Some 300 years ago builders’ hardware rose from the smithy and the craftsmen’s workbench to establish ornamentation to be as important as function. The tradition of Beaux Arts decorative hardware prevailed as the height of classical beauty at the hands of a few influential French companies. Bronzes de France alone has adapted in preserving historical beauty while bringing elegant contemporary design, and most importantly, timely communication and delivery of finished products to the modern world. 17,000 historic hardware patterns, together with the Baguès collection of fine lighting, and the swift creation of original pieces equals elegance summa cum laude.