Style

First impressions matter — Door hardware is one of the first things that your guests are sure to notice when they enter your home. That’s why, when selecting and buying Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association (BHMA) Certified locks and deadbolts, it’s important to decide on your personal style preferences and precisely how those preferences are reflected in the style of your home. Choosing BHMA Certified® door hardware means that you can automatically feel confident that your selections will have the durability and strength to hold up to the demands of everyday use. Having ANSI/BHMA Certified® hardware offers even more than the assurance that it has been tested for security, durability and finish — you can also be confident that certified hardware is available in a design style sure to fit into any personal décor preference and architectural style.

Locks and deadbolts are best looked on as being more than functional: if they are in a visible area, this hardware also provides an excellent way to embellish the décor throughout the home. The finish and styles of your door hardware choices can be true reflections of your taste.

As you approach the decision-making process, consider:

Are you looking to buy a product for an interior or exterior door?

Will the protective aesthetic finish be exposed to the elements?

What color finish are you looking for?

Do you have a preference for a handle or a knob?

lock

There are a bevy of style(s) of finish on the market from which to choose, including:

Traditional

Deriving from 19^th century European design and encompassing the Georgian, Federal, and Victorian movements, this classic style focuses on comfort, familiarity and romanticism.

Contemporary / Modern

Having come into vogue throughout the design era of the late 20^th Century, this style, which continues to evolve, is an ever-popular choice for contemporary homes. Admired for its simple yet elegant lines and shapes, it is often described as “industrial” with a masculine tone.

Rustic

Influenced by the American craftsman style, this may be the perfect choice for that farmhouse or other country home. This style would add to an eclectic look, perhaps as part of a handcrafted, timeworn approach that evokes a down-to-earth, rugged beauty.

Mix and Match

You may decide to mix and match by featuring a variety of door hardware styles in your home. For example, you can create a rich medley by combining Old World aesthetics such as Antique Brass with contemporary touches such as Matte Black.

Choosing Hardware Style

Choosing what hardware style you prefer is an important decision. Though it seems simple, there are different reasons you may choose one or the other. See what options you have and choose what is best for you:

Doorknobs: These have a historical significance due to their long-term use making them a great choice for colonial or craft-style homes. From a technical standpoint, these are also harder for young children to utilize, making them preferable for young families.

Levers: These are gaining popularity due to their sleek look that complements modern and contemporary homes. Levers are great options for those who live busy lives and for those who can’t turn a knob well.

Pull handle/handleset: This is a traditional option that is seen on many households. Providing a timeless look along with the ability to push or pull the handle with ease. Keep in mind, these can be paired with a knob or lever on the interior of the door while the handleset is on the exterior of the door. Allowing your style and functional needs to be met.

Among the other choices for your door hardware’s finish are:

Gold Tones
Bright Brass
Satin Brass

Silver Tones
Satin Chrome
Satin Nickel
Distressed Nickel
Antique Pewter

Bronze-to-Black Tones
Satin Stainless Steel
Oil Rubbed Bronze

For more information visit our Finish page

Check out this infographic for an easy guide on matching your lockset with your home’s style:

WHATEVER STYLE YOU DECIDE ON

BHMA® emphasizes that finish measures how well a product can withstand sun exposure, humidity, saltwater, dew and even the oils on our hands

all of which can cause the finish of a lock or deadbolt to discolor or corrode