What is your fascination with doorbells?
While trick or treating as a child, I remember this one house in our neighborhood with a long bell door chime. That doorbell added so much grace and elegance. I decided right then I wanted one for my own home. However, when I finally went looking for one, all I found were cheap electronic chimes totaling lacking in character. So I decided to make my own.
What inspires your designs?
The 1930s and 40s were a “golden age” of long chime doorbells. Some of the finest Industrial Designers of the 20th Century, including Norman Bel Geddes and Russell Wright, lent their considerable talents to doorbell manufacturers. Their work informs my designs.
What’s the bestselling chime?
The ribbon does very well because it suits almost every decor with its simple lines. This year, I introduced nickel-plated brass bells to compliment today’s popular choices in hardware and appliances. These are proving to be quite popular.
I see a lot of houses every week and many of them have empty niches in the foyer. Why would someone consider filling their niche with and ElectraChime doorbell?
Anything less than long metal bells negates a very important design element the architect and builder had in mind. Long bell door chimes are meant to be seen, and heard. A nice doorbell makes your home sound welcoming while adding a sculptural element to your home.
What advice do you have a homeowner who doesn’t have an empty niche to fill?
A long bell door chime also looks great on a plain wall and adds elegance. And you’ll enjoy the way it looks even when it’s silent. The doorbell is among the first impressions a visitor has of your home and there’s nothing like the sound of real brass bells. It definitely sets your home apart from others.
Most memorable project?
I have to say that some of my most rewarding experiences come from building a custom doorbell out of wood salvaged from a renovation project. Once, a designer sent me a few oak boards milled from timbers from an 18th century English farmhouse. It was a real honor to work with 300 year old lumber. And when a client builds a new niche especially for an ElectraChime, I smile from ear-to-ear.
Most prized possession?
Aside from the people in my life and my health, I’d have to say it’s my 1966 Datsun Roadster. I haven’t had the top up on that car in more than fifteen years.
What’s next for ElectraChime?
I’m just trying to make the world a little more welcome, one door at a time! Later this year I plan to introduce an Arts and Crafts style cover done in the Stickley Style.
If you’d like to contact Robert Dobrin here is his contact information:
Robert Dobrin
www.ElectraChime.com
415.259.4049
