After re-plating them with satin nickel and mounting them on his doors (above), Kyle's home entrance now dazzles (top). Imperial, Savoy, Manhattan, Continental, Saturn, Astra—just a few of the striking product names of decorative front door hardware from the postwar era that promised glamour and flair. During the mid-20th century building boom, many architects and tract homebuilders strove to deliver stylish and individualized entranceways to consumers. Door lock manufacturers, also eager to tap into the growing market, offered private showings and colorful brochures featuring their latest fashions in locks, knobs, and backing plates, also called escutcheons. "While establishing escutcheons as high fashion, Schlage understood that these products enabled homeowners to stand out and express their unique style."