A landmark collaboration takes centre stage at the upcoming Kitchen+Bath Show (June 13-15, 2024). Castella, a proudly third-generation Tasmanian family business with a deep passion for Australian design and manufacturing, unveils its pioneering partnership with Hydrowood – the world's first ever collection of door hardware crafted from this revolutionary underwater timber.

When the opportunity came up to partner with such an innovative neighbour, John Saunders, Director of the company, jumped at the chance.

"We've always been dedicated to pushing the boundaries of design and functionality with our hardware," says Saunders. "When we were introduced to Hydrowood, we were immediately captivated by the beauty and potential of this unique material. It was a natural fit to collaborate with a fellow Tasmanian innovator and create a collection that would truly honour the history and character of these submerged timbers."

Hydrowood is timber reclaimed from the depths of the Pieman River (hydro) Dam on Tasmania's West Coast

The Hydrowood Collection: A Symphony of Form and Function

Castella handles in situ at a project in Perth, Western Australia

The Castella and Hydrowood collection comprises four distinct ranges, each embodying a unique design aesthetic:

• The Murchison Handles let the natural curves of the wood speak for themselves. Offered in Natural Oak, Charred Oak, and five lengths, these minimalist, curved beauties are both stylish and functional.
• Tarkine Entrance Handles are statement pieces in their own right. Their design marries the warmth of the wood with a touch of industrial flair through sharp lines and a robust profile. The optional visible face cap allows for further design customisation, allowing you to truly make an entrance for any space.
•  Defined by clean lines, minimalist profiles, and beautiful textural variations in the wood grain, the Tullah range offers a timeless aesthetic that seamlessly integrates with any cabinetry design.
• The Macquarie Collection transcends mere hardware, transforming into a sculptural element for your interior. Crafted from Tasmanian Oak, these pulls embrace the full circle of nature that Hydrowood embodies. Available in two diameters (90mm & 140mm) and offered in both round and semi-circular forms, the collection allows for a variety of design possibilities. Imagine a door adorned with a single semi-circle, a subtle nod to the timber's submerged origins, or use two opposing pieces to create a complete whole. Whichever configuration you choose, the Macquarie Collection brings a touch of subtle elegance and a unique conversation starter to any space.

The Allure of Hydrowood: Innovation Meets Sustainability

Hydrowood is more than just a unique material; it's a testament to human ingenuity and a commitment to environmental responsibility. As the world's first underwater forestry operation, Hydrowood harvests timber from the depths of Lake Pieman in Tasmania, utilising specially designed submersible equipment. This innovative approach allows them to access and recover specialty timbers that were once thought to be lost forever.

"We are thrilled to be partnering with Castella to showcase the beauty and versatility of Hydrowood," says Andrew Morgan, co-founder of Hydrowood. "This collaboration perfectly embodies our shared values of innovation, sustainability, and creating exceptional design products."

A Sustainable Future for Design

The Castella and Hydrowood collection represents a significant step forward for sustainable design in Australia. By utilising reclaimed timber harvested through a groundbreaking process, and with all handles proudly made in Tasmania, this collection offers a glimpse into a future where design and environmental responsibility go hand in hand. This commitment to local manufacturing and sustainable practices positions Castella and Hydrowood at the forefront of Australian design innovation.

The Kitchen+Bath Show, co-located with Design Show Australia promises to be a landmark event, and the Castella and Hydrowood collaboration is sure to be a highlight. This collection not only sets a new standard for door hardware but also paves the way for a more sustainable future for the design industry.

Castella Hydrowood Collection, Macquarie handle

Castella Hydrowood Collection, Murchison range