Catch the Sun
Artists Aaron Saxton and Maria Armada established History Never Repeats, their studio in Charleston, West Virginia, to right a wrong: The sleek, graphic allure of midcentury modern homes is typically only showcased within. They aim to pull focus to the front with brass hardware that animates the large-slab doors favored in the architectural style. Not only do they offer Starburst kits (pictured) that make for an extra warm welcome, they also handcraft walnut doors, which they ship all over the United States. historyneverrepeats.com
Emerald City
When only a distinct art deco-inspired accent will do, the makers behind ACH Collection are more than up to the task. The collective is part of Portugal-based Hommès Studio, which has built a reputation for unusual handmade objects ranging from tabletop items to pet accessories. The handsome hardware incorporates unexpected materials molded into unusual shapes. Not-so-simple cabinet pulls (like the Andy, shown on previous spread, and Sand, pictured below) make their mark on dark wood. achcollection.com
Gilded Age
The intricate art of mosaics dates back to ancient civilizations, and Italian company SICIS uses the artform to create out-of-the-ordinary hardware. SICIS craftsmen design exquisite handles and pulls that pop up in homes and boutiques all over the world. They also lend their talents to large-scale mosaic work for some of the world’s next great wonders like the Garuda Wisnu Kencana statue in Bali. Even the most boring doors will benefit from a pull like the Gatsby (pictured), which combines geometric shapes and precious stones. sicis.com
Knock Out
A quick scroll through PullCast’s Instagram page reveals that its sculptural hardware can be found in all the best homes from Florida to the Philippines—and everywhere in between. There’s a reason for that. The company’s craftsmen look to nature for inspiration and are devoted to “crossing the worlds of jewelry and design along with architecture.” Take the Kerma pull (pictured), which is inspired by the Kermandie Queen, the tallest tree in Australia, which the company says represents wisdom, longevity and persistence. Finished in polished, aged or brushed brass, or aluminium. pullcast.eu
Leatherbound
Few understand how to do understated as well as OCHRE. Founded in 1996, the firm has become renowned over the last 25 years for melding clean design with luxurious materials in their collections of contemporary furniture, lighting and accessories. When it comes to hardware, they continue the aesthetic, mixing natural materials with metals, as evidenced by viking handles (pictured). Available in lengths of 4 and 8 feet, the saddle-leather pieces feature patinated bronze or pewter knuckles. ochre.us
