Sliding hardware systems open doors, both literally and figuratively, to creating more flexible, accessible, space-saving interior architecture. Solutions using top-hung sliding hardware are seemingly unlimited, with options including straight-sliding, curving, folding, and stacking configurations for glass, wood, metal, and other panel materials. Applications include sliding doors, movable walls, hardware for furniture as well as sliding shutters.

All of these applications present a range of benefits for the end-user and for architectural design in general. But to tap into these advantages and make the building more user-friendly and adaptable, savvy architects are educating themselves about the various top-hung sliding hardware types, how they work, and how to create the best possible designs and specifications.

Hardware consultants, manufacturers, and fabricators are helping to illuminate this challenge while also demonstrating that good working knowledge of top-hung sliding hardware basics will give the design professional a decided advantage. “Using sliding hardware systems adds new dimensions to a building's design and interior functionality,” says Keith Duckett, national sales director for Hawa Americas Inc. “While the architectural concept starts with considerations about how the moveable elements will function, the key to success is basic, baseline knowledge of how to identify and specify the suitable top-hung system for any given application.”

With that in mind, this educational article offers a brief overview of benefits of top-hung sliding systems, which can help guide their use in architectural projects. Then we consider the basic components of a top-hung sliding hardware system—including the standard terminology and how they work—and look at their use in basic system types and varied, common applications. Last, we present a straightforward, basic method for identifying the suitable top-hung hardware system for a given architectural need or building application.

“The best way to select a system is by considering the architectural objective or function: Are you trying to divide a room, hide a space or storage, frame or block a view, replace a pivoting door or something else?” Duckett asks. “But before you can match that with the most effective or suitable top-hung system, architects need a working understanding of this family of specialty hardware.”

Photo courtesy of Hawa Americas Inc.

For restaurants and hotel areas that need to close off a party space or a section of a foodservice area, sliding doors can match the establishment’s aesthetics and help keep renovation costs low. Panels of custom wood and glass match this interior design.