SkidmoreOwings&Merrill_Valli&ValliAlinaHardwareCollection
Category
Product > hardware
Description
Company Name
Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP (SOM)
Company URL
www.som.com
Description
“The door handle is the handshake of the building.” - Juhani Pallasmaa
SOM examined the motion and the mechanics of a door lever at its foundation, studied Valli & Valli as the industry leader with its founding principles and design innovation and analyzed the market for what is available today and where there is opportunity for further development.
To understand the design criteria and requirements among different program functions ranging across transportation, institutional, education, workplace, hospitality, and residential, the team conducted a survey in SOM’s New York office of 350 architects and designers. Through the analysis of the survey results, together with the outcome of comprehensive research, SOM developed the “Design Ethos” for this commission.
MINIMAL
Minimal use of material.
Use material only where needed for function and comfort
(Minimal front profile extends to a curve where it hugs the hand)
INTEGRATED
Incorporate hardware with the door. Reduce number of separate pieces.
Cohesive. Unified. One.
(Lever and rosette are designed as an integrated whole)
SMART
Seamless integration of technology.
Photo luminescent or lit. Programmable.
Communicate building or user information. (Second phase of design is on the boards integrating programmable technology)
ALL - ENCOMPASSING
Universal design that is for everyone. All ages. All cultures. Different program functions.
Human and comfortable.
(A hardware that shakes your hand back)
PERSONAL
Customize hardware for different programs or users. Select colors and materials. Add names or numbers.
(Special finishes include wood, stone, leather, resin, photo luminescent, a family of “SOM” greys)
Product Video
Valli & Valli Alina Hardware Collection