Marion Cage McCollam’s cabinetry hardware is angular and oblique. That design direction makes sense when you learn that the New Orleans–based artisan is not only a licensed architect but also a former employee of Gensler, Zaha Hadid, and Bernard Tschumi Architects. “Much of what I do, whether it’s a design for a building or a drawer pull, is problem-solve,” she says. Her proclivity for finding—and creating—answers led her first to crafting jewelry and later to hardware and tabletop accessories.

The Peak collection—designed under the brand name Marion Cage—is composed of six faceted pulls and knobs handcrafted via lost-wax casting. The method, repopularized by jewelry design, involves creating a mold around a wax shape. Once the mold is made, the wax model is melted away so molten metal can be poured inside to form the desired shape. Transitioning from jewelry to bronze hardware was “a very natural evolution,” says McCollam. She also works with Rhino, a 3-D modeling software that helps her shift between scale and material.

Although every stage of her work demands intense focus, McCollam says the final product is almost always unexpected. “It’s very much about creating the right environment for happy accidents,” she says. Look for more of those soon, as she is introducing drapery hardware next.

Making the Media

Inspired by antique furniture and steamer trunks, Waterworks’ hardware collection—including (clockwise from top left) the Riverside leather pull, Stockton walnut knob, and Attersee leather pull.

For nearly 40 years, Waterworks has been crafting metal bath and kitchen fixtures, bringing elegance to everyday fittings. In light of that mastery, it might come as a surprise that luxury leather goods inspired the Danbury, Connecticut–based company’s latest collection of hardware and accessories.

The nearly 80 offerings feature uncommon material pairings: Pulls are fashioned from saddle-stitched Italian leather, and knobs are made of solid walnut and polished brass. For direction, the team looked to “the decorative elements of antique furniture and steamer trunks, which balance wood and metal in a beautiful yet protective way,” according to Peter Sallick, CEO and creative director of Waterworks. Other pieces are sculptural and organic, incorporating horn and onyx. “Mixing materials and finishes is very on-trend with designers right now,” explains Sallick. “We’re also seeing more interest in this from our clients.” —Dina Hampton