Metal is the workhorse of any home — the raw material for plumbing conduits, nails and other functional items. But its intrinsic properties also make it a top choice for adding decorative flair inside and out. For many people cast iron gates are the first thing they think of when envisioning metal work for their home. Though many of metal fences and gates in the Washington area have their roots in earlier eras there are an increasing number of modern-design gates — such as the “cattail” created for a local homeowner by emeraldironworks.com“>Emerald Ironworks in Woodbridge, Va.

“We worked hand in hand with the artist and client, reproducing the design in a CAD program,” said Justin Pigott, co-owner of the ornamental fabrication firm. “It took more than 250 man-hours to complete and install the job.”