Selecting High-End Hardware for Residential, Commercial, and Hospitality Locations

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Advertorial course provided by Rocky Mountain Hardware
Stanley Stark, FAIA

Considerations in Selecting a Hardware Manufacturer

Selection of a hardware manufacturer with the ability and the technologies to implement the design is vital to a successful application. The manufacturer should offer a range of options in cohesive styles, materials, and design appearances, thus allowing the design professional to create the desired aesthetic look. The choices for lever, knob, escutcheon, patina, in various sizes to work with the size and scale of the project, contribute to an integrated end result.

Ideally, hardware manufacturers should possess custom capabilities, allowing each piece to be as individual as the spaces they complement and the people who design and use them. Design professionals should consider manufacturers with in-house engineering and design teams, capable of collaborating with architects to translate design ideas into aesthetic and functional spaces. Additionally, manufacturers offering other complementary accessories, such as hinges, doorstops, surface and cane bolts, doorknockers, and doorbell buttons, will simplify implementation of the design concept throughout the project.


Hand etching and carving to create a custom pattern for a mould for casting or forging.
Photo courtesy of Rocky Mountain Hardware

Conclusion

Design options for hardware have expanded dramatically in recent years. The complexity of hardware functions and technology has also been evolving to meet the conflicting requirements of the public and private realms. It is vitally important for architects and designers to remain aware of this basic area of design, and stay closely acquainted with what the hardware industry and hardware manufacturers are doing to meet these challenges.

Creating architectural hardware for discriminating clients since 1994, Rocky Mountain Hardware continues to offer the finest quality in the industry. Each piece is handmade and sand-cast with the beauty and integrity of solid art-grade bronze. Accenting its durable construction is your choice of patina, which enhances the individual nature of the hardware; no two pieces look alike. Yet, it is the sophisticated textures inherent in our hardware that our clients continually seek. Select any item from our line or customize a piece from your own idea and enjoy a unique style that endures throughout generations.

 

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Originally published in Architectural Record.
Originally published in December 2005

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