Issue link: http://digital.canadawide.com/i/1535861
J U N E 2 0 2 5 | 47 Doors & Hardware P H OTO G R A P H Y CO U RT E S Y G R A SS C A N A DA I N C . Pavlov explains that Grass offers drawer options from 12 to 30 inches, with slides capable of handling 40 to 70 kilograms. "This gives designers the ability to be versatile with wider drawers, bigger applications, and larger drawer fronts. We have drawer systems that range in size from 72 to 250 millimetres in height and support drawer fronts up to 30 inches, which could be used in everything from kitchens to commercial designs." He adds that while Grass operates worldwide, Grass Canada focuses primarily on the Canadian market. "In the past, U.S. customers who sourced millwork from Canadian shops for American installations, including universities, have provided tremendous feedback for the quality of our products and materials." The anticipated forecast for door hardware in 2025 from Standard Metal Hardware includes three trending finishes: Black Anodized Aluminum, Champagne, and Satin Brushed Stainless Steel, reflecting the growing shift toward luxury, durability, and modern aesthetics in commercial design. Black anodized aluminum enhances the design of a space with a refined, modern touch, offering subtle depth and a soft metallic sheen that elevates any interior. The brushed texture provides a sophisticated tactile experience, adding a layer of luxury and visual interest. While black powder coat remains a popular and versatile choice for many projects, anodized aluminum delivers a more elevated black finish with a sleek, contemporary edge. Champagne finishes offer a soft golden hue – an ideal choice for adding sophis- tication without the warmth of traditional gold. This finish complements a wide range of interior styles, from modern minimalism to classic design, and pairs beautifully with other materials such as wood, marble, and textured fabrics. Satin stainless steel has remained a popular choice for decades – and for good reason. Its finish creates a clean, timeless aesthetic that never goes out of style. Stainless steel provides a warm, contemporary look that suits modern interiors and is also highly recyclable, helping designers meet sustainability targets. CONSULTING EXPANDS OPTIONS Jean-Louis Bramwell, president of Total Opening Consultants Ltd., says that for decades, door hardware specifications have largely been shaped by manufactur- ers and distributors. "While this model has ensured product availability, it has often limited architects and designers to certain brands and solutions," he explains. "As buildings become more complex and technology plays a greater role in security, accessibility, and automation, the demand for independent hardware consultants has grown significantly." Independent consultants act as dedicated members of the design team – typi- cally contracted directly by the architect – with the goal of delivering the best possible outcome for the project. Unlike manufacturers or distributors, they aren't tied to specific product lines. This allows them to specify hardware based purely on performance, compliance, and design intent rather than sales quotas. Their expertise ensures that hardware integrates seamlessly with access control systems, life safety standards, and evolving building codes. "One of the most critical advantages of independent consulting is cost control," says Bramwell. "By thoroughly reviewing hardware specifications and pricing, consultants help limit unnecessary changes and avoid costly product substitutions. In many cases, they've saved clients thousands of dollars by identifying excessive distributor markups or recommending more cost-effective alternatives that still meet project requirements." As more architects recognize the value of unbiased expertise, independent hardware consulting is becoming an essential part of the design process. With a focus on long-term functionality, cost efficiency, and seamless integration, these consultants help shape buildings that are not only secure and compliant, but also better suited to the evolving needs of their users. A The innovative Vionaro drawer system. Aluflam North America 562-926-9520 aluflam-usa.com Honor Your Design. Rely on the Right Fire Safety. Satisfy safety regulations and reward your creativity with Aluflam, the key system featuring true extruded aluminum vision doors, windows and glazed walls, fired-rated for up to 120 minutes. Aluflam products are indistinguishable from non-fire-rated doors and windows and are available in a wide portfolio of most architectural finishes. Photo: ©Jason O'Rear Fire-Rated Aluminum Window And Door Systems Fire-Rated Aluminum Window And Door Systems Proud to be associated with The Halo project. 544 Prest Ave. | Winnipeg, MB | R2V 4R9 204.338.DOOR (3667) | daytonadoors.com Providing the service, sales, installation and maintenance of: • Overhead Doors • High Speed Doors • Fire Doors • Rolling Shutters and Grilles • Sliding Security Grilles • FRP Panel • Loading Dock Equipment • Hanger Doors Daytona Doors.indd 1 Daytona Doors.indd 1 2023-08-02 12:23 2023-08-02 12:23