Architectural Metalwork

Alan Williams creates bespoke architectural metalwork and sculpture for buildings, gardens, public spaces and commercial projects. His commissions include gates, handrails, railings, arches and other site-specific pieces where a practical requirement can become part of the sculpture rather than something separate from it.

Alan can work from an established architectural brief or become involved earlier, developing the idea with the client, architect, designer or landscape team. The design can respond to the building, landscape, local history or intended use of the space while retaining the forged detail and sculptural character of Alan’s work.

Previous projects range from the monumental Rose Arch at Kew Gardens to private gates, garden handrails, contemporary interior metalwork and commissions for local authorities and developments.

Kew Gardens Rose Arch architectural sculpture and metalwork by Alan Williams

Explore Architectural Metalwork Projects

Explore previous architectural commissions to see how Alan has combined function, setting and sculptural detail across gates, handrails, garden structures and larger permanent installations. The individual project pages include dimensions, materials and installation details where known.

Working with Architects, Designers and Commissioners

Alan works with architects, designers, landscape professionals, businesses and private clients on architectural commissions in the UK and internationally. He can respond to an established brief or contribute at an earlier stage, developing ideas alongside wider plans for a building, interior, garden or public space.

For projects involving a wider team, Alan can supply drawings and technical information as required and work with architects, engineers and specialist contractors on construction and installation. He can accommodate confidentiality agreements and provide risk assessments and method statements where needed.

Contact Alan

Hand-forged glass panelled architectural banister rail by Alan Williams

Made for the place it will live

Bladderwrack Gate architectural sculpture commission created by Alan Williams Metal Sculpture Artist

The Bladderwrack Gate was created for a coastal property and takes its form from bladderwrack seaweed. Its forged sheet-steel construction was galvanised to cope with the exposed coastal environment.

Glass and Metal Stair Handrail created by Alan Williams metal artist in 2015

For a contemporary central London house, Alan combined a fully hand-forged banister frame with differently coloured glass panels. Traditional forging and riveted construction were used to create something that belonged naturally within a modern interior.

Bug Handrail Architectural garden sculpture created by Metal Sculpture Artist Alan Williams 2024

The Bug Handrail was made for a garden celebrating the client’s interest in nature and insects. Its forged structure incorporates retired tools, motorbike sprockets and chain, car clutches and mechanical salvage.

Viaduct Gate architectural metalwork by Alan Williams for a Brighton development

The Viaduct Gate in Brighton responded to a different site. Commissioned by Brighton & Hove City Council and a local development company, its design refers to the railway viaduct that once passed through the area, turning local industrial history into a contemporary entrance.

How an Architectural Metalwork Project Develops

You can approach Alan with architectural drawings and a developed specification, or with a site and an idea that still needs shaping. The artistic and practical sides of the project are worked through together before fabrication begins.

1. Start with the site and brief

Alan will want to understand the site, intended use, approximate dimensions, budget and programme, together with any architectural, landscape or historical references that should inform the work.

2. Develop the design

The concept, materials and practical requirements are developed together. Drawings, technical information, mock-ups or maquettes can be supplied where the project or approval process requires them.

3. Review the work

Alan keeps the client or project team involved as the work develops. Changes that affect the agreed design, budget or programme are discussed before they are made.

4. Fabrication and installation

Fixings, foundations, access, transport, lifting and site preparation are considered at the outset. Once completed, Alan will handle installation, working with specialist contractors where required.

Discuss an Architectural Metalwork Project

If you are considering a bespoke gate, handrail, architectural feature or site-specific sculpture, contact Alan to discuss the project. Please share a few details about the site, intended use, approximate dimensions, budget and timescale, together with drawings or photographs if you have them.

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