As aluminium door systems continue to evolve, sightlines are getting slimmer, profiles more refined, and expectations higher, not just from architects and specifiers, but from end users too. While frames and glazing often take centre stage, hardware is increasingly playing a crucial role in how well modern systems function.
One area where this is particularly evident is handle protrusion. On slim aluminium profiles and bi-folding doors, traditional backplates and lever designs can compromise clean lines, interfere with folding mechanisms, or create snagging points in busy environments. It’s a challenge that fabricators and system suppliers are encountering more frequently, and one HOPPE has addressed with the launch of a new narrow backplate option using its New York lever handle.
Responding to slimmer systems
The move towards narrower aluminium profiles has delivered clear aesthetic benefits, but it has also reduced tolerance when specifying hardware. Standard handles can simply be too bulky for today’s slim doors, particularly on bi-fold systems where leaf interaction and clearance are critical.
HOPPE’s new narrow backplate has been developed specifically with these applications in mind. Available in two configurations – the 099KH/303N-1/1810 with a low-profile protrusion of just 24mm, and the 1810/303N-1 with a protrusion of 62mm – the range gives fabricators flexibility depending on system design and use.
For bi-fold door manufacturers, the reduced protrusion helps maintain smooth folding functionality while preserving the clean, uninterrupted lines that aluminium systems are known for. For aluminium door and window system suppliers working with particularly slim profiles, the narrow backplate offers a practical solution where standard hardware may not be suitable.
Designed for real-world environments
While aesthetics are an important driver, the benefits of a flush-fitting handle go beyond appearance. In commercial settings such as offices, hotels, and retail buildings, handles that sit closer to the door surface help reduce snagging, improve accessibility, and make better use of available space, particularly in high-traffic areas.
This makes the New York narrow backplate well suited not only to high-end residential projects, but also to commercial developments where both form and function are under scrutiny.
Manufactured in aluminium and produced in Europe, the handle sets reflect HOPPE’s long-standing focus on durability and consistency. The use of anodised aluminium supports long-term performance while maintaining a clean, contemporary finish that aligns with modern architectural trends.
Practical benefits for fabrication and installation
From a fabrication and installation perspective, the narrow backplate has been designed to integrate smoothly into existing workflows. Both variants are suitable for door thicknesses between 72mm and 77mm and use an 8mm solid spindle with HOPPE’s Quick-Fit connection system, enabling secure and efficient assembly.
Fixing is via visible internal bolt-through fixing using M6 thread screws, supported by backplate lugs to ensure a stable fit on slim profiles. The handles operate on maintenance-free slide bearings, reducing the need for adjustment or servicing once installed.
The 099KH variant features a short-neck handle on one side, helping achieve the ultra-low 24mm protrusion, while retaining a comfortable internal lever for everyday operation. This configuration makes it particularly suitable for bi-folding doors and other applications where clearance is limited.
Finishes to match contemporary design
To support modern specification, the narrow backplate New York handle is available in a range of finishes, including F1 silver effect, F3 gold effect, matt traffic white, matt black, and matt anthracite grey. This allows system suppliers to coordinate hardware with aluminium frame colours, rather than treating handles as an afterthought.
Small details, meaningful impact
As aluminium systems continue to push towards slimmer, more refined designs, hardware choices are becoming increasingly important. The introduction of a narrow backplate option for the New York lever reflects a wider shift in the industry, recognising that even small components can have a significant impact on performance, usability, and overall system design.
For fabricators, system houses, and bi-fold manufacturers, HOPPE’s latest development offers a well-engineered response to a common challenge, helping ensure that hardware keeps pace with the doors it is designed to support.
www.hoppe.com
Why not Sign-up to Receive these Articles by Email each Day on our newsfeed site
>> Scroll down to read more articles like this which have been published recently on this blog <<
You can also read additional current and archived articles on our dedicated magazine website
Low Cost and Free Publicity - Your company can easily benefit from some publicity like the posts above for a contribution towards our layout costs (£75 to £95 plus VAT), payable in advance or you can receive the service absolutely free of charge if you advertise (see below).
We post articles up to twice a day and never delete them - we only archive them each year so that they continue to remain visible to search engines.
To have your story published - just send us your news item, logo and image(s) and we will review the material, make any necessary changes to the wording / wordcount and then advise you when it will be published.
If you are a regular advertiser in our printed and online publications, placing series bookings for adverts or subscribing to our VIP Packages, you will qualify for a specific number of free postings on this blog while you continue to advertise with us. See our media pack for more details.
Also, if you purchase one of our Online and Print Combo packages, Featured Articles or Advertorial packages shown in our media pack, posting on this blog is included in the price.
For details and rates for all of our advertising options in print and online, download our media pack contact us or visit our website.
Door Industry Journal is a trading style of Clearview Group Limited - Company No. 06999111
No comments:
Post a Comment