Our metal fabrication objects are custom designed and created. Whether it be a simple coat rack, an elaborate driveway gate, or elegant iron staircase and railing, each piece is given the same care and design focus.

We at Guntown Forge find that an important part of executing customized work is the collaborative effort between designer and client which includes an emphasis on the visual and functional requirements of the individual. Our intention is that the pieces designed in our facility show a level of customization and uniqueness desired by the client and not display the appearance of work that is a mass produced stock design with a set price.
We do not wish to compete with the "import" business where metal items are turned out with inferior components and materials, sloppy craftsmanship, and lack of personal flare.

In our metal design work, we attempt to integrate characteristics of traditional and contemporary metalwork. We tend to favor a strong, simple geometric structure, and strive toward elegance of form with the amount of ornament and embellishment tailored to the taste of the client.

Clients come to Guntown Forge because they want something created that they cannot find elsewhere. Custom designing and fabrication happens to be the favorite part of our business. We start with having you, the client, tell us what you want. Clients are encouraged to visit our showroom and facility. Moreover, Howard Lee, the owner of Guntown Forge, will visit the site for the metal design in order to acquire a clear picture of what is necessary and desired by the client.
The decision making is actually the hardest part of the process. We will ask you what you have in mind, what kind of metal you want used in your design, what kind of pattern, what finish, and any and other pertinent questions. Once this is process is complete, our work may begin.

We usually prepare a number of concept drawings to initiate the design process. After some indication of preferences by the client, we often prepare an exact computerized rendering of the project, as well as examples of materials to be used and finishes desired, for discussion and approval. Guntown Forge finds that having a tangible object in hand can be more informative and enlightening to designer and client alike.

It is difficult to price metal designs without exact details and measurements. Factors involved include dimensions, details, methods of installation, and materials used. Each project provides its own unique challenges and difficulties. Particularly difficult is pricing a proposed object in design, where a seemingly minor change can change the material value, as well as the labor involved in making it. Guntown Forge strives for absolute fairness for our clients and for our company therefore no quotes are given until we feel we have all the pertinent information from our clients and they have a clear idea of what Guntown Forge metal designs include.

The pricing might be as follows:

Generally, charges are based on bench time, that is, actual working time, design factors, materials used, and finishes selected. However, if it appears that a considerable amount of time and materials are to be spent in the designing process, Guntown Forge may ask for an appropriate deposit fee to be applied toward the overall budget of the project.

Installation costs would also need to be added, as appropriate.

A typical plan for work might be as follows:

1. Client provides explanation of proposed project, including functional requirements and any visual symbolism desired, visual characteristics of setting, working budget, and desired finishing date.
   
   
2. Guntown Forge makes first proposals as software renderings or drawings or three-dimensional prototypes if applicable . Cost and time estimates provided.
   
   
3. Review of proposals. Artist/client discussions. Communication via telephone, mail or fax.
   
   
4. Artist develops and refines a single design.
   
   
5. Client accepts design proposal and approves statement of expenses. Agreement is made and deposit collected if applicable.
   NO PROJECT IS BEGUN UNTIL THE CLIENT IS COMPLETELY SATISFIED WITH THE ESTIMATED COSTS AND DESIGN.
   
   
6. Guntown Forge fabricates the metal design. Guntown Forge reserves the right to make any changes that they deem to be improvements on the proposed design.
   
   
7. Client is notified and pick-up, delivery and/or installation is made. Balance of payments to be made prior to client taking possession of the metal design, delivery or installation.