Sometimes referred to as Builders Hardware, these are the fittings applied to architectural elements that provide for their function or attachment. Openings such as windows and doors are frequently the sites of greatest hardware concentration. The materials used for their creation are usually durable alloys such as brass, bronze or steel and their rendering ranges from a utilitarian butt hinge to fanciful "Kahala" bronze door handle offered by the Russel & Erwin Manufacturing Co. of New Britain Connecticut. Much of the hardware produced prior to World War 2 was designed to be serviced or rebuilt and returned to service in the original context.
The architects and hardware consultants involved in a building project, new or old, coordinate components to reflect security needs, building codes, aesthetics and type of use. Changing one part of the assembly without considering the rest can compromise function or overstress another part. The rather unassuming hinge component shown below can say quite a bit to the experienced listener, replacement with an ill-considered substitute will certainly lead rapid failure and damage its surroundings.
The late 1980’s saw the start of a resurgence of interest in the decorative arts and design from earlier times. As the values of examples of this period have increased, professionals and end-users alike have recognized the importance of maintaining them in their original surroundings. Retaining original hardware will often prove to be cost effective as well, eliminating the need to patch or mend fixtures to accommodate something new. And, let’s face it, if you’ve read this far, you like the good, old stuff anyway.
We are fortunate to maintain excellent sources for the documentation of original hardware and its function. This is the information we use to implement repair, search for original replacements or specify appropriate substitutes. Our accumulated field experience also allows us to identify damage that may have been caused by poorly executed renovation or unfortunate original design. Our well equipped shop allows us to repair and fabricate many parts directly for the client. To view hardware which has undergone restoration follow this link.
