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Discover responsibly handmade hardware with Turnstyle Designs

Luxury door hardware has many boxes to fill. Door knobs must fill every passerby with a sense of awe, and of course, door handles must feel secure and robust – ready for new possibilities.

Craftsman hammers a pattern into a piece of brass
Craftsman hammers a pattern into a piece of brass
Discover responsibly handmade hardware with Turnstyle Designs
September 19, 2024

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This article was originally posted on Making Space, a Substack penned by our Cofounder, Matteo Grand. Subscribe below to receive more content just like this.

Luxury door hardware has many boxes to fill. Door knobs must fill every passerby with a sense of awe, and of course, door handles must feel secure and robust – ready for new possibilities.

Ironmongery is a detail worth considering for your next design, and with Turnstyle Designs, form and function are a given. Today, we're deep-diving into the world of Turnstyle Designs and its beautiful range of door knobs, door handles, locks, latches and window and furniture hardware, which you can now source on Portaire.  

handmade hardware

The origin of Turnstyle Designs

In the world of interior design, every detail matters. It's the little things, like beautifully crafted door hardware, that can elevate a space from ordinary to exceptional. Enter Turnstyle Designs, a brand that has been perfecting the art of door hardware since its inception in 1992.

handmade hardware

Founded by Steve Roberts in a small Devon barn, Turnstyle Designs initially focused on creating a small range of Amalfine™ doorknobs. Fast forward to today, and it has emerged as a global leader in artisan hardware production. Still a family owned and run business, Steve’s eldest son, Oscar, now oversees the operations. 

Turnstyle Designs has earned a well-deserved reputation for serving the residential, super yacht, and hotel sectors with unmatched craftsmanship and innovation.

Crafted in the heart of England

What sets Turnstyle Designs apart is its unwavering commitment to handcrafting each piece in North Devon, England. The purpose-built factory in Barnstaple is more than just a place of work; it's a hub of creativity and precision. Most of the skilled artisans live just a stone's throw away, underscoring the brand's dedication to its local roots. From the intricate art of hand-stitched leather to the meticulous hand-hammering of solid brass, every component undergoes a rigorous process, with each piece passing through at least eight pairs of skilled hands before it graces a door.

handmade hardware

Materials that define excellence

Turnstyle Designs has earned its renown through a marriage of quality materials and innovative design. At the core of its offerings are three exceptional materials:

Precision-engineered brass

Brass, a hallmark of luxury, is transformed into a work of art. Each piece is meticulously polished, plated, or aged to achieve a stunning patina that adds character to any door. These finishes include antique, satin, polished and matt finishes. 

handmade hardware

Amalfine™

This proprietary composite material is at the heart of Turnstyle's heritage, dating back to its founding in 1992. It's the canvas for intricate patterns, including the elegant Shagreen, that define the brand's unique aesthetic.

Luxurious leather

For over 25 years, Turnstyle has championed leather as a core material in door hardware. Sourced from a prestigious Tuscan tannery in Italy, it's naturally vegetable-tanned full-grain leather adds a touch of opulence to their creations.

handmade hardware

Sustainability and design, hand-in-hand

In an age where environmental responsibility is key, Turnstyle Designs stands as a leader of conscientious manufacturing. They don't just acknowledge their footprint; they actively work to reduce it year after year. Transparency is their guiding principle, and they constantly seek new ways to minimise their impact on the environment.

handmade hardware

Responsibility is a key part of their strategy

As proud members of 1% for the Planet, Turnstyle annually donates 1.5% of their turnover to local environmental charities and an additional 0.5% to local mental health and youth support organisations.

Turnstyle Designs isn't just about crafting door hardware; it's about crafting a legacy of responsible craftsmanship, innovation, and social responsibility. In every piece they create, you'll find a dedication to detail and a commitment to a brighter, more sustainable future.