Episode 47: Crafting American Hardware: The Story and Design Philosophy of Rocky Mountain Hardware with Christian Nickum

Doctoring Up Design

On this episode of Doctoring Up Design, we explore the evolution of Rocky Mountain Hardware, a 100% U.S.-made architectural hardware brand based in Idaho. Christian Nickum, CEO and President of Rocky Mountain Hardware shares the company’s origins, family-driven growth, and the design philosophy that blends craftsmanship, versatility, and innovation. From custom projects to a nationwide distributor network, listeners get an inside look at how Rocky Mountain Hardware supports designers, architects, and homeowners alike.

Learn how a small mountain-town shop grew into a nationally recognized brand, producing bronze, brass, and aluminum hardware for a variety of architectural styles. We discuss design processes, trade partnerships, and the innovative “Road Show” that brings products and expertise directly to design professionals.
This episode is brought to you by Rocky Mountain Hardware, offering fully U.S.-manufactured architectural hardware for residential, commercial, and hospitality projects.

• Origins of Rocky Mountain Hardware
  
  • Founding story by Christian’s father in Sun Valley, Idaho.
• • Early focus on custom windows and doors, transition to architectural hardware.
• • First hardware products and the early years of growth.
• Company Evolution & Leadership
  
  • Christian joins the business in 1996, taking over production.
• • Scaling operations, investment in manufacturing, and expansion to three Idaho facilities.
• • Transition from regional to national reach through distributor networks.
• Design Philosophy & Product Development
  
  • Blending rustic mountain inspiration with contemporary design trends.
• • Focus on bronze, brass, and other alloy hardware, and finishes.
• • Internal design team vs. external collaborations with designers nationwide.
• Custom Work & Full-Suite Solutions
  
  • “Never say no” approach to creating unique hardware and home accessories.
• • Ability to outfit complete spaces—residential, hospitality, and commercial.
• • Coordinating with designers for cohesive project-wide solutions.
• Trade Relationships & Distribution
  
  • Importance of showrooms, independent reps, and distributor network.
• • Navigating post-pandemic supply chain challenges and pricing volatility.
• • How Rocky Mountain Hardware supports designers and clients in project execution.
• Innovations & Outreach: The Road Show
  
  • Concept, history, and impact of the mobile showroom.
• • Benefits for distributors, design teams, and homeowners.
• • Continuous engagement with trade events and design conferences.
• Takeaways for Designers & Architects
  
  • Emphasis on 100% U.S.-made, high-quality architectural hardware.
• • Versatility across styles: mountain modern, traditional, rustic, contemporary.
• • Insight into how Rocky Mountain Hardware can support entire projects.