Have you ever wondered why some rooms just ‘feel right’, while others are – for no obvious reason – somewhat lacklustre? The reason is probably not how they look, but how they feel.
True luxury – not just visual appeal
When an interior has been designed to be lived in, not just looked at, it is satisfying in the most subtle of ways. By appealing to all the senses, a space can be experienced in a way that is not only luxurious, but that also feels nurturing and satisfying. And when natural materials, in particular, are involved, whether brass or bronze, stone or wicker, ceramic or linen, interior design can have a notably positive effect on our wellbeing – even, studies show, reducing stress, blood pressure and heart rates, while boosting productivity and creativity.
Why craftsmanship matters
When every tiny detail, every charming imperfection and every thoughtful element tells a story, the difference between mass-produced and artisanal or bespoke products can be felt as much as seen. Individuality has real impact. What’s more, considered design, in combination with quality materials and skilful manufacturing, ensures performance and durability, long after the latest trend has come and gone.
Designing for emotional connection
The interior elements with which we interact most often – door handles, light switches, taps, cupboard knobs – may be small, but they play a big role in how we experience a space on a day-to-day basis. It’s vital that these items are appropriately proportioned, that their mechanisms are smooth, and that they are comfortable to use, hold or touch. Interestingly, our sense of touch in itself influences how we feel about them: in a process known as ‘haptics’, each sensation, heavy or light, cool or warm, smooth or textured, feeds into our perception of quality and authenticity.
Materials that feel reassuring
The cool nature of real metal instantly differentiates it from room-temperature plastic, while a heavier weight points to solid, substantial materials. Every Henry Blake Hardware piece, while offering the beauty, durability and long-lasting quality of solid brass, also feels ‘right’ in the hand and is satisfying to touch. Whether you are pulling open a drawer, sliding a door or closing a cupboard, it is something you will appreciate time after time. A classic cup handle, for example, does the job with efficiency and style, while an elegant lever handle turns practicality into pleasure. As for choosing finishes, look to brass for warmth and a sense of tradition, bronze for depth of colour and a heritage feel, nickel for modern/classic sophistication and polished chrome for a sleek, contemporary edge.
Textures that matter
Layering textures within a room introduces understated pattern as well as different levels of sheen and, of course, the opportunity for pleasing tactile variety. When choosing hardware, highly polished finishes, whether brass, chrome or nickel, offer optimum reflectivity and a smart, eye-catching shine, while satin nickel or brass have a gentle, inviting effect, and matte black or dark bronze make a handsome statement. Consider, too, an interesting, hammered finish, such as our Frey collection, or the unique, organic tactility of our Darwin collection, achieved by a sand-casting process.
Ageing gracefully
An interior that has been created holistically, using high-quality, timeless materials, will age gracefully, evolving naturally over the years. Every touch of a knob, pull or handle becomes a record of daily life, and changing surface patinas are evidence of authenticity rather than the rapid wear-and-tear of disposable design. For luxury design that creates a lasting impression of quality and craftsmanship, tactility is an element that should never be overlooked.
