JOURNAL

Welcome to our Journal - a carefully curated selection of stories detailing how we work, our processes, designs, and who we work with.

Isobel Smith-Maryan Isobel Smith-Maryan

Brass: Timeless Metal Craftsmanship & Bespoke Brass Design

Brass: Timeless metal craftsmanship & bespoke brass design

At FRD Designers & Makers, brass isn’t just a material, it’s a story told through light, form and finish. With decades of experience crafting furniture, lighting and architectural metalwork from brass and other metals, our Dorset workshop transforms this remarkable alloy into pieces that elevate interiors and endure through time.

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Isobel Smith-Maryan Isobel Smith-Maryan

Bronze:Bronze Metalwork, Architectural Bronze, Bronze Sculpture & Bronze Lighting

Bronze Metalwork, Architectural Bronze, Bronze Sculpture & Bronze Lighting

Bronze is a versatile alloy celebrated for its warm tones, remarkable durability and adaptability.  A favourite metal used for sculpture, architectural detailing, and high-traffic design features worldwide, bronze metal stands the test of time, both in beauty and performance.

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Isobel Smith-Maryan Isobel Smith-Maryan

Marchmont House - The Candelabra

FRD has worked with Marchmont House on many projects, most recently a pair of replica 18th century ormolu candelabras originally designed by the neo-classical designer James “Athenian” Stuart.   The two replicas stand alongside two originals on four carved gilt plinths in the salon of Marchmont House.

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Isobel Smith-Maryan Isobel Smith-Maryan

Marchmont House - The Lanterns

Marchmont House is a Grade A-listed Palladian Scottish mansion built in 1750-1755. In 2011 an extensive series of renovation works was carried out. FRD were commissioned to reproduce lanterns throughout the property in the style of ones originally designed by the eminent Scottish architect Sir Robert Lorimer.

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Isobel Smith-Maryan Isobel Smith-Maryan

Guild Anderson’s interview with Francis Russell

Guild Anderson interview with Francis Russell

We’re all about making things” are the humble words Francis Russell uses to describe his business, but they are about so much more than that.  FRD Designers and Makers are the first choice for anyone looking to commission exceptional decorative or functional pieces from metal.

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Isobel Smith-Maryan Isobel Smith-Maryan

Commissioning Luxury Bespoke Metalwork

Making a bold, lasting impression in design, whether architectural, interior, or artistic, can be challenging, but few elements command attention quite like luxury bespoke metalwork.  From intricately detailed staircases and sculptural gates to hand-forged lighting fixtures and custom handles and hardware, high-end metalwork is where meticulous craftsmanship meets imagination.

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