Bespoke Metalwork London
With over 30 years experience FRD Designs & Makers work with London’s leading interior designers, architects and private clients creating a huge variety of bespoke metal work items from individual metal pieces to entire product ranges. We often collaborate with other designers and crafts people such as cabinet makers, stone masons, glass blowers and formers, as well as leatherworkers, or upholsterers.
Our head office, design studio and bespoke metal workshop are located on the St. Giles Estate in Wimborne St. Giles, Dorset, approximately two hours from London.
London has long stood as a beacon of craftsmanship, innovation, and architectural grandeur. Amid its skyline of timeless landmarks examples of unique metal work from ornate wrought iron gates to sculptural staircases and modern architectural detailing, metal artistry in London remains a key component of its character.
Our work in London is extensive. London is a design-led, inspirational metropolis where some of the world’s leading independent interior designers, architects and artists call home. We have developed an excellent reputation for the high quality metal work that we produce, and with over 30 years experience Francis and the team at FRD Designer & Makers work in London and internationally on exciting projects from design through to inception.
FRD Designers and Makers London commissions vary enormously - our work encompasses both new designs and reproductions for the city’s private homes, as well as whole product ranges for London’s leading international interior designers, lighting brands, architects and artists.
Our London bespoke metal work projects are broad ranging - lighting, furniture, mirrors to name a few. Our London commercial work includes restaurants, cocktail bars, hotels and offices, as well as full product ranges for other leading design-led brands such as Porta Romana, And Objects and Blyth-Collinson Interiors.
FRD Designers & Makers approach to each design remains the same offering personal guidance through the whole process from design through to inception, offering a unique and personal service whether you are a private client or larger brand.
London’s History of Metalwork
Stretching back to Roman times and continuing through the Middle Ages, the Industrial Revolution, and into the modern era - London’s history of metal work is extensive. The Romans introduced advanced ironworking techniques, including the use of blast furnaces and water-powered bellows, significantly impacting iron production in Britain. Archaeological evidence shows various forms of metalworking, from early foundries and workshops to the development of specialised trades like blacksmithing and tin-plate working, with blacksmiths and ironmongers playing crucial roles in crafting tools, weapons, and household items.
The London Metal Exchange, established in 1571 is a key institution for metal trading various metals, including copper, lead, zinc, tin, aluminium, and nickel. It can trace its origins back to The Royal Exchange, reflecting London's importance in the metal industry.
The 19th century saw the introduction of aluminium (with the Eros statue in Piccadilly Circus being a notable example) and other new metals, reflecting ongoing advancements in metallurgy. London experienced a flourish of ornamental ironwork - the gates of Hyde Park, balconies in Kensington, and lamp posts along The Mall. The Industrial Revolution further enhanced techniques, merging art and engineering on an unprecedented scale.
Today, more contemporary examples of bespoke metal work can be found in the residential interiors of Mayfair houses, stainless steel façades of luxury boutiques in Knightsbridge.
London’s landmarks reflect the city’s long history of bespoke metal work from intricate gates of Buckingham Palace, the structural ironwork of St. Pancras Station, and the cutting-edge exoskeleton of the Leadenhall Building (“The Cheesegrater”) all tell the story of a city shaped—and adorned—by metal.