When designing a home, it’s often the smallest details that make the biggest impact. Cabinetry hardware, for instance, can transform a piece of furniture from functional to fabulous. For me, these details are far more than an afterthought – they’re the finishing touches that complete a space and make it truly exceptional. That’s why I’m delighted to feature Armac Martin in the second instalment of my Supplier Spotlight series.
In this series, I highlight brands that inspire my work and bring something extraordinary to my interior design projects. From their impeccable craftsmanship to their timeless designs, these suppliers represent the best of what the industry has to offer. Armac Martin is no exception. Their elegant, precision-engineered cabinet hardware has long been a staple in my designs, and I’m thrilled to share their story and their exquisite collection with you.
Let’s delve into the world of Armac Martin and discover why this brand deserves a place in your home.
The History of Armac Martin
Founded in 1929 by Harold McGrail in Birmingham, England – a city renowned for its metalworking heritage – Armac Martin began as a small family-run business specialising in luxury brass cabinet fittings. Over the decades, the company grew its reputation for excellence, combining traditional manufacturing methods with innovative design.
Now in its fourth generation, Armac Martin remains a family-run business, proudly upholding the values of quality, craftsmanship, and attention to detail that have defined the brand since its inception. Every piece of hardware is designed, manufactured, and finished in-house at their Birmingham workshop, ensuring unparalleled quality and authenticity.
Armac Martin’s designs have stood the test of time, gracing homes, luxury hotels, and commercial spaces worldwide. Their commitment to sustainability and British craftsmanship further sets them apart, making them a favourite among designers and homeowners seeking both beauty and substance.
Signature Armac Martin Styles
Armac Martin’s collection is vast, offering a range of styles that cater to both classic and contemporary interiors. Here are some of the signature ranges that consistently stand out in interior projects.
1. The “Quintessentially Classic” Collections
For those who favour traditional interiors, Armac Martin’s classic collections, such as The Barwick or The Cotswold, are a dream come true. These ranges feature timeless designs with a focus on refined elegance. The Barwick Cabinet Pull, with its solid brass construction and subtle detailing, is a personal favourite for creating a heritage-inspired kitchen or dressing room.
The classic collections are ideal for spaces where understated luxury is key, blending seamlessly with panelled cabinetry and muted colour palettes.
2. Contemporary Sophistication
For more modern interiors, Armac Martin’s contemporary ranges, like The Digbeth and The Leebank, offer a sleek, minimalist aesthetic. The Digbeth T-bar Handle, with its clean lines and industrial-inspired design, is perfect for creating a fresh, urban look.
These pieces shine in high-gloss kitchens, modern bathrooms, and streamlined furniture designs, proving that hardware can be as stylish as it is functional.
3. Hand-Finished Perfection
One of the things I admire most about Armac Martin is their dedication to hand-finishing every piece of hardware. With over 20 finishes to choose from – including polished brass, antique copper, and matte black – there’s a finish to complement any design scheme.
Their attention to detail ensures that each piece feels bespoke, adding a sense of individuality to every project.
How to Use Armac Martin Hardware Throughout the Home
Armac Martin’s hardware is incredibly versatile, offering countless possibilities for elevating your interiors. Here are some ideas for incorporating their designs into different areas of your home.
In the Kitchen
The kitchen is often the heart of the home, and cabinetry hardware can make or break the design. Armac Martin’s handles and pulls are perfect for adding a touch of sophistication to your kitchen cabinets and drawers.
Tip: Use a combination of cup pulls and knobs from the Withenshaw Collection for a traditional shaker-style kitchen. The mix of shapes adds visual interest while maintaining a cohesive look.
Tip: For a modern kitchen, opt for the streamlined Longbridge Pull Handles in matte black or satin nickel. Their minimalist design complements handleless cabinetry beautifully.
In the Bathroom
Bathrooms are another area where hardware can have a big impact. Armac Martin’s polished finishes add a touch of luxury, while their durability ensures they stand up to daily use.
Tip: Choose the Queslett Knob in antique copper for a vintage-inspired bathroom vanity.
Tip: Pair sleek, chrome-finished hardware with marble countertops for a timelessly elegant bathroom.
In the Bedroom
In bedrooms, hardware isn’t just for built-in wardrobes. Armac Martin’s designs can also enhance standalone furniture like chests of drawers and bedside tables.
Tip: Replace standard knobs on a vintage dresser with The Sparkbrook Knob in satin brass for an instant upgrade.
Tip: Use matching hardware on wardrobe doors and bedside tables for a unified look.
In the Living Room
Hardware isn’t limited to kitchens and bathrooms – it can also add a bespoke touch to living room furniture.
Tip: Add the Croxford Pull Handle in antique brass to a custom-built media unit to accent a modern space.
Tip: Use contrasting finishes, such as black hardware on light wood furniture, to create a striking visual effect.
Final Thoughts
Armac Martin is far more than a supplier of cabinet hardware – they’re purveyors of timeless design, impeccable craftsmanship, and understated luxury. Their pieces have the power to transform not just furniture, but entire spaces, elevating the everyday into something truly special.
Incorporating Armac Martin into my designs is always a joy. Their commitment to quality and their ability to blend tradition with modernity make them a brand I’ll continue to turn to for years to come.
I hope this Supplier Spotlight has given you an insight into why I hold Armac Martin in such high regard. Stay tuned for future instalments as I continue to celebrate the brands that inspire and enrich my work.
Until next time, happy decorating!
P.S. If you're interested in finding out how Armac Martin hardware can really add to your home, or you'd like some interior design advice in general, feel free to get in touch here.