Decorative grills have become some of my favorite non-traditional options for window treatments. I have used this product in several projects and my clients love it! Deep-set windows, transoms & door side lights are perfect locations for these unexpected ornamental pieces. Faux iron and real-wood veneer scrollwork makes this a much more approachable solution to real ironwork.

Decorative grills have been used in design and architecture for centuries. Traditionally made of iron by skilled blacksmiths, these ornamental grills can be functional, such as a gate or door, or purely aesthetic.

Iron scrollwork can be very heavy, expensive, and susceptible to oxidation, causing layers of rust to flake off. I’m sure you’ve closed an old iron gate and found orange rust on your hands. Ugh!

Faux iron is made from environmentally friendly recycled wood fiber that is carved to look like real ironwork. The finishes are amazing, from the coppery finish of antique bronze to a full-on rust look. The panels are light and can be carved on one side or both sides.   They are resistant to rot, termites, moisture damage and fire retardant, making them suitable for both interior and exterior applications. Solar screens can also be added for sun protection and privacy.

Veneer scrollwork offers a little more modern look. The walnut veneer is laminated over a soft sustainable substrate and the soft finish options show the beauty of the walnut grain. Designed for interior use only, these decorative grills can be manufactured to fit any shape and can be customized in both color and design, such as adding a monogram.

Several different mounting options are available and each of my jobs has required a different one! The snug-fit mount eliminated all light-gap on a half-round window over a jetted tub. Hinged veneer scrollwork was mounted in front of simple black out roller shades in a bedroom, disguising the simple window treatment option. And a framed application was perfect for a hard-to-reach transom backlit with LED lighting.

These decorative grills are also flexible, elegant solutions for odd-shaped windows, niches, updating glass-front cabinet doors, ceiling trays, wall dividers or exterior accents!

Check out these examples of unexpected uses for this versatile product!