Custom Appliance Pull

We have now completed the custom Willow Appliance pull as can be seen from the photos here.
The custom pull was created by joining the right and left Willow cabinet handles to create the desired length of 17”. The length of the pull and shape of the sprig were perfectly suited to create this new item without our needing to substantially redesign the sprig and without the need to create a new pattern or mold. As discussed in an earlier post (Jan 16,2020) the new pull was created by melding and tooling 2 wax sprigs to create a single piece that was then shelled with several coats of a silica slurry before being fired to create a rigid shell.We cast these pieces in silicon bronze and then finished them in 3 different ways. The first photo below shows the effect achieved by finely buffing the bronze with successive grits of sanding compound. The deep undercuts created by the willow leaves create a shadow that adds subtle depth to the finished piece.

For a more dramatic pewter look we finished one piece using a full strength black oxide and gently removed a little of the solution around the edges of the leaves to create a very soft bronze glow, you will need to zoom into the second photo to understand what I mean.
For maximum contrast we finished the third piece with bold contrasting bands of black oxide that we removed in adjacent areas to create a striated piece.

Martin Pierce Custom Hardware: The beauty is in the details

Have you ever entered a public building and been struck by the attention to detail in the design of the building?  For example, the city library features hardware that is an exact replica of early twentieth century hardware that celebrates the history of the city, building etc.  Perhaps an ordinary office building has added architectural molding to warm up the voluminous cold spaces that are common to modern buildings.  And it is a wise doctor or lawyer who pays attention to small details such as hardware, paint choices, artwork and other amenities when making design decisions for their offices.  These simple choices will certainly enhance their client or patient's visit. Designers and architects pay close attention to current design trends and the affect they have on the public when designing a corporate office or commercial building. For example, customized hardware that pays tribute to a brand or logo or the local culture is sure to be noticed by all who enter.  Color choices in fabrics and paint that elicit a specific mood the business is seeking will prepare every visitor for what lies ahead during their stay, meeting etc.

Here is a good example of how small details can enrich a space.  We were approached by  WATG Design Group (now known as Wimberly Interiors) to create door hardware for the St. Regis Hotel in Princeville on the island of Kauai Hawaii.  Great care was taken to honor and celebrate the native culture of the island and the natural beauty that surrounds it as evidenced by the Hawaiian door handles we created shown here on the entry doors.

We also adapted our popular hedgerow line and created a half round to be used as a robe hook in the guest rooms.

Guests are reminded at every turn that they are in the Hawaiian Islands.  To be honest, do they need reminding when in Hawaii?

To view our complete  line of hardware and get the latest news on what is happening at Martin Pierce, please visit us at www.martinpierce.com.