Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Custom Ornamental Ironwork & Metal Art in Kansas City
Founded in 1973, Austin Iron Works has dedicated over 50 years to mastering the art of ornamental ironwork. Our team combines centuries of collective experience to create durable, functional art that enhances residential and commercial spaces. Specializing in custom gates, railings, fireplace screens, and home accessories, we prioritize precision and aesthetic appeal through a meticulous finishing process involving sandblasting and catalyzed epoxy primers.As founding members of the Blacksmiths' Association of Missouri and the Artist-Blacksmith's Association of North America, we uphold industry leadership through innovation and craftsmanship. Our mission is to transform elemental materials into heirloom-quality pieces that reflect clients' unique visions while maintaining unmatched durability and beauty.
Services
Fences
Railings
Gates
Fireplace Screens
Kitchen Accessories
Home Accessories
Lighting Fixtures
Metal Furniture
Liturgical Items
Driveway Gates
Details
- Year established: 1973
Highlights and features
- Over 50 years of expertise in ornamental ironwork with 200+ years of combined team experience.
- Proprietary finishing process ensures long-lasting durability and visual appeal.
- Nationwide service with deep local roots in the Kansas City metropolitan area.
- Founding membership in prestigious industry associations demonstrates leadership.
- Custom designs tailored to client preferences, blending artistry with functionality.
Associations and certifications
- Blacksmiths' Association of Missouri
- Artist-Blacksmith's Association of North America
Services
Custom Ironwork
We create bespoke iron structures and accessories tailored to client specifications. Our process combines traditional blacksmithing techniques with modern technology to produce durable, artistic pieces. From initial design consultation to final installation, we ensure each project meets functional needs while enhancing aesthetic value for residential and commercial properties.
Metal Fencing
Our custom metal fencing solutions blend security with visual appeal. Using high-quality iron and advanced finishing techniques, we craft fences that withstand harsh weather while adding elegance to properties. Designs range from classic scrollwork to contemporary patterns, complementing diverse architectural styles across Kansas City and beyond.
Fireplace Screens
Handcrafted fireplace screens merge functionality with artistic expression. We design intricate metalwork that prevents sparks while serving as a focal point in living spaces. Each piece undergoes rigorous quality checks to ensure safety and longevity, available in styles ranging from traditional to modern to match any interior decor.
Kitchen Hardware
We produce durable, decorative kitchen hardware including drawer pulls and cabinet handles. Our ironwork combines ergonomic design with artistic detailing, offering both practical utility and aesthetic enhancement. Each piece is finished with protective coatings to resist wear while maintaining visual appeal in high-traffic kitchen environments.
Metal Furniture
Our metal furniture line includes tables, chairs, and accent pieces that balance strength with artistic design. Using time-tested forging methods, we create durable outdoor and indoor furnishings resistant to corrosion and wear. Each item features unique detailing that transforms functional objects into statement pieces for residential and commercial spaces.
People
Mike Birchler
Owner
With decades of leadership experience, Mike Birchler guides Austin Iron Works' creative vision. His commitment to quality and innovation has maintained the company's prominence in custom metalwork since the 1970s, ensuring every project reflects both client needs and artisan excellence.
Cecile Birchler
Owner
Cecile Birchler contributes strategic oversight to Austin Iron Works' operations. Her dedication to preserving traditional blacksmithing techniques while embracing modern design trends has helped position the company as an industry leader in functional iron artistry for over 50 years.
Larry Birchler
Owner
Larry Birchler oversees technical operations at Austin Iron Works. His hands-on approach to metal fabrication and finishing processes ensures every piece meets exacting standards of durability and aesthetic quality, maintaining the company's reputation for excellence since its founding.
Questions
What types of custom ironwork do you specialize in?
We create gates, railings, fencing, fireplace screens, kitchen hardware, metal furniture, and liturgical items. Each piece combines artistic design with functional durability tailored to client preferences.
How long does a typical project take?
Project timelines vary based on complexity but typically range from 4-8 weeks. We provide detailed schedules during initial consultations and maintain clear communication throughout the fabrication process.
Do you serve clients outside Kansas City?
While based in Kansas City, MO, we provide services nationwide. Our team coordinates logistics for out-of-area projects, maintaining the same quality standards and personalized attention regardless of location.
What makes your ironwork durable?
We use a multi-stage finishing process including sandblasting, epoxy priming, and electrostatic painting. This protects against corrosion and wear while preserving aesthetic quality for decades in various environments.
Can you replicate historical ironwork designs?
Yes, our team specializes in both modern and historical designs. We use AutoCAD drawings and physical samples to ensure accurate replication of traditional patterns while meeting contemporary structural requirements.
Reviews (5)
Marie M.
Sep 28, 2020
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I called Austin Iron Works to ask about some Customized Wrought Iron Exterior Railings. I received a call back on 9-28 around 5:13 from a Mr. Austin who stated he was calling me back from Austin Iron Works. I said Sir,
I really do pay close attention to Ratings because that's very important to me. On Google I saw a 3.0 Rating from 2-PEOPLE.
Mr. Austin said where are you looking because the last time I checked we had 5.0 Rating on YELP. I exclaimed yes but that was just a few people,
And this is a Business Right!
Mr. Austin then stated another Business's name and asked me if I was checking
I really do pay close attention to Ratings because that's very important to me. On Google I saw a 3.0 Rating from 2-PEOPLE.
Mr. Austin said where are you looking because the last time I checked we had 5.0 Rating on YELP. I exclaimed yes but that was just a few people,
And this is a Business Right!
Mr. Austin then stated another Business's name and asked me if I was checking
B. Black
Jun 04, 2020
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They made custom gates for our driveway, breezeway & side gate. They all had the same theme which included curved ironwork. Very impressive craftsmanship. We are very pleased we used them.
Kelli A.
Dec 15, 2019
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I first met Steve Austin with Austin Ironworks in 1989 while working for an interior design firm. His reputation was already well established at that point. I remember being very impressed with him and his portfolio. Fast forward to 1998 and I married that man. I now live in a house that is full of Austin Ironworks custom metal. I know I'm biased, but they really are the best in town. I can always pick out there work based on the quality and longevity. If it's beautiful, lasts forever and always looks good, there's a good chance that Austin Ironworks made it.
Joe Shandler
Aug 29, 2018
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We were taking down posts that divided our family and living room and needed something decorative for support. We told Steve Austin what we had in mind and he made it happen. We love it.
Wes E.
Jan 12, 2017
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The pictures of the larger projects these guys work on speak for themselves, but my 5 star review is for a smaller job. My elderly father had broken a hip and was getting out of the hospital in 2 weeks. I was trying to prepare his homecoming from out of state. And that included the need to get substantial metal railings put on both sides of his steps to the front porch on his Brookside bungalow. These guys went out the next day, quote shared immediately and I was able to handle everything remotely. They were custom built, installed and ready by the time he got home. The quality is exceptional