Today’s buyers want more features built into their products. They also want designs that either don’t take up much space or use space in a smarter way. So how does a product designer balance both?

When you walk into a hospital, it’s easy to notice the advanced medical equipment, high-tech monitors, and life-saving devices. Just as important, though often overlooked, are the chairs, tables, cabinets, and beds that fill each room.

Hospitality design is a nonstop balancing act between visual appeal and practical usability.

When designing for a bar counter, restaurant, and bar owners must envision a workspace that not only looks inviting to customers, but also allows staff to operate safely and efficiently. Consider that it’s a busy, high-touch environment, where every inch counts – smooth movement behind the bar is critical.

Designing anything with a moving part involves one constant: something must control the motion. 

Whether it’s a heavy lid, a compact panel, or a rotating arm, the hinge often carries the responsibility. But in many innovative projects, a standard hinge simply doesn’t cut it.

Off-the-shelf hardware rarely fits one-of-a-kind applications. When working with unconventional forms, materials, or functionality, you need solutions that go beyond basic pivoting.

Every designer and engineer knows the struggle: A sleek product vision looks great on screen, but when real-world motion comes into play, it can quickly turn into a clunky, frustrating user experience. The marketing team wants eye-catching visuals. Engineers focus on technical feasibility. End users expect intuitive interaction. Somewhere in the middle, safety and long-term usability demand their due.

You’re pricing out a heavy-duty hinge for your product or project, and the number catches you off guard. It’s a hinge. Why does it cost that much?

When space is limited, flexibility becomes a design priority … and sometimes even a selling point.

Drop leaf hinges offer an elegant solution for maximizing surface area without increasing your furniture’s footprint — a key advantage in residential, commercial, and hospitality applications.

For manufacturers, engineers, and industrial designers, understanding how to install drop leaf table hinges isn’t just a mechanical task — it’s part of building user-friendly, space-smart furniture systems. This guide breaks down hinge functionality, spec strategy, and best practices for installation — arming your team with the insight to engineer reliable, space-efficient products.

Every detail plays a role in functionality and aesthetics when designing a kitchen. While elements like countertops, cabinetry, and appliances receive much attention, one small but crucial component often goes unnoticed: the refrigerator door hinge.

Imagine restoring a piece that holds deep sentimental value — a hope chest your grandparents gave as a wedding gift or a jukebox that was the centerpiece of a 1960s diner. 

These are more than projects. These are attempts at preserving memories and ensuring they can be enjoyed for years to come. With the 8644 spring assist hinge, you don’t have to compromise between historical accuracy and modern functionality. This hinge embodies the perfect blend of the past and the present.

For over 60 years, the 8644 Lift Assist Hinge has been a cornerstone of furniture restoration and design. Since its introduction, this versatile hinge has helped breathe new life into treasured heirlooms.

As workplaces change and technology moves forward, innovative ergonomic solutions are making a big difference in creating healthier, more comfortable spaces for employees.