By Dennis Ray

After building a successful gate and fencing business in Florida, James Orlowski moved it to Landrum, SC, in 20—. His company, JL Architecturals, has 30 years in business, designing and installing gates, railings, columns, and fences using metal, wood, and stone. His company also handles electrical work for these installations, serving residential and commercial clients in western South and North Carolina.

From his earliest memories, Orlowski loved creating and building things with his hands. However, when he finished high school, he was still trying to find what he wanted to focus on as a possible career path, but it had to be something where he could use his creativity. Orlowski’s family knew these pitfalls and expected him to attend college, where he would hopefully find something that required him to be creative and also from what he could make a living. He enrolled in college at his parents’ urging, studying as an undecided student and quickly growing bored with core classes. Within weeks, his initial assessment of how college wasn’t for him proved correct.

“During this time, a very good friend of mine presented an opportunity and asked if I was interested in joining the Ironworkers apprenticeship,” Orlowski recalls. “I lived in Chicago where a local trade union offered an apprenticeship program specializing in ornamental and structural ironwork.” The apprenticeship felt more suited to him than classes that didn’t interest him, so he switched.

It could not have gone any better. Orlowski recalls that he immediately found enjoyment in working and creating in metal and wood. Because of this enjoyment, he quickly learned how to handcraft and build gates, railings, and staircases. His dedication to craftsmanship was unwavering, and he thrived on learning every aspect of his newly found craft. 

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A few years later, family obligations led him to Florida, where he focused on entrepreneurship. “At this point, I began learning what it took to run a business,” he says, referencing his transition from a technical role to business ownership. Like with his apprenticeship, Orlowski dove deep and readily into learning whatever he could about entrepreneurs by countless hours reading and collaborating with architects, engineers, and contractors. He started a small business named JL Architecturals, which he grew into a successful company known for its custom ornamental ironwork, providing design, fabrication, and installation services for gates, railings, and fences.

As the business grew, Orlowski adapted it to meet evolving market needs. Initially focused on aluminum gates and railings, he expanded JL Architecturals to include gate opener installations and in-house electrical work, eliminating the need for external electricians. Years later, he recognized something his clients needed that hadn’t been properly addressed. Orlowski saw a need for well-crafted gate piers—sturdy, decorative columns made of brick, stone, wood, or concrete—to complement his gates. These typically were added on later, if at all, by an outside contractor, and these held varying results. 

“The more I offer to our clients, the better off they will be. Here, we offer a turnkey opportunity, from choosing what the gate looks like to size, purpose, electrical, and columns, which we can make in wood, metal, or stone.”

In Florida, Orlowski learned that while quality craftsmanship satisfied clients, having a commitment to personalized service keeps them returning or referring his business to their family, friends, and neighbors.

“Developing a listening ear was essential,” he points out. “My clients understand their input is crucial to bringing their ideas to life. I tell them that I am a problem solver and will find a suitable path to fulfill whatever design or idea they have to come to fruition.” Since every project is unique, Orlowski ensures that the final product meets and reflects his client’s vision. He adds, “No two jobs are alike. But many have similarities. I approach even the most basic project with the ‘What can I do to make this one different from the others?’ concept.”

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