Metals & Forms
Dissimilar Metal Design is an architectural manufacturer of high-end natural metal systems. This includes not just the metal surface — but also the form.
Great forms start with the surface. Below we’ve highlighted some of the incredible proprietary patinas on natural metals, from weathering steel and stainless to zinc, copper, and aluminum. Each metal carries its own character, patina, and performance profile, and we shape them with equal attention to craft and durability.
Metalforming Resources
Natural Metals
Metals with patina finishes by Dissimilar
Dissimilar Metal Design offers an immense variety of tones and textures on natural architectural metals. Beyond their visual allure, custom patinas contribute to the durability and longevity of metal surfaces. The patina layer acts as a protective barrier, shielding the metal from corrosion, environmental pollutants, and weathering. Unlike traditional paint or coatings, the patina matures gracefully over time, evolving in response to its surroundings.
Weathering Steel
Dissimilar Metal Design is the leading fabricator of weathering steel architectural systems in the United States. This material begins life as an alloy containing quantities of copper, chromium, nickel, and other alloying elements. Great lengths are taken to procure quality raw material and to clear the material of contaminants. This unique handling dramatically enhances corrosion resistance, creating extreme durability and long service life.
Weathering Steel Resources
Preweathered Zinc
Zinc is one of the highest rated materials in terms of longevity in exterior use. In exterior architectural design, zinc panels are a versatile choice. Zinc panels are a key element in exterior architectural design, offering several strengths. Cladding and facades and zinc roofs benefit from its contemporary appearance. If properly detailed and installed, it will ensure enduring longevity, astounding aesthetics, and minimal maintenance.
Zinc Resources
Copper Alloys
Copper and copper alloys such as brass and bronze provide versatility and a range of benefits, making an excellent choice for architectural applications. Dissimilar has developed a number of custom architectural patinas, exhibiting a wide range of expression. These material’s natural resistance to corrosion ensures longevity and reduces maintenance costs, making it an ideal choice for long-lasting and visually striking exteriors.
Copper, BRASS, and BRONZE Resources
Weathered Copper, Brass & Bronze Dissimilar Book: Copper (PDF)
Blackened Stainless Steel
Dissimilar is unique in the architectural space for offering a number of patina surfaces on stainless steel. These patinas allow architects and designers to infuse personality and character, for both interior and exterior projects. Stainless steel, known for its durability and resistance to corrosion, is often favored in architectural design. However, Dissimilar goes beyond the conventional by introducing customized patinas to stainless steel surfaces.
Blackened Stainless Steel Resources
Aluminum
Aluminum combines durability, lightweight construction, and corrosion resistance. For architectural systems, aluminum offers numerous advantages over other materials, especially for structural systems. Its low density makes it easy to handle during construction, reducing labor and transportation costs. Aluminum naturally forms a protective oxide layer, preventing corrosion and extending the lifespan of exterior components.
Aluminum Resources
Dissimilar patina engineers will work with your project to develop a patinated surface that complements your desired aesthetics. Custom patinas are not just about color; they’re about narrative. The process is akin to painting, with patina artists using a palette of chemicals, heat, and technique to create intricate designs, gradients, and textures on metal surfaces. These artistic interventions add layers of depth and complexity, turning flat metal sheets into three-dimensional stories.
Additional Natural Metal Resources
Weathered Fasteners
Custom patinated stainless steel fasteners with blackened and weathered steel patina aesthetics are now available for procurement.
Get weathered metal fasteners for your project
The Patina Emerges
Specifying metal with patina can be elusive — the material interacts with the climate in mercurial ways. But it also has its immense benefits as a protective shield and an aesthetic wonderland.
