I'm sorry you are going through all this. Keep your eye on the prize when you feel really beaten down, dream of your perfection! I too have been through the ringer with my first architect. I cried alot, it made me feel better, and moved on to another plan, another day, another dream, and alas, of course, another dollar. How's that for a crazy reply, be positive, or cry, or both.

All great suggestions. I don't even know if I have a local locksmith. Kinda like a glazier. But I'll look around. Just tested an existing key and it turned two of the locks, so I have an idea for a couple! Just picked up two on eBay that have the same shape. The Seller was kind enough to post every single, tiny measurement, so these two should work for 2 pieces! NYBoy, I've always liked Antique Hardware. I've just been hesitant to buy such expensive pieces, even as nice as they are, in case they didn't fit. I think I've gotten over Buyer's Freeze, though. Thanks for reminding me!

Why not look into replacing it? As you say, it is difficult to find parts for and it is 25 years old. While I love natural fireplaces, I have to say it is really nice to use our gas fireplace. We just flip a switch and it comes on and makes the room toasty and warm. My mother had a natural fireplace, and we were always having to drag logs in and fiddle with the flames.

Ask the recycling shop. They'll let you know if they have a use for it, or they may want to collect it to insure there isn't a copy of the key floating around with theft potential.