MEET OUR TASTEMAKERS
Liz's Antique Hardware:
Jewelry For Your Home
For over 30 years, Liz Gordon has spread the gospel of hardware. Her converts (interiors designers, homeowners and set decorators) flock to her venerable shop, Liz's Antique Hardware, a treasure trove of more than one million pieces of vintage and contemporary hardware. We asked this L.A. legend what she thinks specialty hardware adds to a room.
LIGHTEN UP
Although Gordon takes her hardware oh-so seriously, she's also all for having fun with it. "Whimsical hardware—like our contemporary resin collection—is great for a kid's room. It comes in a myriad of colors and shapes, and mixing them creates a marvelous effect."
Liz's Top Installation Tips
• "Measurements! If there are existing holes, it's imperative to know exact measurements. If you're starting from scratch, of course, there's more flexibility, but accurate measurements still matter."
• Usually stores will allow you to take samples home so that you can hold them up to see if you're happy with their style and functionality before buying, much less drilling."
INSTANT AUTHENTICITY
Vintage hardware is an ingenious way to give new furniture a sense of provenance. "There's nothing like the aged patina of vintage hardware. It can never be duplicated. My favorites are our Mid-Century triangle-shape brass cabinet knobs, circa 1950."
QUICK FIX
"One of the easiest ways to change the look of a room is to replace the hardware. For example, Victorian hardware is distinctly different from contemporary hardware, so it will create a dramatic change."
"Vintage hardware adds a sense of history. If only your doorknob could talk."
FINISHING TOUCH
Sparkly glass knobs on a dresser or shapely drawer pulls in a kitchen do more than provide functionality. They add polish and style, which makes perfect sense to Gordon, who believes that "hardware is jewelry for the home."
RENTER FRIENDLY
Changing out hardware is an easy way for renters to personalize their space without having to leave anything behind. Just remember to hang on to the existing knobs and pulls to put back on before you move out.
Image courtesy of Knack Studios