We were lucky to catch up with Robert Thomas recently and have shared our conversation below.

Robert, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Let’s kick things off with your mission – what is it and what’s the story behind why it’s your mission?

At Robert Thomas Iron Design, our mission is to create metalwork that blends artistry with engineering. But beyond just making beautiful things, our deeper mission is about preserving and advancing the craft of metalwork in an era where true craftsmanship is becoming rare.

For me personally, this mission is deeply meaningful because I’ve always been drawn to the intersection of design, history, and hands-on craftsmanship. Metalworking is an ancient art, but in today’s world, much of it has been commodified, with mass production replacing skill and artistry. At RTID, we aim to reverse that trend by keeping the tradition alive, training the next generation of artisans, and proving that handcrafted metalwork still has a place in the modern built environment.

Our mission is also about impact—on our clients, our team, and our industry. We work closely with architects, designers, and builders who share our appreciation for fine craftsmanship, helping them bring their visions to life with metalwork that stands the test of time. Internally, we foster a culture of continuous learning and mentorship, ensuring that every employee has the opportunity to grow their skills and take pride in their work.

Ultimately, what drives us is the belief that great design and great craftsmanship should go hand in hand. We’re not just building products—we’re building a legacy of quality, integrity, and innovation in metalwork. That’s what makes our mission meaningful, and that’s why we’re committed to it every day.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I’m Robert Thomas, founder of Robert Thomas Iron Design (RTID). I’ve always been drawn to the kind of craftsmanship that requires both skill and artistry—the process of taking raw materials and transforming them into something beautiful and lasting. That’s what metalwork is to me: the perfect blend of design, engineering, and hands-on creation.

At RTID, we specialize in custom architectural and ornamental metalwork—things like staircases, railings, gates, and large-scale architectural features. Every piece we create is more than just metal; it’s a combination of form and function, built to enhance a space and stand the test of time. I love the forging process—heating, hammering, shaping, and refining metal into something that didn’t exist before. There’s something almost primal about working with fire and steel, bending it to your will, and seeing it take shape.

What sets us apart is our deep respect for traditional craftsmanship, combined with a modern approach to design and fabrication. We don’t just build—we problem-solve, innovate, and push the boundaries of what’s possible in metal. I take the most pride in seeing our work become a defining element in incredible homes and buildings, knowing it will be admired for generations. But just as important is the team behind it—a group of skilled artisans dedicated to perfecting their craft and carrying forward a tradition that’s been around for centuries.

At the end of the day, I believe metalwork should be more than just functional—it should tell a story. If you’re looking for craftsmanship that’s bold, timeless, and built with passion, that’s what we do at RTID.

What’s been the best source of new clients for you?

For us at Robert Thomas Iron Design, the best source of new clients has been word of mouth and referrals. When you’re in the business of creating high-end, custom architectural metalwork, your work speaks for itself. We’ve been fortunate to have our pieces featured in some truly stunning projects, and when people see that craftsmanship up close, they want the same level of quality for their own spaces.

We also work closely with architects, designers, and builders, and those relationships have been invaluable. They trust us to deliver on their vision, and in turn, they recommend us to their clients. It’s all about building a reputation for being reliable, creative problem-solvers who deliver exceptional results.

Of course, our presence on social media and platforms showcasing design work helps as well, but nothing compares to a happy client telling someone else, “You have to work with these guys.” At the end of the day, earning trust through great work has been the key to growing our business.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

Our reputation has been built on a relentless commitment to craftsmanship, problem-solving, and reliability. In the world of high-end architectural metalwork, reputation isn’t just about making something look good—it’s about delivering exceptional quality, every time.

One of the biggest factors has been our attention to detail. Whether it’s a custom staircase, a statement gate, or a complex railing system, we approach every project with the mindset that it should be as flawless as it is beautiful. We take pride in executing designs that others might shy away from, finding solutions where others see obstacles.

Another key factor is trust. Our clients—whether they’re architects, designers, builders, or homeowners—know that when they work with RTID, we’ll follow through. We don’t cut corners, we communicate clearly, and we stand behind our work.

Finally, word of mouth has been huge. The industry is small, and when you consistently deliver great work, people talk. That’s been the foundation of our reputation—doing the kind of work that people are excited to share.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.robertthomasiron.com
• Instagram: @robertthomasiron
• Facebook: Robert Thomas Iron Design
• Linkedin: Robert Thomas
• Youtube: Robert Thomas Iron Design