Fittings in Commercial Construction: Digital Locking Systems for Doors and Handles

Digital locking systems, too, are based on physical components that are subjected to daily wear and tear. The door leaves, lock, fittings, and locking mechanism must be designed to work together and meet the requirements of the specific application. An entrance door in an apartment building requires different characteristics than an office door. In care facilities, additional requirements such as ease of use and high frequency of use come into play. Anyone equipping existing buildings with digital access systems such as KIWI should therefore incorporate the mechanical properties of the doors into the planning process at an early stage. In the housing sector in particular, there is a need for solutions that can be integrated into existing building structures and allow for flexible management of different access permissions.

Digital locking systems replace the traditional key with digital access permissions. However, the mechanical processes at the door remain unchanged: The handle is pressed, the latchbolt moves, and the door leaf opens and closes. Fittings and fasteners must absorb the resulting forces. The more frequently a door is used, the greater the stress on its components. These mechanical requirements are often overlooked in digitization projects, as the initial focus is on technical issues such as access permissions and user groups. However, a door used daily by only a few people requires different fittings than a heavily trafficked building entrance door. The intensity of use should therefore be taken into account as early as the initial assessment phase. 

In apartment buildings, different types of doors coexist. The main entrance is used by residents, visitors, and service providers, while basement doors or common areas have different requirements. Apartment doors protect private spaces. Digital locking systems can centrally manage these access points, but mechanically, the doors remain different. Main entrances must be particularly durable and reliable, while apartment doors must also provide protection and privacy. A rollout should therefore be planned not only based on the number of doors, but also on their type and use. 

In office buildings, employees require regular access, while visitors, cleaning staff, and service providers are often granted only temporary access permissions. Digital locking systems are ideal for managing these varying requirements. At the same time, mechanical stress increases: entry doors and connecting doors are used frequently, especially in coworking spaces or high-traffic office areas. Here, the mounting, fastening, and Material of the Fittings must be designed to withstand intensive use. 

In long-term care facilities, residents, caregivers, family members, and external service providers all come together. Digital locking systems can organize complex access rights, but the doors themselves must meet high standards. Fittings must be sturdy, easy to use, and Barrier-free. Fire and smoke protection also play a role. This highlights how important it is to coordinate digital access planning with mechanical hardware planning. 

GRIFFWERK's design-oriented fittings combine thoughtful functionality with clear, high-quality lines and add stylish accents to modern living spaces.

A door handle in commercial buildings must not only withstand frequent use but also resist external factors such as moisture, cleaning agents, and temperature fluctuations. Stainless steel is often the first choice because it is durable and easy to maintain. However, depending on the location, finish and certified properties also play a role. For example, in healthcare facilities, surfaces that are easy to clean and high visibility of the door handle can be particularly important. In heavily trafficked public buildings, on the other hand, high durability is often the top priority. Design and function are not mutually exclusive—rather, the material, finish, and design must be tailored to the specific application.

Digital locking systems don’t have to look out of place. Especially in high-end residential and office buildings, it should blend harmoniously into the architecture. HAFI offers technical solutions for commercial properties, while GRIFFWERK develops design-oriented Fittings for residential spaces. Together, they enable digital locking systems that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. 

Planning Steps for a Structured Rollout 

1. Assess usage scenarios: Analyze door types and user groups. 
2. Review requirements: Document locks, Fittings, and security features. 
3. Select a digital solution: Determine the appropriate KIWI components. 
4. Verify fittings: Ensure mechanical suitability. 
5. Coordinate the design: Harmonize the door leaf, frame, and handles. 
6. Plan maintenance: Ensure accessibility for future maintenance.