At Jack Arnold UK, we are proud to be one of the leading providers of architectural metalwork in London, offering bespoke solutions for both private and commercial clients. Our reputation for quality craftsmanship and innovative design has made us a trusted name in the industry. Central to our success is our meticulous fabrication process, which ensures that every piece of architectural metalwork we produce meets the highest standards of precision, durability, and aesthetic appeal.
Whether we’re crafting an elegant staircase for a luxury home or designing secure yet stylish gates for a commercial property, our fabrication process is designed to deliver exceptional results. In this blog post, we will take you through the key steps in our fabrication process, demonstrating how we combine expertise, technology, and creativity to produce stunning metalwork installations that stand the test of time.
Step 1: Understanding the Client’s Vision
Every project begins with a deep understanding of our client’s needs and vision. At Jack Arnold, we take the time to listen to our clients and carefully consider their specifications. Whether it’s a specific design idea or a functional requirement, we work closely with our clients to ensure that their expectations are clearly defined.
This collaborative approach is especially crucial for architectural metalwork in London, where design and aesthetics play a significant role in the overall impact of the structure. Our team takes into account both the practical requirements and the desired visual outcome, ensuring that every piece we create complements the surrounding environment while fulfilling its intended purpose.
Step 2: Design and Planning
Once we have a clear understanding of the client’s vision, our skilled design team moves into action. We create detailed CAD (Computer-Aided Design) drawings that bring the concept to life. These plans are vital for the fabrication process, providing an accurate representation of the final design. We ensure that every detail is carefully considered – from dimensions and angles to the integration of different materials, ensuring that the metalwork fits seamlessly into the overall design.
At Jack Arnold, we believe in using the latest technology to enhance the design and planning process. Our state-of-the-art CAD software allows us to visualise the project in 3D, giving our clients a clear understanding of how the metalwork will look before fabrication begins. This step is crucial for avoiding any potential issues later in the process and ensures that the final product aligns perfectly with the client’s vision.
Step 3: Material Selection
Selecting the right materials is one of the most important decisions in the fabrication process. The choice of metal will affect the durability, appearance, and overall performance of the architectural metalwork. At Jack Arnold, we offer a wide range of metals to choose from, including stainless steel, mild steel, and aluminium. Each metal has its unique properties, and our experienced team can help guide clients in selecting the most suitable material for their project.
We also offer a variety of finishes, such as galvanising, powder coating, and polishing, which enhance the metal’s appearance and protect it from the elements. Whether it’s the sleek, modern look of polished stainless steel or the timeless appeal of blackened steel, our material selection ensures that every piece of architectural metalwork in London is not only functional but also visually stunning.
Step 4: Fabrication and Crafting
The fabrication stage is where the magic happens. Once the design is finalised and the materials are selected, our skilled metalworkers begin the hands-on process of creating the metalwork. At Jack Arnold, we use a combination of traditional craftsmanship and modern techniques to produce high-quality metal installations. Our team is trained in a wide range of fabrication techniques, including welding, cutting, bending, and machining, to ensure that each piece is crafted with precision.
Advanced machinery, such as CNC (Computer Numerical Control) cutting and laser cutting equipment, is used to achieve the most intricate and precise cuts. This allows us to create complex patterns and shapes with ease, ensuring that even the most detailed aspects of the design are executed flawlessly.
We also employ traditional techniques such as hand-finishing, which adds a personal touch to each piece. This combination of modern and traditional methods is what sets our architectural metalwork apart, delivering pieces that are both beautiful and functional.
Step 5: Assembly and Quality Control
Once the individual components are fabricated, they are carefully assembled into the final installation. Our team of skilled metalworkers ensures that every piece is assembled accurately and securely, with a focus on achieving the highest level of structural integrity.
At Jack Arnold, quality control is at the heart of everything we do. Before any metalwork leaves our workshop, we carry out rigorous quality checks to ensure that it meets our exacting standards. This includes inspecting welds, checking dimensions, and ensuring that the finish is flawless. We understand the importance of attention to detail in architectural metalwork, which is why every project is thoroughly inspected before it is approved for delivery.
Step 6: Installation and Finishing Touches
The final step in our fabrication process is the installation of the architectural metalwork. Our team of experts ensures that every piece is installed securely and to the highest standard, whether it’s a staircase, gate, railing, or bespoke metal feature. We work closely with our clients throughout the installation process to ensure that the final product meets their expectations.
Additionally, our team can add the finishing touches, such as final polishing or coating, to ensure the metalwork is presented at its best. Whether we’re installing a commercial gate in central London or adding a decorative railing to a private home, we take great pride in the final appearance and performance of our installations.
