When Ron Allan began collecting doorknobs in the early 1970's, he never imagined that his collection would be the inspiration for two businesses.

In 1991 Ron and Donetta George, a long time friend with a design and business background, decided to combine their skills and use Ron's collection to start a business selling architectural artifacts.

Initially The Brass Knob tried to sell all types of architectural pieces, but it soon became apparent that the townhouse store front would not hold doors and bathtubs. For a few years, Ron stored these larger items off site and sold them by appointment.

As the demand grew, Ron and Donetta considered expanding their operation by adding another location that could hold volumes of doors, bathtubs, radiators, and fencing, as well as other larger decorative pieces.

The Brass Knob Back Doors Warehouse came to life in 1991. The Back Doors specializes in all types of old house parts, much of which Ron and his crew salvage directly from buildings in the Washington area.

Now two separate businesses, these stores with similar names still work very closely together to provide the Washington area with a full array of architectural antiques and salvaged house parts.

Our Staff

Ron Allan owns the Brass Knob Back Doors Warehouse with his wife Kathy Suter. With 27 years in the business, Ron is the driving force in all operations of the business.

Andrew Berry is the manager of the Brass Knob Back Doors. He came to the Brass Knob in 1994 after working several years for an architectural antiques store in New York City.

Saul Navidad has been employed since 1996. He does everything from demolition to wood and metal repairs.

Jose Cruz was hired in 2004 to help with organization and deliveries. In addition to these duties he is now also a member of the sales staff.