Style Specifics: Door Furniture

Escutcheons

Used to cover the keyhole, these range from highly decorative designs in a material to match the rest of the door furniture, to very simple shapes as seen on contemporary houses. Some are available with pivoting covers.

ABOVE, left to right: Charles Mason, Drummonds

Knockers

Your knocker should complement the style of your house and door. Lion heads, fists and wreaths were all popular in the Georgian era, whilst the Victorians favoured something a little more delicate to go with front doors that were often part glazed. Black finishes were popular during the Edwardian era, as they required less polishing during a time when there was a shortage of domestic staff. Owners of contemporary homes should opt for simple designs in polished or matt chrome, or stainless steel finishes.

ABOVE, left to right: Drummonds, Turnstyle Designs Ltd, Carlisle Brass

Knobs

Solid and reassuring, door knobs remain a popular item of door furniture whatever the style of house. Georgian homes featured chunky, solid knobs to match the heavy style of doors popular at the time, and were centrally mounted at waist height. The Victorians liked brass knobs, with matching locks and letterboxes, and designs often featured ornate patterns, whilst the Edwardians preferred rather more simple designs.

ABOVE, left to right: Drummonds, Turnstyle Designs Ltd, Carlisle Brass

Handles

Lever-operated door handles were very rare in the UK before the early 20th century so tend to look best when used on certain styles of properties. As with knobs, they come in a whole host of materials, from polished and brushed chrome and brass, to black wrought iron.

ABOVE, left to right: Ironmongery Direct, Charles Mason, Charles Mason

Further Reading:

• A Guide to Windows and Doors
• A Complete Guide to Doors
• Period Front Door Furniture