Ironmongery inspiration for period properties

Finishes

One of the first aspects people tend to notice when it comes to ironmongery in particular is the finish, and there are several distinct characteristics that make a more vintage finish instantly recognisable.

While more modern finishes are characterised by their metallic and smooth appearance, finishes that complement more period properties are often created using techniques that give the appearance of hardware that is decades old, without compromising on up-to-date functionality.

Antique Black Iron

Our Antique Black Iron range features a hammered finish that not only results in the desired look for a period property, but is created utilising techniques that mirrors those that were used to create fixtures during the period you or your client is looking to emulate.

Each individually crafted for a truly unique product every time, this finish is often found in a range of hardware, including Door Handles, Gate Hardware and even Numerals. You can even accessorise interior and exterior doors with Antique Black Iron Door Studs.

The Antique Black Iron finish is guaranteed to transform both interior and exterior spaces into a tribute to the past.

Antique Brass

If you’re looking for a finish that is slightly brighter and more metal-based, Antique Brass could be perfect for you.

This finish is often created using either solid brass or plated brass, which is then chemically treated to darken the metal slightly, often resulting in warm, golden tones. This technique, just like the hammering used in Antique Black Iron ironmongery production, is used to replicate the appearance of brass that has aged significantly, while also maintaining the high operational quality that you would expect from any modern fixture.

Not only does Antique Brass maintain functionality while offering a vintage look, the plating process used to produce this finish means that the solid brass underneath is not exposed to the elements, which can lead to tarnishing and rusting.

Antique Brass can be used in both internal and external environments, and offers a particularly aesthetically pleasing result when used to adorn cabinets and windows that feature a darker wooden finish.

Designs

When it comes to the development of the designs of ironmongery, more ornate and intricate designs appear to have faded in popularity in favour of simple and sleek fixtures, to ensure optimal functionality.

However, innovations in production techniques has meant that modern ironmongery can feature the distinctive designs that period ironmongery is known for, while keeping basic functionality intact.

Fleur de Lys

The Fleur de Lys has been associated with the regal world of French royalty for centuries, and therefore is often associated with more traditional interior design.

In terms of ironmongery, you can often find the Fleur de Lys symbol on the backplates of Door Handles, and adorning various other fixtures including Coat Hooks, Thumb Latches and Letter Plates. This combined with the traditional finishes previously mentioned, results in a property with period accents that are fit for royalty.

Monkey Tail

An unmistakeable design in the world of ironmongery, the Monkey Tail rose in popularity in the UK in the 1930’s at the very beginning of the house-building boom. Preferred at this time due to the fact that they could be easily produced by individual forgers, you will find Monkey Tail hardware most commonly on windows, particularly Casement Windows.

Our range of Monkey Tail Casement Hardware is available in a variety of finishes that coincide with period décor, with the added benefit of being durable and corrosion resistant. As well as this, you can enjoy the decorative beauty of the Monkey Tail, without having to sacrifice on the practicality and versatility of standard Casement Stays and Fasteners. This includes locking capabilities, reversible options, and fixtures that can be added to uPVC windows as well as timber ones, if you’re looking for a mix of the old and the new.

Although the period aesthetic is often seen as a representation of the past, its recent resurgence just proves that this style of décor is truly timeless, both in ironmongery and beyond. You can find various hardware with these features from both trusted brands including From The Anvil and Carlisle Brass, and exclusive brands such as Elan and Olde Forge.