HEWI MAG / Knowledge
The design icon System 111
System 111 from HEWI is a design icon among door handles - with this, the company from Bad Arolsen has written design history. The ergonomic shape and characteristic colors make System 111 a classic in architecture.
Long-lasting quality is ensured by the steel core inside as well as by the sophisticated technology. Another characteristic feature is the glossy polyamide surface, which is still highly valued for its excellent properties. It makes every door a visual eye-catcher.
THE DOOR LEVER HANDLE SYSTEM 111: ADVANTAGES OF POLYAMIDE
It has been typical to use the plastic polyamide for the construction hardware sector since 1957. The great advantage is that both the material and the end product can be produced in just one working step. This is done in the form of the polymerization of granules, which are placed in a hollow mold. The System 111 lever handle has interesting features: Thanks to the polyamide, it is abrasion resistant, chemically resistant, antistatic as well as easy to clean. The latter is particularly important for hygiene benefits. In addition, polyamide is available in many different color variations; HEWI produces the 111 in a total of 16 colors. Thus, you can always find the right color to match the existing interior. If desired, the color selection can also be used to deliberately set accents on the door.
The manufacturing process of the lever handle
Polyamide lever handles such as System 111 are usually cast at a pressure of approx. 200 bar. Unlike steel fittings, for example, the glossy surface is not created by polishing and grinding, but already by the manufacturing process. Polyamides are processed between 230 and 280 degrees. Combustible gases are only formed above about 450 degrees. That is why polyamide pushers are often used in places where there are high requirements for fire resistance of products. Polyamide is not only a popular material for door handles, but is also processed into fibers in large quantities. Polyamides are also among the most important engineering thermoplastics.
The manufacturing process of the door handle
Polyamide pushers such as System 111 are usually cast at approx. 200 bar pressure. Unlike steel fittings, for example, the glossy surface is not created by polishing and grinding, but already by the manufacturing process. Polyamides are processed between 230 and 280 degrees. Combustible gases are only formed above about 450 degrees. That is why polyamide pushers are often used in places where there are high requirements for fire resistance of products. Polyamide is not only a popular material for door handles, but is also processed into fibers in large quantities. Polyamides are also among the most important engineering thermoplastics.
Influence of the Bauhaus style
The 111 is still very popular today - over 50 years after its development. Almost everyone will have held a System 111 lever handle in their hand at some point. Its high popularity is due to its contemporary, timeless design and its design language reduced to the essentials. The conscious handling of color strongly connects System 111 with the Bauhaus. Bauhaus stands for vision and free spirit. Art and technology form a unity in the Bauhaus philosophy. Initially influenced primarily by Expressionism and the De Stijl movement, the designers of the Bauhaus sought new techniques and forms. New production methods were developed and new materials were used. With the 111, HEWI has written a piece of architectural history: Designed by Rudolf Wilke in 1969, System 111 continues to impress numerous architects and planners today. It has been copied many times and yet the original - especially in terms of quality - has never been matched. Those who know System 111 are also aware of its quality differences compared to other products. An unmistakable feature of System 111 is the hidden HEWI embossing. This is found at the end of the lever handle facing the door panel. The embossing can be easily felt with the fingers. The number under the hidden HEWI lettering indicates the diameter of the handle.
System 111 stands out due to its material diversity
In 2019 - 50 years after its development - HEWI dedicated a re-edition to System 111. Since then 111 has been available in the matt edition available with two different mounting techniques. On the one hand, the mini rosette and the flat rosette in bicolor design. In addition, System 111 is also available in the matt stainless steel variant. The different material options, high functionality and selected colors make System 111 a design icon among lever handles. The comprehensive range allows you to use 111 in a variety of ways.
Stay up to date
Have you already heard about our free newsletter? There we inform you regularly about news pertaining to HEWI. We also keep you up to date on current architecture and design trends. Feel free to register!
