The History

Although porcelain had been prized in China for centuries, it wasn’t until the 18th century that it began to take its place in European homes. As the Industrial Revolution progressed, so too did porcelain production, and by the early 19th century, porcelain hardware started to pop up across the domestic landscape — highly decorated pieces in wealthier homes, and simple pieces in more modest dwellings. It became celebrated thanks to not only its translucent beauty, but also its practicality — it was both hygienic and affordable. Australian homes followed suit, and doorknobs and bathroom fittings in particular started to emerge in porcelain, quickly becoming a staple. 

After the First World War, when plastic started to gain popularity, porcelain began to lose a bit of its cultural grip, before a revival took place at the end of the 20th century, in particular with the emergence of the Hamptons-style home aesthetic, and the rise of Nancy Meyers-style kitchens in the early 2000s. 

Today, its clean, elegant aesthetic feels resonant with history, with its inclusion giving a Victorian bent to home interiors, helping to meld with existing features from the 19th century to create a holistically historic home aesthetic.  

Round Porcelain Cupboard Knob

The pared-back form of this knob means it works beautifully in minimal spaces, where excessive decoration is anathema, but quality reigns supreme. 

The Porcelain Flower Cupboard Knob

With its ornate floral detailing, the flower knob reverberates with the highest sense of Victoriana, so it’s a great choice for homes reviving their Victorian roots. But it can also be used in maximalist spaces, where every detail matters and brings its own personality to the fold.