Decorative tube metal architecture

Shaped tubing boasts ergonomic and safety advantages over standard round tubing, such as being both easier and more comfortable to grip. Our D-shaped tube, used predominantly as handrail, has been carefully tested for its ergonomic viability.

Our methodical ‘tube deflection testing’ demonstrates that shaped stainless steel tubes formed from standard round tubes are less likely to buckle than their round counterparts. The shaped tubing benefits from increased strength performance (between 20% – 54% depending on the shape).

We have even found that our radius square tube, with its softened corners, offers greater strength compared to standard box section tubing.

If you are doing restorative work in historic buildings, or you’re seeking an antique look, we can fabricate our tubing from copper, brass or bronze.
If you want a highly durable metal but with the traditional warmth of bronze, you could choose 90/10 cupronickel (which is also less expensive than bronze), or use bronze-coloured PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition) titanium ion plating on stainless steel.

PVD is available in a wide range of colours for a more contemporary look. It is scratch and corrosion resistant.

Find out about the metals and finishes that we offer.

Timeless are also frequently tasked with shaping tubing for various infrastructure applications for public spaces. Examples include the protective barriers used at the base of 33 St Mary Axe (The Gherkin), the queue management system at the London Eye, door handles, emergency exit handles, shop railings and air vents.

We have also supplied tubing for several airports, making the guard rails used to protect walls from trolley damage, and tubing to prevent luggage from falling off conveyor belts.

All these applications require tubing to be both ergonomically viable and in many cases, aesthetically pleasing.