Ironwork Commissions / Installations

Working with clients on commission pieces that enhance their homes is an exciting opportunity for me. I truly enjoy learning about each client’s ideas, needs, and the character of their living spaces. Client input is one of the biggest factors in my design process. After a design is completed and approved I can start changing a drawing and idea into real, tangible pieces.

Depending on the client’s wishes, when I finish making the piece(s) they either go through a process to patina the metal or they are sent off to the painter to be sandblasted, primed and painted.

Once ready, I usually install the piece(s) myself to ensure everything meets my standards and that each piece is exactly what the client had in mind and will function well for a very long time.

Every commission that I have had the opportunity to do has been very rewarding for me. It is satisfying to use my skills and experience to take what starts as an idea, make things that make clients happy, and fill a need for each client.

Commissioning Process

If you would like a quote about custom work, the following information is important to be able to get started.

•  The size of the space it will fill, both length and width and height.
•  Pictures of inspiration or styles or themes for the project.
•  The time frame for the project.
•  Budgetary or other constraints.
•  Pictures of the area of the project are EXTREMELY helpful.
•  Multiple ways in which you can be contacted.

1. Gates

Each gate I make is the ultimate integration of beauty and function. It’s important to me that each and every gate swings easily and never sags. There is nothing more frustrating than fighting with a gate that is used regularly and does not operate well. I generally use 1″ structural steel for the outside frame to ensure that it will stay square and true. I use heavy duty barrel hinges that can be greased to always work smoothly and can hold  more than 1,000 lbs. of weight. For me, a gate is also an opportunity create visual interest and incorporate different materials (ie. stained glass, copper pieces, etc.) on a functional “canvas”.

(click on the image for a larger view)

2. Railings

Custom railings are among my favorite commissions. I work to create a one-of-a-kind railing that fits the client’s needs and interests  and is extremely durable, functional and truly unique.

(click on the image for a larger view)

3. Arches, Arbors, Trellises, and other Iron Pieces

Let me create a one-of-a-kind arch or arbor that fits your garden design that is extremely durable, functional and truly unique.

Trellises are left unsealed to develop the natural patina that fits well in a garden. The soft patina of the metals is maintenance free, allowing vines to happily use a trellis’s support undisturbed for years.

(click on the image for a larger view)

Interested in learning more about these commissions? Read on…