The Beauty of Lake Como

Lake Como is the third largest lake in Italy and arguably the most beautiful. It has been a retreat for the wealthy since Roman times and shore-side properties have had many celebrities and famous residents. George Clooney owns a luxurious lakeside villa in Laglio and others include George Lucas, Madonna and Richard Branson.

With stunning mountainside views and picture perfect villages set against the dazzling glitter of the water, it is not hard to understand why Lake Como is the destination per eccellenza.

Varenna - Medieval Fishing Village

Varenna can be found on the Eastern shore of Lake Como. Originally founded by medieval fishermen in 769, it is popular with tourists for being one of the most picturesque hamlets on the Lake. Known for its architectural beauty with luxurious villas, colourful houses and cobbled alleys. The winding lakeside path has cafes and restaurants where you can sit and take in the stunning views. This romantic village has a wealth of architectural history, with inspiring antique details from the medieval period right through to the nineteenth century. 

Ironmongery Inspiration

Here at Suffolk Latch Company, we love to find inspiration from antique ironmongery. Carl and Sharon recently took a trip to Varenna and brought back some great photos. Take a walk with us through the medieval cobbled alleys...

Latches

This gem, found on an antique door, is a classic thumb latch.

For an antique-inspired latch for your home, see our range of Thumb Latches including this Gothic Latch, available in black beeswax and rustic pewter. Prices from £14.00 with free standard delivery.

Door Bolts

Mortice style locks were invented in the nineteenth centruy. Prior to this, bolts were used to secure doors. There are some fine examples of medieval and Renaissance door bolts around Varenna, including these hefty iron bolts.

With modern designs of locks we don't need such serious bolts. To inject some vintage style into your home see our range of hand forged door bolts in black beeswax and rustic pewter.

Studs & Nails

Studs were first used on exterior doors and gates to provide protection from sword and axe attacks. Later they became more of a decorative feature. The buildings in Varenna date far back to the medieval era. The inhabitants of Veranna had to negotiate frequent attacks from nearby Como and often had to retreat to the nearby military outpost at the Castle of Vezio.

Take inspiration and see our range of pyramid door studs and hand forged rosehead nails. The studs, priced from £2.00 each, are available in black or rustic pewter. Our hand forged nails come in 1kg bags of either self colour or pewter from £27.00.

Pulls & Knockers

These lion door knockers are a traditional design. Note the neo-classical arched doorway, a clasic feature of the Greek revival motifs found in the architecture of the Rennaisance period.

In contrast to the elaborate designs of the Rennaisance period see also these simple pull handles. The iron has weathered and rusted over the centuries although is still perfectly functional and now adds to the rustic charm.

To give your front door rustic period character, see our range of Front Door Accessories. This pewter rustic door knocker £34.00 is also available in black.

For further home inspiration see our Photo Gallery and Blog.