Architectural hardware is sometimes treated as one of the final selections on a building project. In reality, many of the most important hardware decisions should be made much earlier.
Handles and finishes may be the visible elements, but behind them sits a wider system of hinges, locks, latches, closers, access control, fire-door hardware and specialist components.
For architects, developers and builders, early specification can reduce redesign, substitutions, installation problems and unnecessary cost.
Architectural Hardware Is a System
Depending on the project, architectural hardware can include:
- Lever handles
- Pull handles
- Locks
- Latches
- Mortice locks
- Deadbolts
- Hinges
- Door closers
- Door stops
- Flush bolts
- Exit hardware
- Electronic locks
- Access-control hardware
- Fire and smoke door hardware
These components need to work with:
- Door leaf
- Frame
- Building fabric
- Security strategy
- Access requirements
That is why architectural hardware should be considered as part of the building design.
Start With the Door Schedule
The project's door schedule is one of the best starting points.
For each opening, consider:
- Location
- Door type
- Material
- Dimensions
- Weight
- Internal or external use
- Locking requirements
- Security requirements
- Fire or smoke requirements
- Accessibility requirements
- Access-control requirements
- Frequency of use
- Finish
Once these are clear, suitable hardware sets can be developed.
Define the Function
Before selecting products, determine what every door needs to do.
Does it need to:
- Latch only?
- Lock?
- Self-close?
- Provide controlled access?
- Allow unrestricted exit?
- Form part of a fire or smoke separation?
- Operate under heavy traffic?
- Remain open under certain conditions?
Function should drive specification.
Coordinate Door and Hardware
Not every product works with every door.
Compatibility can depend on:
- Door thickness
- Door material
- Backset
- Lock preparation
- Frame construction
- Hinge requirements
- Handing
- Environmental exposure
These issues are easier to solve before doors and frames are manufactured.
Establish the Security Strategy
Larger projects should identify different security zones.
These may include:
- Public areas
- Tenant areas
- Staff-only areas
- Service areas
- Plant rooms
- High-security spaces
- Main entrances
From there, the project team can determine where mechanical locking is sufficient and where electronic access control is more appropriate.
Access Control
Electronic access systems may involve:
- Electronic mortice locks
- Electric strikes
- Keypads
- Cards
- Digital credentials
- Intercoms
- Door monitoring
These systems may require coordination with electrical and security contractors.
Late decisions can create unnecessary modifications.
Fire and Smoke Doors
Fire and smoke doors require particular care. The door leaf, frame, seals and hardware need to work together as the specified system. Hardware should not be substituted casually simply because another product physically fits. Where specialist performance requirements apply, products should be checked against the project documentation and relevant requirements.
Accessibility
Architectural hardware also affects how easily people can use a building.
Consider:
- Handle shape
- Grip
- Operating force
- Lock position
- Door closer resistance
- Access-control interfaces
Good hardware selection can improve usability for a wide range of people.
Exterior Exposure
New Zealand's environment can place significant demands on external hardware.
Coastal conditions deserve particular attention.
Before specifying exterior products, consider:
- Salt exposure
- Wind
- Rain
- Shelter
- Material
- Finish
- Manufacturer recommendations
Design Language
Hardware should also support the architecture.
A consistent family of handles pulls and finishes can reinforce the overall design.
Different door functions may require different products, but the project can still maintain a coherent visual language.
Procurement
Some specialist hardware can have longer lead times.
Early specification helps identify:
- Imported products
- Specialist finishes
- Electronic hardware
- Non-standard components
- Long-lead items
This also creates more time to assess legitimate substitutions.
Installation Responsibility
Clarify who is responsible for:
- Supply
- Installation
- Adjustment
- Electronic integration
- Commissioning
- Testing
- Handover
Clear scope boundaries reduce disputes and omissions.
Think Beyond Completion
Long-term considerations matter.
Ask:
- Are replacement parts available?
- Can the system be serviced?
- Can additional credentials be issued?
- Is maintenance straightforward?
- Can the access system expand?
The lowest initial price is not always the lowest whole-of-life cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should architectural hardware be specified?
Ideally during the design and door-scheduling stages.
Who specifies architectural hardware?
Depending on the project, the architect, hardware specialist, door supplier or security consultant may contribute.
What is a hardware set?
A hardware set is a coordinated group of components assigned to doors performing the same function.
Should access control be planned early?
Yes. Electronic locking can affect door preparation, frames, power and security systems.
Can specified hardware be substituted?
Often, but compatibility and required performance should be checked before approval.
Better Hardware Decisions Start Earlier
Architectural hardware affects security, usability, accessibility and the everyday performance of a building.
The strongest results come when the hardware is coordinated with the project from the beginning.
CSI Wellington works with architects, developers and builders to help specify, supply and install architectural hardware for residential, multi-residential and commercial projects. Involve the CSI team early to help ensure the right hardware is selected for every opening.
