How Architectural Metal Design is Transforming Modern Spaces

Metal fabrication has become a go-to in modern architectural design. Over the past decade, it’s garnered more and more attention for its strength, beauty, and versatility. It’s important that fabricators and architects understand the potential of metal in today’s construction. Beyond structural support, architectural metal design is perfect for creating innovative, functional, and visually striking spaces.

Metals like aluminum and steel offer near-endless possibilities, from sleek, modern storefronts to intricate interior office partitions. In essence, the application of metal is as broad as the imagination allows.

Take a look at New York’s Hudson Yards, for instance. The $25 billion project showcases the cutting-edge use of metals in both exterior and interior designs, blending form and function.

With metal continuing to push boundaries, there’s no better time to explore how it’s reshaping the future of architectural design. 

What is Architectural Metal Design? 

Architectural metal design turns raw materials into functional and decorative elements that enhance both the exterior and interior of buildings. Through skilled metal fabrication, people are able to create stunning metal facades, intricate structural details, and even artistic features that give modern spaces a unique quality.

Take, for example, metal roofs and exterior cladding. They offer a practical solution by providing durability and weather resistance, but they also add a sleek, modern aesthetic to just about any structure. 

Plus, metal is adaptable. You can shape it to fit almost any design vision. A brushed aluminum cladding on a modern commercial building might be more minimalistic, while a copper roof on a residential home can add a warm character that ages beautifully over time.

There are plenty of real-world examples of this blend of function and decoration all around us. 

Consider the Gehry Residence in Santa Monica, California. The home’s exterior is wrapped in raw, corrugated metal, giving it a unique industrial feel while also providing solid protection. On the commercial side, Chicago’s Aqua Tower incorporates metal panels into its wavy facade, creating an eye-catching design that also improves the building’s energy efficiency.

Beyond exteriors, businesses are increasingly using architectural metal for interior elements like custom fixtures, signage, and even sculptures. Metal alone can transform a simple office lobby into a space that feels refined and modern with only a few well-placed design elements. 

What Kind of Metal Do We Use to Make Architectural Design Pieces?

Architectural metal design often centers around a few key materials: steel, copper, bronze, aluminum, and brass. These metals are popular not only for their durability and structural integrity but also for the design flexibility they offer. 

They can stand alone as bold, solid pieces, such as steel beams in a modern office or an aluminum curtain wall, or they can be combined in decorative ways. Think of a steel frame-lined interior space with bronze or copper accents on the railing below.

One major development that has expanded the possibilities for architectural metal design is the rise of 3D printing. With 3D printing, fabricators can now create intricate, custom metal components with a level of precision that was previously unattainable. This has opened the door for more creative and detailed designs.

Look at the Salesforce Transit Center in San Francisco. The building features a custom-designed exterior, where hundreds of perforated panels come together to form an organic, undulating pattern. 

It’s a perfect blend of form and function, providing light and protection while offering a visually stunning focal point. This type of innovative metal application sets the tone for the entire street.

The Benefits of Metal Design In Modern Architecture

Sustainability

Metal is playing a crucial role in pushing modern architecture toward a more sustainable future. 

In fact, as of 2024, over 90% of structural steel in North America is recycled from old buildings, vehicles, and other sources, making it one of the most recycled materials on the planet. The ability to recycle metals like steel, aluminum, and copper means that we don’t need to extract as many raw materials. This reduces the environmental impact of new construction projects.

Better yet, when we reuse metals, they retain their structural integrity and aesthetic appeal without the need for new resources. This recycling process cuts down on energy consumption and drastically lowers the carbon footprint associated with metal production. 

For instance, aluminum recycling saves up to 95% of the energy that would have been required to produce it from raw materials. As an added bonus, aluminum offers long-term durability as well. Its resistance to corrosion and weathering means that structures built with aluminum require less maintenance and fewer repairs over time. This extends the lifespan of buildings and reduces the need for new materials, labor, and energy to maintain or replace parts.

It’s also worth noting that metal can contribute to greater energy efficiency in buildings. Properly designed metal facades, roofing, and window frames can help regulate temperature by reflecting heat and improving insulation.

Flexibility and Functionality

Another great feature of metal in modern architecture is its ability to be shaped into bold, innovative designs. Whether it’s bending, twisting, or curving, metal allows architects and fabricators to push the limits of what’s possible. 

With advanced fabrication techniques, we can use metals like steel and aluminum to transform into complex shapes that were once difficult to achieve with other materials. 

The Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Spain, is an excellent example. Its iconic twisting and curving titanium facade is a perfect demonstration of how we can use metal to create a visually stunning, yet structurally sound, building. It’s likely one of the reasons the museum attracts visitors from around the world.

Cost-Effectiveness

Lastly, metal is a cost-effective choice, offering huge advantages over materials like wood, concrete, or brick. While the upfront cost of metal might be slightly higher in some cases, its long-term benefits far outweigh the initial investment. 

Steel and aluminum are incredibly durable and resistant to wear and tear. Additionally, without the need for frequent maintenance or replacement, you can spend less in the long run. Well-installed metal cladding, for instance, can last more than 100 years or more with minimal upkeep.

Plus, metal’s unique ability to reflect heat and UV rays can help lower energy bills, providing another layer of cost savings over time.

Final Thoughts

Working with metal can open up a world of possibilities for architects and builders! From bold facades to flexible interior elements, metal’s strength, flexibility, and sustainability make it an ideal choice for projects of all sizes. 

At Advantage Drafting, we specialize in providing detailed shop drawings and product submittal packages for a wide range of architectural metal applications, including brake metal, cladding, ACM and MCM panels, and more. 

If you need help with bringing precision and creativity to your next project, reach out to us today!