An Iterative Process

For a new estate project in Dallas, Texas, the gardens have a formal English garden style. Our team has gone through a series of iterations for entry gate designs that speak to and hint at the gardens hidden behind the estate walls. The form of the entry gate will also determine the gates, fences, and railings around the site.

For the initial concepts presented to the client, we played heavily with star and sun motifs, in homage to the Texas star and the existing residence’s historical significance.

We looked at reference books for historical metalwork imagery, and drew many sketches that played off the elements we found.

Feedback from the clients had us pivot in a new, more simple direction for the next round of concepts. We focused on cleaner, more linear designs featuring spindles and diamond/rectilinear shapes.  

Further client conversations moved us toward Greek key patterns. We retained spindles, and added a solid panel option.

The iterative process of modifying and evolving the design is an important reminder to not get too attached to any one design. There’s always something that can change, and collaborating with clients can lead to stronger design choices.