Our roundup this month includes products that help create ornamental centerpieces, increase safety or security, apply unexpected materials such as eucalyptus and crystal, or further open up the building envelope, as with the exterior folding door system featured here. ' Rita Catinella Orrell
 

 

Certified wood alternative
Bieber USA’s solid three-ply seasoned eucalyptus is harvested from FSC certified South American plantations. A low-maintenance, renewable hardwood alternative to mahogany and teak options, the custom-designed windows and doors are finished with water-based finishes. Unlike traditional American windows, Bieber’s tilt-and-turn functionality allows the windows to open easily and completely inward. Bieber USA, Tustin, Calif. www.bieberusa.com

[Reader Service: April 2007 #213]
 

Crystal palace
The limited edition Ventura door-glass set features faceted red and clear Strass Swarovski crystals set within rich patina caming. The set includes a 241⁄2'' x 65'' door-glass unit; two 8'' x 65'' side lights, and a 667⁄8'' x 331⁄4'' half-round transom. Each set of Ventura door glass is numbered by the designer, with only 50 sets available. A door frame featuring generous moldings and patina medallions coordinates with the design. ODL, Zeeland, Mich. www.odl.com

[Reader Service: April 2007 #214]
 

Access at your fingertips
Kwikset introduced SmartScan, the industry’s first residential biometrically accessible dead-bolt door lock system, at this year’s Builders’ Show. Programmable with up to 50 user fingerprints, the lock can be controlled by swiping a valid fingerprint across the sensor, eliminating the need for a key or key code. Using RF electronic imaging, SmartScan reads live fingerprint patterns located beneath the dermal outer surface layer of the skin. Kwikset, Lake Forest, Calif. www.kwikset.com

[Reader Service: April 2007 #215]
     

Neoclassical revival
The second family to be launched in Weather Shield’s Collections product line, the Neoclassical collection of windows and doors mirrors the delicate detailing of Adam and Georgian architectural styles with a narrow sash profile and 7⁄8'' Simulated Divided Lites. Ideal for upscale, traditional custom homes, the line features hard-cast Stone River Bronze hardware in natural nickel or a dark antique oil-rubbed bronze. Weather Shield Windows & Doors, Medford, Wis www.weathershield.com

[Reader Service: April 2007 #216]