.

Choosing the Right Type for Your Project

Each type of Door handle serves a different purpose—some are style-forward, others are functional, and some are both.

So, how do you decide which one is right for you?

Ask yourself:

• Is the door internal or external?
• Do you need it to lock, latch, or simply pull?
• Is the surrounding décor modern, classic, or mixed?
• Is ease of use a factor (especially for children or elderly)?

Once you’ve answered these questions, it becomes much easier to match the handle type to your needs.

And whether you’re a homeowner, architect, or property developer, webironmongery.com has a range of trusted options to suit your vision.

What Professionals Are Saying

“We’ve been sourcing door handles for residential projects for over a decade, and the selection at webironmongery.com always aligns with current trends and lasting quality.”
 — Interior Architect

“When you understand the purpose of each type of handle, specifying them becomes easy. Webironmongery’ s guides make it even simpler to explain to clients.”
— Joinery Specialist

“We’ve used their pull handles for our last three commercial properties. No returns. No issues. Just clean, solid, and consistent hardware.”
 — Property Developer

FAQs About Types of Door Handles

1. What are the most common types of door handles?

The most common types include lever handles (on backplate or rose), doorknobs, pull handles, and flush handles. Each serves different purposes based on function and style.

2. What’s the best door handle for a modern home?

Lever handles on rose or flush handles are excellent choices for modern homes, offering clean lines and contemporary finishes like matte black or satin chrome.

3. Are doorknobs outdated?

Not at all. Doorknobs are still widely used in traditional and period properties. With updated finishes and shapes, they’re also making a comeback in modern interiors.

4. Which handle is best for sliding doors?

Flush handles or pull handles are ideal for sliding doors. They offer ease of use and keep the design minimal and space-saving.

5. Where can I buy all types of door handles in one place?

You can explore all major types of high-quality door handles at webironmongery.com, where variety meets durability and design.

Final Thought

Door handles might be small, but they play a big role in the experience of space. Whether you’re curating a modern look or restoring a vintage feel, choosing the right type of door handle is where the transformation truly begins.

They guide the eye. They offer the first physical interaction with a room. They impact security, convenience, and design flow.

At webironmongery.com, we understand that every handle should work beautifully—and look even better doing it.

So, the next time you open a door, take a moment. Think about what’s in your hand. Then ask yourself, does it reflect your space, your style, your purpose?

If not, you know where to begin.