A Dissimilar Story
architectural forms from the Pacific northwest
Design Surface Process Form
We believe that every great project starts with an exploration of design, surface, process, and form. By servicing these core areas and identifying opportunities, we can over-deliver, and help bring imaginative projects to completion.
Surface Patina
Explore our surfaces, or work with our team to develop an exclusive metal surface for your project.
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Processed Surfaces
Emboss, perforate, etch, carve, or add to surfaces with our CNC, machine, and hand-formed processes.
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Complex Forms
Curved facade, roof, canopy and architectural features, sculptural elements, we are your team for form.
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The Importance of Place
Dissimilar Metal Design is an architectural metals company based in Bremerton, WA a short ferry across Elliot Bay from Seattle. Our location in a port city makes us uniquely suited for delivering architectural forms both in the United States, as well as internationally. Our team designs, engineers, and manufactures premium weatherized exterior facades, landscape elements, and interior wall systems from the best sources of natural metals.
Dissimilar began as a small metal workshop in Ballard, the historic Seattle neighborhood. The company evolved into a leader in the facade market, supplying built projects in international markets. Drawing inspiration from the naturally occurring oxidation process found in nature, Dissimilar Metal Design accelerates and stabilizes the aging process that could take years or otherwise be impossible to achieve a client’s desired aesthetic. Taking an artistic method ensures completely unique creations.
Our Tenets
Philosophy
We believe that metal is not just a material—it’s a medium for expressing ideas, pushing boundaries, and turning imagination into reality. We approach each project as an opportunity to merge artistic expression with technical expertise, resulting in structures that are not only visually captivating but also functionally superior.
Communication
Our team of skilled artisans, engineers, and designers understand that communication is the most powerful tool we have. We understand the challenges that architects and developers face, and that so much of it comes down to getting the right information at the right time — and we rise to meet this challenge.
Approach
We believe in a holistic approach to metal fabrication—one that embraces collaboration, sustainability, and innovation. By working closely with architects, designers, and clients, we ensure that every project is a harmonious blend of artistic vision, technical expertise, and functional brilliance.
Sustainability:
Sustainability is at the core of our ethos. We are committed to minimizing our environmental footprint through responsible material sourcing, efficient processes, and the use of eco-friendly technologies. Our aim is to not only create beautiful structures but also contribute to a more sustainable and resilient future.
History
Dissimilar Metal Design was founded in 1989 in Seattle. DMD began as a small metal workshop in the Ballard area, and the company has evolved into a leader in the facade market, having supplied built projects around the globe. Drawing inspiration from the naturally occurring oxidation process found in nature, Dissimilar Metal Design accelerates and stabilizes the aging process that could take years or otherwise be impossible to achieve a client’s desired aesthetic. Taking an artistic method ensures completely unique creations and we welcome a collaborative approach.
As the shop expanded, the company moved across Elliot Bay to Bremerton, WA just a short ferry ride from Downtown Seattle. The company transformed from a small craft shop, and now employs a team of designers, engineers, and fabricators who bring premium weatherized exterior facades, landscape elements, and interior wall systems from the best sources of natural metals.
