E06. Philip Watts on Craftsmanship, Architectural Hardware & the Art of Making

British designer and maker Philip Watts joins us for Episode 6 of The Detail by iSteel, filmed at Philip Watts Design and its working foundry in Nottingham.

Philip has spent decades designing and manufacturing distinctive architectural hardware, door handles, furniture and bespoke interior products. In this episode, he takes us behind the scenes of his foundry and shares his approach to design, craftsmanship and British manufacturing and explains why the smallest details can completely transform an interior.

In this episode, we discuss:
– What separates good design from passing trends
– Why craftsmanship and British manufacturing still matter
– The design and making process behind architectural hardware
– Why details such as door handles can transform an interior
– Designing with cast brass, bronze and other natural materials
– Why weight, texture and touch influence our perception of quality
– Bespoke design and the value of individuality
– How Philip develops an idea from concept to finished product
– Why handmade products age differently from mass-produced alternatives
– Common mistakes people make when choosing architectural hardware
– What makes a design timeless rather than fashionable

We also explore Philip’s creative process, some of the more unusual bespoke pieces he has been commissioned to make, and why people can often recognise exceptional quality before they can explain exactly what makes it special.

The Detail is the podcast by iSteel — exploring craftsmanship, architecture, interiors and the people behind beautifully designed spaces.