We worked closely with the luxury hotel to create custom-made door knobs, lever handles and premium hinges
Since its opening in 1856, Claridge’s has been a London landmark, a five-star retreat offering unparalleled elegance and timeless sophistication to its distinguished guests. Inside this very special destination, original Art Deco features mingle with modern updates by world-renowned designers. Since 2016, we have had the pleasure of working with the hotel’s management, their architects and their main building contractor to supply bespoke hardware for the hotel’s extraordinary renovation.
Unique designs for an iconic hotel
An iconic landmark such as Claridge’s warrants a unique and meticulous specification, and the designers asked us to work with them in designing and manufacturing custom hardware for the ballroom, function rooms, guest rooms and more.
Many pieces were needed to match the originals and, thanks to our extensive knowledge of suppliers, we were able to manufacture to original samples and ensure that no stone was left unturned in creating the required ironmongery.
Long pull handles for the ballroom restoration
Designed in the Roaring Twenties, the glittering ballroom at Claridge’s has, over the decades, played host to society weddings, state banquets and magnificent balls. A superb restoration by Blair Associates Architecture, completed in 2021, restored its original features, with authentic Art Deco detailing recreated by the finest contemporary artists. We played a part in this by working with Henry Blake Hardware to create long pull handles for the glazed double entrance doors.
Henry Blake used modern manufacturing techniques to achieve a traditional Art Deco feel. Each door pull, along with matching kick plates and push plates, was cut from solid brass and then plated in high-polished chrome, to suitably magnificent effect.
Guest bedroom door knobs, lever handles and hinges
The guest bedrooms at Claridge’s include a Victorian wing and an Art Deco block. In order to accommodate the design intent we used our breadth of worldwide suppliers to meet each specification regarding finish, style and timescale. Henry Blake Hardware produced Art Deco-inspired centre door knobs for the guest bedrooms, as well as bespoke handles – to match a specific lever length – for some of the suites. We worked closely with Guest Key, the main guest room operators, to ensure the handles would function correctly and that finishes were consistent throughout.
Premium hinges and DDA compliance
We used Simonswerk premium hinges throughout the project, with special finishes to suit the various areas, along with fire-protection intumescent coatings? where necessary. Finally, we also supplied special hardware that ensures compliance with disability access requirements.
Each piece of architectural hardware complements and enhances, down to the finest detail, the incredible design of this remarkable hotel.
Our bespoke design process
Every client we work with on a bespoke project gets the unrivalled Courtyard expertise. We start with a preliminary consultation, in which we discuss the purpose of the hardware, where it will be used and options for finishes. We will point out any issues (whether to do with mechanics, legislation or other), and discuss budget. If necessary, we will also visit the site. A second, more specific project meeting will enable us to produce detailed drawings and a 3D prototype for approval. When everything is finalised, we will put the designs into production, to be delivered to an agreed timetable.
To find out more about our bespoke services, call us on +44 (0)1386 48993 or email sales@courtyardah.co.uk.