This month, meet Tammy Newhof, founder and designer of Windborne Studios decorative hardware. We are grateful to have her custom pieces in our showroom!
What inspired you to found Windborne Studios?
The inspiration behind founding Windborne Studios stems from my deep admiration for the transformative nature of glass. I’ve always been fascinated by how fusing glass can reveal endless creative patterns and textures, each piece taking on a life of its own as the materials melt and shift. When we set out to renovate our kitchen, I quickly realized that the standard metal hardware options available were far too restrictive for the artistic vision I had in mind. The idea of creating our own glass cabinet hardware not only opened up a world of design possibilities, but it also allowed us to infuse a sense of individuality into our space. With glass, there were no limits—every pull, every knob could be a unique work of art, and that’s where the spark for Windborne Studios truly ignited.
How would you describe your design style or a particular collection you've created in three words?
Elegant, timeless and luxurious. These capture the sophisticated and unique essence of our creations while reflecting the opulent beauty we aim to achieve. This is evident in our Gold Fleck and Glassia White Wispy Collections.
What is your favorite collection you've worked on and why?
It’s always hard to narrow down a favorite collection, as each piece of glass hardware I’ve created holds a special place in my heart. But if I had to choose, a few collections stand out for their unique inspirations and character. The Pebble Collection resonates with me because it reminds me of the pebbles I find along the Michigan shoreline. By mixing colored frit in various shades, I’ve captured the essence of found beach glass, creating vibrant pops of color that bring a natural, organic beauty to the collection. It’s truly one-of-a-kind.
The Gold Fleck Collection speaks to my love for luxury—there’s something mesmerizing about the way the flecks of gold mica capture the light, drawing the eye in with its rich, opulent charm. It feels like pure elegance.
Then there’s the White Wispy Collection, which I find timeless and sophisticated. The way the soft, swirling patterns take shape in the glass creates a refined look that complements any space. It’s versatile and effortlessly chic, making it one of my go-to designs. Each of these collections embodies a different facet of what I love about glass art, making it difficult to choose just one favorite!
What are some common challenges you face as a decorative hardware designer, and how do you overcome them?
As a decorative hardware designer, one of the most common challenges I face is managing the balance between creativity and practicality. My creativity never stops—if I allowed it, I could easily develop 50 unique hardware collections! However, it’s unrealistic to maintain an inventory of so many designs in a range of sizes, especially when each piece is handmade in small batches. Instead, we focus on curating a select number of collections, ensuring that every design receives the attention it deserves and reflects our dedication to meticulous craftsmanship.
Another challenge is conveying that each piece we create is not only functional but also a work of art. No two pieces are ever exactly alike, which is something I consider part of their unique beauty. It can be difficult to communicate that handcrafted, artful design means embracing these variations, but I believe it’s what makes the hardware truly special. Each knob or pull becomes a reflection of the care and creativity that went into its creation, which is at the heart of what we do.
How do you stay updated on industry trends and innovations?
Staying updated on industry trends and innovations is a constant, evolving process. There’s a wealth of information at our fingertips, and I regularly turn to the internet as a powerful tool to explore what’s happening in the world of interior design. I look for trends in paint colors, fabric textures, and cabinetry styles to stay in tune with the latest movements. However, when it comes to designing our hardware, I rely on what truly strikes a chord within me. While trends are important to consider, I always prioritize timeless, elegant designs that reflect my love for incorporating color in a sophisticated way. My goal is to create pieces that not only feel current but also stand the test of time, adding a touch of artistry to any space.
What trends are you currently excited about in the world of decorative hardware and design?
While trends can be exciting and fun to explore, I believe there’s something even more powerful in trusting your own intuitive, instinctive design sense. Trends offer wonderful inspiration, but ultimately, the most meaningful spaces are the ones that truly resonate with you. If a design speaks to you, then I say, choose creativity over the norm. After all, it’s your home—it should reflect your personality and how you feel within the space. Your surroundings should inspire and bring you joy every day. For me, the most exciting “trend” is seeing homeowners embrace their own creativity, making their spaces unique, personal, and filled with pieces that tell their story.
Can you share any upcoming projects or collaborations you're excited about?
I’m thrilled about our ongoing collaboration with William Zhang, Director of Design and Product Innovation at Emtek. Working together has been an inspiring journey, and I’m excited about the creative possibilities we’re exploring for future projects. While glass cabinet hardware will always be a core passion, I’m also branching out into new realms of design within the interior space. Currently, I’m developing a line of decorative pieces, including bar cart trays, bowls, and drop vessels. These projects allow me to step into a fresh creative space while staying true to my dedication to artistry and craftsmanship. It’s a new chapter that blends functionality with beauty, and I can’t wait to share these upcoming designs!
I feel truly blessed to have found a career that not only allows me to tap into my creativity but also nurtures my personal growth as a woman business owner. This achievement has been a collaborative journey, supported every step of the way by my husband, Paul, who holds a Master's of Fine Arts from Cranbrook Academy of Art. Over 20 years ago, he encouraged me to fill a significant void in the hardware space, igniting the spark that led to our venture. Paul’s expertise shines through in the technical design details, from metal backing specifications and CAD drawings to operating the waterjet that cuts our hardware shapes and creating gluing templates that allow us to assemble multiple metal stems simultaneously.
Our journey is further enriched by our daughter, who designed our unique hand-cutting glass system and managed our studio for years. She now skillfully balances her creative contributions with her role as a full-time mother to two precious children. Our son has also become an invaluable part of the team, maintaining our machinery, utilizing the waterjet, sanding our cut parts, and even designing an upgrade for our gluing template—all while pursuing his passion for jewelry design through private classes.
Adding to this creative family affair is our niece, Faith, who brings her artistic flair to our projects. She not only assists in the production of our hardware but also captures our work through photography and video for our social media presence, along with maintaining our website. Together, we create a tapestry of artistry and innovation, making this journey a beautiful testament to family collaboration.
Book Your Appointment Today
Ready to elevate your space with beautiful, unique hardware pieces from Windborne Studios? Book your appointment with Modern Hardware today to explore the full range of options and start designing hardware that is as unique as your home.
Join our mailing list to stay up to date with the latest news from our team. You can also follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more regular updates.
This month, meet Tammy Newhof, founder and designer of Windborne Studios decorative hardware. We are grateful to have her custom pieces in our showroom!
What inspired you to found Windborne Studios?
The inspiration behind founding Windborne Studios stems from my deep admiration for the transformative nature of glass. I’ve always been fascinated by how fusing glass can reveal endless creative patterns and textures, each piece taking on a life of its own as the materials melt and shift. When we set out to renovate our kitchen, I quickly realized that the standard metal hardware options available were far too restrictive for the artistic vision I had in mind. The idea of creating our own glass cabinet hardware not only opened up a world of design possibilities, but it also allowed us to infuse a sense of individuality into our space. With glass, there were no limits—every pull, every knob could be a unique work of art, and that’s where the spark for Windborne Studios truly ignited.
How would you describe your design style or a particular collection you've created in three words?
Elegant, timeless and luxurious. These capture the sophisticated and unique essence of our creations while reflecting the opulent beauty we aim to achieve. This is evident in our Gold Fleck and Glassia White Wispy Collections.
What is your favorite collection you've worked on and why?
It’s always hard to narrow down a favorite collection, as each piece of glass hardware I’ve created holds a special place in my heart. But if I had to choose, a few collections stand out for their unique inspirations and character. The Pebble Collection resonates with me because it reminds me of the pebbles I find along the Michigan shoreline. By mixing colored frit in various shades, I’ve captured the essence of found beach glass, creating vibrant pops of color that bring a natural, organic beauty to the collection. It’s truly one-of-a-kind.
The Gold Fleck Collection speaks to my love for luxury—there’s something mesmerizing about the way the flecks of gold mica capture the light, drawing the eye in with its rich, opulent charm. It feels like pure elegance.
Then there’s the White Wispy Collection, which I find timeless and sophisticated. The way the soft, swirling patterns take shape in the glass creates a refined look that complements any space. It’s versatile and effortlessly chic, making it one of my go-to designs. Each of these collections embodies a different facet of what I love about glass art, making it difficult to choose just one favorite!
What are some common challenges you face as a decorative hardware designer, and how do you overcome them?
As a decorative hardware designer, one of the most common challenges I face is managing the balance between creativity and practicality. My creativity never stops—if I allowed it, I could easily develop 50 unique hardware collections! However, it’s unrealistic to maintain an inventory of so many designs in a range of sizes, especially when each piece is handmade in small batches. Instead, we focus on curating a select number of collections, ensuring that every design receives the attention it deserves and reflects our dedication to meticulous craftsmanship.
Another challenge is conveying that each piece we create is not only functional but also a work of art. No two pieces are ever exactly alike, which is something I consider part of their unique beauty. It can be difficult to communicate that handcrafted, artful design means embracing these variations, but I believe it’s what makes the hardware truly special. Each knob or pull becomes a reflection of the care and creativity that went into its creation, which is at the heart of what we do.
How do you stay updated on industry trends and innovations?
Staying updated on industry trends and innovations is a constant, evolving process. There’s a wealth of information at our fingertips, and I regularly turn to the internet as a powerful tool to explore what’s happening in the world of interior design. I look for trends in paint colors, fabric textures, and cabinetry styles to stay in tune with the latest movements. However, when it comes to designing our hardware, I rely on what truly strikes a chord within me. While trends are important to consider, I always prioritize timeless, elegant designs that reflect my love for incorporating color in a sophisticated way. My goal is to create pieces that not only feel current but also stand the test of time, adding a touch of artistry to any space.
What trends are you currently excited about in the world of decorative hardware and design?
While trends can be exciting and fun to explore, I believe there’s something even more powerful in trusting your own intuitive, instinctive design sense. Trends offer wonderful inspiration, but ultimately, the most meaningful spaces are the ones that truly resonate with you. If a design speaks to you, then I say, choose creativity over the norm. After all, it’s your home—it should reflect your personality and how you feel within the space. Your surroundings should inspire and bring you joy every day. For me, the most exciting “trend” is seeing homeowners embrace their own creativity, making their spaces unique, personal, and filled with pieces that tell their story.
Can you share any upcoming projects or collaborations you're excited about?
I’m thrilled about our ongoing collaboration with William Zhang, Director of Design and Product Innovation at Emtek. Working together has been an inspiring journey, and I’m excited about the creative possibilities we’re exploring for future projects. While glass cabinet hardware will always be a core passion, I’m also branching out into new realms of design within the interior space. Currently, I’m developing a line of decorative pieces, including bar cart trays, bowls, and drop vessels. These projects allow me to step into a fresh creative space while staying true to my dedication to artistry and craftsmanship. It’s a new chapter that blends functionality with beauty, and I can’t wait to share these upcoming designs!
I feel truly blessed to have found a career that not only allows me to tap into my creativity but also nurtures my personal growth as a woman business owner. This achievement has been a collaborative journey, supported every step of the way by my husband, Paul, who holds a Master's of Fine Arts from Cranbrook Academy of Art. Over 20 years ago, he encouraged me to fill a significant void in the hardware space, igniting the spark that led to our venture. Paul’s expertise shines through in the technical design details, from metal backing specifications and CAD drawings to operating the waterjet that cuts our hardware shapes and creating gluing templates that allow us to assemble multiple metal stems simultaneously.
Our journey is further enriched by our daughter, who designed our unique hand-cutting glass system and managed our studio for years. She now skillfully balances her creative contributions with her role as a full-time mother to two precious children. Our son has also become an invaluable part of the team, maintaining our machinery, utilizing the waterjet, sanding our cut parts, and even designing an upgrade for our gluing template—all while pursuing his passion for jewelry design through private classes.
Adding to this creative family affair is our niece, Faith, who brings her artistic flair to our projects. She not only assists in the production of our hardware but also captures our work through photography and video for our social media presence, along with maintaining our website. Together, we create a tapestry of artistry and innovation, making this journey a beautiful testament to family collaboration.
Book Your Appointment Today
Ready to elevate your space with beautiful, unique hardware pieces from Windborne Studios? Book your appointment with Modern Hardware today to explore the full range of options and start designing hardware that is as unique as your home.
Join our mailing list to stay up to date with the latest news from our team. You can also follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more regular updates.