The Modern Decorative Ironwork Design Trend (And Who We Should Thank For Its Impact)

As we all should know, black people, black craftsmen, and black artisans across every generation in our country are to thank for building and creating so much of what we consider to be quintessentially American, and many of them did so while enslaved. So while more stories are being told and finally some credit is being given to these communities, there is still so much to learn! Oh, if you haven’t read Caitlin’s post about Gee’s Bend Quilt Makers, it’s so special and important. So today, we thought we’d shine some light on the history of decorative ironwork, given that we have been seeing a modern version of it become a bit of a trend again! Remember, Arlyn just talked about it in her High Point Spring Market trend review? My house growing up had a lot of ironwork, so I’ve always had a love for it, but of course I’d never thought to look into its American history…until now.

It’s safe to say that some of the most famous and beloved decorative ironwork is found in the balconies, gates, and more in New Orleans. I haven’t even been (I KNOW!), but I’ve been drooling over photos of the French Quarter for as long as I can remember. And because “French” is in the name of this beloved area, much of the design credit is anecdotally given to the French when, in fact, many of the artisans who created those designs were black, both free and ensalved. Details like scrolls, spirals, rosettes, vines, and more. These are all considered “traditional” in decorative ironwork, so it’s important to know who is actually responsible.

Sadly, yet predictably, due to salvery and racism, so many of these extremely skilled makers will never be able to be named; however, there was a recognized and beloved black ironworker from South Carolina who is considered to be one of America’s greatest decorative ironworkers, Philip Simmons. He was born in 1912 and worked from the age of 13 (he lived till 97). The story goes that he tried to start at 9, falling in love with all the action and excitement, but wasn’t allowed until he turned 13…which he did, the day after his 13th birthday.

According to that video I linked above, people travel to Charleston from all over to get a chance to see one of his 500 pieces of ironwork. He is known for creating motifs like the heron and was a master of the iron scroll…

…I mean, look at the scrolls in those hearts!

So, thanks to the talented craftsmen of decorative ironwork (both in the country and all around the world) who created art through this wonderful material, we now have so many additional styles that are inspired by their work that feel modern and new. That’s what this trend is really focusing on – modern, a bit simpler, but still has so much visual warmth (despite it being a dark metal:))

Hello, stunning stairs! I love that this one is still fairly decorative but not too busy (especially for indoors). This puppy is a total star, and the space really doesn’t need much else, or it might be too much visually.

Going even simpler but still special is this railing, and I really love it. With all of the other natural textures, like the wood and handmade tile, it adds a nice refined contrast that completely enhances the space.

I think these might be a bit vintage, but man, are they my favorite! I love the ball details and the refined squiggly shape of the iron balusters. Even the border at the bottom adds some more uniqueness.

With these balusters, there’s more of that traditional texture. This design is super minimal but so interesting and cool.

Now, let’s talk furniture…chairs to be more specific. Indoor decorative ironwork chair frames have been on the rise, and I am very into it. These chairs above are clearly extremely special with their thin iron frame and incredibly beautiful brass details.

But this type of chair is more of what has been coming to market. Still a soft, upholstered base, but then with cool, mixed-material iron arms and legs.

So while indoor is welcoming in more iron, outdoor seating is getting a little more whimsical (but still refined). Look at those looped dining chair legs! I want them so bad!

I know these squiggles aren’t the scrolls of 100+ years ago, but they are still so charming and playful. What an easy way to add some cool yet functional shapes to your home.

I have loved these chairs for years. The proportions are so fun and exaggerated in the best way; they are postmodern and yet work so well with other, more traditional styles, and they are just so creative. No notes.

Here we have a bed that is definitely on the traditional side, but since it’s not overly decorated, it doesn’t steal all the attention from the rest of the room; instead, it complements it. So much of “modern” decorative ironwork is simplified versions of the originals 🙂

I just thought this was so cool and had to include it! Ball details are not new but are a real defining feature of this generation’s modern decorative ironwork.

But you don’t need a big iron statement. You can just have a little moment to help bring some visual depth to the space, like with this light fixture above. Just the right amount of contrast!

Mal also used some beuatiful wall iron double arm candlestick holders. See how the added material and dark color really texturize and ground the whole room? Perfection!

Hand Forged Iron Candle Holder

Here’s where you can buy the same ones or if you’d prefer a single arm:)

While walking around Chicago a few years ago, I stumbled upon a consignment shop and found this squiggly iron candelabra that was only $6!!! I was stunned and SO grateful and I will love it forever.

Fidia Accent Chair | Orb Candlestick

If you love squiggly iron, here are two great options (both with sweet ball details!).

Now, Emily’s coffee table is custom so it’s one of one, but those beautiful and more decorative legs can be found in some other pieces on the market. See some of the newer designs have special, decorative accents…

Muirfield Sculptural Metal Accent Chair | Tarah Accent Chair

The first chair has similar detailing to Emily’s coffee table, and it’s SO pretty. I love everything in Jake Arnold’s Crate & Barrel collection. The contrast of the plush upholstery and geometric patterned fabric with the handmade-looking texture of the frame is so stunning together. But if you want an even simpler look, this Amber Lewis x Four Hands chair is a dream. The shape of that arm is so so good.

Estate Travertine and Metal Drink Table with Shelf | Cayson Marble and Iron 14″ C Table

Here’s another “ornate” vs “simple” in the drink table category. The first table is also from the Jake Arnold collection (duh), and the second is also from Crate & Barrel but is a MUCH more modern design. You can choose which one is best for your home:)

Hammered Verdigris Chairs | French Surrealist Wrought Iron Étagère

Ok, these are both vintage from the 40s and 50s, but they were too cool not to include, and also, they are VERY much on trend. Clearly, “delicate” decorative ironwork is what’s really popular.

Lochan Wrought Iron Tripod Candelabra

Like this awesome, textured 4′ candelabra that WAS $299 and is now on clearance for $89. It would be the best quiet statement.

Forged Iron Ball Candle Holders

But finally, for something a little extra special and somewhat back to the roots of decorative ironwork, this candleholder is made by hand by East Fork, a beloved EHD brand. You likely know them for their ceramics, but this piece is just as special and almost has a flower motif in its shape.

I hope you enjoyed my part history lesson/part trend report and have fallen in love with decorative ironwork even more than before. And let us all keep digging a little deeper into the history of the gifts black people have and continue to give to design and culture. Happy Juneteenth!

Love you, mean it.

Opening Image Credits: Design by Jess Bunge | Styled by Emily Bowser | Photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp | From: Makeover Takeover: It’s FINALLY Here…Jess’ Art Filled Living Room/Office Reveal