Mill 13 renovation: am designs x SUMUM
When am designs approached the renovation of Mill 13 in Retranchement, the Netherlands, their vision extended beyond walls and windows. Every element needed to honor the home's historic context while embracing contemporary living. That's where SUMUM's architectural hardware entered the conversation, not as an afterthought, but as an essential design element.
Mark Mertens, founder of am designs , believes in creating spaces where form and function exist in perfect harmony.
"Creating timeless living spaces," as he describes his
philosophy, "requires attention to every detail."
Mark Mertens
philosophy, "requires attention to every detail."
Mark Mertens
The art of architectural detail
Mill 13 sits near a historic windmill that has stood since 1643, within the fortified walls of Retranchement. The setting demanded a design approach rooted in authenticity and restraint. am designs focused on connecting the interior with the surrounding nature reserve, maximizing natural light to create a sense of openness within the historic structure.
For such a project, standard hardware wouldn't suffice. The team selected SUMUM's Square Collection in Brushed Brass , a choice that speaks to both the home's historic character and its modern transformation. The warm, handcrafted finish of SUMUM's brass brings subtle elegance to each interaction point, whether it's adjusting lighting or controlling climate.
When hardware becomes design
SUMUM doesn't simply produce switches and outlets. They craft architectural elements that enhance your environment. Each piece from their Core Collection is finished manually, embracing what they call ‘the perfect imperfection’, those subtle variations that distinguish handcrafted quality from mass production.
Excellence in every touchpoint
am designs
draws inspiration from ancient cultures, contemporary architecture, and Belgium's rich heritage. This approach requires hardware partners who share similar values.
SUMUM's commitment to craftsmanship aligns perfectly with this philosophy. Their products undergo manual finishing processes that honor traditional techniques while incorporating modern functionality. The result feels both timeless and contemporary, precisely the balance am designs seeks.
For Mill 13, this meant hardware that could complement both the serene, minimalist interiors and the carefully curated collection of furniture and art. The Brushed Brass switches provide warm accent points without overwhelming the space's deliberate tranquility. Projects like Mill 13 demonstrate how architectural hardware transcends utility to become part of a home's design language.
Design by
am designs
