Designed by artist Mike Hyam and executed in the Smelt Glass Studio, this bespoke series of cast glass door handles transforms functional architecture into a tactile experience of craftsmanship and symbolism. Created for the prestigious Great Hall auditorium at the University of Mpumalanga, each handle is a fusion of art and utility—custom-designed to be both surface-mounted and inset, with stainless steel fittings that complement the luminous glass forms.
Infused with the university’s official logo colours, the handles reflect institutional identity while elevating the building’s aesthetic. Handmade with precision and care, they embody a commitment to quality and individuality. The architectural team described them as “jewels in the building,” a testament to their visual impact and the way they catch light, attention, and imagination.
This project stands as a quiet yet powerful statement: that even the smallest details—when crafted with intention—can resonate with meaning and beauty.
