We recently had the chance to connect with Hannah Haynsworth and have shared our conversation below.
Hannah, so good to connect and we’re excited to share your story and insights with our audience. There’s a ton to learn from your story, but let’s start with a warm up before we get into the heart of the interview. What is a normal day like for you right now?
Right now a normal day begins with the joyful chaos of a new puppy, which includes early morning wake ups, lots of energy, and usually a mess. Then I head to the office where I chip away at a to-do list that somehow grows as much as it shrinks. My workdays are a mix of problem solving, creativity, and keeping the plates spinning across multiple brands. If my puppy allows it, I’ll end the day at home happily curled up on the couch with a blanket, glass of wine, and a good show.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m one of the owners of San Diego Hardware, alongside my husband. It’s a family business that’s been around since 1892, and we’re proud to be the next generation carrying it forward. I grew up visiting the store as a kid, and it’s exciting to now help shape what it’s becoming. We specialize in decorative hardware that is both functional and artistic. We pride ourselves on our expansive selection, and knowledgeable customer service.
In addition to San Diego Hardware, we have HardwareSource, an e-commerce site dedicated to functional hardware and hinges, and most recently, The Details, our own brand of cabinet hardware.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who taught you the most about work?
My dad taught me the most about work. He leads by example with a quiet unwavering work ethic and showed me that integrity, honesty, and compassion are just as important as business acumen. He’s shaped the way I approach everything I do, and I carry his values with me every day.
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
I tend to set a very high bar for myself, and I sometimes fall into the trap of questioning whether something is good enough to put out into the world. That drive for perfection can be a strength, but it’s also leads to delays because I refine and second-guess things rather than moving forward. Over time, I’m learning to accept that no matter how “perfect” the initial release is, more polishing and improvement will always be a part of the process. I try my best to remember that everything can be built upon and to not hold things back in pursuit of an unattainable ‘finished’ state.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
That hardware is just an afterthought. Our industry often treats decorative hardware as something to pick last. But the truth is, hardware has the power to completely elevate a space. It’s tactile, functional, and often the first thing you interact with in a room. When chosen well, it becomes jewelry for the home and should never be just an afterthought.
Details matter immensely. These small choices set the tone for an entire space, and customers recognize and appreciate that distinction more than our industry often gives them credit for.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: Are you tap dancing to work? Have you been that level of excited at any point in your career? If so, please tell us about those days.
The first thing that comes to mind is the day I received the first finished samples for our hardware brand, The Details. I’ve been in this industry for over a decade and I’m genuinely passionate about hardware. Seeing my own designs come to life was completely surreal. I had gruelingly taught myself 3D modeling to bring my ideas from concept to production, which made holding the finished pieces in my hands that much more rewarding. It was the kind of day where I couldn’t stop smiling because all the hard work, late nights, and learning curves became tangible.
Contact Info:
- Website: sandiegohardware.com, thedetailshome.com
- Instagram: @sandiegohardware @thedetailshome
