We’re Dissimilar. We specialize in architectural forms with natural metal patinas, putting design first to serve your vision. Contact us to get started.
Trusted by Architects & Builders
You’re in Good Company
Our team at Dissimilar Metal Design is trusted to deliver fabricated metal components by hundreds of top architecture firms and contractors around the world.
Featured Projects
Highlights from the DMD portfolio featuring metal systems design-engineered and fabricated by Dissimilar.
- Renton World Cup Legacy Square
DMD provided weathering steel metalwork for Renton World Cup Legacy Square, a new public performance stage and gathering place in downtown Renton. - Area 15: District
Zinc-plated steel and weathering steel from Dissimilar Metal Design create an unambiguously playful space for Las Vegas’ latest theme park.
The Dissimilar Process
The core of our business is a dedication to serving your design and budget with natural metal forms that will stand the test of time. This means bringing projects in with design assist, developing patinas on metal that match your design intent, and forming and processing these metals into turn-key systems that make the job site a breeze.
Dissimilar Metal Design (DMD) was founded in 1989 in Seattle and has steadily expanded, providing patinated metal surfaces protect the metal’s integrity, preventing further deterioration, while delivering an unprecedented aesthetic.
Metal Forming
Architectural metal forming processes are part of the foundation for Dissimilar Metal Design. We’ve developed powerful tools to achieve curved facades, sculptural elements, canopies, roofing, facades with a range of processes.
Surface Patinas
Bring artisan patina processes into your projects for exquisite surfaces. This transformation of metal surfaces not only adds captivating visual allure but also bolsters durability and resistance to the elements. Marry artistry with science with controlled patina processes that elevate the aesthetics and longevity of architectural metals.
Design Assist
Design Assist is a dynamic and collaborative approach within the realm of architecture and construction that empowers project stakeholders to collectively shape and refine design concepts. This process transcends traditional boundaries by fostering close cooperation between architects, designers, engineers, contractors, and specialized consultants.
Surface Processing
Whether the design calls for embossed, laser-cut, perforated, water jet, punched, or gouged, our facilities are here to create your patterns and visions cut away from sheet surfaces.
Careers
We offer both on-location and remote opportunities, with varied and interesting work. Opportunities abound for individuals seeking to combine their passion for design, engineering, craftsmanship, and innovation.
Dissimilar Projects, Mapped
Across the United States, you can find Dissimilar Metal Design’s work built into the walls, facades, and structures that define a place. This map shows a selection of the projects we’ve helped bring into the world.
Explore the map, click through the projects, and see how each surface reacts differently to its environment. You’ll find everything from small experimental installations to large public facades, all united by the same attention to craft and finish that defines DMD.
Latest Posts & Stories
- The Case for Meta Lifecycles
Circular lifecycles are a good start, but we can do better. - Site Weathering vs. Preweathered Steel
Installing raw weathering steel and allowing it to develop a patina on site may sound simple, but it will lead to staining, inconsistent… Continue reading Site Weathering vs. Preweathered Steel - Weathering Steel Bleeding Prevention Guide
Prevent bleeding on weathering steel by learning the science, common handling mistakes, and maintenance requirements for corten steel.
Upcoming Projects
New upcoming projects featuring metal systems design-engineered and fabricated by Dissimilar.
- UMass Lowell Olney Science Center
A major expansion of the UMass Lowell Olney Science Center features a patinated copper facade developed by Dissimilar Metal Design. - Charlotte Mecklenburg Library
A new library project in Charlotte featuring sculptural weathering-steel systems fabricated by Dissimilar Metal Design as part of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library renovation designed by Snøhetta.