Modern Matter has unveiled an exclusive design collaboration with Ajiri Aki, founder of the Paris-based lifestyle brand Madame de la Maison. Known for her distinct eye and celebration of the French art of gathering, Aki has built a following around antiques and storytelling rooted in history and beauty. This new hardware collection brings her timeless, Parisian-inspired sensibility together with Modern Matter’s expertise in craftsmanship and design. The result is a line of cabinet and door hardware that blends elegance with intention—pieces that are as evocative as they are enduring.
Inspired by the timeless interiors of Paris, the collection draws heavily from 19th-century French design, particularly the refined elegance of Haussmann-era apartments and the decorative flourishes of the Second Empire and Louis XVI periods. Each piece of cabinet hardware subtly incorporates iconic architectural motifs such as pinecones, swans and lion heads—symbols traditionally associated with hospitality, grace, strength and abundance. These elements are reimagined as sculptural, tactile accents designed to elevate everyday life.
The door hardware line builds on this foundation, focusing on classic French craftsmanship. Floral motifs like daisies and refined beaded edging appear in perfectly scaled knobs and levers, while Regency-inspired backplates add a touch of old-world drama. Completing the offering are Cremone bolts—an iconic feature of French doors—updated for today’s interiors with an emphasis on both function and romance.
Aki’s design ethos centers on meaningful beauty—an appreciation for the way small, thoughtful elements can shape how we experience our spaces. This collaboration distills that philosophy into hardware that feels heirloom-worthy and soulful, blending historical symbolism with a fresh, modern sensibility. Every piece of cabinet and door hardware was designed to be both visually appealing and functional, adding a layer of refinement to any space. Crafted from solid brass and finished in unlacquered brass, the cabinet and door hardware are designed to age gracefully and develop a rich patina over time that reflects use, touch and the beauty of imperfection.
