In 1996, Staci Southwick moved to Oakland, California to officially launch Functional Steel Objects (FSO). With a background in graphic design and sculpture, she combined her two disciplines to create architectural metalwork that is both artistic and practical.

What began as a personal passion for design and metal soon grew into a body of work recognized for its modern flair, structural integrity, and attention to detail, From custom gates and railings to security doors and one-of-a-kind architectural accents, each piece reflects Staci’s vision of blending creativity with function.

Nearly three decades later, FSO remains true to its name—producing functional steel objects that not only endure, but also transform the spaces and lives they touch.

Artist Statement

My work begins at the intersection of design and sculpture. With a foundation in both disciplines, I approach steel as a medium that is at once structural and expressive. I am drawn to the challenge of transforming a material often associated with rigidity into forms that feel modern, elegant, and purposeful. 

Since founding Functional Steel Objects in 1996, I have pursued a practice that balances aesthetics with utility. A gate is never just a gate, and a railing is never only a guardrail—they are opportunities to create architectural elements that enrich daily life. I believe function should never come at the expense of beauty, and beauty should always serve a purpose.Every project is a collaboration, and each finished piece reflects both my artistic vision and the unique story of the space it inhabits. Through steel, I strive to create work that is enduring, functional, and alive with design.