Think of kitchen hardware as the jewelry of the kitchen. Nothing else puts the finishing touch on a cabinet door more than beautiful hardware such as a lovely knob, handle or pull. Hardware enhances the character and style of a kitchen and is a simple, quick way to elevate this space. There are lots of hardware options out there with various styles and finishes to choose from but I especially love those that are American made by craftsmen and companies here in the states. There is something special and unique about using a forged, cast piece of bronze or steel that was created locally by an artisan versus mass produced somewhere unknown. Finding American made sources for hardware is no easy task. Although there are several American hardware manufacturers, only a handful design and manufacture their pieces here. Lucky for you, we did the research and sourcing for you! These three are my top choices for stunning and unique American made kitchen hardware. Ranging from traditional to modern and available in a multitude of shapes and finishes, these are great resources to have on hand for selecting kitchen cabinet hardware for your clients or your own home…..
Rocky Mountain Hardware Collections
Rocky Mountain Hardware offers a complete line of architectural handmade hardware. It is a family owned business in Idaho with a focus on environmental responsibility. RMH uses recycled material to create all of their bronze products! Using sand-cast and lost-wax processes, this company creates bronze hardware with various colors, textures, and lines to go with a wide range of styles. Rocky Mountain Hardware also offers custom capabilities so your imagination is the limit! Selling through dealers nationwide, you can visit their website to find a hardware showroom near you. A showroom in your area can provide pricing and any applicable designer or volume discounts. I’m also thrilled to discover that Rocky Mountain Hardware recently partnered with the famed Ted Boerner to create five stunning collections. My personal favorites are the “Shift”, “Tab” and “Bird” collections.
Ted Boerner for Rocky Mountain Hardware
Another fantastic source for American made kitchen hardware is Spectra Decor based in Seattle. Spectra Decor was founded by artist Leilani Norman-Young and has been hand making decorative hardware since 2001. I absolutely love that the pieces are handmade and sustainable using environmentally friendly and regionally sourced materials. Some of these materials include recycled glass and aluminum, cork eco-resin, fused glass, and lead free pewter and stainless steel. Customization is available through Spectra decor as well as a sample program to review prior to purchasing. Spectra Decor is available online through www.knobsandhardware.com and through various showrooms. Check out Spectra Decor’s website to locate a showroom near you. Designer discounts and volume discounts are available to the trade. Contact Spectra Decor for more information regarding special pricing.
Spectra Decor Sustainable Hardware
Colonial Bronze Co. is my third go to resource for kitchen hardware. Around since 1927, this Connecticut based company creates solid brass hardware with finishes guaranteed for life. Available in several finishes ranging from Copper and Chromes to Pewters and Dark Bronze, Colonial Bronze Co. manufactures a slew of styles to choose from. It offers customizing as well as a quick ship program with over 264 items for those fast track projects. Its website offers guidance on installation and measuring so it’s also a handy resource to ensure that the hardware is installed correctly per your specifications. Visit their website for information on showroom locations as well as their trade pricing. Here are some examples of their beautiful knobs and pulls below:
Colonial Bronze Company Selections
Kitchen hardware is a fun detail and having the right go to resources is key to a successful kitchen project. Using American made, hand forged hardware is even better! What a great way to introduce a beautiful artisan element to your kitchen. If you have additional American hardware resources, we would love to hear about them!
{Image Credits: Rocky Mountain Hardware, Spectra Decor, Colonial Bronze}
Article by Michelle Salz-Smith ASID
Michelle is a licensed, award-winning Interior Designer enjoying her life in Southern California, but only after her many adventures in the Midwest and then the South. Michelle wears many hats: designer, wifey, blogger, teacher and red wine lover. When she isn't hanging out at Alluminare, she is sharing her musings and celebrating the inspired life on her blog, www.studio-surface.blogspot.com.
has written 26 awesome articles for Alluminare.
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