A unique vision is reshaping how we perceive everyday objects like cabinet pulls and knobs. Alex Bellos, former West Elm president and visionary behind the newly founded Ellis Works, is transforming hardware into captivating art from his Brooklyn studio.
Reimagining Form and Function in Everyday Hardware
Nestled in the Sunset Park neighborhood of Brooklyn, Ellis Works produces an impeccably curated selection of decorative hardware. Bellos, drawing from a rich history of furniture design, collaborates with local artists to create pieces that are as functional as they are aesthetically striking. Picture handles crafted from brass and nickel, patinas echoing verdigris, and antique finishes—all created to seamlessly suit modern interiors.
Bellos elaborates, “We wanted to support architectural flexibility without compromising our design ethos. For example, our in-house ‘Throop’ collection sports a streamlined wave shape, ensuring practicality in installation while maintaining an elegant profile.”
The Journey from Retail to Artisan Craft
Ellis Works is not Bellos’ first venture into the world of hardware. Twelve years ago, he led Rejuvenation Hardware by diving into their archives to uncover and breathe new life into historic designs. At West Elm, he boosted revenues to $2 billion, a testament to his capacity for marrying style with mass appeal. Following his departure as CEO of Food52 in 2023, Bellos founded Ellis Works, bringing two decades of expertise to this new chapter.
The allure of hardware for Bellos lies in its tactile nature. “Hardware is the true jewelry of the home,” he says. The sensation of a brass knob in everyday spaces like kitchens and bathrooms elevates the user experience and transforms perceptions of these environments.
Collaboration as the Core of Artful Innovation
The spirit of international collaboration runs deep at Ellis Works. Bellos partners with bold talents such as silversmith Heath Wagoner, who conjures “Tessuto Cabinet Knobs” that mirror luxurious draped fabrics. Jonathan Mergele’s ‘Ferrea’ collection was inspired by Portuguese artisans’ skillful creations, while Kalen Kaminski’s “Portal” series introduces mesmerizing glass knobs.
A recent creative endeavor with William White during New York Design Week showcased how Ellis Works’ hardware enhances daily life, the event featuring Scottish studio potter Joshua Williams’ all-ceramic ‘Cairnsmore’ knobs.
Envisioning a Future Beyond Hardware
Bellos hints at future explorations beyond door and cabinet fittings: “When starting the company, I focused on functional goods. Now, I ask, what other home goods can we innovate, turning even the simplest objects into functional art?”
From his Brooklyn workshop, Bellos continues to transform mundane hardware into true pieces of art, setting the standard for elegance and functionality in every home.
Sources & Links
Source: wallpaper.com