The aesthetic benefits of Stainless steel in architecture

One of the great benefits of Stainless steel over its alternatives in architecture is its customisable, low-maintenance and stunning aesthetic value. This contributes to an attractive, sustainable product that exactly aligns with a client’s needs for all components required, including roofing, balustrading, structural applications, architectural cladding and more.

The importance of aesthetics in architecture

Different architectural projects require different looks; the style of commercial and residential buildings is arguably as important as functionality. In fact, the built environment has a significant influence to quality of life. Good architecture creates vibrant, comfortable spaces that can result in improved mental and physical health. In addition, well-designed buildings attract businesses, investors, and residents, driving economic growth and development - so great design is nothing to sneeze at!

Did you know - designed by William Van Allen and completed in 1929, New York City’s Chrysler building was of the earliest buildings to use Stainless steel cladding as part of its structure. And the world has never looked back!

Roofing

Stainless steel roofing is durable and low maintenance, so will last well, and in the long-run its lack of need for costly repair and replacements makes it an excellent long term investment. In addition, Stainless steel does not develop a patina layer from exposure to the elements, thanks to its existing passive layer, preserving its aesthetic value. passive layer, preserving its aesthetic value. Even corrosive coastal and high-pollution environments are no match for Grade 316 Stainless, with its added Molybednum increasing corrosion resistance, when designed and specified correctly.

Stainless steel is also 100% recyclable and has no contaminating bi-products or corrosive products forming on its surface, so any rainwater that runs from the roof can be reused, making it an excellent sustainable choice for architectural projects, large and small. There are various specific Stainless parts that can be used for rainwater and drainage, customisable to fit any design.

Balustrading/Ornamental

For balustrading, it’s essential to use a material that is not only aesthetically pleasing, but is also sturdy, reliable, and durable to ensure the utmost level of safety. Stainless steel outperforms alternatives such as timber, due to its higher tensile strength, rust resistance, and abilty to withstand corrosion from weather and other factors. It is also easy to clean and maintains its strength and aesthetic value for decades without warping, crumbling, fracturing or bending. It’s an ideal choice for a long-term cost saving solution.

Stainless steel balustrading is particularly popular in contemporary homes as well in as modern buildings and outdoor structures, such as bridges, due to its sleek and minimalist look. There are a great range of design possibilities available, such as round and square railings, complementing the existing design choices of the structure. In addition to its sleek look, architects and engineers value the excellent tensile strength and durability of Stainless steel, ensuring that all balustrading is safe and secure for many years, whereby alternative materials become weaker and potentially unsafe over time.

We have a full blog on ornamental Stainless - have a read here.

Baslutrading for the Altona Pier upgrade, Victoria.

Structural applications

In addition to ensuring safety with study balustrading, Stainless steel is used for a wide range of structural applications for archicectural purposes, including:

Primary beams and columns, pins, barriers, cable sheathing and expansion joints in bridges;
Entrance structures, canopies, cladding and support systems for masonry;
Security barriers, blast walls and coastal structures.

The design, strength and level of corrosion resistance of the Stainless can be customised for its intended purpose. Stainless is able to reinforce various structures and ensure safety, and at the same time not detracting from, but contributing to their aesthetic value.

Architectural cladding

Cladding protects the inside or the outside of a building, and when used in construction applications, can add also structural strength, but are often used for aesthetic value.

Stainless steel trays, panels and strips are excellent options for cladding - they are very highly resistant to corrosion, stains and rust. Stainless steel’s polish and shine can easily be maintained for decades; it can also be vandal-proof if the surface is finished in the correct manner. It creates a striking architectural effect, and can be fabricated to fit basically any shape, with a variety of possible textured or etched surfaces.

Aesthetics-wise, Stainless can be used to highlight or complement more traditional looks, or to create an eclectic blend of classic and modern. Stainless steel wall cladding can be easily installed over many other materials, such as stucco, brick, concrete, or cinder blocks, and coloured or pattern Stainless steel is an amazing decorative scope for architects and interior designers.

Fencing

Various buildings or complexes often require external fencing, and the look and appeal of the fencing can contribute greatly to the impression of the structure within. Stainless steel fencing designs offer sturdy protection as well as a sleek look, a great combination for clients.

Fencing for Coopers Brewery, South Australia.

Unique Infrastructure

In thinking beyond traditional structures, certain architecture can be highly unique and atypical, with designs that require customisation beyond your typical building requirements. Thankfully, Stainless steel is a material that can contribute nicely to these out-of-the-box designs, thanks to its excellent strength, formability and toughness. So, if you want to create something totally unique and futuristic, know that Stainless is here to make your architectural dreams come true!

Lachlan's Line Bridge - Image credit to Landcom.jpg

Christopher Cassaniti Bridge, New South Wales.

Sculpture

For that extra something your architectural project could benefit from, a Stainless steel sculpture is be a great fit! Stainless steel’s malleability and endless customisation options makes it a great material for sculptors to utilise in their work, creating a beautiful asset to attract attention in conjunction with your infrastructure.

puru yuwanthi (still standing) by Alan Sumner in collaboration with artist Karl Meyer and Exhibition Studios.

Our products at Stirlings

For all of the above needs, Stirlings can supply the products you require!

Commonly utilised products in architectural Stainless include:

Stainless steel Sheet and Plate;
Coloured and Textured Sheet;
Balustrade Products, including HiPol Tubulars;
Polished Pipe, Flat Bar & more.

Stainless steel Sheet and Plate

Coloured and Pattern Sheet

Coloured and Textured sheet can create a unique, striking visual appeal to architectural cladding, roofing, sculpture and more.
See our Coloured Stainless steel range here .
See our Pattern Stainless steel range here.

Balustrade Products

We have a great range of Stainless steel Tube, Fittings and more used for balustrade and other design and aesthetic purposes, such as fencing or structural applications.

You can check out our full Ornamental Stainless blog here.

Our product range here.

And our Balustrade fittings catalogue here.

Polished Pipe, Flat Bar & more

We offer different finishes across a range of products. You can find a full blog about Stainless steel finishes here, shop here, see our product range here, and contact us for your specific requirements.

Tube & Pipe polishing service at Stirlings

We are able to polish in-house Round Tube & Pipe up to a 114mm diametre in a variety of finishes, with a choice between #180, #320, and #600 upon inspection.

For balustrade, furniture, architectural or marine, contact us for more information.

Laser Processing for custom shapes

For various reasons, clients may require customised shapes for their projects. With our world-class Laser processing service, we can provide exactly what you need!