Throughout history, gates have been more than just practical and stylish security structures. They have also served as a medium for artistic expression for centuries, and that still rings true today. While metal gates are often more robust than other alternatives, they are also prized for their ornate beauty, which surpasses that of wood or plastic gates.
Here at SL Wrought Iron, we have more than 30 years of experience in manufacturing and supplying metal gates, giving us a wealth of knowledge about the symbolism behind these designs. So, if you’re in the market for a new gate, here are four reasons why you should consider one of our stunning metal gates for your home (plus a little about the motif of the gate).
The beauty of scrollwork elegance
Scrollwork motifs have a fascinating history that dates back centuries. Recognisable by their intricate and flowing patterns, these stunning swirls can even be found on Notre Dame Cathedral, dating all the way back to the 12th or 13th centuries. Interestingly, the scroll motif of a crowd in design can be traced even further back in history. These designs often carry symbolic meaning, reflecting the cultural or artistic movements of the era in which they were created. This traditional design is still being utilised today, as seen in our Chatburn gate.
The Chatburn Driveway Gate is a timeless and traditional design that is crafted using the finest British Steel materials. It boasts a sturdy build made of 12mm solid vertical steel square bars and a 40x10mm solid flat bar framework, all handmade. This gate comes in a galvanised and powder-coated finish for up to 70 years. Plus, it is rust-free, low maintenance and comes with our unrivalled 10-year workmanship guarantee!
Contemporary motifs
The design of modern gates follows the principles of minimalism, seamlessly combining form and function. The straight lines create a sleek and sophisticated look, while circular motifs add dynamism and balance. These gates blend simplicity and artistic expression, redefining traditional designs with geometric precision and abstract motifs. Whether used for residential or commercial purposes, modern gates showcase the fusion of contemporary design and timeless elegance.
At SL Wrought Iron, we have a variety of contemporary gates to choose from, one of our favourites being the Great Harwood Galvanised Driveway Gate. This stunning contemporary design features circles, collars, and ball tops. The collection is made with a 40 x 40mm box section and a 16mm solid vertical round bar, making it the chunkiest and most sturdy range out of all the options available! Of course, like all of our other gates, Great Harwood is forged from British steel for maximum durability, comes in a galvanised and powder-coated finish for comprehensive rust protection, and has a 10-year guarantee.
Victorian twists and scrolls
Twists are a design element that originated in the Victorian era, and carry with them a rich historical legacy. The gate motifs of the Victorian era were much more than just decorative elements. They were a representation of the era’s fascination with intricate details and a desire to create aesthetically pleasing environments. The ornate and elaborate patterns of the Victorian twists are known to exude a sense of timeless elegance. Even today, the intricate designs featuring twists and curls showcase the meticulous craftsmanship and timeless style of the Victorian era, where attention to detail was of absolute importance.
Our Ribchester Driveway Gate is a perfect example of how this gate style is still incredibly popular today. One of our more ornate designs, this stunning gate brings character and charm to any property! The Ribchester gate is a beautiful combination of traditional wrought iron style, featuring twisted cages, as well as scrolls and traditional railheads. Our gates and railings are crafted with the utmost care and attention to detail. We use a 12mm solid vertical square bar and 40 x 40mm box sections for Ribchester, ensuring maximum durability.
All of our gates are constructed from the finest British steel in our Lancashire workshop, and come with an unrivalled 10-year workmanship guarantee. We understand that every customer is unique, which is why our gates and railings are available in bespoke sizes and colours, tailored to meet your specific requirements!
SL Wrought Iron recognises that each customer has their own unique design preferences, and we strive to accommodate every taste by offering a wide range of choices. If you can’t find the size you need on our website, don’t worry! Our bespoke services allow you to request a custom size that meets your specific requirements. Just contact our friendly team at 01254 236994, supply us with your measurements, and we will provide you with a bespoke quote. We are always happy to assist you!