Our UK-designed handles and fittings are shaped by heritage, experience and a commitment to quality since 1875.
George Crofts and Frederick Assinder commenced trading as brass founders in Birmingham, at the centre of Britain’s industrial heartland. From the outset, the business specialised in the production of brass components, establishing foundations rooted in material knowledge, skill and enterprise.
As the company grew, it moved into larger premises on Angelina Street, officially titled Standard Brass Works. This is a name that remains closely associated with Crofts & Assinder today. Even in these early years, the business demonstrated an ambition to grow, adapt and invest in its future.
As British manufacturing flourished, Crofts & Assinder built a reputation for quality and reliability. The company expanded its focus to cabinet handles and fittings, supplying products shaped by both functional understanding and emerging design sensibilities.
During this period, the business relocated to Lombard Street in Birmingham where its factory remains to this day. Around the same time, esteemed designer John Addis Tidmus joined the company. A multiple award winner, his influence helped ensure Crofts & Assinder was not only responding to design trends, but helping to set them.
Throughout the twentieth century, Crofts & Assinder hardware was specified for prestigious projects, including London’s Ritz and Waldorf hotels, Parliament House in Buenos Aires, and vessels of the Cunard and White Star Line – a testament to enduring trust in the brand.
During both World Wars, Crofts & Assinder was classed as an essential industry, maintaining domestic output whilst also contributing to the war effort. Manufacturing was adapted to support the production of components for aircraft, munitions, wireless casings and other essential equipment for the Armed Services, alongside continued support of national wartime campaigns.
As interiors and architecture evolved, so too did Crofts & Assinder. The business adapted its designs, processes and partnerships to meet changing expectations, whilst remaining family-owned and firmly rooted in its Birmingham heritage.
This period was also marked by recognition of both people and progress. Long-serving employees were celebrated for their dedication, and the company continued to strengthen its presence within the UK interiors industry. This included a visit from HM Queen Elizabeth II to Crofts & Assinder’s stand at the inaugural Spring Fair at the National Exhibition Centre.
In 2025, Crofts & Assinder proudly celebrated 150 years in business – a rare milestone for a family-owned company. Today, the brand continues to design architectural and cabinet hardware and handles in Britain, guided by experience, integrity and a clear focus on the future.
Whilst much has changed since 1875, the principles that shaped the company from the outset remain. Our heritage continues to inform everything we design today.
With 150 years of manufacturing expertise, and supported by specialist finishing processes on selected products, in-house testing and quality oversight, we ensure our handles and fittings meet the exceptionally high standards expected of the Crofts & Assinder brand.
Our uniquely British design ethos is built on a long history of innovation and quality, but our focus remains firmly on the future. We are committed to creating products responsibly, nurturing our people, respecting our partners, and reducing our impact on the planet.
This includes the use of recycled materials wherever possible, long product lifecycles, and ethical trading partnerships. We believe sustainability is achieved not through short-term solutions, but through thoughtful design, considered processes and continual improvement.
Crofts & Assinder works closely with interior designers and architects, furniture manufacturers, distributors, and private individuals. Our dedicated trade offering is designed to make specifying and purchasing straightforward, with clear product information, dependable availability and expert guidance when needed.
Built on long-standing relationships with industry partners, our approach reflects a shared commitment to quality, consistency and service. We value collaboration and aim to support our trade customers with the same care, integrity and attention to detail that has defined Crofts & Assinder for 150 years.
Thoughtfully crafted handles and hardware, tailored to the functional and aesthetic demands of each space.
Our Special Works collection represents the pinnacle of Crofts & Assinder craftsmanship. Designed in-house and made exclusively from solid recycled brass, each piece can be hand-finished to order in one of our twelve exclusive finishes or colour-matched to a provided swatch.
Our Style Guide collection delivers refined design and dependable quality for modern interiors. Created by our in-house designers, the collection reflects current and emerging trends, with interchangeable products and coordinated finishes that allow for flexibility across projects.
Work with us and experience expert guidance and exceptional customer service.
