MadeMeasure
The beauty of leather and an eye for detail led Paul Kinny and Christina Teresinski to create quality door handles
Door hardware has taken a hand-crafted, sophisticated turn with MadeMeasure’s collection of leather stacked handles (top right) and tabs (below). The pair behind the company, Paul Kinny and Christina Teresinski work out of a Melbourne studio with other creatives and Walter the studio dog. MadeMeasure’s distinctive handles have become a (left) (bottom).m). Christina, what does MadeMeasure do? We are purveyors of premium handles for interior projects, and makers of leather goods for the built space. We’re for quality over quantity, and simplicity in form and function. How did MadeMeasure come about? My business partner, Paul is known for his leathercraft and he used to produce leather products for my former business, a dog accessory company. After three years, it was clear that we wanted to keep the art of leather craftsmanship alive in Australia, so we joined forces to start MadeMeasure. We saw the collaboration as an opportunity to combine our skills and passion. How do both of you fit into the design and creation process? Our design process is organic – we go with our gut feeling, and what we feel is right for the brand. Products are introduced when we feel the time is right, rather than being dictated by a strict launch schedule. We both have a background in design and product development – Paul learnt his craft under the watchful eye of a local leather craftsman after studying apparel production and pattern making. I previously worked in marketing and product development in the lifestyle and beauty industry. Today, we work together on all aspects of product development, design, and branding. What drew you to working with leather, and what do you love about it? Every hide has unique characteristics and improves beautifully with age and use. We also love leather’s rich texture and tactile nature. Tell us about the MadeMeasure studio. Our workshop is located in a historic wool-store building in Kensington, Melbourne. It’s a big lofty industrial space, surrounded by other creative studios, a vibrant hub of activity. We’re very fortunate to have a small, passionate team of clever individuals working with us – they bring great energy. Could you outline the production process for one of your leather pieces? It all starts with the raw materials and hardware. We select our hides to meet the highest standards then we review all aspects of the product design: materials, functionality, shape, colours, finishes, edging and hardware. After this, a prototype is created then it’s re-sampled and retested until the product is just right. We also assess the best production method for each piece before it is brought to the market. Where do you draw inspiration from? We are inspired by the design world in general – interiors and architecture. Life! Finishes and palette boards also bring us a nice perspective on what textures, colours and tactile materials designers are enjoying.