Issue link: http://digital.canadawide.com/i/936114
FEBRUA RY 2018 | 29 Architectural Hardware But whatever a consumer or designer chooses, it's clear that these pieces can pack a serious impact. "Homeowners continue to want to use their hardware to enhance their kitchen and they understand that just by changing them – even if budget only allows a small change – that it will make a huge impact on the look," says Dion. "They are the final touch, the jewelry of a kitchen, closet or furniture piece." Though doors and cabinets may seem like the most low- tech element of a home, that's rapidly changing. McGregor & Thompson Hardware has its product specialists work with IT experts as well as designers in order to develop door hardware with security interfaces that look great and function elegantly. "Hardware companies now need to take on tech expertise as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth-enabled access control security are becoming standard," says Longhi. Tech isn't the only thing the hardware industry has to adapt to right now: the ever-evolving North American Fenestration Standards (NAFS) mean that building codes are constantly changing and manufacturers have to adapt the products to comply with wind and water penetration, and thermal efficiency ratings. "It is going to be a major factor in our industry," says Longhi. "Only accredited suppliers have the ability to test and label rated systems, so only certain hardware, weather-strip, and door glazing systems will be in compliance with NAFS." Of course, as windows and doors get bigger, the demand for security is just going to increase exponentially. "Commercial applications for door hardware continue to demand greater versatility for security, access control and monitor- ing," Ruppert says. "Electrification is commonplace, and integration with building management software is becoming more expected. This undoubtedly lends itself to the whole smart building concept." Dormakaba is well-equipped for this merging of hardware and software. "Informed and innovative design from dormakaba has always been appreciated by owners, architects and users alike," Ruppert explains. "We're fortunate to have world-class products and systems to address any type or scale of building opening. We not only have the architectural hardware, but we provide comprehensive access control and security soft- ware, as well as doors, frames and glass assemblies hosting all those components." B U I LT T O L A S T Homeowners aren't always just looking for the latest styles when shopping for architectural hardware; they're looking to make their lives easier. "Homeowners often don't know what the solution is to their problem or that there actually is a solution. They're looking for ideas they can implement into their house from the hardware manufacturer – be it handleless fronts or thinner materials. They want to know what can actually be done," says Pavlov. Architects are now realizing that millwork packages in their installation can be as innovative as the envelope. "A lot of them are looking for materials that are unconventional to be used in millwork, and they're looking at us, the hardware manufacturers, for solutions," says Pavlov. Homeowners and builders alike, as they become more educated, are also more willing to invest in these details to get quality that will last, and to spend money on high-tech solutions that work with their lifestyle. "We may not be the cheapest, but we're the best at what we do," says Sansalone. In the end, though, durability is the most important quality for any kind of hardware, be it handle, rail or hinge. "With architectural door hardware being the most actively engaged component of any building, durability is paramount to the specification community," says Ruppert. And the ability for that hardware to adapt and integrate to security and building controls will be key for a safe and happy home. "Providers who understand and respond to this often complex relationship will be of greatest service to designers and owners alike." As a 70-year-old company, Grass knows the importance of quality all too well, and is one company that is confident in offering a lifetime warranty for its problems. "The fact that we have done a lot of the engineering, a lot of the testing; that counts for something." Because ultimately, well-made products never go out of style. A Yale access control system from McGregor & Thompson Hardware.