Name: Ironbark Metal Design
Address: 2/7 Warehouse Pl, Berkeley, NSW, 2506, AU
Telephone: 02 4229 2222
Price range: $$$

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Despite our increasingly digital lives, receiving physical mail in our letterboxes continues to evoke a sense of anticipation and excitement. Letterboxes have become a significant part of our home’s exterior decor, seamlessly blending timeless appeal with contemporary design.

If you view a mailbox as a mere holder for incoming mail, you may be pleasantly surprised by the benefits offered by modern letterbox designs. There are plenty of factors contributing to the rising popularity of letterboxes:

Enhanced Security

Mailboxes can often fall prey to vandalism, making it crucial to protect your mail. Manufacturers now turn to steel, a rugged material with excellent protective properties, to ensure your letterbox is a secure and durable repository. Extensive efforts have been made to design and implement various clever security features. These include a steel or aluminium visor, a protective box structure, discreet lock access, concealed fasteners, and a convenient magnetic door latch. These security measures are highly regarded for rendering your letterbox secure and protecting your incoming mail.

Contemporary Design

Upgrade your property’s aesthetics by selecting from an array of stylish letterboxes. Letterboxes are meticulously crafted from top-quality Australian steel or powder-coated aluminium in a colour of your choice, showcasing fine attention to detail. They offer a simple yet elegant addition to your home’s exterior. First impressions count, and this type of mailbox leaves a positive one. Additionally, securely placing your mail inside the letterbox rather than in front of your door provides a neater and more organised appearance to your front yard.

When blended with a powder-coated aluminium base, these letterboxes become a convenient and effortless means to introduce a touch of luxury to your home’s exterior design. Aluminium is renowned for its durability and longevity, ensuring it lasts many years.

Exceptional Durability

Material choices for letterboxes include steel and aluminium. Incorporating a steel letterbox into your home’s exterior offers an ideal solution, as it can endure the challenging Australian weather.

Powder-coated aluminium boasts unmatched colour retention, corrosion protection, and a sophisticated finish that complements diverse home exterior styles, ensuring lasting durability.

Customisation Options for Letterboxes

A custom letterbox enhances your home’s curb appeal and personalises its entrance. It’s not just a letterbox; it’s your signature on your property, welcoming guests in style. It’s a modish and practical addition that sets your home apart. Make a statement and leave a lasting impression with a personalised letterbox that reflects your distinct style.

At Ironbark Metal Design, we design and manufacture a broad range of custom letterboxes in Sydney and surrounding areas. You can choose from various styles, designs, sizes, and colour options and personalise your letterbox as per your need. Whether you love a classic and traditional style or favour the modern and contemporary look, we can provide you with a custom letterbox to enhance your home’s curb appeal.

Here are some letterbox styles we have delivered:

3D Grevillea Letterbox: Choose sleek aluminium or rustic Corten steel for a nature-inspired design.
Compact Letterbox: Secure your mail with a lockable mail chute and personalise it to make it distinctive.
Large Numeral Letterbox: Make your address stand out with precision-cut street numbers.
Medium Letterbox: Express your style with patterns on a medium-sized mailbox.
Wide Form Letterbox: Available in powder-coated aluminium or Corten steel to add width and beauty to your mailbox.

Do You Need a Letterbox?

While Australia Post doesn’t mandate that homeowners have a letterbox, many prefer one to receive mail conveniently. Adhering to size regulations is essential if you choose to install a letterbox. Additionally, consider the placement of your letterbox to ensure that mail couriers can easily access its opening.

Prominently display your street number on the box to comply with postal requirements. You can easily find pre-numbered letterboxes or opt to have your numbers cut to your liking.

Letterbox Mounting Styles

Built-In Letterboxes

We offer an exceptional solution for individuals searching for a more unified appearance. Our team will work with you to build a personalised mailbox that matches your specified dimensions and preferred placement. Be it steel or aluminium, we possess the expertise to work with various materials. With this tailored approach, you can acquire a mailbox that seamlessly integrates into your surroundings, ensuring practicality and aesthetic unity.

Freestanding Letterboxes

Freestanding letterboxes are ideal for properties with generous open areas and direct access to the footpath. The installation process is straightforward, as it is easy to insert freestanding letterboxes into the ground or securely attached to concrete surfaces, guaranteeing stability and convenient accessibility. Furthermore, a freestanding letterbox provides practicality and enhances your home’s curb appeal.

Do you want to make your home stand out with a one-of-a-kind custom letterbox? Contact Ironbark Metal Design for expert letterbox installations customised to your vision.

Envision your garden as a sanctuary, where the symphony of growing plants and blooming flowers orchestrates a symphony of tranquility, melting away stress, elevating your well-being, and bestowing moments of profound serenity. In a realm akin to captivating artwork, let us embark on a journey through the realm of garden sculptures, revealing why they stand as the pivotal element your garden has been yearning for.

Conceive of your garden as an oasis of calmness, an oasis where you can unwind and revive your spirits amidst the embrace of vibrant blossoms and verdant foliage. This haven not only acts as a shield against stress but also bolsters your immune system, all the while creating pockets of serene respite.

Visualize your garden as a living canvas, an evolving masterpiece with each petal and leaf a stroke of nature’s creativity. And now, imagine the introduction of a garden sculpture into this narrative. The inclusion of one of these mesmerizing pieces is akin to imbuing your garden with a touch of refined elegance, perhaps even transforming it into an open-air gallery that enchants the beholder’s gaze.

Still in contemplation? Fret not, for we have assembled five compelling reasons that render this decision an effortless choice.

Reveal Your Character & Style

Just as your clothing style or the interior decor of your home serves as a reflection of your individuality, your garden serves as an equally telling canvas for your identity. By introducing a metal garden sculpture, you unlock an additional avenue for expressing your inclinations and unique perspective. While your friends might be left in awe, you’ll find yourself delighting in the artistic marvel every morning, savoring your coffee amidst the open air!

Characterized by a diverse array of contours, structures, and designs, garden sculptures encompass a wide spectrum of appearances. Be it the timeless allure of tradition, the sleek lines of futurism, the weathered charm of age, or the elegance of simplicity, these imaginative pieces work in harmony to cultivate your intended ambiance within the garden’s embrace.

Take, for instance, our moon sculpture adorned with rounded incisions—a modern reimagining of the lunar sphere, seamlessly blending with your outdoor expanse, be it a sprawling garden, a cozy balcony, or a tranquil backyard. It encapsulates the essence of contemporary garden enhancement, embodying both creativity and aesthetic finesse.

Brighten Your Preferred Sections

Maybe you’ve poured your care into tending a patch of vibrant flowers, jointly nurtured a tree that now stands as a living testament to your children’s growth, or transformed a weathered wine barrel from your wedding day into a cherished keepsake? In these moments, a garden sculpture can serve as a poignant focal point, drawing attention to these precious corners of your garden and accentuating what holds significance for you. Imagine placing a garden sculpture next to that tree; each glimpse will serve as a gentle reminder to revisit that special spot, sharing its stories with guests and weaving memories anew.

Enter our Corten steel flower sculpture, an embodiment of the Dracaena blossom’s grace, adding a contemporary twist to your outdoor haven. Its presence seamlessly melds with your garden beds, flower patches, or verdant bushes, an exquisite union of nature-inspired art and the organic beauty of your garden landscape.

Cover Blank Spaces

Within almost every garden lies a perplexing void, a space where life’s touch seems to elude. Whether a result of neglect or the perpetual embrace of shade, this space stands untamed, refusing growth’s embrace. Yet, envision a garden sculpture gracefully taking root, poised to inhabit this barren canvas—a beacon of transformation for the seemingly forsaken. With its artistic charm, it metamorphoses emptiness into a meticulously conceived garden tableau, an oasis of design amidst the void. Here, subtlety reigns supreme, and your discerning taste in art effortlessly draws forth a cascade of admiring remarks.

Allow us to introduce our globe sculpture, a masterpiece adorned with intricate tree and leaf motifs—an embodiment of nature’s grace. Tailored to these very spaces, it finds its perfect niche. Crafted from Corten steel, it matures elegantly over time, forming a rusted patina as it weathers the elements, an evolution that only adds to its allure, turning the passage of time into an artistic journey.

Metal Garden Sculptures

Infuse a Theme into Your Garden

Crafting a garden that embodies a distinct theme is a pursuit that brings boundless joy to countless enthusiasts. Amidst the lush tapestry of plants and blooms, there exists a singular way to amplify and accentuate that thematic narrative—through the introduction of a garden sculpture. These sculptures hold the power to weave a seamless harmony into your theme, whether it’s an homage to the vibrant array of Australian birds or a voyage into a futuristic realm. However, a word of caution: in this artistic orchestration, remember that restraint often begets brilliance.

Enhance the Look with Art

Garden sculptures seamlessly meld with the outdoor expanse, infusing it with diversity and acting as gentle guides for the eye. Beyond this, they become a canvas for introducing colors that help shape your desired palette. Take, for instance, the rusted finish of Corten steel, a perfect complement to luxuriant plants and vivid blossoms. What’s more, the strategic placement of a towering garden sculpture lends a hand in elevating the landscape, creating a multilayered visual dynamic that vegetation alone can’t quite achieve.

Within our collection, the exceptional triple-sided metal leaf sculpture stands out as a captivating centerpiece. This striking masterpiece not only introduces a textural richness but also achieves a vertical prominence that adds an element of height, infusing your garden with an aura of grandeur that captures attention from every angle.

How to Select Your Garden Art

The process of selecting a garden sculpture is deeply personal, rooted in your preferences. Your garden is an extension of yourself, a space where you’ll find solace and spend abundant time. Hence, prioritize what genuinely sparks joy for you, rather than being swayed by external suggestions.

Before making your choice, a few considerations should guide your decision. Striking the right balance is key—avoid something excessively tall or diminutive, and ensure it resonates harmoniously. Delve into dimensions, contemplating its height, width, and proportions. If you have a designated spot in mind, measuring these dimensions can streamline your decision-making process.

Moreover, your garden’s inherent style warrants contemplation. While a large modern sculpture could dazzle, it might clash with a classic Tuscan or French aesthetic. Similarly, antique-inspired pieces might not harmonize seamlessly within a modern landscape. To align your sculpture with your garden’s essence, opt for materials and shapes that resonate with your desired style. For contemporary gardens, the allure of metal and steel, with their modern contours, often proves to be a fitting choice.

Adding Garden Sculpture Pieces

For expansive gardens, a strategic arrangement of sculptures can work wonders – a central piece accompanied by a couple flanking the sides. This ensemble breathes life into your garden, effectively transforming it into an enchanting open-air art exhibit. Conversely, a single sculpture can often suffice for a more compact garden. Enhancing the allure, subtle lighting can illuminate these sculptures even after the sun has set.

Placement is key. Opt for a central location if you desire an all-encompassing view, or explore different corners to vary the visual experience throughout your garden’s expanse. Thanks to contemporary technology, deciding on the ideal spot has become a breeze. Utilize apps or software to experiment virtually, without the need to physically relocate the sculpture. Imagine crafting a digital garden on your computer or seamlessly integrating the sculpture into photographs.

At the heart of the decision-making process lies the consideration of size, balance, and harmony. Strive to avoid a sculpture that appears misplaced or obscured by foliage; instead, seek a seamless integration with your trees, plants, flowers, and shrubbery. The aim is to create an organic cohesion that complements rather than detracts from the natural beauty that surrounds it.

If you’re looking for a custom metal garden sculpture, contact Ironbark Metal Design at 02 4229 2222, and our team of expert and friendly artisans will be delighted to assist you.

Navigating through letterbox regulations might seem daunting, but fear not! At Ironbark Metal Design, we specialise in letterboxes and are dedicated to making your selection process seamless. With our expert advice, choosing the ideal letterbox for your home becomes a breeze. Let’s now explore the essential factors you must consider to find the perfect fit for your needs.

Choosing the Perfect Letterbox Style

The style of your letterbox plays a crucial role in enhancing your home’s overall aesthetics. It should seamlessly blend with your home’s design, creating a harmonious look. At Ironbark Metal Design, we understand the importance of style, and that’s why we offer an array of letterbox designs, including classic and modern options. This diverse selection caters to various tastes and preferences, ensuring you find the perfect match for your home’s unique character.

Harmonising with Modern Architecture

Adding a modern letterbox can infuse a touch of sophistication into your traditional home; however, the reverse may not always have the same effect. If your home embraces a blend of modern and traditional styles, fear not! You have the freedom to choose between the two letterbox styles, allowing you to achieve the perfect balance that complements your home’s unique charm.

Complying with Standards & Regulations

Before delving into the world of letterbox options, it’s crucial to prioritize adherence to the regulations set forth by your local council and Australia Post. These guidelines play a vital role in facilitating smooth mail delivery and avoiding any inconveniences to the postie. To ensure compliance, common requirements include keeping your letterbox visible, accessible, and well-maintained. By meeting these standards, you not only ensure a seamless mail delivery experience but also contribute to the overall efficiency of the postal system.

Mounting Options for Your Letterbox

How you mount your letterbox depends on your front yard’s layout and available space. Let’s glance at the two standard mounting options: freestanding and built-in letterboxes:

Rusted Freestanding Letterboxes

Freestanding Letterboxes: Ideal for Open Spaces

Freestanding letterboxes offer an excellent solution for yards with ample open spaces and direct access to the footpath. The installation process is a breeze, as they can be easily slotted into the ground or securely bolted onto concrete surfaces, ensuring both stability and easy accessibility. This makes freestanding letterboxes a practical and versatile choice for your outdoor mail needs.

Built-In Letterboxes: Seamlessly Integrated into Your Fence or Wall

For those seeking a more integrated look, we go above and beyond by offering a personalized solution. Our team is ready to collaborate with you on designing a custom letterbox that perfectly aligns with your required dimensions and desired location. Whether it’s timber, sheet metal, brick, or concrete fences or walls, we have the expertise to work around any material. With this tailored approach, you can have a letterbox that seamlessly blends into your space, ensuring both functionality and aesthetic harmony.

Multibank Letterboxes for a Unified Look

Multibank letterboxes are an excellent choice if you require a unified appearance for duplexes, businesses, or unit blocks. They can be mounted on posts in the ground or bolted onto concrete surfaces. Alternatively, multibank letterboxes can be built onto or into a wall for seamless integration, providing both practicality and a cohesive aesthetic.

Choose the Right Material for Your Letterbox

When it comes to letterboxes, the choice of materials plays a vital role in determining their performance and longevity. At Ironbark Metal Design, we take this aspect seriously. Our letterboxes are expertly crafted from premium aluminium or mild steel, ensuring top-notch quality. For aluminium letterboxes, we apply a robust, weather-resistant powder coating in your preferred color. This protective coating guarantees that your letterbox can withstand harsh weather conditions and remain rust and corrosion-free for many years to come. If you reside in coastal areas that are prone to corrosion, both aluminium and stainless-steel letterboxes serve as ideal choices, ensuring durability and reliability in challenging environments.

Get the Size Right

The size of your letterbox plays a crucial role in its overall appearance in your front yard. While the differences in sizes might not be drastic, they can make a noticeable impact. Consider how much mail you expect to receive and the size of the mail items. If you often receive large A4 mail, a bigger letterbox will be a practical choice. Rest assured, all our letterboxes easily accommodate A4 sheets of paper, ensuring no mail gets damaged during delivery.

Numbering: A Personalised Touch

When it comes to displaying numbers on your letterbox, you have options to suit your preference. You can choose to have the numbers directly placed on the letterbox itself or opt for a separate signage plate. At Ironbark Metal Design, we offer a variety of finishes, including gold, silver, black, or stainless-steel numbers, allowing you to select the one that complements your letterbox design seamlessly. For those seeking a truly custom look, we go even further by offering the option to add your street name or surname to the front or side of the letterbox, creating a personalized touch that stands out with elegance.

Letterbox with number & lighting

Colour: A Customisable Palette

We take immense pride in our ability to provide you with an extensive range of Colorbond® powder coat colours for your letterbox. This wide selection ensures that you can choose the perfect shade that either matches or beautifully complements your home and front yard. A helpful rule of thumb is to coordinate the letterbox colour with the trim on your house, such as window frames, gutters, or garage doors. This creates a harmonious and balanced appearance, avoiding any color overload that might occur if the letterbox were the same as the brick or render. By paying attention to these details, we aim to help you achieve a stunning and cohesive look that elevates the overall aesthetics of your property.

Additional Features for Your Letterbox

Letterboxes can be equipped with a range of additional features tailored to suit your preferences. Whether it’s newspaper chutes for accommodating non-fragile mail like catalogs or the inclusion of “NO JUNK MAIL” signs, these extras bring practicality and convenience to your letterbox without compromising its overall functionality and design. At Ironbark Metal Design, we believe in providing you with options that enhance your experience, making your letterbox not only efficient but also a reflection of your unique needs and style.

Need Help Deciding!

If you find all this information overwhelming, don’t worry, clarity will emerge. Remember, you can always reach out to us at Ironbark Metal Design for any assistance. Our friendly sales team will be more than happy to guide you through the process, making it easier for you to choose a premium Australian-made letterbox that will proudly adorn your front yard for many years to come. Your satisfaction is our priority, and we’re here to help every step of the way.

Metal fabrication is an essential process in the manufacturing of everyday tools and objects that we rely on in our daily lives. It encompasses various techniques that are crucial for creating items like screws, furniture, cars, and even our breakfast toasters. Understanding the different methods of metal fabrication is key to choosing the right approach for your specific project. By selecting the appropriate fabrication technique, you can ensure the successful production of items that keep our homes and businesses running smoothly.

Understanding Metal Fabrication Techniques

Welcome to the world of metal fabrication, where we will explore the possibilities of custom metal sheet products for your project. In Wollongong, metal fabricators like Ironbark Metal Design utilize a range of techniques to transform and shape metal sheets into finished products. Let’s take a closer look at these processes using simpler terms:

Metal fabrication primarily involves the manufacturing of products using sheet metal. It begins with thin metal sheets, typically less than a quarter of an inch thick. These sheets possess flexibility, making them easily adaptable to various shapes and forms.

During the metal fabrication process, you may come across unfamiliar terminologies related to working with metal. Metal fabricators employ different techniques to cut, fold, and shape the metal sheets based on the specific requirements of your project. Moreover, they have the expertise to create custom parts by combining different metal fabrication processes to achieve the desired outcome.

Metal fabricators employ various essential techniques to manipulate and shape custom metal sheets. Here are some key techniques they utilize:

Cutting: Cutting is a crucial process for accurately shaping custom metal sheets. Metal fabricators employ techniques such as laser cutting, sawing, shearing, or waterjet cutting to achieve precise cuts.
Casting: Casting involves pouring molten metal into a die or mold to create products or parts with specific shapes.
Punching: The punching technique is used to create holes in the metal, which is beneficial for parts requiring fastening or latching.
Stamping: Stamping is a technique that forms shapes or imprints letters on a metal sheet or panel, creating distinctive designs or markings.
Folding: Folding is a complex process that involves bending or shaping the metal into specific angles, often at 90 degrees. This technique is used to create intricate forms and structures.
Welding: Welding is a widely employed technique in metal manufacturing, where metal fabricators join two or more metal parts, such as sheets, bars, or panels, using heat and pressure to create a strong bond.

Metal fabricators are highly skilled craftsmen who have been trained to accurately cut and work with metal, ensuring precise and desired results. If you are looking to explore the capabilities of a skilled team, consider Ironbark Metal Design and discover what they can offer for your project.

Different Types of Metal Manufacturing

Metal manufacturing is categorised into three main types:

Industrial
Commercial
Structural

Industrial Metal Fabrication

Industrial metal fabrication plays a vital role in the production of parts and components for industrial equipment and tools. These tools are essential in the manufacturing of consumer goods. In the realm of modern-day manufacturing, industrial metal fabrication is of utmost importance as it provides the necessary metal parts for machinery and heavy equipment. By leveraging industrial metal fabrication processes, manufacturers can ensure the efficient and reliable production of a wide range of consumer goods.

Commercial Metal Fabrication

Commercial metal manufacturing focuses on manufacturing products used in commercial properties such as malls, stores, parks, restaurants, hotels etc. This category often includes decorative or ornamental metalwork, enhancing commercial buildings’ aesthetic appeal.

Structural Metal Fabrication

Structural metal fabrication caters to the construction and building industry. Metal fabricators specialising in structural work create components for completing shops, high-rise buildings, and even residential houses. These projects demand high-strength structural metals like steel, which form the foundational structures of buildings.

Metal Manufacturing

The Metal Fabrication Process

Metal manufacturing projects, whether industrial, structural, or commercial, typically undergo several processes from design to finish. Even seemingly simple products can require multiple steps beyond cutting and shaping. The following steps are commonly followed in most metal fabrication projects:

Design

During the design phase, project requirements are carefully analysed and refined. Custom metal sheet work or projects often involve working with design prototypes and renderings. Modern metal fabricators utilise programs like AutoCAD or DesignEdge to assist in designing and developing prototypes.

Prototyping

Prototyping is crucial in custom projects, ensuring the product functions as intended before large-scale production. Rapid sheet metal prototyping or 3D printing is employed to create prototypes tested to assess their functionality. Based on the results, the skilled professional can adjust the design.

Programming

Next, programming is involved in projects using computer-controlled machines in metal fabrication. Automated cutting, punching, and turning machines require programming to carry out their operations.

Fabrication

After the design is finalised and programming is completed, fabrication work begins. This phase involves various metal fabrication processes, including cutting, punching, folding, welding, and machining.

Finishing

Finishing encompasses the refinement of surfaces and edges or the application of coatings like powder coating. All projects may not require finishing, and it will depend on the product’s intended use.

Assembly

Assembly involves the final steps of a project, which may include welding or integrating electrical components to complete the product.

Types of Metals Used in Fabrication

Metal fabricators utilise a variety of metals for metal fabrication and metal parts manufacturing. The process involves working with different metals and their alloys; sheet metals are the most used.

The main types of metals used in metal fabrication include:

Aluminium
Stainless steel
Copper
Iron

Although any metal can go through a fabrication process, the suitability of a particular metal for a project depends on factors such as its thickness, flexibility, and softness. For instance, aluminium is more flexible than steel, so each one will have different sheet metal fabrication techniques.

Final Words

Ironbark Metal Design is a reputable and experienced provider of metal fabrication services. With over ten years of expertise in the field, we specialize in delivering high-quality metal manufacturing solutions across various sectors. If you have innovative ideas that you wish to transform into reality using metal, look no further than Ironbark Metal Design. Our dedicated team is committed to bringing your ideas to life through expert metal fabrication services. Contact us today to embark on your metal fabrication journey and witness your concepts take shape with precision and craftsmanship.

In Australia, outdoor gatherings are a common pastime, and nothing beats the charm of gathering around a fire pit in your backyard, regardless of the season. A fire pit not only keeps you warm but also adds an elegant touch to your outdoor space. Gone are the days when fire pits were solely used for cooking and survival. Nowadays, they are cherished as a means of relaxation and entertainment while adding a stylish flair to your backyard. As people increasingly value environmental impact and aesthetics, eco-friendly and chic fire pit designs are gaining popularity.

Choosing Your Perfect Custom Metal Fire Pit Design

Once you have considered all the essential aspects of your fire pit requirements, the next step is selecting a design that suits your preferences. Here are four captivating custom metal fire pit designs to contemplate:

1. Squat Round Fire Pit

The Squat Round fire pit boasts a simple yet versatile design that complements any setting. These tailor-made fire pits are compact, fitting effortlessly into your backyard patio. The steel base is welded above the ground and features drainage holes, preventing water accumulation and rusting.

Squat Round Fire Pit

2. Collapsible Camping Fire Pit

If you desire warmth on your next camping or beach adventure, a portable metal fire pit is the perfect solution. Its ingenious design allows for quick and easy setup and storage. Equipped with a grill for cooking and an ashtray for effortless cleaning, the Collapsible Fire Pit comes with a convenient travel bag.

3. Teardrop Fire Pit

Crafted from 3mm Australian steel, the Teardrop Fire Pit showcases a distinctive shape. This multipurpose fire pit can serve as a captivating garden sculpture or a planter. With eight elegant fins at the bottom, it emanates a touch of sophistication that complements any home.

4. Hanging Fire Pit

Resembling a cauldron, hanging metal fire pits are constructed from robust cast iron or toughened pressed steel, ensuring durability. The suspended bowl can also function as a grill, keeping your guests entertained.

Accessories for Your Custom Metal Fire Pit

To enhance your fire pit experience, consider these essential accessories:

Fire Poker: A fire poker enables you to manage the fire from a safe distance, allowing you to move burning logs and arrange them for roasting marshmallows. It also assists in lifting a warm spark screen conveniently.
Spark Screen: A spark screen is a crucial safety measure, preventing hot embers from flying out and causing damage to your porch, outdoor furniture, or guests. It effectively controls the fire, ensuring it doesn’t grow too large.
Grill Plate: If you plan to use your custom metal fire pit for cooking, a grill insert that matches its design is a fantastic addition. It allows you to savour outdoor barbecues while enjoying the beauty of nature.
Heatproof Pad: Installing a cement or paver pad beneath your fire pit protects your patio from heat damage and sparks. Ensure the pad’s size is slightly larger than the fire pit to allow for heat discharge and potential faults.
Lid or Cover: A sturdy cover or lid safeguards your fire pit from the elements, preventing weather damage and keeping it clean when not in use. It even allows you to leave the fire pit outside during winter.

When purchasing furniture for our home, we want elegance to ooze out in every room, so we look at the materials they are made from. We often associate elegance with something shiny, smooth and expensive, such as gold, diamonds, and everything in between. In reality, elegance means simplicity – the simpler it is, the more elegant it gets. We might never imagine that metal can provide elegance; however, with custom metal fabrications, it crafts a different story altogether.

Custom Metal Fabrication

With custom metal fabrication, you can use metal to create whatever you desire. You can determine the type of metal, shape, size and colour based on your preferences, resulting in a unique piece. Many big construction projects today require small specific sizes of customised metal. Clients have varied requirements, which may vary in size, design and shape. Using advanced technology, it is now possible to fulfil this and other requirements with the utmost precision and accuracy.

Let’s glance at some examples of custom metal furniture:

Custom Metal Coffee Tables

Are you looking for a small coffee table to fit your living room? A high-quality, custom metal coffee table will be perfect for you to serve the purpose, which can also augment the aesthetics of your interior.

Custom Metal Tables

Every home will have a dining table, the room’s centrepiece, so people prefer something other than mass-manufactured table tops. People prefer the quality and craftsmanship of handcrafted designs. They want something unique that appeals. After a more traditional look? You can choose a custom steel table base and a beautiful rustic wooden table top. If you want a more modern design, choose a minimalistic piece that will seamlessly blend into your new apartment. Metal tables for patios or yards can be obtained from robust materials, resistant to different weather conditions, and ideal for long-term outdoor use.

Custom Metal Chairs

If you have a custom metal dining table, you need custom metal chairs to serve the intent and complete the look. Sometimes, it’s not easy to find suitable chairs to pair with your custom metal dining table, so custom metal chairs are the solution, as they will fit perfectly together and boost the room’s aesthetics. Furthermore, metal chairs and benches are perfect for outdoor spaces and ideal for the patio or yard furniture.

Custom Metal Art Furniture

Is plain furniture giving you a sense of boredom? Custom metal art furniture will infuse curiosity and add the wow factor. And some furniture will reveal the creative and artistic side of your personality and give an attractive new look to the interior. Handcrafted custom designs for chairs, tables, lamps, decors, rails and anything you can think of are a winning combination of quality, functionality and visual appeal.

Benefits of Custom-Made Products

1. Stylish

Steel is in high demand for interior home design due to its aesthetic appeal. To find some inspiration with steel just search the Internet, you’ll be surprised to see the numerous design ideas you can apply to your home.

2. Durable & Lasting

Durability is the single most important feature that makes steel stand out. Different qualities of steel are available on the market, and each one tends to differ in quality and durability. However, many steel variants on the market are sturdier, particularly in providing protection and security to improve their durability.

3. Flexible

Steel is robust and quite flexible. Home furniture such as tables and chairs use steel to create straight lines for embellishing. However, steel can be bent to create distinctive design choices. Some examples of bent steel include table legs, mirror frames, candle holders, clock rims, shelves and shelf brackets and wall art.

4. Adaptable

You can emphasise different design pieces in your modern or contemporary home. You can use steel in different applications around your home – for instance, splashback or an entire wall. Furthermore, steel can be used to make kitchen islands, and they look fabulous and are very functional and easy to clean.

5. Recyclable

Steel as a material is recyclable. That means you need not worry about harming the environment if you dispose of your steel furniture and decor. You can send your steel decor to recycling plants to re-purpose the material into other usable items. Experts will then combine metal materials to form new products, which may or may not be decoration items.

The Bottom Line

You can creatively use custom metal fabrications to decorate your home and garden, make it welcoming, and infuse curiosity. If you need assistance or ideas for creating your custom metal fabrications, contact the experts, Ironbark Metal Design, at 02 4229 2222, and our creative team will be delighted to assist you.

A fire pit offers a fantastic way to make the most of your backyard space, especially in cooler months. Different fire pits are available with unique advantages so that you can choose the perfect one for your needs and budget. When selecting a fire pit, you must consider the fuel type, material and shape. Here, we have put together nine fire pits to help you choose the one that fits your home’s backyard space and meets your needs.

1. Fire Pit Bowls

Fire pit bowls are available in diverse materials, such as steel, copper and cast iron and are a popular alternative. They are durable and easy to maintain, and prices vary depending on the material you choose. Fire bowls are wide at the top but deep within, often used as a centrepiece in a garden or outdoor space. It provides the best view of the radiant fire and keeps all the ash and embers inside.

2. Brick or Stone Fire Pit

Brick or stone fire pits are a cost-effective way to provide warmth and entertainment for your family and friends. Furthermore, you can quickly build your brick fire pit in a few days. You can source stones or bricks from your local hardware or landscaping supply store and assemble a brick fire pit yourself. You’ll get help from informative videos online for planning, designing and constructing an elegant brick fire pit in your yard.

3. Wood-Burning Fire Pits

Wood-burning fire pits trace back to the origination of human existence. When using wood-burning fire pits, you need to eliminate the risks associated with wood smoke. It’s imperative to select the best-suited fuel to get the best experience from your backyard fire. You should use well-seasoned firewood, untreated and unpainted and stored in a well-ventilated area, which will help keep your fires free from smoke as far as possible.

4. Propane Gas Fire Pits

Are you looking for a solution for keeping your outdoor social area warm in winter without bothering about wood and smoke? A propane fire pit might be perfect for you. Furthermore, it’s an elegant centrepiece that creates a “wow element” and a perfect ambience for a get-together or party, facilitating your guests to enjoy the fire’s warmth. A propane fire pit is pre-installed inside a ceramic bowl that conceals all proof of flames and smoke and can be used year-round without any threat to your landscaping. You can turn it on when you wish to warm yourself or your guests. After using it, you won’t have to clean ash, dirt or other untidy stuff, and it does not release flames or smoke. As there is no smoke, you’ll not face any problems concerning fire pit regulations in your area.

5. Fire Pit Table

A fire pit table is a work surface-sized pit to burn wood. Usually, the tabletop is made from steel and coated with stone, ceramic or porcelain to shield it from high temperatures and increase its longevity. The fire bowl on the top of the table must have sufficient space for airflow. The two types of fire pit tables are (1) Freestanding models – fully portable fire pit or with legs to facilitate placing on top of a deck or outdoor living space and (2) Permanent tables integrated into your entertaining outdoor area.

6. Gel Fire Pits

Gel fire pits burn clean, demand little maintenance and are easy to use. They provide you with the utmost enjoyment out of your outdoor space as you don’t have to worry about smoke pollution. Gel fuel is an excellent alternative to fire pits using standard liquid ethanol. Gel fuel is developed with water using a low-temperature reaction that generates no smoke, soot or odour. Gel fire pits are available in diverse fuel options; for instance, some brands also provide scented fuel to make it more appealing. Remember that gel fire pits generate less heat than wood-burning fire pits.

7. Collapsible or Folding Fire Pit

Collapsible or folding fire pits are usually made from lightweight steel, designed for camping and hiking, and are very portable. Thin sheets of steel are used to make collapsible designs, so they can be easily folded or disassembled to lay straight for easy handling, storage and transport. A folding fire pit is the best accessory for the enthusiastic outdoor adventurer, as you can take it anywhere from the campsite to a picnic in a park to the beach.

8. Chiminea Fire Pit

Traditional chiminea fire pits are usually tile or clay, while more modern models are made using steel. They have a smaller footprint than traditional fire pits, making them perfect for smaller backyards. Chimineas adorn a distinctive funnel shape and flared fire bowl area, making them an impressive addition to your backyard. Typically, chimineas are fuelled with lump charcoal or wood, so the fire is maintained for a long burning time, resulting in glowing coals that emit warmth for hours.

9. Barbecue Grill

Typically, a barbecue grill is made using metal, such as mild steel. The unique feature of a wood-burning grill is a flat grill over the coals. It is available with different accessories, such as flat grill plates and a commercial-style range hood. Wood-burning fire pits demand more maintenance than other fire pit alternatives. For instance, you’ll require a dedicated place to store the wood, arrange and chop it, and make it fire-ready every time, which requires some time.

Which Fire Pit Is Perfect For You?

You’ll get many options when shopping for a fire pit. It would help if you considered a few factors before deciding to buy the right one for your home; the three vital factors are:

A fire pit must fit into the space you have.
A fire pit must serve its intended purpose.
It should be within your budget.

Other factors you need to consider are:

Do you need a portable or permanent fire pit?
How much warmth and light do you need?
Will the smoke cause a problem for you or your neighbours?

If a fire pit meets your needs and style, it can provide you and your family with many hours of warmth and enjoyment during night hours.

Aussies love to take advantage of the great outdoors in their own backyards, and a fire pit is the ultimate way to enjoy your backyard all year round. Once used primarily for cooking and survival, fire pits are now a source of entertainment, with style taking precedence when making a purchase. For those who love to socialise and want to bring their own flare to their outdoor area, a custom metal fire pit is an ideal backyard accessory. A range of designs are available to choose from, and finding the perfect one for your home will depend on various factors.

Here are the requirements for installing a modern fire pit in your backyard:

1. Is a Building Permit Required?

Depending on the requirements of your residential area, you may or may not require a building permit. Ensure you’re abiding by the prevailing laws by contacting the relevant departments in your local government. Furthermore, whilst owning or building a fire pit may not require a permit, depending on the state and season, there may be Total Fire Bans active in your area so check with your local fire authorities first. If you live in a densely populated region, it’s best to check with your local council and always let your neighbours know when you’re planning a bonfire.

2. What Do Your Local Regulations Say?

The regulations for using fire pits may differ depending on the state you reside in, and they are updated regularly. Check with your local council or fire department to ensure you aren’t violating any restrictions regarding wood burning or backyard fire pits before you rush out and buy one. According to the NSW EPA “NSW residents do not need approval for a backyard fire pit or barbeque.”.

If you reside in an apartment, you should verify with your Strata association or your neighbours to know if there are any rules for using outdoor fire pits. Discuss it with your landlord first if you’re renting.

3. Select Fire Pit Position Carefully Before Installing

As the old adage says, “Measure twice, cut once”, which should be adhered to in this instance. Ensure your fire pit installation site is a safe distance from your house and any flammable structure such as awnings or overhanging tree branches, so when you’re enjoying your fire pit, there’s no chance of any mishaps. Clean up the area and remove all dry branches and leaves. Many clients need help determining what size of the fire pit will suit their home. To identify the space, we recommend using some string and making an ‘X’ in the exact dimensions of the proposed fire pit. It will help you to see how it will fit in your space and whether the size is right for your backyard.

4. Safety Precaution

When using a fire pit outside, it is vital to consider fire safety precautions and take the necessary steps to lower potential danger. You must ensure that every family member knows how to extinguish the fire and never leave young children unsupervised near a fire. Positioning the fire pit and the insulating pad underneath can play a vital role in fire safety. We highly recommend a heat-resistant compressed fibrous cement base or pavers to avert heat damage. You can purchase these from your local hardware store. Ensure your fire pit is positioned away from the house or flammable structures, including overhanging branches and dead trees.

5. Materials That Are Safe For Your Fire Pit

You need to use materials that are safe for your fire pit. Metal fire pits are robust, durable, require less maintenance and are perfect for outdoors. Metal is a conductor of heat, so make sure you place a heat proof pad of insulation beneath the pit to prevent heat damage. Rock or brick fire pits are also sturdy outdoor options but must be installed carefully. For instance, sedimentary rocks could explode due to the air bubbles they contain. So gather as much information as possible on the best rocks for the outdoor fire pit.

6. Portable or Permanent Fire Pit

A wood-burning or natural gas fuel pit will be perfect if you’re going for a permanent installation. If you’re after a portable, custom metal fire pit design like a BBQ pit, you should consider buying a stand or base for the fire pit bowl. It’s crucial to use heat-resistant materials to make the fire pit’s external structure prevent cracking and falling apart, leading to costly repairs.

7. Fuel Source

It is important to choose fuel appropriate for your requirements. For instance, if you’re going to purchase a wood-burning fire pit, ensure you’re using seasoned firewood so that your fire burns as efficiently as possible. If you want to use a fire pit indoors for purely visual appeal instead of producing warmth, then select natural gas or fire glass that will not produce smoke and won’t cause damage to your interiors. Natural gas burners need installed gas lines and can be much more expensive and detailed than conventional fire pits.

Get In Touch With Us

Ironbark Metal Design supplies a variety of fire pits, such as round, square, rectangle, and custom fire pit designs in different sizes to suit your backyard. Whether you require a metal fire pit, wood-burning fire pit, BBQ pit or a custom metal fire pit design in Sydney, contact us at Ironbark Metal Design at 02 4229 2222, and we’ll be delighted to assist you.

GENERAL FIRE PIT CARE…

Keep your fire pit protected by investing in one of our Hardwood Lids or a fire pit cover. This will stop water, leaves and debris from accumulating between uses. Plus, our locally sourced, handcrafted Hardwood Lids make charming outdoor tables when the weather is too hot for fire.

Argentine BBQ Attachment & Double Skin Round Fire Pit

Argentine BBQ Attachment on Small Double Skin Fire Pit

Standard practice when it comes to fire pit care is to ensure that you regularly clean ash and debris from the bottom of your fire pit.
Make sure that you don’t allow water to sit for long periods of time as this will accelerate the rusting process of steel fire pits and may cause them to corrode prematurely.
Furthermore, avoid putting out a fire by spraying it with water as this can cause the temperature of the steel to drop suddenly, which can weaken the steel and result in cracks. Instead, allow the fire pit to burn out slowly and return to a normal temperature naturally.
We recommend using seasoned wood in your Ironbark fire pit, as it provides a much cleaner burn and creates less buildup.

RUSTED FINISH…

The beauty of the natural rust finish is that the finish of each product is unique. Rusting is an organic process which cannot be controlled so we can’t guarantee the final colour and in many cases, the patina will continue to develop over time.

Taking care of your fire pit will depend on a number of factors including your location and weather conditions of the area. For those areas close to the coast, it may be beneficial to clean your Ironbark fire pit more frequently as the the salt residue and harsher weather conditions may cause your product to corrode quicker. Simply spray your fire pit with the garden hose but make sure that you don’t allow water to sit in the bottom as this will increase corrosion of the steel.

Medium Round Fire Pit with Spirals Pattern & Black Heat Proof Paint

FIRE PITS WITH HEATPROOF PAINT FINISH…

Due to the properties of steel, rust will invariably break through the painted finish. Therefore, it is important to re-coat your fire pit with heatproof paint (available from Bunnings) on a regular basis. And even cover your fire pit or bring it in out of the weather when not in use.

Geo Firebowl with Stainless Steel Base & Hardwood Lid

WHEN YOUR FIRE PIT IS NOT IN USE…

Like any steel product, the life of your fire pit is dependent on the conditions that it is exposed to. When your fire pit is not in use, we suggest either keeping it covered or cleaning out your fire pit so that in the event of rain, the wet debris sitting in the base does not accelerate the rusting process and corrode your fire pit.

MAINTAINING YOUR HARDWOOD LID…

Our Hardwood Lids are a great way to keep your fire pit covered. Care of your timber lid is dependent on exposure to weather conditions but a light sand and coat with oil every 6-24 months will ensure that your Hardwood Lid is kept looking beautiful for years to come.

If you have any further questions about how to take care of your Ironbark Fire Pit, please contact us HERE.

How much can I expect to pay for a fire pit?

Can I have a different pattern?

That size doesn’t fit in my space, is there anything a little smaller?

I can get a cheaper fire pit elsewhere…

We hear these questions and statements frequently and we have an answer for all of them!

First of all, the prices of our standard fire pits range from $200 (our Collapsible Fire Pit) to $2020 (our Double-Skin Round Fire Pit with added extras). Of course, custom sizing, patterns or finishes would result in adjustments to pricing but we have attempted to cater for most needs within our standard fire pit range.

Collapsible Fire Pit with Grill

Our Collapsible Fire Pit is not only the smallest, but also the most budget-friendly option in our fire pit range. This style is popular with campers and 4WD enthusiasts as it packs away to a compact and streamline size (60cm x 30cm x 1.5cm). It can be easily slotted into the back of the car without taking up valuable packing space that could be used for other essential or not so essential items (read: marshmallows). It is also popular with those who have limited outdoor area and want to be able to have the occasional fire but can’t afford to sacrifice the space all year round.

A step up from this in pricing would be our Round Fire Pit Range.

Small Round Fire Pit with Fanfare Pattern in Charcoal Heat Proof Paint

Available in Squat, Small, Medium or Large, come in a variety of patterns and are our most popular style of fire pit! This range is designed to be a permanent fixture in your outdoor space but, are lightweight enough to be packed away for the summer to make way for a seasonal sculpture. These fire pits are where the fun begins with patterns! The options are endless and we have so far crafted everything from our in house floral or fanfare patterns to custom themed fire pits (footy teams, beer brands or favourite animals). These custom designs make great gifts and a few clients have asked for special phrases, family emblems or names of relatives incorporated into the pattern giving these fire pits a unique and personal touch.

Next up and certainly at the top of our price bracket is the Double Skin Round Fire Pit. This baby is a work of art with two layers of patterned steel incorporated into the final product producing a delicately intricate silhouette from the glow of a roaring fire. This style is the largest we have to offer and is meant to be admired all year round. Add a Hardwood Lid to transform your fire pit into a stylish outdoor table over the summer months. We source our lids from a local craftsman who uses only premium quality Australian timber.

Large Double-Skin Fire Pit with Cootamundra Wattle Pattern in Rust

None of these fit your needs? Contact us! We can always adjust sizing, patterns or even develop a unique design with you to make sure that you end up with exactly what you are after.

Finally…Yes, you could get a cheaper fire pit elsewhere BUT when you purchase an Ironbark Fire Pit you know that your product has been designed and fabricated for you…just you! It hasn’t been one of 100 that have been pumped out that day and it has had the tick of approval from our resident perfectionist and fabricator. Plus, you can’t beat that warm fuzzy feeling of supporting a local business because you know what they say…when you purchase local an actual person does a happy dance.

Well that snuck up on us…what would we do without good old Facebook memories reminding of us special milestones!

4 years ago we purchased a CNC machine. The idea was originally born from Megan and Adam’s search for decorative screens, garden edging and other garden landscaping pieces to use in their own garden and the resulting realisation that there was nothing that met the brief within the desired price bracket, standard of quality or locality. Now, we would be lying if we said we all saw the potential that this venture had from the very beginning. If you asked Adam – We were going to create a successful business that produced high quality, reasonably priced products for both residential and commercial customers, IT WAS GOING TO BE AMAZING! Jack – This could be a cool hobby to run on the side of working full time as a panel beater. As for the ladies, we were a little harder to convince… Megan saw Adam’s enthusiasm and drive and Jack’s skill and perfectionism, and decided it was worth giving a go. But me? I was a nooo… not even a little bit… this is a horrible idea.

The fact that we are here today shows how much store my family puts in what I have to say… BUT THANK GOD FOR THAT!

Ironbark ran as a hobby for around 2 years, developing our branding and refining our designs and fabrication techniques while Jack and Adam both worked full time jobs. It’s safe to say there were plenty of long days and late nights put in by these two, and as much as Megan and I whinged and complained that they were never home, we can now officially say that their hard work has paid off. By 2016 our products were drawing attention and our little enterprise was out-growing its hobby status. So in October of that year, we decided that this venture deserved to be given the opportunity to become a fully fledged business. So here we are! Ironbark Metal Design continues to grow thanks to all of you, the people who see the value in shopping ‘small’..locally based and family owned products. Sure, you could buy a mass produced screen or fire pit for cheaper than what we can produce but nothing beats knowing that your purchase has been made from Australian steel, by a family who take pride in what they do, in a suburb just down the road from you. Above all, you can be sure that your Ironbark piece is going to last. Before your family has sat around your new fire pit, our family has sat around the prototype and given it hell (seriously…) to ensure that it is durable, functional and safe. We’re confident in installing our products in your homes because we’ve installed them in our homes first. Honestly, our houses are easily recognisable because they are covered in Ironbark prototypes and products – regardless of how many times I’ve told Jack that we are at maximum metal saturation (I came home to new metal wall art hanging in our toilet one day, because any blank space is apparently a perfect candidate for Ironbark-ing!).

It has been 4 years of hard work, challenges, tears (just because we’re related doesn’t mean we like each other all the time) but most of all fun, excitement and love (so gooey right?). From me, a huge congratulations to Adam, Jack and Megan on all of the blood, sweat and tears they have shed over the past 4 years but most importantly, and from all of us, a ridiculously huge thank you to YOU! Whether it’s a like, comment or share on our social media pages, telling your friends about us or purchasing an Ironbark product, it really does mean the world to us.

To show our appreciation we are offering 15% off all of our standard fire pits until midnight AEST Sunday 27th May 2018. Just mention this post when placing your order, via email (info@ironbarkmetaldesign.com) or phone (02 4229 2222) and we’ll deduct 15% from the total cost of your order. Click HERE to browse our range!

Hello!! First of all an apology to all of our Ironbarkers who take the time to read our blog posts. Our Weekly Bark turned into the Monthly Bark and then I had a baby and it turned into a no-bark-at-all BUT, WE’RE BACK! From here on in we aim to post at least one Bark Blog a month, more if I’m feeling super productive! What would you like to see in our blogs? Purely updates on our jobs and the how and what of our fabrication process or would you be interested in a little more of a personal aspect? Running a family business there is always a story to tell!

Sculptures in an Orange Garden Exhibition

This week I’ve made the decision for you…I could give you a straight recount of our weekend at the sculpture exhibition in Orange, NSW but there is a much more entertaining side to the story that will hopefully give you a bit of a laugh (it was more of a laugh or you’ll cry experience for us and believe me…there were tears).

The Steel Bloom Sculpture (shown below) was conceptualised by Megan and then fabricated by Jack with a lot of group work holding all of the petals in place so that we could ensure that the final product was going to reflect Megan’s vision. Inspired by our original Lace Leaf Sculpture, the piece has 3 stainless steel petals overlaid with a rusted lace leaf. The photos do not do this piece justice and when the light catches the polished steel it is STUNNING!

We made a decision to have the sculpture completely sealed with a new product that was SUPPOSED to bind to any surface. We collected the sculpture early Friday morning and found that this product in fact did not bind to anything…the seal was peeling off the rusted lace leaves and had bubbled on the plinth. DISASTER and understandably heart breaking for both Megan and Jack who had worked so hard on bringing this gorgeous piece to life. We stood around and stared at it for a while and then decided that with all of the time and effort that had been put into the piece it would be a waste not to exhibit it so we loaded it in the Ironbark ute and set off for Orange. Six hours later (including a lunch break…of course) we were in Orange and at the mercy of the GPS which politely advised us that our destination was 500m ahead on the left….in true GPS fashion it was, in fact, about 10metres on the left which led to Jack putting the brake through the floor of the Navara. The sharp movement caused a weld at the top of one of the petals to give way so that one of the petals was now flapping in the wind. Cue more tears…

Steel Bloom Sculpture
This is where our story takes a turn…the hosts and volunteers of the Sculptures in an Orange Garden were unbelievable. The women ushered Megan inside immediately and administered the trusty solution to everything (tea and chocolate) and the men congregated around the car to inspect the damage before leading us around the back to a shed and welder where Jack performed metal art CPR. After placing the Steel Bloom in its designated area we set off to enjoy the rest of the sculptures and then explore the beautiful area that is Orange, NSW. This exhibition was a collection of diverse styles of sculptural pieces and it was incredible to see what ideas and techniques fellow exhibitors had produced.

While the ultimate end to our weekend would have been the sale of our sculpture, we are happy that we now have opportunity to sandblast and reseal the sculpture and also reinforce any weak points in the welds….not that we expect the eventual resting place for this piece to be anywhere where it will be victim to the inaccuracies of a GPS or the very reliable brakes of a Nissan Navara.

So there… what a weekend. Thanks for taking the time to read and we hope you had a bit of a laugh at our expense! Keep an eye out for this beauty on our Ironbark Shop once we have it up to our premium IronBark standard.

You can read all about the exhibition HERE.

The IronBark Team

Cover image: Visit NSW via Google

One of our favourite perks of what we do is being able to work with our clients to bring their visions to life as well as observing the resulting transformations of their indoor and outdoor spaces. Earlier in the year we had the pleasure of working with a local couple who were transforming their backyard from a blank, grassed area to a more versatile space that would not only be conducive to entertaining their friends and family but also become a sturdy and low maintenance environment for their dogs to play.

The landscaper and clients had carried a circular theme throughout the garden design and therefore our Fire Wood Stacker Log Rack fit the brief perfectly. With a few adjustments to meet the clients specific sizing requirements, our Log Rack now sits proudly next to the new bar and entertaining area as not only a functional piece but also as an aesthetic addition.

We also worked with the clients to create a custom letterbox which ties in with the theme of the backyard and enhances the home frontage. The beauty of this feature is not restricted only to daylight hours. We installed a solar light inside the base of the letterbox so that the tree and numbers are illuminated at night to welcome guests at all hours. If you look closely, the background of the photo on the right also showcases our Tree of Life decorative screen which was customised to disguise a bland Colorbond gate. The panel had only just been installed at this stage and therefore had not developed the same rich rusted patina of the letterbox but we will keep you updated with a revisit!

Steel Fire Pit on Houzz - Heathcote Project

This property was featured in Houzz this week and the finished product is just too beautiful not to share! We were honoured to contribute to this renovation and we are stoked with how our pieces have nestled themselves into their new surroundings.

Have a sticky beak at the entire backyard renovation HERE!

Cheers from The Ironbark Team

Well the temperature has definitely dropped and the warmer months are officially gone! For many of us, the beginning of the cooler months comes with a neglect of our beautiful outdoor entertaining areas, but what if it didn’t have to be this way?

Steel Fire Pit on Houzz - Heathcote Project

An Ironbark fire pit provides a beautiful ambiance to your outdoor spaces as well as a focal point and source of warmth for you and your guests to congregate. There is just something so mesmerising about sitting around a fire. The play of light and flame through our gorgeous range of patterns only enhances the experience! We have a range of shapes and sizes available to suit every home and family!

Have you fallen in love with a pattern and would love to see it on a fire pit? Let us know! We love working with our clients to make their ideas a reality. Recently, a client commissioned a commemorative ANZAC Day fire pit and if you keep up to date with our Facebook page you would have seen how stunning and evocative it was to pay respects to our veterans past and present.

Many commercial campsites only allow you to light a fire if you have a contained fire pit but who has space in the car for that? Our collapsible fire pits can be

Collapsible Fire Pit with Grill

deconstructed to 4 flat pieces that slide easily into the back of your car, taking up minimal space. They are also handy for those that don’t have the space in the backyard for a permanent fire pit but also don’t have room for storage when not in use… the Collapsible Fire Pit packs away and takes up next to no space in a cupboard or garage. Can you think of someone who would love this for their next trip away? They are priced so reasonably that they make a great present that sure to be loved by the recipient.

As always, get in touch if you have a unique idea in mind and would like an obligation free quote!
The IronBark Team.

Hello again Barkers!

We hope you all had a lovely Easter and Anzac break, we definitely ate our weight in chocolate! We’re viewing it as a personal challenge to see how fast we can eat all of our chocolate… if it’s not in the cupboard anymore we can’t eat it right?

Privacy Screen - 3D Autumn Tree Pattern by Ironbark Metal Design

We have done some really stunning installs this month including a new panel on an automatic gate and the installation of some nature themed panels in a collaboration with Lifestyle Aluminium. The gate proved to be VERY popular on our social media platforms and we can see why… We can’t think of a better way to make a stellar first impression on your guests.

Custom Rusted Corten Steel Gate

Corten Steel - Sliding Gate by Ironbark Metal Design

Our appearance at The Home Show at the ICCC last month was so successful that we have started exploring other exhibition opportunities closer to home. Our next appearance will be at Sculptures in The Valley being held at Cedar Grove, Kangaroo Valley from the 5th-7th of May. This exhibition features over 140 indoor and outdoor sculptures from the wide array of ridiculously talented artists. Our lead artist Megan will be entering a very popular piece that she designed for our sculpture collection.

Want to know what it is? You’ll just have to come and see!

The Waratah Sculpture

All of the details of the show can be found HERE.

The Sculptures in the Valley exhibition is being held as part of the Arts in The Valley Festival which showcases a collection of live musicians and visual artists. Why not spend a day with the family in a beautiful part of the world appreciating some of the exceptional talent that we have in this area.

We hope to see you there!

The IronBark Team

Ironbark Business Signage
We are back! Okay well, we’ve actually been back for almost 4 weeks now but it has taken us this long to sit down and get this blog post written! We definitely hit the ground running this year with brand new business signage for our factory and, we are pretty proud of it, if we do say so ourselves! The Cubism Sculpture is one of our favourite sculptures and we decided to add a little bit of a twist (literally… it spins!). We also got our creative juices flowing on the framing. The rusted Corten steel garden edging really compliments and it was turning heads as soon as it was installed.

One of the most rewarding aspects of our work is being able to collaborate with client to bring their dream projects into reality. Recently, we had the pleasure of working with a couple who came to us looking to fill in some openings in their new outdoor area with decorative screens. They were hoping for something that would afford them some privacy whilst still allowing light to filter through and enough airflow as well as being easy on the eyes.

Our clients were thrilled with the finished product and did a seamless job of installing the panels themselves. We are very proud of this one.

That’s all for now, ready for another busy week of creating magic!

Until next time,

The IronBark Team

What a year we’ve had so far…developing our brand and growing Ironbark Metal Design from a hobby side business to a successful brand in its own right.

ironbark-metal-design-slide3 We cannot wait to delve into this new stage in our business adventure and continue to produce stunning metal pieces with and for you, our beautifully creative clients, as well as continue to collaborate with the outstandingly talented local business’ we have here in the Illawarra. It has been an incredible team effort building Ironbark to this level and there are many entities that need to be acknowledged for their hard work, support and contributions in all aspects.

First of all, our web design and branding specialists Rooland Design who worked tirelessly and meticulously to create our stunning website, as well as cooperated patiently with us as we developed and perfected our logo design. Keith, Sue and their team at Lifestyle Aluminium Fabrication who have, and will continue to play an integral role in our business as our preferred installers and collaborators as well as Coasties Big Shed who provided us space & support to grow Ironbark Metal Design in its initial stages. Last but not least Waldo’s Automotive Services for keeping us running smoothly in a literal sense, Waldo has been servicing and repairing our equipment since we began and we are eternally grateful for his attention to detail and high quality of work.

ironbark-metal-design-slide4 So…now that you’ve been introduced to us and the people who have helped us get to this point, please explore our site! We will continue to update our listed products as we create and perfect them, so keep an eye on our site as well as the Monthly Bark to be the first in the know on all things Ironbark Metal Design.

See you next time!

The Ironbark Team