Custom Iron Railings Add Just The Right Functional And Decorative Touch

Although iron has been used decoratively since the glory days of Egypt, it was the French who really perfected the art of using iron for railings, gates and other ornamental products during the Renaissance. However, the use of this incredibly strong metal had its practical applications as well, and its protective qualities were in high demand beginning in medieval times. It is no wonder, then, that the French brought quality ironwork craftsmanship with them when they settled New Orleans. In fact, using iron for railings and for decorative purposes is seen more often in southern Louisiana than in any other area of the United States: it has quite simply become a Pelican State tradition; but the classic look and durability of ornamental iron looks great anywhere.

Today, homeowners with discerning tastes love the look of iron for indoor or outdoor railings, as brackets for island bars, for courtyard gates, fireplace screens, and numerous other applications. Here are some ideas for ways to use iron to add class to your home.

-- Stair Railings and Bannisters

Stair railings are a popular way to add traditional French elegance to your home. Custom metalworkers can create just about any design to suit your home: from fancy scrolling to extremely understated simplicity. Unlike wooden banisters, there is no danger of breakage, the material is very low maintenance, and fingerprints are virtually invisible. Many of today's homes feature open landings or hallways on the second floor. Installing a railing at these locations ensures that even the littlest family member will stay safer. Many people mistakenly assume that choosing iron means choosing black: custom designers can create railings and banisters in different colors and finishes to suit various decors.

-- Ornamental Bar Brackets and Window Inserts

The design of wet bars often calls for the bar top to extend over the cabinetry. Installing scrolled iron bar brackets as "supports" instantly gives a wet bar an extra touch of elegance. A typical bar will have three brackets: two on each end and one in the middle.

A plain door window is instantly transformed into a work of art with scrolled iron inserts. The door's windows are also made more secure with the addition of the iron's strength while visibility remains virtually unchanged. Ironwork also can be inserted into transom windows above any door, whether inside or out.

-- Outdoor Uses of Ornamental Iron

Iron gates are not just for chateaux anymore! They add security to any property and will last a lifetime with relatively little maintenance. Ornamental iron can be used to offset a courtyard, to surround flower gardens, fountains or swimming pools, or simply as a stand-alone accent piece anywhere on a property.

It is no wonder that ornamental iron has been popular for centuries because of its classic look and durable functionality: it is indeed a Louisiana tradition.