Architectural hardware may not always be the most visible part of a building, but it plays a vital role in how spaces work, feel, and stay safe. From door handles and locks to fire-rated systems and smart automation, the right hardware brings together design, function, and security in every project.
As modern architecture pushes the boundaries of creativity and performance, hardware has had to evolve alongside it. No longer just about opening and closing doors or windows, today’s architectural hardware is expected to offer advanced safety features, seamless automation, and a clean, elegant appearance. Whether in a home, office, hotel, or hospital, well-chosen hardware helps create buildings that are not just beautiful, but safe, efficient, and future-ready.
For this cover story, we reached out to several experts across the architecture and building industry to understand what matters when selecting and integrating architectural hardware into façades. Their insights highlight the key trends shaping the field, such as the growing demand for fire-rated doors and glass, the rise of smart locks and automated systems, and the need for hardware that blends into the overall design without compromising on performance.
We also explore how hardware contributes to larger goals like energy efficiency, user comfort, and long-term durability. With safety regulations getting stricter and client expectations rising, the smallest details – like a hinge or a latch – can make a big difference.
This cover story brings together expert perspectives and practical insights to show why architectural hardware deserves a more central place in design discussions. Because in the end, it’s not just about how a building looks from the outside – it’s also about how well it performs, protects, and supports the people inside.
Key Considerations For Integrating Windows, Doors, And Hardware To Ensure Optimal Safety And Security
Ar. Dinesh Verma, Principal Architect & Managing Director, ACE Group Architects Pvt. Ltd., notes that safety is becoming a major issue, especially with buildings going taller and high-rises being redefined. He stresses that window design for higher wind forces is of utmost importance for the safety of all. While low-rise buildings and those not situated in the hurricane belt around Orissa and Andhra are generally safe with standard specifications, the main issue behind failures in safety and security design, according to him, lies in the hardware. He explains, “Whereas reputed companies manufacture the windows and doors under standard conditions, the hardware installed often comes from a different company which does not adhere to standard specifications.” This, he says, leads to gaskets becoming hard and locks and handles breaking, as most of the hardware is not UV resistant.
Ar. Shweta Deshmukh, Founder & Principal Architect, DezineBox, opines that when integrating windows and doors into a façade and selecting the right hardware, she focuses on three overlapping pillars: aesthetics, performance, and security. She elaborates, “First, the opening proportions and rhythms must respect the building’s architectural language – scale, sightlines, and material transitions should feel deliberate, whether you’re working with a minimalist glass curtain wall or a richly articulated stone facade.” From a performance standpoint, she points to thermal insulation (U-values), airtightness (air infiltration rates), and water‐tightness as drivers of frame selection and detailing. Thoughtfully designed sill profiles, drip edges, and continuous flashing are essential to prevent water ingress or thermal bridging. On security, she specifies that certified multipoint locking systems, tamper-resistant hinges such as anti-lift pins, and impact- or bullet-resistant glazing where required must be used, with all components adhering to relevant standards.
Ar. Bhawna Sharma, Managing Director and Founder, Artius Interior Products, says the foremost consideration is the choice of material, which determines structural stability, dimensional accuracy, and long-span capability, while also defining the aesthetics of both the exterior and interior. She highlights wood with innovative engineering technology, such as glulam (glued-laminated timber), as a visually appealing and performance-driven option, offering strength, fire resistance, and dimensional stability. She further adds, “Equally important is the investment in high-performance multipoint locks, stainless steel reinforcements where necessary, and concealed hinges – all seamlessly integrated with the material to enhance both safety and security.”
Ar. Deepak Gupta, Managing Director, D R Design Consultant Pvt. Ltd., asserts that safety starts with thoughtful detailing. He explains, “Hardware must be robust, tamper-proof, and compatible with the overall façade design. We avoid off-the-shelf solutions and instead collaborate closely with hardware consultants.” Key factors, he notes, include wind load resistance, child safety locks, burglar-proof features, and fire-rated specifications where needed. He emphasises ensuring compatibility between the locking system and the window or door operation, particularly for larger openings. He also mentions designing buffer zones like verandahs and perforated screens to instil a physical and psychological sense of safety and underscores that every hardware component must withstand not only daily use but also extreme weather, ensuring form, function, and security align seamlessly.
Ar. Sachi Lunia Lunkad, Founder – White Tree Architects, says that orientation is our starting point. She explains that openings facing east or north often bring in soft, usable light while west-facing windows require shading or depth to block glare. They reflect on how light movement and natural airflow influence their façade planning, noting that a well-placed window can transform a room – “brighter, cooler, more alive.” But beyond daylight and ventilation, they stress the importance of how people live in their spaces. “You should feel comfortable leaving your windows open,” she says. In this context, hardware plays a supporting role. It must feel intuitive – easy to latch, smooth to slide, and secure without being bulky. Whether it’s a small bathroom vent or a full-height sliding door, the hardware should allow effortless operation. While security is vital, the comfort and habit matter just as much – these are what turn an opening into something you truly use.
Optimising Lighting, Ventilation, And Acoustics: Balancing Natural Light And Thermal Efficiency In Façade And Fenestration Design
Ar. Verma says that optimising light and ventilation depends significantly on the orientation of the façade. “A north-facing façade with full glazing can be suitable even in a warm country like India, whereas the same façade facing south or west becomes unbearable.” He further notes that the ideal window-to-wall ratio lies between 10% to 20%, though this varies depending on location, ambient temperature, and orientation. According to him, operable shutters are preferable to fully sealed glass walls as they help introduce fresh air into the interiors.
Ar. Deshmukh opines that a contextual and climate-responsive approach is essential when designing façades and fenestration for optimal lighting, ventilation, and acoustics. She advises orienting windows to maximise daylight while reducing glare and heat gain, with north and shaded south-facing openings being the most effective in hot climates. “Use operable windows and cross-ventilation strategies for natural airflow,” she says. On acoustics, she recommends laminated or double-glazed units with proper sealing to minimise noise ingress. She adds that balancing natural light with thermal efficiency involves calculating an ideal window-wall ratio – typically between 20–40% – and employing high-performance glazing, shading devices, and insulation to ensure energy efficiency and occupant well-being.
Ar. Sharma underscores that India’s varied climatic zones necessitate a flexible design vocabulary and highlights the value of wood in thermal regulation and acoustic control. “Engineered wood like glulam offers a high strength-to-weight ratio, allowing slender profiles that support large glass panels – bringing in daylight without compromising insulation,” he explains. He also points out that depending on terrain and climate, different systems are used—casement windows and doors for their clean lines, lift-and-slide or fold systems for homes with panoramic views, and louvred shutters for hot regions to allow ventilation while blocking the harsh sun.
Ar. Gupta asserts that natural light is the most important design tool. “In cities like Bangalore, where air conditioning is optional, we buffer façades with verandahs, vertical fins, or perforated metal screens to provide shade while allowing ventilation,” he says. In air-conditioned buildings, he notes that heat gain is controlled using various methods, including double-glazed units with low-E coatings, external shading devices such as louvres and pergolas, high-performance films, and even landscape elements like tree canopies. On acoustic insulation, he adds that proper sealing, double glazing, and well-chosen hardware are crucial. “It’s all about microclimate-specific design,” he explains.
Ar. Kartikeya Batra, Founder, Metalia, states that optimising lighting, ventilation, and acoustics through fenestration design is key to enhancing building performance, and façades are central to this objective. “We focus on architectural louvres and how we can engineer them to respond to sunlight and wind,” he notes. By adjusting the angle and orientation of these louvres, they ensure ample daylight while reducing glare and heat gain. Regarding ventilation, he explains that staggered or pivoted louvre systems can guide airflow while maintaining privacy and security, creating façades that breathe. On acoustics, he remarks that the layering and materiality of façade components can help reduce external noise without sacrificing openness or natural light. He believes that rather than sticking to a fixed window-wall ratio, it is more meaningful to design façades that respond contextually to their environment, with performance embedded in every surface. “With the right mix of design thinking and engineering precision, façades today can quietly shape a space’s identity, experience, and efficiency,” he says.
Ar. Lunia explains that in the façade and opening design, balancing light, air, and sound is a constant juggle. “We often use zoning strategies – placing quieter areas like bedrooms away from traffic, and planning openings accordingly,” she says. To enhance ventilation, she advocates placing windows on opposite or adjacent walls to enable cross-breezes, with varied sill heights to promote the stack effect. “For daylight, it’s all about layering – intense,” she notes. Acoustic comfort is achieved through tight frames, rubber gaskets, DGU glass, and layered glazing, especially in noisy settings. Rather than adhering to a fixed window-wall ratio, she says, they evaluate each room’s function and orientation. “We use basic daylight and thermal models during the design stage to fine-tune window size and placement. It’s about giving each space the right amount of openness – not just more of it,” she opines.
Emerging Trends Shaping The Design Of Doors And Windows In Modern Architecture
Ar. Verma says that technology is helping designers look at windows and doors. As a trend, the sizes of both are becoming larger. Façade companies are simultaneously working towards reducing the size of mullions to be as sleek as possible, which enables an almost uninterrupted view through the façade. He also notes that technology is making glass more heat and UV-resistant, giving designers better options for design.
Ar. Deshmukh observes that emerging trends in modern architecture are driving doors and windows toward smarter, more sustainable solutions. Frameless and minimalistic profiles enhance visual continuity and blur indoor-outdoor boundaries. She adds that smart glass technologies, such as electrochromic and solar-controlled glazing, offer dynamic light and heat management. According to her, automation – including sensor-based opening systems and integrated security – enhances user comfort and safety. Sustainable materials like recycled aluminium and thermally broken frames are gaining traction for energy efficiency. She further opines that biophilic design is promoting larger openings to connect with nature, while customisation in form, finish, and function is rising, allowing architects to blend performance with aesthetics tailored to each project’s unique context.
Ar. Sharma notes a growing preference for large-span windows and doors with slim profiles that dissolve the barrier between indoors and outdoors. Foldable and collapsible systems, he says, are increasingly being chosen to create a sense of continuity with the exterior. He also highlights a renewed appreciation for natural finishes, remarking that timber is making a strong comeback, especially when paired with bronze or matte black hardware. Full-height window systems that showcase clean grain and craftsmanship, with a focus on tactile experience, are also very much in demand.
Ar. Gupta echoes similar sentiments, stating that minimalist profiles and frameless systems are gaining popularity, driven by the demand for transparency and clean aesthetics. Slim aluminium systems and sliding-folding configurations, he adds, help blur the line between indoors and outdoors. According to him, fire-rated glass technology has seen major advancements, now allowing even entry doors to use glass without compromising safety. He also underscores the importance of sustainability, noting that many clients now request energy-rated systems and recycled aluminium frames. Dynamic façades with operable louvres and kinetic shading devices are also being explored. Globally, he observes a shift towards modular window systems that come pre-assembled with integrated hardware, making installation faster and more precise on-site.
Ar. Lunia points out a clear move towards larger, uninterrupted openings – doors and windows that dissolve the boundary between inside and outside. Sliding or folding systems that span entire walls are becoming popular, particularly when there is a garden or a view to connect with. She highlights the rising popularity of corner openings, where two walls of glass slide away completely, leaving nothing but open space and sky. This, she says, dramatically changes the feel of a room, especially in living or dining areas. She further adds that smart integration is gaining momentum, with motion sensors, automated blinds, and soft-close systems becoming more mainstream – even in homes that aren’t overtly “techy.” These features, she notes, are quiet enablers, assisting with privacy, light control, and security. Material preferences are also shifting, with slimmer aluminium profiles or mixed frames that blend warmth and precision gaining favour. Overall, she describes the shift as one towards fluidity – spaces that breathe, connect to the outside, and adapt throughout the day.
Ar. Batra opines that in modern architecture, façades are no longer confined to conventional materials or static forms. He observes a move away from simple, functional elements like aluminium sections and brick or concrete cladding, towards more expressive, high-performance designs and materials. Metal, he says, once considered merely the backbone for structural work, is now being reimagined as a surface of innovation, enabling both functional and visual breakthroughs.
According to him, contemporary façade design is increasingly embracing surfaces that balance environmental responsiveness with the expression of brand identity and client needs. This intersection is explored through parametric façades that intertwine artistic forms with engineering, performance, and precision. These systems, he adds, offer the benefits of architectural louvres while introducing three-dimensional geometry and a tailored visual rhythm. He cites other innovations like Blossom and Coin Matrix, describing the latter as comprising laser-cut metal panels made from singular units that can move according to the sun, creating intricate, changing patterns. Such designs, he asserts, engage and immerse, giving the building a distinctive character that evolves throughout the day. This trend, he says, reflects a broader movement toward façades that act as a skin, telling a story and becoming an ever-evolving experience.
Automation Revolution: Transforming Doors And Windows In Modern Residential And Commercial Spaces
Ar. Verma says that automation is the buzzword of the day. In bungalows, windows and doors are connected to the central security system and emit an alert if there is an intruder. Similarly, in apartments, clients install proximity switches on balconies to warn them of open doors or windows. He adds that automation is also widely used in large commercial buildings, where systems control louvres and adjust their angles to reduce heat penetration, ultimately saving on air-conditioning costs. According to him, automation also extends to glass, with special coatings that darken as solar heat increases.
Ar. Deshmukh notes that automation is revolutionising the role of doors and windows by enhancing convenience, efficiency, and security in both residential and commercial spaces. Smart doors and windows can be remotely operated, scheduled, or sensor-activated to optimise ventilation, lighting, and privacy. Integration with building management systems allows real-time monitoring of energy use, air quality, and security. She highlights key benefits such as improved energy efficiency through climate-responsive controls, enhanced safety via smart locks and intrusion alerts, and better occupant comfort through automated shading and glare control. Overall, she opines that automation supports sustainable living and smarter building performance with minimal human intervention and maximum functionality.
Ar. Sharma observes that in high-end residences and commercial buildings, there is a growing use of motorised systems for sliding or folding doors, touchless entry mechanisms, and smart glass that adjusts opacity with varying light levels. He points out that the key benefits include comfort, security, and energy efficiency, contributing to a sustainable building footprint. Features such as automated glulam sliding doors, smart locking systems, and sensor-based ventilation panels in homes and offices, he says, enhance overall building performance without compromising on aesthetics.
Ar. Gupta agrees that automation has significantly expanded what is possible, particularly for large-span openings and hard-to-reach areas. He explains that motorised sliding or pivot doors enable seamless movement at the push of a button, while smart sensors can track the sun’s path, automatically adjusting blinds or closing windows to reduce heat gain. Integration with building management systems allows for remote operation, scheduling, and energy optimisation. He further mentions that such systems improve accessibility for elderly users or individuals with disabilities, with rain and wind sensors triggering automatic closure to protect interiors. Importantly, he stresses that smart hardware enhances both functionality and energy performance, without compromising aesthetics or usability.
Ar. Batra opines that automation is reshaping modern design – whether in façades, doors, or windows – by transforming them from passive components into responsive systems. He believes that in both residential and commercial spaces, integrating innovative tools enhances security, energy efficiency, and comfort. Features such as sensor-based shading, timed ventilation, and remote access enable seamless user control. “Our design team is constantly exploring new methods to innovate façade design. For instance, with parametric façades, tools like Rhino and Grasshopper are used to craft complex geometries while optimising material use. According to him, this process balances form and function, ensures minimal material wastage, and enhances design impact. Using recyclable materials not only strengthens visual identity but also supports a more efficient and sustainable design process.
Ar. Shreyansh Lunkad, Founder, White Tree Architects, says that smart systems are changing how we interact with our spaces – for example, windows that quietly close when it gets too windy or a main door that sends an alert if left unlocked. He describes how blinds automatically lower in the afternoon to keep rooms cool, with all systems controllable via smartphone, even remotely. What he finds most compelling is the invisibility of the technology, functioning silently in the background, letting in light, keeping out noise, and responding intuitively to human behaviour. According to him, it’s no longer merely about convenience; it’s about creating spaces that are intuitive, responsive, and tuned to human needs – architecture that listens, not just shelters.
Advancements in Architectural Hardware for Fire Safety: The Role of Fire-Rated Doors, Glass, and Hardware
According to Ar. Verma, one of the primary causes of fire in buildings today, is short circuits, resulting from extensive wiring used for electrical 1and automation purposes. “Such short circuits lead to fire, which engulfs the building quickly as most of the materials used inside support combustion,” he says. He further explains that air-conditioning ducts, electrical shafts, PHE, and lift shafts often aid the vertical spread of fire. “In such cases, the selection of fire-rated hardware, doors, and glass becomes critical,” he notes. Ar. Verma adds that standard fire-rated doors resist fire for up to two hours, and options with higher ratings are also available. He underscores the importance of selecting materials that won’t shatter, melt, or combust easily during a fire, concluding that “choosing the right material, especially for fire rating, is very important.”
Ar. Deshmukh echoes this sentiment, stating that “fire safety is a fundamental aspect of modern architecture,” and highlights how advancements in architectural hardware have evolved to meet increasingly stringent norms. She notes that fire-rated doors, glass, and hardware now offer both performance and design flexibility. “Fire-rated doors – tested for resistance durations of 30, 60, 90, or 120 minutes – are integrated with intumescent seals, fire-rated frames, and self-closing mechanisms to compartmentalise spaces and control fire spread,” she explains. She adds that such doors and hardware now comply with global standards like UL, EN, and IS codes. She also points to innovations such as smart monitoring systems that allow real-time status checks of fire doors and emergency exits, ultimately helping to “significantly enhance passive fire protection, improve evacuation efficiency, and elevate overall building safety without compromising aesthetics.”
Ar. Sharma adds that “the choice of materials with tested fire ratings and hardware like self-closing hinges, intumescent seals, and certified fire-rated locks is fundamental in enhancing building safety.” He challenges the misconception that timber performs poorly under fire conditions, noting, “engineered wood like glulam, when exposed to fire on three sides, can be sized for a one-hour fire rating.” While acknowledging that materials like steel may fail rapidly under high heat, he observes that “glulam chars in a predictable, controlled manner, preserving structural integrity far longer.” This, he opines, makes it an effective and elegant option for fire-rated systems.
Ar. Gupta highlights the transformative role of certified fire-rated glass in both façade and interior design. “Today, we can design elegant fire doors with glazed panels, maintaining transparency without compromising safety,” he says. According to him, composite fire-rated glass can now meet stringent safety norms, even exceeding two hours. He notes that IoT integration is pushing the envelope further: “Fire detection systems can communicate directly with fire doors and smoke vents, enabling automated evacuation responses.” He adds that panic hardware, intumescent seals, and heat-resistant closers are now standard in their hardware palette, enabling buildings that are “not only beautiful but fundamentally safer for occupants.”
Ar. Lunkad says by observing that fire safety has transitioned from a compliance item to an integral part of the design philosophy. “In homes and commercial buildings, we now consider escape routes, compartmentalisation, and material behaviour right from the design stage,” he says. He notes that fire-rated doors and hardware are vital in allowing occupants time to evacuate safely. “We’ve also started using specialised glass that can contain smoke and heat without shattering,” he adds. Ar. Lunkad points out the aesthetic evolution of such systems, remarking, “These elements no longer look bulky or industrial – they’re sleeker now, available in finishes that match the interior.” He affirms that features like panic bars, auto-shut hinges, and intumescent seals are becoming standard even in residential projects, stating, “It’s all about making safety seamless… today’s hardware makes that possible.”
Conclusion
As architecture continues to evolve in response to modern needs, the role of doors, windows, and especially architectural hardware has grown significantly in both importance and complexity. Today, these components are not only expected to perform their basic functions but also to contribute meaningfully to safety, energy efficiency, user comfort, and the aesthetic value of a space.
Throughout this feature, we explored the key considerations professionals must keep in mind when integrating doors and windows into façades – from ensuring optimal security and fire safety to balancing natural light, ventilation, and acoustic performance. We also looked at how automation is reshaping how people interact with buildings, and how smarter, more responsive systems are becoming the new standard in both residential and commercial settings.
What clearly emerged from the expert insights shared in this story is that thoughtful integration of these elements starts early in the design process. The success of a façade no longer depends on appearance alone – it’s equally about how intelligently it functions, how safely it performs, and how effortlessly it adapts to changing user needs.
The rise of fire-rated glass, the increasing demand for intelligent hardware, and the growing importance of compliance and performance standards are all part of a larger shift. Architects, designers, and developers are now expected to think holistically, with each component, no matter how small, serving a bigger purpose within the built environment.
In the end, designing with awareness of these emerging trends and technical demands is what sets truly forward-thinking projects apart. It’s not just about following regulations – it’s about creating buildings that are safer, smarter, and more responsive to the people who use them every day.
