Door Knobs Explained: Suffolk Latch Company’s Complete Range

Published: 16 June 2025 | Last Reviewed: 16 June 2025

This post is part of our regularly reviewed content series, ensuring all advice remains accurate and relevant to your home project.

Author: Carl Benson

Carl is the founder of Suffolk Latch Company, with a background in engineering and over 20 years’ experience in home hardware.

He works closely with suppliers and designers to develop quality ironmongery. Read Carl's full bio.

Carl Benson

A Guide to Our Full Range of Door Knobs

Table of Contents

Introduction

Suffolk Latch Company offers an extensive range of door knobs, covering traditional and contemporary styles.

This guide walks you through the main door knob collections, from classic interior mortice knobs and traditional rim lock knobs to marine-grade stainless steel options and bathroom sets.

Whether you are restoring a period property or updating a modern home, there is a door knob to suit every setting.

Interior Door Knobs

Interior door knobs, also known as mortice door knobs, are designed to be used with an internal door latch or mortice lock.

These knobs are mounted on both sides of the door and connected through a spindle, which operates the latch mechanism inside the door.

Suffolk Latch Company’s interior door knobs are sold as pairs and come with a standard square mortice bar and the required fixings for installation.

Many of the designs are inspired by Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian hardware. Beehive and Reeded door knobs feature the stacked ring pattern popular in the Georgian era, while Bun and Octagonal knobs reflect later period styles.

Despite their period appearance, these knobs are made with modern precision. Many include concealed fixings and use materials such as solid brass, bronze, iron and hardwood.

Rosewood & Antique Brass Bun Door Knob

Antique Brass Beehive Door Knob

Rim Lock Door Knobs

Rim lock door knobs are designed for use with rim locks, which are mounted on the surface of the door rather than recessed inside it.

They are a popular choice for cottages, Victorian properties and traditional interiors where surface-mounted locks are used.

In a rim lock setup, one knob usually mounts directly to the rim lock mechanism. The opposite knob may have a rose or plate to match.

Not all mortice knobs are suitable for rim locks, so it is important to choose a compatible set.

Suffolk Latch Company’s rim lock knob sets are designed to work with traditional rim locks and are available in a range of period finishes.

Rim lock door knobs and traditional door hardware

Marine-Grade Stainless Steel Door Knobs

For coastal areas, high-humidity spaces or contemporary interiors, marine-grade stainless steel door knobs are a practical option.

These knobs are made from 316 marine-grade stainless steel, which is known for its corrosion resistance.

The stainless steel knobs are available in two main finishes:

  • Polished Stainless Steel: a bright, mirror-like finish with a crisp modern appearance.
  • Satin Stainless Steel: a brushed finish with a softer, architectural look.

These are especially suited to exterior-facing doors, bathrooms and coastal properties where moisture may be present.

Door Knob Sets with 3" and 4" Latches or Locks

Suffolk Latch Company also offers door knob sets that include a pair of knobs, a matching tubular latch or bathroom lock, faceplate, strike plate and fixings.

These sets are available with 3-inch or 4-inch latches and locks.

A longer 4-inch backset moves the knob further from the door edge, reducing the chance of your hand catching the door frame.

The 3-inch latch is useful for narrower doors or where space is limited, but the 4-inch option is usually more comfortable where it can be fitted.

Antique Brass Beehive Door Knobs

Matt Black Reeded Door Knobs

Finishes & Styles Available

Door knobs are available in a wide choice of finishes and styles, making it easier to match them with your existing door furniture.

  • Antique Brass & Bronze: suited to heritage homes and traditional interiors.
  • Polished Brass & Chrome: high-shine finishes for classic and contemporary settings.
  • Satin Brass, Nickel & Pewter: softer finishes with a muted appearance.
  • Black & Cast Iron: suitable for cottage, farmhouse and industrial-style interiors.
  • Wood & Ceramic: traditional options including beehive, bun and decorative ceramic designs.
  • Stainless Steel: polished or satin marine-grade options for bathrooms, exterior doors and coastal homes.

The style of the knob, whether round, oval, beehive, reeded or octagonal, can then be matched with the finish that best suits your room.

Technical Resources: Spec Sheets & Guides

Each door knob listing includes downloadable specification sheets in PDF and DWG formats.

These resources are useful for homeowners, installers and trade professionals planning a project.

Our blog also includes how-to guides and video tutorials covering fitting, latch selection, backset measurements and matching door furniture.

Conclusion

From rim lock reproductions to stainless steel options for coastal homes, Suffolk Latch Company offers door knobs for a wide range of projects.

With full latch sets, matching accessories and a choice of period and modern finishes, it is easier to find the right door knob for your home.

Explore our Door Knobs Collection or contact us for advice with your project.

FAQ

What is the difference between a mortice door knob and a rim lock door knob?

Mortice door knobs are fitted to doors with recessed locks or latches and are mounted on both sides of the door.

Rim lock door knobs are designed to work with surface-mounted rim locks and usually have a different fixing layout.

Should I choose a 3" or 4" latch for my door knobs?

We recommend a 4-inch latch wherever possible, as it gives better hand clearance from the door frame.

A 3-inch latch is useful for narrow stiles or restricted spaces.

Do you offer door knobs for bathrooms with locks?

Yes. Our bathroom door knob sets include privacy locks, thumb turns and fixings, with options available in matching finishes.

Are stainless steel knobs suitable for outside use?

Yes. Our 316 marine-grade stainless steel knobs are designed for exterior and coastal installations.

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