Issue link: http://digital.canadawide.com/i/255439
february 2014 /37 architectural Hardware principle is functional, fashionable and affordable, and we design with that in mind," says Doug McLean, VP of builders markets for Taymor. "Historically, security and reliability comes at the cost of style, but with this new program, you can have the best of both worlds." Technology is changing the way we secure spaces. More and more doors are using access control solutions in place of traditional locks and the power that these solutions demand becomes a vital concern to the construction industry. Assa Abloy's answer is to redesign the electromechanical lock to use significantly less power to save energy and improve battery life. Power Over Ethernet solutions are employed to additionally reduce energy demands. Energy isn't the only focus for Assa Abloy. Visual appeal is important too, particularly as architects look for alternatives to traditional, rugged, institutional commercial- grade hardware. "The esthetics of our products have been a focus for a number of years now, and we have a large and growing offering of designer levers, roses and thumbturns that can be applied to the Grade 1 locking products from Sargent, Corbin Russwin and Yale," explains Joe Meijer, director of business development for Assa Abloy Canada. Sustainability plays a large role in the company's product development as well. The majority of products boast a high percentage of post-consumer recycled materials and many are certified by Greenguard for low VOCs. "We are also at the forefront of the drive to transparency in our industry," says Meijer. Schlage's new touchscreen electronic deadbolt with built-in alarm allows for secure and convenient entry, and is Z-wave enabled to be integrated into your home automation systems – all with an ANSI Grade 1 security rating. While the deadbolt protects a building, it also looks good doing it. "This system can be paired with our Decorative Collections deadbolts, levers and knobs with more than 1,000 customized design and finish options," explains Nicolas Drigani of Allegion Canada Inc., parent company of Schlage. "Homes can now reflect the homeowner's individual style." Drigani points to a trend of light finishes – satin nickel, satin chrome and antique pewter among them – that reflect a move towards coordinating interior and exterior finishes. Ingersoll Rand has spun off its commercial and residential security businesses to create a new, publicly-held, global company named Allegion. The company is pioneering safety as a provider of security solutions for homes and businesses through 23 global brands. Allegion specializes in security around the doorway and beyond. It's these details that help make a house a home: the right door lever, a door that glides open swiftly and smoothly. This year, the industry is mixing form and function with incredible results. n Photos above: Taymor Industries Ltd.'s indoor and outdoor square-shaped deadbolts and Vega lever from the Premier line. p32-37Paint_Hardware.indd 37 14-01-23 11:33 AM