Spotlight on Textures: Why Tactile Hardware is Leading the Design Conversation

In design, texture is a quiet powerhouse. It transforms spaces, adding depth, intrigue, and a sense of artistry that engages more than just the eyes—it invites touch. From softly ribbed details to the handcrafted appeal of hammered and sandcast finishes, textured hardware is leading the design conversation, turning even the smallest details into meaningful statements.

“Texture in hardware has the power to elevate a design,” says Rosanne Spagnolo, interior designer and Castella hardware specialist. “It draws the eye, but more importantly, it invites interaction. Tactile finishes make hardware feel personal—like jewellery for your cabinetry.”

Here, we explore the textured finishes redefining interiors, showcasing how thoughtful details can shape the aesthetic and feel of a space.

Knurled Finishes: Architectural Edge

Defined by their precision-cut, geometric detail, knurled finishes bring a modern, architectural quality to interiors. The Grove range epitomises this look with its diamond-like texture, offering both visual interest and functionality. Beyond its striking appearance, knurling enhances grip, making it ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and high-use areas where practicality is just as important as style.

Ribbed and Piped: Subtle Sophistication

Ribbed textures—found in ranges like Ridge and Cascade —offer a more refined take on tactile hardware. Their linear details catch light in understated ways, creating soft shadows that add subtle dimension to cabinetry. Rosanne explains, “Ribbed and piped finishes bring a timeless elegance, making them ideal for transitional and classic interiors.”

Sandcast: Organic and Artisanal

Sandcast finishes celebrate imperfection, with each piece reflecting the organic process of casting. The Cast collection, hand-cast in bronze, introduce raw, sculptural beauty to interiors. These finishes pair beautifully with natural materials like timber, stone, and linen, lending a sense of craftsmanship to any space.

Hammered: Handcrafted Charm

Hammered finishes, like those in the Tarn range, showcase artisanal artistry at its finest. Their irregular patterns bring character and depth, making them a standout choice for rustic, eclectic, or heritage-inspired designs. “Hammered hardware has an undeniable charm,” Rosanne says. “It feels storied and timeless, effortlessly blending into both contemporary and vintage spaces.”

How to Find the Right Texture for Your Space

The right texture elevates hardware from a functional detail to a statement of intent. In modern or industrial spaces, knurled finishes—like those in the Grove range—offer a clean, architectural edge with their precise, geometric detail. For more traditional or refined interiors, ribbed and piped textures, seen in Ridge, bring subtle sophistication and a sense of heritage.

If your design leans toward organic warmth, consider sandcast finishes like those in the Cast range. These artisanal pieces celebrate imperfection, adding character that feels tactile and grounded. Meanwhile, hammered textures—like Tarn—are perfect for eclectic or rustic interiors, where their irregular patterns introduce a handcrafted charm.

Rosanne suggests using texture as a point of contrast or harmony:

“Textured hardware works best when it complements the materials around it—pair knurled handles with sleek joinery for modern drama or sandcast bronze with natural timbers for a layered, organic effect.”

The Power of Texture

Textured hardware is more than an aesthetic choice—it’s an experience. Whether you’re designing a modern kitchen with sleek knurled handles or reimagining a rustic space with hammered bronze pulls, the tactile quality of hardware adds depth and emotion to a space.

When thoughtfully selected, textured finishes turn cabinetry into a canvas, elevating even the smallest details to artful moments. As Rosanne says, “Texture invites you to pause and interact, creating spaces that don’t just look beautiful—they feel beautiful too.”