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 sculptural balustrades to ornate lighting fixtures, bronze doors and architectural screens to smaller more complex hand held pieces - high-end metalwork is where meticulous craftsmanship meets imagination.
But how do you commission such a piece? What should you expect from the process? And why does bespoke metalwork often sit at the intersection of functional design and fine art? This guide walks you through the world of luxury bespoke metalwork—what it is, why it matters, and how to commission a piece that truly reflects your vision.
Bespoke ceiling light designed with Russell Sage Studio for Restaurant 1890 by Gordon Ramsay, situated in the former Private Dining Room of The Savoy Grill.
WHAT IS LUXURY BESPOKE METALWORK?
At its core, bespoke metalwork is the design and fabrication of custom metal elements tailored to a client’s specific vision. “Luxury” denotes not only the use of premium materials like bronze, stainless steel, brass, or patinated iron, but also the level of craftsmanship, finish quality, and often artistic intent behind the work.
FRD’s unique approach to metal work means that we collaborate with numerous other crafts people such as cabinet makers, stone masons, glass blowers and formers, as well as leatherworkers, or upholsterers.
Our in-house abilities are coupled with a network of trusted, skilled artisans in the broader decorative arts.
At FRD each commission is individually designed and crafted to deliver on the quantity and quality required. FRD have collaborated with incredible international brands; from interior designers to architects, artists to stately homes.
Luxury bespoke metal work is suitable for private homes and estates, commercial spaces, restaurants, hotels, yachts & gardens, as well as artwork, lighting & furniture:
WHY CHOOSE BESPOKE METALWORK?
FRD specialise in offering a full design to inception approach to commissioning luxury bespoke metal work that enables our client’s vision become reality.
TIMELESS CRAFTSMANSHIP - Bespoke metalwork often involves traditional hand-forging techniques, modern fabrication, and fine finishing, resulting in a piece that is not only functional but heirloom-worthy.
UNIQUE IDENTITY - No two projects are the same. Every design is tailored, from classical motifs to contemporary minimalism—to suit the space, the client, and the intended mood.
MATERIAL INTEGRITY - From aged bronze to mirror-polished stainless steel, high-end metalwork offers a material palette that both performs and elevates aesthetics.
LONGEVITY & SUSTAINABILITY - Metalwork, when well-designed and properly finished, lasts generations. The living finishes weather beautifully and require minimal upkeep.
THE COMMISSIONING PROCESS
Commissioning luxury bespoke metalwork is part collaboration, part creation. As a design studio FRD demonstrates enormous versatility—architectural work, sculptural commissions, and innovative material use. We work seamlessly and collaboratively with architects, designers, and clients worldwide to ensure that every item produced is to the highest standard.
Our experience, over 30 years, working with some of the world’s leading designers, architects and interior designers, in luxury environments or landmark projects is indicative of our quality and reliability.
Initial Consultation & Vision
You’ll meet with a member of our specialist team of designers and makers. You can then discuss;
Project goals and scope
Style inspirations (photos, mood boards, or sketches)
Materials can then be discussed to ensure the correct metal is selected for the finish that you require.
Site requirements and dimensions
Timeline and budge
Design Development
A conceptual design is produced, often as hand sketches, CAD drawings, or 3D renders. This may go through several iterations until it captures the precise vision.
We can then provide samples of finishes, patinas, or prototype elements at this stage.
Once the design is approved, technical drawings are developed for fabrication.
Making
This is where the magic happens.
Contemporary techniques combined with traditional skills bring the design to life.
Expect frequent updates and, in some cases, studio visits to view the piece in progress.
Finishing
We have a wealth of experience with a extensive range of finishing processes. High-end metalwork is all about the final finishing—brushed versus mirror polish, custom patinas, or hand-applied textures.
The metal is polished, textured, patinated, assembled.
The finishing team assemble any works from other artisans to create the final piece.
Bespoke metalwork occupies a unique space in design. It can make a space unforgettable, telling a story in steel, bronze, or brass that no mass-produced item ever could.
If you’re ready to commission a bespoke metalwork piece, think of it not just as a commission, but as an artistic collaboration. Bring your ideas, your curiosity, and a willingness to push boundaries—and you’ll walk away with a piece that embodies more than function.