Inside the Collaboration: Schoolhouse x Aaron Probyn
Here at Schoolhouse, we’re always drawn to designs that balance beautiful forms with everyday function, which is why we’re so excited to share the Rhone collection, created by British designer Aaron Probyn. Known for his approach to creating timeless, sustainable, and emotionally engaging home essentials, Aaron’s designs are meant to bring joy to everyday life—and the Rhone collection is no exception. With its sculptural forms and subtle tactile qualities, the three-piece brass hardware collaboration offers a modern yet timeless update for any space.
To dive deeper into Aaron’s creative process and the inspiration behind this collection, we asked him to share more about his design philosophy and what makes Rhone so special. Read on to learn how this versatile collection came to life, from the first sketch to the final product, and what makes it a truly special addition to any home.
What inspired the design of the Rhone collection?
I love working with strong graphic forms that have a sculptural feel. It’s important to me that the pieces I design not only function well but also emotionally engage and enrich people’s lives. If a product doesn’t perform its task effectively, it will soon be discarded. That’s why we’re mindful of how we use the limited materials available to us.
How do you approach balancing simplicity with sculptural detail in your work?
I enjoy working with strong, yet livable forms, where clear, well-pronounced, and proportioned design details are carefully considered. We aim to strike a balance between the mass of an object and its finer details, while maintaining a delicate eye for harmony.
Can you walk us through the design process for Rhone? How did the idea evolve from concept to finished product?
In the early stages of this project, we kept things broad, spending time researching and exploring inspiring forms and details from historical objects. At this point, the ideas were loose, and as we progressed, the details and construction became more defined. We then created rough prototypes to better understand the objects and how they function. Through several rounds of precise 3D-printed models, we refined the proportions and details, ensuring the final product is perfectly balanced.
The tactile qualities of the pieces are such a standout feature—what role did the casting process play in achieving that texture?
Casting brass creates a subtle tactile texture that mirrors the fine sand used in the process. It also imparts a soft, lustrous finish, making each piece unique.
What feelings or experiences do you hope this collection evokes?
Cast brass has real substance, with a visual weight that brings reassurance and confidence. We strive to create products that emotionally engage the user—pieces they will form a lasting attachment to and enjoy for many years.
How do you ensure your designs feel timeless rather than tied to a specific trend?
Our goal is to design products that can be enjoyed and cherished for a lifetime. We avoid trends in favor of originality, creating pieces that remain enduring and never lose their appeal.
How do you see Rhone fitting into a variety of interior design styles?
Brass is a versatile material that complements a wide range of interior styles and color schemes. Though primarily contemporary, it easily blends with more historic properties, offering timeless appeal across different spaces.
