Stainless steel is a metal alloy that contains iron, chromium, nickel, and other elements that enhance its corrosion resistance, strength, and durability. It is widely used in architecture, building, and construction for various purposes, such as structural frames, cladding, roofing, façades, railings, and sculptures. Stainless steel has many advantages over other materials, such as high resistance to weathering, fire, and vandalism, low maintenance cost, long service life, and aesthetic appeal.
One of the most common ways to use stainless steel in architecture is to create fluid and shiny structures that reflect light and create dynamic effects. Some of the techniques that architects use to achieve this are:
Curving and bending the steel panels or sheets to form organic shapes that mimic natural forms or movements. For example, Frank Gehry’s Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles has a visually soft appearance that complements the building’s billowing, sail-like design1. Zaha Hadid’s Invest corp Building at Oxford University forms a visible bond between two buildings with one fluid curve.
Polishing or mirror-finishing the steel surface to create a reflective effect that changes with the angle of view and the surrounding environment. For example, Farshid Moussavi’s Museum of Contemporary Art Cleveland is clad with mirror-finished black stainless steel that reflects the city around it. Moshe Safdie’s Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts in Kansas City has ribs clad in bead-blasted stainless steel that contrast with the glass rear of the building.
Bronzing or coloring the steel surface to create a warm and inviting exterior that blends with the natural landscape or contrasts with the urban context. For example, Studio Libeskind’s 18.36.54 House in Connecticut is named for the 18 planes, 36 points, and 54 lines formed by the origami-like structure that is covered with mirror-finished bronzed stainless steel. Yoshihiro Amano’s Dear Jingumae Building in Tokyo is surrounded by ribbons of steel that mimic the natural movement of clothing.
All above visuals are creatively crafted by one of the best architecture and interior design firm in Indore|India HEAD Studio.