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After first turning us away, then denying a home improvement contractor license, New York City Department of Consumer Affairs has created a new protocol for licenses that have religious convictions opposed to photo ID.
For a decade, we have been involved with the prestigious AD home Design Show. Our goal was the affluent New Jersey Residential market. But over the years, we had interest from New York City projects. We registered with the State, got a tax license and the final hurdle was HIC license.

The process was quite daunting and we invested about $20,000 in all the paperwork, proper bond and insurance requirements before we were even able to apply for a license.

They immediately flagged the non-photo ID, checked with their supervisors, checked with general counsel and then with New York Law department. And asked us to come back the next day.

The following week, they said “No, can’t do it.” Which they were informed it could fall under religious discrimination, their attorney still gave us a flat “No”. But after seeing U.S. State Dept.  protocols, they re-evaluated for a while. Then got back to us with a protocol that works for everyone, a win – win situation.

For us, New York being the design mecca of the country, if not the world, it was very important that our level of craftsmanship could be provided legally. Especially with this hottest trend in design, where floating stairs are being designed to create visual impact in contemporary spaces. Call the material rustic, contemporary, transitional, ying yang or eclectic designer that was somewhat dissatisfied with their staircase, did not know what they desired, just knew they wanted something different. They were ecstatic when we provided some inspiration of past stair projects. This phenomenal stair and stair handrail could quite possibly be the first of such an incredible project in New York City.

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We love our front porch railings! They certainly add a lot of beauty to our home and they fit the period of our home. When elderly guests come to visit, it’s always good that they have something strong to hold onto, and they fit perfectly what we were looking for. Thanks to everyone on your team for their artistic work. We are very happy with our final products!

Indiana Cleint

Compass delivered absolutely amazing, high quality product. They are true masters.  I am also pleased with their timely communication and guidance, as we worked through the design and transaction process. 

I would definitely recommend them and work with them again.

Wisconsin Client

What an excellent experience we had with Compass Ironworks!! We have spent four years restoring and remodeling a Pre-Civil War home in North Alabama. We have learned a lot through the process and made more than a few mistakes. But choosing Compass Ironworks was not one of those. From the very first interaction, Amos and his team have been a pleasure to work with. Old homes are quirky! No right angles. No two measurements are precisely the same. So using a company in Pennsylvania was a risk. And we are SO GLAD we took that risk! Absolutely flawless!! The designs, the collaboration, the execution, the QUALITY, the timeline and the finished product were all first class!!! We will absolutely choose Compass again for our next project and recommend them to anyone who asks.

Alabama Designer

The railing is installed and is beautiful … a work of art, to be sure!

My expectations were high and certainly met. I was able to visit the shop and see the railing in progress. It was a thrill to see it then, and very exciting when it arrived at my home.

I have already recommended you to others!

Massachusetts Client
Front entrance metal gate