hardware Archives - Amy Hirsch

Favorite Things: Kitchen Faucets

We do a lot of architectural specifications, and one element that falls into this category is faucets.

We do a lot of architectural specifications, and one element that falls into this category is faucets. Particularly in the kitchen, we really hone in on the faucet to ensure we have the style, form, and function to best suit the space and the client’s needs. Everyone has a preference for the faucet, whether it operates by a touch system or features more traditional on/off function. So many faucets now have features integrated into a seamless design without sacrificing utility. Touch systems are very popular right now, as are pedals installed at the floor to turn the water on or off. There are many beautiful options available today. Here are some of my favorites:

1. Vola, KV1. One-handle mixer with ceramic disc technology, double swivel spout.

2. Kohler Purist

3. Waterstone Contemporary PLP Extended Reach Pull Down Faucet

4. Waterworks Regulator

5. Waterstone Fulton

6. Minta Touch, Chrome

7. Waterworks, Universal

8. Minta Touch

9. Kohler Karbon

10. KWC, EVE

Unique Hardware: Lisa Jarvis

Lisa’s hardware has presence and intricacy; it isn’t your typical plain Jane hardware at all.

New York designer Lisa Jarvis has been interested in decorating since childhood. In addition to designing beautiful homes and offices, Lisa launched a successful furniture design business. Then, when she couldn’t find the hardware she wanted, she began to design that as well.

Lisa’s hardware designs are made from solid brass and are available brass or nickel finishes. Her pieces range from geometric to organic in shape and are so unique. Many of the handles and pulls have so much texture, while others shine with simplicity.

I love that this hardware is so substantial. It makes a statement and truly is jewelry for an interior. Lisa’s hardware has presence and intricacy; it isn’t your typical plain Jane hardware at all. When you want something to really sing, to be front and foremost, her pieces allow you to do that. You can have very simple cabinetry and add her pieces to impart a memorable look. You can mix the different hardware, join them together, take elements from different collections, and really create something. Using this hardware right in the center of a panel is like putting the perfect finishing touch on an outfit.

To see more of Lisa Jarvis’s hardware designs, visit her website.

Drapery Hardware

Drapery hardware is a finishing touch on a space that has a lot of potential to add interest to window treatments.

One of my favorite parts of the design process is getting to the stage where I choose final details for a room. Drapery hardware is a finishing touch on a space that has a lot of potential to add interest to window treatments. The hardware is like jewelry for the window, complementing the room or adding ornamentation.

I love to use this pole along with a dark tarnish finish and sometimes a contrast ring.

The lucite poles from Houles are just so cool.

There are so many styles of rods and rings available, from contemporary elements to more traditional styles and everything in between. You can really customize the look of drapery hardware by thoughtful choice of materials, finishes, and accessories. The hardware can be sleek and minimal or make a bigger visual impact. Using contrasting rings with a bar is one way to achieve a memorable look. You can also mix darks and lights or use varying materials for an unexpected twist on drapery hardware.

Great scale and tone. The finial is very simple.

Lucite with metal rings from Gretchen Everett Hardware.

In some cases, having simple hardware that is recessed allows the window treatments to be the focus. Hardware that doesn’t dominate the look of the windows is sometimes a better choice for a room.

For a contemporary look – the pole from the Mina collection in brushed nickel is pretty sleek.

Which look do you prefer?

Interesting Hardware

There’s no need to go with plain, basic hardware when the right piece could be the ideal finishing touch for furniture or a room.

Whether on a wall, door, or dresser, hardware can be very boring and generic. There’s no need to go with plain, basic hardware when the right piece could be the ideal finishing touch for furniture or a room. Think big, think creative, and you’ll find ways to personalize and accent a space through unique hardware choices. For example, the hardware in the above mud room photo playfully resembles sticks and tree stumps and yet doesn’t detract at all from the simple beauty of this small space.

Take a look at these examples of different styles of hardware:

Large-scaled hardware adds interest to this serpentine chest.

77476056059312272_uk1WFjAj_c — Hardware from The Nanz Company

77476056059312280_9YgWi16K_c — All time favorite cabinet pull from Carl Martinez - think about the ends powder coated in black.

77476056059312285_Z5BjgZYe_c — Knob by Baldwin Hardware - very chic!

77476056059312278_fgNKapoY_c — Another favorite from Nanz

How can your home benefit from updated, unique hardware?