We created and installed this custom pergola at a northern Virginia residence. Here's a peek at the pieces in progress in our studios, and the final pergola installed. Can't you just picture yourself under this in sandals with a cold drink in hand?
{Click any image to enlarge.}
So just how does a hand-forged railing go from a homeowner's need to a beautiful custom installation? Here's part 2 of our story about creating and installing porch stair hand railings with the answer. (You can find part 1 here.)
This repeat client asked Kyle to design something in his own personal style specific to her home. He created a simple, open design using nouveau lines.
{Click any of the images to enlarge.}
Clockwise from top left: with a little creativity, we can heat fairly large forms in our small gas forge. Kyle bends the hot steel using a tool called a bending U in the post vise. Next the cap rail is attached to the posts with traditional rivets. Now the railing is ready for paint!
And there it is! Custom hand forged porch stair railing, painted gloss black and installed in brick steps.
Do you have idea or questions about a railing for your home or business? Reach out to connect with Kyle about creating a custom design.
Next week, we’re excited to take part in Made in RVA Take 2. This is the second annual show of local handcrafted furniture & furnishings hosted by Richmond's awesome independent furniture store, LaDiff.
We created three new pieces of furniture as well as a line of mosaics just for this show. Take a peek at a few process photos below.
{Click any image to enlarge.}
Kyle created the shelves and body of this media console in cherry. The legs are forged steel with hammer texturing along the length and fold-formed feet. The edges of the shelves are clad in riveted steel.
Johannah is exploring a new-to-her technique of setting tesserae (mosaic tile) directly in mortar, rather than gluing tiles and then grouting over them. This is the method used to create the ancient Byzantine and Roman mosaics, as well as an ever-growing body of gorgeous modern mosaics. She's created a line of miniature and small pieces in this technique using reclaimed and found materials alongside traditional smalti, a thick opaque glass.
Last but definitely not least, Kyle made a pair of sleek-lined end tables with walnut tops and forged solid steel legs.
Come on by the opening reception or stop by in the next few weeks to check out these pieces along with the work of 12 other local artists and artisans, beautifully displayed in the LaDiff show room in Shockoe Bottom. Hope to see you there!
