How Architects Choose Door Handles for Large Projects

1. How Architects Choose Door Handle for Large Projects Have you ever walked into a building and noticed how even the door handle feels like it belongs exactly where it is? That’s no accident. In large-scale projects, architects pay close attention to the smallest details—including door handles. These aren’t just functional pieces of hardware. So how do architects decide what type of door handle fits best in a big commercial or residential project? Architects start by considering the purpose of the building. The type of project—whether it’s a hospital, office tower, school, hotel, or residential complex—heavily influences the choice of door handles. Each setting comes with different usage patterns, safety regulations, and aesthetic goals. For example, in a hospital, hygiene and accessibility come first. In a luxury hotel, design and finish

2. take priority. So before they even think of shape or color, architects study the building’s function and choose door handles that match its purpose. For buildings that expect heavy foot traffic, like malls or airports, architects often go for durable materials such as stainless steel or aluminum. In luxury spaces, brass or bronze might be chosen for their warm look and timeless appeal. The right material ensures the handle stands up to frequent use while complementing the overall design. Safety is a non-negotiable priority, especially in public or high-traffic areas. Architects must ensure that door handles are compliant with fire safety and emergency exit standards. Safety also includes choosing anti-ligature handles in environments like mental health facilities, where design needs to minimize self-harm risks. Accessibility is another key consideration. Modern building codes require that door hardware is usable by people of all abilities. This means architects must select handles that comply with standards like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Lever handles are a common choice here because they don’t require tight grasping, pinching, or twisting. In large buildings like universities or government offices, making door handles accessible isn’t just a legal requirement—it’s a matter of social responsibility and user comfort. Architects also look at aesthetics and how the door handles will blend with the overall interior design. A modern glass office tower might call for sleek, minimalist handles with a matte black or brushed metal finish. Meanwhile, a classical-style building may need ornate handles with traditional detailing. Architects often work closely with interior designers to ensure consistency across all hardware. A mismatch between door handle style and the rest of the décor can disrupt the visual flow and user experience. Functionality plays a huge role in the final decision. Some doors may need locking mechanisms, others may require electronic access, and some might need to be hands-free entirely. Architects need to consider how users will interact with each door and what kind of handle best supports that interaction. For example, automatic sliding doors in airports often include touchless entry handles to reduce the spread of germs. Understanding the exact function of each door ensures the right hardware is installed from the start. Budget also influences the decision, especially in larger projects where hundreds of doors need to be outfitted. While it might be tempting to go for cheaper options, low-cost door handles often wear out faster and may not meet safety or accessibility standards. Experienced architects plan the budget carefully and often recommend investing more in high-use areas like main entrances or restrooms, while saving on doors that are rarely accessed. Security is another layer of consideration. In places like hotels or office buildings, door handle may be integrated with access control systems, keycard readers, or biometric scanners. Architects have to ensure that the handle supports these technologies without compromising the look or function of the door. In some cases, they even coordinate with IT and security consultants to choose hardware that works seamlessly with building systems.

3. One often-overlooked point is maintenance. Architects try to choose door handles that are easy to clean, resistant to fingerprints, and made of antimicrobial materials when hygiene is a concern. This is especially important in hospitals, schools, and restaurants where cleanliness is critical. Choosing low-maintenance finishes helps the building stay presentable with minimal effort, saving costs in the long run. Finally, architects think about future-proofing. A good door handle should last for years without needing replacement. That means choosing styles and finishes that won’t go out of fashion and ensuring the hardware is compatible with future upgrades in security or building automation. For instance, installing a door handle today that can support electronic upgrades tomorrow can prevent costly renovations down the road. To make door handles safer, architects can specify models with anti-bacterial coatings, rounded edges to prevent injury, and tamper-resistant features. They can also ensure that each handle type is installed at the correct height, with proper spacing, and with clear signage where needed. Working with certified suppliers and following local building codes ensures all safety standards are met. In summary, choosing door handles in large projects isn’t as simple as picking what looks nice. Architects must balance safety, accessibility, design, durability, and cost, while also planning for future needs. These tiny fixtures may seem small, but in a well-designed space, they quietly do their job while supporting the bigger picture—comfort, safety, and usability for everyone who walks through the door. Contact Details Corporate Office - Suite 1501B, Latifa Towers, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, UAE Factory - Beirut St, New Industrial Area Ajman – United Arab Emirates Email - info@apparel-point.com Phone - +971-58-527-6468 (97158 5 APOINT) Office: +971 4 355 8453 Mobile: +971 55 299 7170 Mobile: +971 55 478 8810 Website - https://apparel-point.com/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/apparelpointdubai/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/apparelpointuni Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/apparel_point/ Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/apparel-point/