My passion for design and architecture, particularly historic structures, has guided my career and shaped my creative outlook. This passion inspired me to create a design business that blends contemporary aesthetics with timeless elegance and has fueled my work as a principal owner at Allen Architectural Metals. It has also given me a unique perspective on the power of narrative, whether expressed in the character of a home or the history of a landmark.
Allen Metals is a nationally recognized leader in cast iron restoration, preservation, pattern making, and custom design and fabrication. Collaborating closely with the construction industry, the company specializes in castings for historic preservation, modern ironwork, and metal replication. With expertise that bridges contemporary innovation and old-world craftsmanship, Allen Metals has contributed to the restoration of iconic structures across the United States, including the U.S. Capitol Dome, the Empire State Building, the Plaza Hotel, Michigan Central Station, The New York Historical Society, the Cartier Building, Carnegie Hall, the Woolworth Building, and 422 Fulton, among many others.
Detail of the U.S. Capitol Dome
Detail of 422 Fulton
Detail of window, Michigan Central Station
Detail of canopy, Plaza Hotel
Our work continues to expand with ongoing projects such as the Lincoln Memorial, Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, Hunting Island Lighthouse, and Soldier’s Arch at Grand Army Plaza. Witnessing the meticulous restoration process of these architectural treasures has sharpened my eye for detail and informed my design practice in meaningful ways. Experiencing the nuances of these historic structures—both their exteriors and interiors—has deepened my appreciation for the interplay between form and function, texture and tone.
I’ve always been someone who stops in their tracks to admire unexpected, artistic details, but my immersion in this work has intensified those instincts. I’ve unlocked a new level of design nerd.
During a recent visit to San Francisco, I was captivated by the city’s rich architectural heritage, particularly its cast iron structures. The Sentinel Building, with its striking flatiron shape and iconic copper-green façade, stands as a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of a bygone era. Beyond this architectural gem, the city is filled with remarkable examples of cast iron details that tell their own stories of resilience and beauty.
Canopy, San Francisco
Private residence, ornamental metal, San Francisco
Private residence, ornamental metal, San Francisco
Detail of the Sentinel Building, San Francisco
Who can resist the allure of these treasures? Each structure not only showcases the brilliance of 19th-century design but also inspires fresh ideas for blending historic elements into modern contexts.
These experiences reaffirm my belief in the transformative power of thoughtful design and preservation. Leveraging my experiences at The Cob Collection and renovating a number of properties, I strive to create interiors with a sense of history and character, drawing inspiration from architectural masterpieces and restoration projects. My goal is to craft spaces that are not only visually stunning but also infused with narrative and authenticity.
I am committed to honoring the legacy of historic architecture while embracing contemporary design principles. This fusion of past and present allows me to create environments that are timeless, meaningful, and truly inspiring—a reflection of the passion that drives me every day.