The Genesis of Element Hardware: Our Founders Path to Excellence

Element Hardware (EHF), founded in 2016 by Nathaniel Winkler, is more than just a company; it’s the direct manifestation of Nate’s extraordinary and diverse journey. Every piece of hand-forged interior hardware reflects a lifetime of practical expertise, an innate understanding of design, and a relentless pursuit of quality.

From Wood Grain to Metal: A Foundation in Artisan Woodworking and Design

Nate’s earliest education began not in a classroom, but in the tactile world of his family’s custom wood shop. From the tender age of 12, he worked shoulder-to-shoulder with his father and grandfather, immersed in the meticulous process of building high-end, custom furniture. This wasn’t merely a childhood pastime; it was a rigorous apprenticeship in precision, durability, and the intricate details that elevate a product from functional to exceptional. His grandfather, an architect by profession, simultaneously instilled a foundational understanding of design theory. This early exposure to both the ‘how’ and the ‘why’ of construction and aesthetics profoundly shaped Nate, laying the groundwork for his future in design-focused hardware. This deep-seated appreciation for craftsmanship and the fundamental principles of design is directly evident in every EHF product today, where form meets function with elegant simplicity.

A World of Experience: Honing Business Acumen and Client Focus

At 19, Nate ventured into entrepreneurship, opening his first business: a bustling cafe in Central Oregon. This experience, though seemingly distinct from woodworking, was crucial. It thrust him into the fast-paced world of operations, inventory management, and, critically, direct customer engagement. He learned to manage multiple priorities under pressure and to deliver consistent quality in a high-demand environment.

His subsequent years abroad, first with the Peace Corps in South America for two years, then teaching English in Mongolia for another year, broadened his perspective immeasurably. These experiences cultivated an exceptional adaptability, resourcefulness, and a profound understanding of diverse cultures and needs – skills that are invaluable in navigating the complexities of business and understanding a varied clientele.

Upon returning to the U.S., Nate applied his burgeoning leadership skills as the General Manager for a high-end dining establishment in Santa Monica, California. For a decade, he refined his expertise in client relations, team management, and delivering premium service. This extensive background in high-end service and business management directly informs Element Hardware’s commitment to exceptional customer experience, efficient operations, and a meticulous attention to detail in every aspect of the company, not just the product itself.

The Return to Roots: Forging a New Legacy

Despite his success in the restaurant industry, the call of creating with his hands, of shaping raw materials into lasting objects, remained strong. After 10 years in food and beverage, Nate answered that call. He acquired an old anvil and a few hammers, embarking on a new journey to master the ancient art of blacksmithing. This was not a casual pursuit but a dedicated, decade-long commitment to learning the nuances of metal, heat, and force.

This profound, hands-on aptitude for blacksmithing, combined with his design sensibility and refined business acumen from the service industry, culminated in the founding of Element Hardware in 2016. Today, EHF stands as a testament to Nate’s unique history: a design-focused hardware company specializing in exquisite, hand-forged interior hardware, where every curve, texture, and finish speaks to a lifetime dedicated to quality, thoughtful design, and the enduring beauty of the handmade.

EHF proudly remains a cottage industry company. With just a few helping hands and a single dedicated shop, we take immense pride in every unique piece that leaves our forge. If you’re looking for quality, handmade, and custom interior hardware, you’ve found it. Give Nate a call to discuss your project today! 458-206-9754 – nate@handforgedhomedecor.com