Modern-matter

Modern Matter is a design and manufacturing company specializing in decorative and architectural hardware. The firm was launched in 2018 by Katherine Weeks Mulford and Lee Addison Lesley as a sister collection to their jewelry line, Addison Weeks, after an interior designer requested they interpret a bracelet design as a cabinet pull. The company's jewelry-inspired approach results in handcrafted hardware made from solid brass, often accented with a variety of gemstones like pink onyx and chrysoprase.

The company's business model targets luxury homeowners, interior designers, architects, hospitality groups, and furniture brands. It operates through an e-commerce platform and select luxury hardware showrooms. A key feature is the online customization tool, which allows clients to combine over six finish options with more than ten gemstones for bespoke pieces that can be delivered in a few days. Modern Matter also runs a Trade & Dealer Program for design professionals, offering exclusive pricing, a partner dashboard, and product samples without minimum order quantities. To further its reach, the company collaborates with esteemed designers like Mark D. Sikes, Young Huh, and Doug Meyer on exclusive collections.

In November 2021, Modern Matter raised $1.2 million in a seed funding round with investors including TiE DC, 757 Angels, and Bassett Furniture CEO Rob Spillman. These funds were allocated to enhance its e-commerce platform, expand omni-channel distribution, and grow its team, with plans to open a new design studio and fulfillment center in Norfolk, Virginia. The company's leadership includes Rishap Malhotra as CEO and co-founder Kat Mulford as Chief Creative Officer.

Keywords: decorative hardware, architectural hardware, luxury hardware, custom hardware, brass hardware, gemstone hardware, interior design, home decor, e-commerce, designer collaborations