Hardware isn’t just standard-old-issue hardware anymore. Many exciting things are happening in the architectural hardware market. Suppliers are introducing new offerings with high-design concepts. We recently spoke with Brad Murphy, manager of the technical sales department at C.R. Laurence Co. Inc., Los Angeles, about what is occurring in this market segment.

Q What are the current trends in hardware?

In the architectural hardware arena, we see a substantial movement toward custom hardware. In commercial hardware, designers, architects and specifiers seem to be very conscious of aesthetics rather than just function. They delight in having something unique in their projects. This includes custom finishes, sizes and designs. We especially see this in Las Vegas where everyone likes to outdo the “neighboring” project. We see an increase in the need for locks and other security hardware. 

Q How do today’s hardware products compare with those of the past?

Besides the move toward custom, we are seeing a change in commercial hardware finishes. The majority of commercial hardware used to be finished in polished and brushed stainless steel. Now we are seeing designer finishes, such as oil rubbed bronze, gain in popularity. 

Today’s buyers also want easy and rapid installation. They want to obtain a quote, order the product, pick it up, and install it quickly. Increased security is another trend. 

In the area of frameless shower door hardware, we not only see the demand for custom products, but also custom looks. For example, the trend used to be straight inline shower and bath enclosures, but now we’re creating a lot of custom bent metal for softer more contoured and curved and angled configurations. There is also a trend to match the finishes to the fixtures and a great demand for variety. We have over 20 standard finishes now, and can create custom finishes. We’re seeing an increase in the need for “antique” finishes too, such as antique brushed copper and antique brass. 

Q How do you think this category of products will change in the next three years?

We think we’ll continue to see the move toward customization, stylish finishes, ease of installation, and security. Internal mechanisms and components continue to improve with better quality, design, and more extensive testing. 

The use of computers in the design process is increasing too. We’ve developed online design and glass size programs to expedite and professionalize the process. We started with “Showers Online,” added “Storefronts Online” and have now developed “Handrails Online.” These Web-based programs work with a wide variety of design configurations and can also generate custom configurations. Jobsite measurements are entered, and out-of-plumb and/or out-of-level conditions are specified. After selecting hardware and entering data, complete glass sizes are generated and their accompanying templates. Professional looking, detailed drawings provide a great presentation to the customers.

USG
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