Exmoor-based bespoke metalwork specialists West Country Blacksmiths has had a project shortlisted for the 2022 GAGA Construction Awards.

The awards celebrate the innovative use of galvanized steel by architects, engineers, constructors, and artists from all over the UK and has been running for over 20 years, with previous winning projects including The Eden Project and the London Palladium.

From thousands of entries, 35 projects were shortlisted within six separate categories with a staircase, gate and railing project undertaken by the blacksmiths for a private property in Hampshire bring shortlisted.

The project required the craftsmen to work directly with the client to bespoke design the perfect staircase which was made in Victorian style staircase to fit on a curved wall which is 3.2 meters wide at the opening, along with a gate and 6 & ½ meters of Victorian style railings.

All the metalwork was galvanised and powder coated to matt black prior to the team installing the metalwork over two days.

Kieren Roberts, joint owner and director of West Country Blacksmiths said – ‘We are incredibly grateful of the recognition of our work. We are privileged to have an incredibly talented team and together we work extremely hard to produce metalwork to the very best standard regardless of the size and type of project. This specific project was challenging, but enjoyable, as it allowed our team to use their wide range of skills throughout the project from CAD designing and developing ideas and through throughout with very difficult forging, high level fabricating and a quality installation. As a small rural based company this type of recognition is vital to help us share the range of work we are capable of. The support we get from the local community is amazing and our primary focus is to continue serve the community of Somerset, producing the very best possible metalwork service. From small scale repairs or project such as handrails, railings or alike to much larger scale projects”

The craftsmen work has been shortlisted for the awards alongside projects including External Stair at George’s Roman Catholic Cathedral in Southwark, The Superunification sculpture in South Dublin and the refurbishment of Southend on Sea Pier project.

Jareena Nasreen from the GAGA Construction awards said, ‘The calibre of projects was truly outstanding, making the selection process both challenging and exhilarating.’ winners of the awards will be announced on the 27th July at The Royal Aeronautical Society in London.