Norwich-based Hubbard Architectural Metalwork collapsed after running up losses of more than £1m.
Administrators at McTear Williams & Wood aim to keep the firm trading trading while a buyer is found.
The company, which has designed and manufactured staircases, balconies, balustrades and bridges for more than 60 years, had a turnover of £5m and operates from a 29,000sq ft factory employing 45 staff.
It is the second construction supply chain firm to go under in the region after glass supplier Uniglaze collapsed last week, blaming the prolonged recession.
Administrators have also been called in at Sussex-based Cresta Building Products, which specialised in producing metal fixings and pipe support brackets and frames for utility and M&E specialist contractors.
Manchester insolvency practice Cowgill Holloway Business Recovery is handling the administration of the firm which was a key supplier to projects like T5, the Gherkin and the Canary Wharf towers.