ASH Door Furniture & Entrance Specialists Ltd

Auriens Chelsea, located on Dovehouse Street is a luxurious residence in London’s iconic area of Chelsea. Our design team worked with the architects to design contemporary but classic entrance pull handles. The finished products we crafted were these bespoke stepped tubular satin brass pull handles which completely integrates with the brass hardware used throughout the residence, while bringing a luxurious feel.

The Hard Rock hotels are an iconic music brand with an international presence.During the refurbishment of their retail premises in Great Cumberland Place, London they approached ASH to design a handle that reflected the values synonymous with their music brand and could be placed throughout the hotel.During the briefing session their iconic music associations and guitars were chosen as a product that many people identified with and was a design that could be practically developed into an entrance handle and handles throughout that kept it’s original design qualities whilst remaining practical and functional.Following the initial briefing ASH worked to develop the design for their new pull door handles, informing the client throughout the design process and providing technical drawings for the client’s interior designers.

Superdry’s new flagship store in Oxford Street London, is a 29,000 square foot UK hub for shopping, wholesale, and brand ambassadors. We had the pleasure of working with the team at Technical Signs where together we designed and manufactured a bespoke pull door handle that fitted Superdry’s criteria and specification, encompassing their brand and values whilst also remaining practical.Bespoke 2.5M full height antique brass pull handles with the Superdry logo engraved were the final product which were hand crafted for the all of the exterior doors.

When the Vivienne Westwood group wanted to project their brand image on to their outlet entrances, they contacted ASH directly to design a door handle.Using the well-known iconic orb logo as a starting point we created a unique polished brass profile with engraved features which reflects their brand and also feels comfortable to touch and operate.We are proud to have provided such a bespoke handle to the location in Nottingham, the same city where the handle was manufactured, and even prouder to see the handle still on the doors 15 years later, providing a testament to the quality and durability of our products and craftsmenship. 

Nestled within the heart of Nottingham’s Island Quarter, Cleaver & Wake has emerged as a culinary gem that pays homage to the past while embracing the present, with born and raised Masterchef winner in 2018, Laurance Henry is the perfect fit for this stand out restaurant. Beyond the tantalizing dishes and enchanting ambiance, one remarkable detail stands out – the bespoke pull handles that adorn its entrance. These handles are more than mere functional tools; they embody the very essence of the buildings design philosophy.A Fusion of Heritage and ModernityCleaver & Wake, the latest sensation to grace the Island Quarter, has embarked on a journey to encapsulate the spirit of Victorian lace dressmakers who once tread upon the very grounds it now stands upon. In tribute to the two historic figures who lent their names to the establishment, the interior architecture and design studio, Macaulay Sinclair, embarked on an artistic endeavour to meld history and modernity.The result is an exquisite interplay between timeless elegance and contemporary sophistication. Every inch of Cleaver & Wake’s interior space whispers stories of yesteryears, harmonizing Victorian aesthetics with a contemporary twist. And at the heart of this artistic fusion lie our bespoke pull handles – an artistic endeavour that connects past and present.Designing with PurposeThe bespoke pull handles of Cleaver & Wake serve as more than just conduits to enter the restaurant; they are a tangible embodiment of the restaurant’s narrative. Just as the restaurant’s name pays tribute to Victorian dressmakers, these handles reflect the dedication to craft and attention to detail that defined the era.The design process of these handles was a meticulous procedure . Every curve, every contour, and every detail was envisioned with the overarching architectural theme in mind. The handles’ shape, inspired by the graceful lines of Victorian attire, mirrors the curvature and symmetry seen in lace patterns, subtly weaving the essence of Cleaver & Wake’s heritage into its very architecture.Craftsmanship and SymbolismThe craftsmanship behind our pull handles is a testament to the commitment to authenticity and uniqueness. They exude a sense of timeless beauty that only skilled artisans can create. Each pull handle tells a story of the past while offering a tactile connection to the present – an embodiment of the Cleaver & Wake experience itself.As patrons grasp these handles, they’re not just opening a door; they’re traversing a portal through time and design, from the elegance of Victorian craftsmanship to the modern-day finesse of Cleaver & Wake’s culinary offerings.A Final FlourishCleaver & Wake’s bespoke pull handles transcend mere functionality; they embody a narrative that seamlessly connects history with contemporary sophistication. They are more than an invitation to enter; they are the first touchpoint that introduces guests to the captivating journey within.Just as the Victorian lace dressmakers of yore painstakingly wove intricate patterns, Cleaver & Wake’s design team, inspired by their legacy, has woven a masterpiece in architectural storytelling. With the unveiling of these bespoke pull handles, Cleaver & Wake beckons all to step into an enchanting world where heritage and modernity intertwine in the most elegant of ways.So, as you find yourself at the entrance of Cleaver & Wake, pause for a moment before grasping those handles. Let your fingers trace the lines that mirror a bygone era and a thriving present, a testament to the art of design and the stories that architecture can tell.

A recently completed residential complex in the centre of London is where you will find this magnificent building which has been finished to the highest standard. The reception area is welcomed by a circular entrance with a pool of water at the centre. The stone that's been used is a pale cream and the metal work is a light bronze. We provided the pull door handles which complement the colours and materials used. The have been finished in a dark bronze adding a dramatic entrance across the front of the building and on the main entrance. You can find a range of finishes which we offer across a range of products. The front of the building benefits from planted up areas which breaks up the hard lines, this along with the curved stone seated areas creates a pleasant place to sit and sip a coffee. There have also made great use of lighting in the main lobby area and the reception is grand and welcoming. The style of our handles used are Ash 103.

External door hardware face constant environmental challenges, enduring exposure to pollution, corrosive salt air in coastal regions, and the relentless elements. Unlike their internal counterparts, external hardware requires special attention to maintain optimal functionality and appearance.PROACTIVE MEASURES FOR LONGEVITY:ortunately, these issues can be easily avoided with a proactive approach to care and maintenance. Implementing regular tender loving care (TLC) with the right products can make a significant difference in preventing complications and ensuring customer satisfaction.HOW TO MITIGATE COMMON ISSUES:TEA STAINING AND FLASH RUST ON HARDWARETea staining, a common cosmetic issue on the surface of stainless steel, doesn’t compromise structural integrity but can affect the hardware’s aesthetics. To address this concern:Regular Cleaning: Tea staining can be avoided with routine cleaning. Use a soft cloth and mild soapy water to gently clean the hardware.Proper Drying: After cleaning, ensure thorough drying with a clean, soft cloth to prevent residue accumulation.Correct Cleaning Technique: Rub or wipe the hardware in the direction of the brush or polish lines to maintain its appearance.By incorporating these simple yet effective practices into your hardware maintenance routine, you can extend the lifespan of your external door hardware, promoting customer satisfaction and minimizing the need for costly call-backs. Remember, a little care goes a long way in preserving the integrity and aesthetics of your hardware.

May 6th 2023 will see the coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla. At ASH we also have royal connections and last year completed a project on the historical grounds of Caernarfon Castle in Gwynedd, North Wales. In April we took the opportunity to go and visit the site and it exceeded expectations. They have merged the old with the new in creating a impressive area for visitors to enjoy the views of the grounds. The timber deck area encompasses large bronze sculptors including one of hands cupping coins and the cascade down the timber steps. We manufactured and suppled a bespoke version of our ASH145 pull door handle in Bronze Patina. These handles had a added curve on the bottom end creating a double ski effect mounted on to our bespoke plates which are recessed into the structure of the door. You can find out more about this project here.

With over 160 years of business, Boots is one of the oldest and most trusted brands on the British high street. Its roots have been firmly based in Nottingham, which is also the home of Ash Door Furniture. Boots began as a local herbalist store and rapidly grew into the country’s largest chemists’ chain.Boots has pioneered the creation of affordable, reliable products, designed to make people look and feel good. Its emphasis on customer care has helped to make it one of the most trusted brands on the high street.These ASH103 handles are perfect for the high footfall that Boots stores receive because of their strong and robust design. They chose to powder coat the handles to align with their brand identity. Powder coating can also be used to create contrast within the look of the entrance. Because powder coating does not have a liquid carrier, it can produce thicker coatings than conventional liquid coatings without running or sagging, and powder coating produces minimal appearance differences between horizontally coated surfaces and vertically coated surfaces.Here at ASH we strive to produce high quality British made products suitable for commercial applications on many different door types.From high footfall retail units to Boutique hotels - we have it covered when it comes to creating an entrance that is welcoming and functional.Did you know Boots was also founded in Nottingham? We are proud to provide the handles for a brand not so far from home!

SH Door Furniture, a leading manufacturer of pull door handles, vision panels, and pedestrian barriers, is committed to ensuring that its products meet the highest accessibility standards in line with the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) 1995. The DDA was introduced to prevent discrimination against disabled individuals in various aspects of life, including access to goods, services, and facilities. Compliance with this legislation is essential to ensure that buildings and public spaces are accessible to all individuals, including those with physical impairments.DDA Compliance in Product DesignAt ASH Door Furniture, we recognise the importance of designing and manufacturing products that contribute to creating an accessible environment. Our commitment to DDA compliance is reflected in the following key areas:Pull Door HandlesErgonomic Design: Our pull door handles are designed with ease of use in mind, ensuring that they are suitable for people with limited strength or dexterity. Handles are made to be comfortable to grip and operate, with smooth surfaces and appropriate shapes that allow users to open doors with minimal effort.Height and Positioning: In accordance with DDA guidelines, our pull door handles are available in sizes that allow easy installation at recommended heights (between 900mm and 1000mm from the floor). This ensures that the handles can be used comfortably by both seated and standing individuals, including wheelchair users.Contrasting Colours: To aid those with visual impairments, our handles can be manufactured in contrasting colours that ensure high visibility against the door surface. This helps to meet the DDA requirements regarding visual contrast between the hardware and surrounding environment.Vision PanelsHeight and Visibility: Our vision panels are designed to comply with DDA requirements by ensuring that they are installed at heights accessible to both standing and seated users. Panels are positioned to allow clear visibility, ensuring that people with different levels of mobility can see through the door and assess the situation on the other side.Size and Placement: Vision panels are made in various sizes to ensure maximum visibility and safety. They are placed at the appropriate height so that wheelchair users, as well as those standing, can see through the door without any obstruction.Pedestrian BarriersClear Access Routes: Our pedestrian barriers are designed to provide clear and accessible routes for disabled individuals. Barriers are carefully constructed to ensure there is enough space for wheelchair access and do not present obstacles to those with mobility impairments.Height and Width Considerations: The dimensions of our barriers are developed in accordance with the DDA guidelines, ensuring that they accommodate wheelchairs, scooters, and other mobility aids. The width of the passage and the height of the barriers allow for comfortable and safe use.Tactile and Audible Indicators: To assist individuals with visual impairments, our pedestrian barriers can be equipped with tactile indicators, such as ribbed surfaces or warning bumps. In addition, audible signals can be incorporated to inform users when the barrier is in use or when access is granted.Compliance with Part M of the Building RegulationsIn addition to adhering to the DDA, ASH Door Furniture also complies with the UK’s Building Regulations Part M, which ensures that buildings are accessible and inclusive. The guidelines in Part M support our approach to providing accessible door furniture and pedestrian barriers, including the following measures:Minimum Force Requirements: Our pull door handles are designed to meet the minimum force requirements for door opening, ensuring that users with limited strength can operate them without excessive effort.Smooth Operation: We ensure that all our products, including door handles and barriers, are designed for smooth operation, reducing the need for twisting, gripping, or turning, which could be difficult for individuals with physical impairments.Inclusive Design PrinciplesAt ASH Door Furniture, we believe in the importance of inclusive design, which goes beyond mere compliance with regulations. Our design process prioritises the needs of all users, particularly those with disabilities, in the following ways:User Feedback: We actively seek feedback from users and organisations representing disabled individuals to continually improve our product offerings.Customisation: We offer customised solutions for specific accessibility needs, allowing our products to be tailored to suit the unique requirements of each project.Sustainability: Our products are made from durable, sustainable materials, ensuring long-term usability and compliance with accessibility standards.ConclusionASH Door Furniture is committed to full compliance with the DDA and other relevant accessibility regulations. By designing pull door handles, vision panels, and pedestrian barriers that prioritise ease of use, visibility, and inclusivity, we aim to provide solutions that make public and private spaces accessible to everyone. We continue to innovate and collaborate with architects, designers, and disability advocates to ensure that our products meet the highest standards of accessibility and usability.