REsidential Gates
These two decorative gates mark distinct portals within the property, designed and fabricated by Joe Wilkinson. Constructed from welded steel, the surfaces have been intentionally patinated to develop a vivid orange rust, emphasizing texture, depth, and a sense of time within the landscape. Each element—including the gate, hinges, and locking mechanisms—was custom-fabricated, showcasing Wilkinson’s attention to structural integrity, precision, and cohesive design.
Curved steel elements extend beyond the gate itself, creating a rhythmic, sculptural framework that integrates the entryway into the surrounding garden. Subtle stained glass accents introduce moments of color and light, but the work remains grounded in Wilkinson’s metal practice—where function, durability, and formal composition are seamlessly intertwined.
The gates are further refined by stained glass panels created by Deb Schwartzkopf, introducing color, light, and a sense of intimacy to the otherwise industrial material. Together, the elements create a layered threshold that merges structure, craft, and artistry.
Commercial Gate
This space divider and security gate at Pottery Northwest in Seattle was designed and fabricated by Joe Wilkinson. Constructed from welded steel, the structure is powder-coated in a high-gloss orange-red finish, bringing a sense of energy and visibility to an otherwise utilitarian function.
At approximately 9.5 feet tall and 14 feet wide, the gate balances openness and security through a grid framework reinforced with bold diagonal bracing. The design emphasizes both strength and visual clarity, reflecting Wilkinson’s approach to metalwork—where structural necessity becomes an opportunity for rhythm, pattern, and architectural presence.
