A successful build or renovation project is determined by the small details. Ironmongery is often overlooked but it’s an important decision that should be considered throughout every stage of the process as it can transform the overall look, feel and function of a property.
The quality of windows, doors and kitchens is obviously important, but the ironmongery, finishes, and colour choices ultimately determine the look of a space.
Many people who undertake renovations or build projects don't realise that ironmongery can be ordered separately. You're not limited to the standard hardware options offered by door, window, and kitchen manufacturers. Although ironmongery can be changed after the build is complete, it's always better to plan ahead and think about your hardware choices throughout your project.
This Ironmongery Journey gives an idea of when to start thinking about certain areas of your build, including door, window, & cabinet hardware, accessories and lighting, though this timeline is completely flexible to your project.
1. Windows & External Doors
When carrying out a new build or extension project, external windows and doors must be ordered several weeks in advance. At the point of ordering these windows and doors, you can order any accompanying ironmongery you desire; you don't have to be restricted to the sometimes limited choice offered by the manufacturer.
External window and door ironmongery can also be retro fitted to replace existing ironmongery at any time. Alongside paint, this can give your doors and windows a completely new look and can save the expense of a full replacement.
- You don't have to settle for the choices offered by the manufacturers.
- Retrofit ironmongery at any time to cost effectively transform your joinery.
- Choose design and finishes that match throughout.
Determine your window type
Traditional Casement Windows
If your property has casement windows, a classic fastener is the best choice. Window fasteners are suitable for use on traditional timber windows that don't have an internal locking mechanism. Most fasteners are kept in place using a mortice plate which is recessed into the window frame. Typically, these are partnered with matching window stays which can be used to lock the window.
Multipoint Locking Windows
Multipoint locking systems are usually fitted in UPVC or modern timber & aluminium windows. They consist of a long metal strip on the window edge with 3 separate locking points operated by a spindle to provide additional security. An espagnolette handle operates this locking mechanism; all From The Anvil espag handles are designed to fit modern locking systems from leading window manufacturers.
Sash Windows
Sash windows are often found in Georgian or Victorian homes & are made of 1 or more movable panels (sashes). These panels slide vertically to open & are held in place with counter balance weights in the frame. The panels are operated with sash pulleys & cord, and can be slid open using sash lifts & pulls. Sash windows can be kept in an open position using sash stops and locked using locking fasteners. We offer a wide range of sash window furniture in a range of finishes to complement your existing interior ironmongery.
Steel Windows
As the name implies, steel windows feature glass panes supported by robust steel frames. Steel window frames operate slightly differently to traditional casement windows; while they still require locking fasteners and stays, the frames are more narrow meaning that this hardware needs to be slimmer to fit well. Our steel window night-vent fasteners and steel window stays are available in a range of designs and finishes to add style and functionality to these windows, with scope to coordinate with your cabinet and window hardware.
The front door has a huge impact on a property, so it's important to accessorise it with the correct door furniture. Most exterior doors, particularly front and back, need to be lockable to protect your home. Determining what type of locking system you'll use gives you an idea of the ironmongery you'll require.
Sash locks provide excellent security and offer great versatility when choosing lever lock handles or door knob sets. Because sash locks are morticed into the door frame, they are typically used with solid timber doors.
For more modern applications, a multipoint locking system can be fitted alongside espagnolette lever handles, such as in uPVC doors.
There are various other door accessories available including centre door knobs, cylinder pull handles, door knockers, letterplates, and more, all of which can be used to customise your door.
2. Internal Doors
Internal doors can be made to order or purchased off-the-shelf. As with external windows and doors, the ironmongery, paint or stain used can completely transform the look of your interior.
While the door's lever handle, latch, or knob is usually the centre piece, it’s also important to think about matching accessories such as butt hinges, door stops, and bathroom turns. Typically, your cupboard, sliding, and wardrobe doors would be ordered at the same time, allowing you to coordinate your door hardware throughout.
- You don't have to settle for the choices offered by the manufacturers.
- Choose a finish that can be used for all door types and accessories.
- Colour and ironmongery can have a big visual impact.
Determine your internal door type
Panelled Door
Typically, panelled doors are hung to the frame with butt hinges and can be fitted with a mortice knob set, a rim lock & knob set, or one of our many varieties of lever handles. It's important to consider the purpose of this door and whether or not it requires a lock. Mortice latches are an appropriate choice for non-locking doors whereas sash locks are better for doors that require protection. Turn & release mechanisms are ideal for internally locking doors, such as bathrooms, which need to lock but without such high security requirements.
Ledge & Braced Door
A ledge and brace door is a traditional option with a rustic appearance, often fitted in barn conversions and timber framed properties. It's a wooden plank door and therefore much thinner than solid/panelled doors, meaning it requires T hinges to be fitted to the surface of the door rather than the plank edge. Because these doors are so slender, they can't fit the typical latches and locks that work with lever handles and instead use thumblatches or other surface-mounted ironmongery such as rim locks and knob sets.
Steel Door
Steel doors are a popular design choice for modern day living, favoured for their slim profiles and lasting durability. These doors operate in a similar way to panelled doors, meaning that the majority of our internal door hardware is compatible with steel doors. This includes our lever door handles, door knobs, door closers, escutcheons, thumbturns, locks, latches, bolts and hinges. Many of these styles and finishes are available across a selection of door, window, and cabinet hardware to enable consistency throughout your property.
3. Kitchens & Cabinetry
Like external doors and windows, kitchens are usually ordered several weeks prior to fitting. This gives you the opportunity to choose complementary hardware without being restricted to the manufacturer's options.
Kitchen hardware makes a big visual, and functional impact so the kitchen, particularly as there are so many elements to the space, so it's important to choose carefully.
Existing kitchens can be updated relatively easily with just a fresh coat of paint and some updated ironmongery; retrofitting hardware is simple when replacing existing fixtures.
- You don't have to settle for the choices offered by the manufacturers.
- Retrofit ironmongery at any time to cost effectively transform your joinery.
- Use a design and finish that's consistent with that on your doors and windows.
Our kitchen & cabinetry furniture range caters to all property types, whether they be traditional, contemporary, or somewhere in-between. Often, traditional kitchens are fitted with revealed hinges and cupboard knobs, whereas more contemporary kitchens are suited to cup pulls and bar handles.
4. Ancillaries & Accessories
Practical items such as curtain poles, shelf brackets, hooks and door stops should be aesthetically pleasing as well as good quality. Choose these items in a similar style and finish to elevate your interior and create continuity throughout.
Products like hooks and shelf brackets can be fitted at any stage and are a great way of organising your home while simultaneously adding character.
- Choose a finish that complements your existing hardware.
- Organise your home with hooks, shelves, and curtain hardware.
- Liven up your space with ornate hinges, door stops, and studs.
We offer an extensive range of accessories such as hinges, locks & latches, curtain furniture, door stops, shelf brackets, coat hooks, and more, all of which can be matched to your existing furnishing to provide continuity throughout your interiors.
5. Lighting
Lighting is a balance between form and function, and both its placement and design should be considered during the early stages of any build. Layered lighting is a wonderful way to create atmosphere in your home, using a combination of ceiling pendants, spotlights, wall lights, and more.
Choose styles that are aesthetically pleasing and suit the functional requirements of your home, in colours and finishes that complement
your interior style and decor.
- Carefully consider the style and location on your lighting for maximum impact.
- Update lighting to breathe new life into any space.
- Experiment with mixed styles, colours and finishes to add interest.
6. Home & Garden
The final stage is adding the finishing touches to your space. Invest in quality pieces which offer durability and will enhance your home for years to come.
Because these items aren't fixed, it gives you more freedom to experiment with their placement and styling, moving and rearranging as you please. It also presents the opportunity to periodically update your home accessories, both internally and externally, including log holders, plant pots, and companion sets.
- Choose high-quality accessories that will last a lifetime.
- Update your home & garden accessories to refresh your space.
- Coordinate with your ironmongery and homeware finishes for a premium look.
By following the steps in this section, it’s easy to create a space that feels elegant and put-together.
