Pergolas & Archways
Ruben Irons hand-forged iron pergolas and archways for public spaces, gardens, and homes, anchoring landscapes with function and beauty. Hardscape elements designed to frame pathways, gather people, and belong to place. See a sampling of these past projects below and contact Ruben to explore your visions.
Pergola
2016, Alumni Gardens, Dalhousie University Agricultural Campus, Truro, Nova Scotia | 24’ x 8’ x 8’
The focal hardscape element within a commemorative landscape honoring the late John Higgins—an influential professor in the Landscape Horticultural Technology program at the former NSAC and founding member of the Atlantic Association of Landscape Designers. Commissioned to replace a deteriorating wooden structure of similar design, the pergola was reimagined in durable steel and incorporates Ruben’s artistic forge work along the top. The chocolate-brown patina is sealed with linseed oil. The structure has become a picturesque landmark within the Gardens, enjoyed by visitors and frequently used as a backdrop for weddings, graduations, and special events.
Herb Garden Archway
2025, Alumni Gardens, Dalhousie University Agricultural Campus, Truro, Nova Scotia | 4’ x 4’ x 8’
A collaborative design by Raina and Ruben marking the entrance to the Herb Garden. The archway incorporates nearby botanical elements, featuring forged echinacea flowers on each side—a reflection of the medicinal pollinator plants abundant in the garden. Its overall Gothic form was inspired by the historic stone archway on the garden’s north side. Flowing forged lines welcome visitors into the space. The natural patina is finished with boiled linseed oil. Read more about this project here.
“Working with Ruben & Raina was a thoroughly enjoyable and totally painless experience. They came to the table with some fantastic ideas and were open to hear and incorporate our ideas as well. As always, the work was exceptional and we are absolutely delighted with our new garden feature! We look forward to working with them again in the future.”
Marcus Fiddes, Grounds Maintenance Dalhousie University Agricultural Campus, Truro, Nova Scotia
Barley Arch
2018, Alumni Gardens, Dalhousie University Agricultural Campus, Truro, Nova Scotia | 12’ diameter
A symbolic steel arch marking the entrance to the Alumni Gardens from the MacRae Library parking lot, commemorating Dalhousie University’s bicentennial. Ruben’s design references the Agricultural Campus’s official Barley Ring and echoes the 200th anniversary logo. Each leaf was individually cut and hand forged, welded into place, refined with a grinder, then sandblasted and painted. Read more about this project here.
Contact Ruben
For custom ironwork contact Ruben by email or phone.
ironsforge@gmail.com
902-754-0606