FEATURES

Creating an exceptional entry comes down to budget. A simple ornamental gate with an operator and a few embellishments can cost less than $10,000. On the other hand, an entry with a 1/1 gate, water features, and an off-the-charts "wow" factor can exceed $50,000, with many options in between.

Consider this: a mid-level pool, used approximately 100 days a year, often elicits a lackluster "meh" reaction. Yet, it comes with a price tag of $120,000 or more. In contrast, an extraordinary entry can be enjoyed 365 days a year. Instead of a mediocre investment, you'll hear compliments like "beautiful," "gorgeous," "amazing," and "love it," along with questions like "Where did you get it?"

Your entry will become a landmark for your property. Neighbors might use it to direct their friends: "We’re three houses down from the entry with the waterfalls cascading from its walls." The show-off factor is undeniable, friends, family, and passersby will wonder, "Who lives there?"

This is where we provide detailed information to help you plan. We can assist, elaborate, and make recommendations as needed. All components of your entry should be proportionate to one another, or intentionally disproportionate for effect. This process is never meant to rush you. You can always call a timeout to sleep on a decision or seek input from others. The goal is a seamless, pre-designed outcome where you’re thrilled with every choice and there are no do-overs. Final decisions always rest with the property owner.

• Will the entry run parallel to the property line, or will it feature angular "wings" inset from the property?

• Determine whether the gate will be a single swing gate, double swing gate, rolling track gate, or cantilever rolling gate.
• Our Recommendation: A double swing gate offers the most elegant and aesthetically pleasing option.
• Choose from our selection of ornamental "stock" gates or opt for a fully custom 1/1 design.

• Black is the most common choice, followed by white.
• Bronze is currently trending.
• Select a color that complements the stone or stucco used in walls or columns.

• Add Texas stars, initials, ranch brands, sports numbers, names, symbols, or depictions of pets or wildlife inset on your gate.
• Include a name or address plaque set into a stone wall or column.
• Whatever you’re a fan of or wish to display, we can likely incorporate it into your design.

• Entryways typically feature architectural-sized pipe columns, stone/stucco columns, stone/stucco walls, or iron "wings" on either side of the gate.

• Options include limestone, fieldstone, ledge stone, stack stone, hackett stone, Oklahoma stone, and more.
• Stucco should be painted a color that complements the gate.

• Options include column lighting, wall lighting, pond lighting, and landscape lighting.
• Choose small, large, or oversized fixtures.
• Install electrical conduits and rough in wiring during construction—it’s safer, cheaper, and cleaner than adding exposed wiring later.

• Common options include lions, tigers, bears, deer, gargoyles, religious figures, stallions, warriors, and more.
• These are often used as column toppers.
• Search online for inspiration, there are countless options available.

• Options range from simple standalone fountains to elaborate wall fountains, themed fountains (e.g., wine barrels), or spillways integrated into walls.
• Fountains require both water and power, so upfront planning for plumbing and electrical is essential.
• Additional lighting may be needed for fountains.

• Enhance your entry with flowers and bushes.
• Use defined spaces for flora to protect them from local wildlife.

• Incorporate sentimental or unique items, such as "Grandpa Joe's plow," as long as it meets approval.

• Designate spaces for flags such as the U.S. flag, Texas flag, political flags, alma mater flags, or local high school flags.

• For small dogs, install puppy guards to prevent them from escaping through gate bars.
• Incorporating these guards into the original design ensures a cohesive look.