Crafted to Endure Beyond the Sample

At Dissimilar Metal Design, we believe that great metalwork begins long before fabrication. It starts in conversation—shaped by drawings, questions, tests, and shared ideas. The best projects start with early-phase design assist, where we can help translate architectural intention into material reality.

That’s exactly what happened with the Central Arizona Project Water Education Center, designed by Jones Studio. For this project, we crafted an early sculptural mockup using weathering steel. The surface pattern reflects a design motif that’s central to the building’s identity. It’s a first glimpse into the physical language of the project—a real, tactile reference that allows everyone to imagine what’s to come.

But our work goes beyond samples. We approach early-phase design assist with uncommon focus and attention, helping architects and builders explore what’s possible, eliminate guesswork, and ensure that no detail gets lost on the path from concept to completion. We ask the right questions. We share deep material insight. And we stay aligned with the project’s vision—technically, aesthetically, and culturally.

In this case, the choice of weathering steel wasn’t just visual. It was strategic. Our treatment process ensures that the material won’t “bleed” or stain nearby surfaces—critical in an arid climate where water is sacred and visual clarity matters. We’re proud to help shape projects that not only meet expectations, but endure far beyond them.

Jones Studio describes the Central Arizona Project’s larger goals:

“To say that the Central Arizona Project impacts the daily lives of almost 6 million Arizona residents and businesses across three counties—as well as tribal communities all along the Colorado River system—is an understatement. … Actively connecting visitors to the CAP’s system makes our current water challenges relevant in their daily lives.”

We’re honored to support a project where architecture plays an active role in education, stewardship, and connection—where material choices carry meaning, and collaboration is central to the mission.

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