The Gatekeeper

A handsome, custom-designed entrance gate created by renowned St. Louis ornamental iron company Classic Metal Craft incorporates high-tech security without sacrificing curb appeal. 

By Jeanne Delathouder
Photography by Kim Dillon

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A tall order indeed, this sleek entrance gate had to incorporate all the latest technology in security but without detracting from the overall curb appeal of the home. When faced with the challenge, Peter Zadrozinski and his talented team put their expertise to work. The proprietor of Classic Metal Craft, a family-owned St. Louis ornamental iron company that designs, fabricates and installs drive and pedestrian gates, interior and exterior railings, structural stairs, spiral staircases, fencing and other custom pieces, Peter was not only able to meet the needs of his clients but also exceed their expectations. 

“The homeowners wanted a gate for their new home that would enhance the entry and not look like something put in for security,” he recalls. “The gate had to be wide enough to accommodate any large items that needed to be brought into the house, and we also had to incorporate a ‘Ring’ deadbolt into the gate to allow the homeowners the use of technology to control access,” he notes. “Another request was that our design needed to fill the entire arched opening without being too heavy looking.”  

After meeting with his clients, Peter and his team took several design components from work they had done previously and blended them together into a cohesive approach. They took some basic measurements and provided a hand-drawn concept design on a photo overlay of the front entrance. Once approved, they took very precise measurements and provided a scaled CAD drawing for final approval to ensure all details were explained thoroughly. Once this shop drawing was approved, the job was released for fabrication. The majority of raw materials and components wre ordered locally from suppliers and executed in-house, including the primed and painted finish. The gate was then installed in one day by Classic Metal Craft’s own installers.

“We have some very talented and dedicated workers that have been integral to our success,” says Peter. “My favorite aspect of this project was being able to exceed the expectations of our clients and create a final product that our entire shop could be proud of,” he notes. “The front entrance to a home is always the most important to secure, but we can still make it appear welcoming to invited guests.”

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Classic Metal Craft, 314-535-2022