A family owned iron company in Pennsylvania offers distinctive gates, fences and railing.
The peaceful and traditional Amish communities of Pennsylvania might not be the most likely setting for a blue-chip custom iron works but great things often come from the most surprising places.
Since 1998, family owned Compass Iron Works, located amid the rolling countryside of Lancaster County, Pa., has been bending and shaping iron for distinctive gates, decor, fences and railings for some of the finest homes in America.
“We specialize in assisting architects, designers and homeowners with creative and innovative solutions to unique challenges,” says Compass president Amos Glick, who adds that the firm’s projects can range from expansive oceanfront estates to rustic mountaintop retreats.
“Whatever the end product,” he says, “we will make sure that it is in complete harmony with its setting and surroundings.”
Employing a team of 10 master craftsmen, Compass relies on contemporary tools, and hardwearing and environmentally friendly finishing techniques (which can withstand even the harshest coastal climates), but still creates each hand-rolled and hand-hammered project individually. Indeed, some of the company’s larger installations may require up to 40,000 hammer blows. “There’s no mass production here,” says Glick.
As is customary in Amish tradition, Compass’s 15,000-square-foot manufacturing facility is completely independent of the electrical grid, making the company – as well as its products – ecologically sound.
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According to Glick, Compass Iron Works creates all the power it uses. Additionally, most of the staff travels to the iron works by carpool (alongside the traditional horse and buggies for which Lancaster County is famous), thereby minimizing costs and using fewer resources.
While wrought iron design is often thought of as intricate and ornate, Glick and his craftsmen are willing and able to meet any design demands, from a standard security fence to the detailed scrollwork of an interior staircase and the sculptural artwork of a Japanese maple room divider.
Prospective clients are invited to fill out a submission form online and, if desired, upload drawings, photos or plans, and also order a design guide for a complete description of options.
“Every creation can reflect your unique wishes and requirements,” says Glick. “At the end of the day, all that we want is for the client to be absolutely satisfied and delighted.” ironworkclassics.com
Image Credits: Jordan Brian.