Issue link: http://digital.canadawide.com/i/177525
fans, the SmartCase aluminum tambour system is practical for commercial and now residential uses as well. "It's inding application in kitchens and of ice furniture," says Forschle. Whatever you're looking for, Bucher Ltd. is dedicated to offering the technical support needed to understand the products and their applications best. Joe Meijer, manager of new products, architectural/training for Assa Abloy Door Security Solutions Canada also notes the trend towards aluminum – particularly doors and framing systems – being used for interior applications, which require a different type of hardware. "Conversely, commercial facilities like hospitals, convalescent homes and care facilities are moving away from that industrial, institutional look, and architects," says Meijer, "are looking for clean lines and visual appeal." Either way, Assa Abloy's range of new products aim to meet these varying needs. The HES 8500 provides a concealed electric strike locking system for mortise locksets, offering unobtrusive access control and four faceplate options for security that suits the visual look of any facility; the sleek COURTESY BUCHER LTD. though, customers are looking for hardware that's going to add long-term value to the home. "Quality and functionality are just as important as design," says Forschle. When it comes to design, though, Forchle has noticed the contining appeal of stainless steel, "but anodized aluminum is gaining popularity, too, especially in combination with white." Bucher Ltd. carries the full line of dependable, on-trend MWE Stainless Steel products, which includes hardware for barnstyle doors, sliding and pivoting shower doors, as well as interior design pieces and handles and pulls; for aluminum E L E C T R O N I C A C C E S S C O N T R O L S A R C H I T E C T U R A L H A R D WA R E C O N S T R U C T I O N S P E C I A LT I E S WA S H R O O M D O O R S & PA R T I T I O N S - L O C K E R S F R A M E S WA S H R O O M A C C E S S O R I E S McGregor & Thompson Hardware LTD. Building relationships since 1964. WWW.MCGREGOR-THOMPSON.COM INFO@MCGREGOR-THOMPSON.COM TOLL FREE 1 . 8 0 0 . 5 6 3 . 4 8 8 8 36/ FEBRUARY 2012 p.32-37ArchitectHware.indd 36 1250 E. GEORGIA ST. VANCOUVER, BC V6A 2B1 TEL 6 0 4 . 2 5 3 . 8 2 5 2 FA X 6 0 4 . 2 5 3 . 4 2 6 0 Simpli Roseless Trim decorative handles are available in many inishes and styles – like the architectural Gramercy Series or the smaller, elegant Rialto Series – and seamlessly it tubular and mortise locks; the ultra-modern Yale InTouch lock features an innovative touch screen panel for effortless keycode access; and Adams Rite SteelHawk is a great access control solution for narrow aluminum doors. Whatever the customer chooses, though, the idea of a product life cycle is prominent in the decision-making process. "Hardware should look good, but last for years," Meijer explains. The integration of new electri ied and access control products and a streamlined wiring infrastructure can play a key role in minimizing the "cost per opening," he says. And energy-ef iciency can be affected by something as simple as an improper latch, so quality products can play an important role in making a difference to the environment. Architectural hardware doesn't stop at the front door, though, as Tony Dente, general manager of East & West Alum Craft Ltd. knows. The company engineers railing designs for commercial and residential use, and knows the importance details can make to the look and function of a project. Currently in the works, says Dente, is a new generation of Snap Tight Aluminum Railings (STAR) for residential customers. "Once installed, the railing is indistinguishable from a fully welded product. In fact, it's even cleaner looking, as you don't see any welded or ground joints." Modern glass railings are popular right now, too, despite common breakage problems in Ontario for some brands. "There is very strong Architectural Hardware 1/23/12 10:33:45 AM