Member-only story

Ornamental Designs From Architectural Sheet Metal: Adorning Buildings with Metallic Masterpieces

Joe Simmons

·16.7k Followers· Follow

Published in Ornamental Designs From Architectural Sheet Metal: The Complete Broschart Braun Catalog Ca 1900 (Dover Pictorial Archive)

4 min read · 1 month before

520 View Claps

45 Respond

Save

Listen

The realm of architecture is a symphony of design and functionality, where form and function intertwine to create captivating structures. Among the many elements that contribute to the beauty and grandeur of buildings, ornamental designs crafted from architectural sheet metal stand out as true works of art.

Ornamental Designs from Architectural Sheet Metal: The Complete Broschart & Braun Catalog, ca. 1900 (Dover Pictorial Archive)

by Jacob Broschart

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	54746 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	668 pages

The Canvas of Architecture

Architectural sheet metal has emerged as a versatile medium for transforming the exteriors of buildings into canvases of intricate artistry. These metallic masterpieces adorn various architectural features, including facades, roofing, gutters, downspouts, spires, finials, and cornices.

The Palette of Metals

The world of architectural sheet metal encompasses a wide spectrum of metals, each with its unique properties and aesthetic appeal. Copper, renowned for its rich patina and durability, lends a timeless elegance to buildings. Zinc, with its silvery hue and corrosion resistance, provides a modern and industrial touch. Steel, strong and versatile, offers a wide range of design options. Aluminum, lightweight and durable, is a popular choice for contemporary architecture.

A Symphony of Shapes and Forms

The artistry of ornamental sheet metal designs lies in their ability to transform simple metal sheets into intricate works of art. Skilled craftsmen meticulously cut, shape, and mold the metal to create a vast array of shapes and forms. From geometric patterns to flowing scrolls, from naturalistic motifs to abstract designs, the possibilities are endless.

The Art of Facades

Architectural sheet metal plays a pivotal role in enhancing the facades of buildings. Ornate cornices, intricate window surrounds, and elaborate moldings add depth and dimension to exterior walls. These decorative elements not only beautify the building but also accentuate its architectural style, whether it be classical, gothic, or contemporary.

Crowning Glory: Roofing and Spires

Ornamental sheet metal extends its artistry to the rooftops of buildings. Metal roofing systems, with their intricate patterns and gleaming surfaces, transform ordinary roofs into architectural masterpieces. Spires, rising majestically above the roofline, serve as both functional and ornamental elements, enhancing the building's verticality and adding a touch of elegance.

Functional Art: Gutters and Downspouts

Even the most mundane architectural elements, such as gutters and downspouts, can become objects of beauty with the touch of ornamental sheet metal. These essential drainage systems are adorned with decorative molding, embossed patterns, and unique shapes, transforming them from purely functional components into aesthetic highlights.

The art of ornamental sheet metal design is a testament to the transformative power of metal in architecture. It elevates ordinary buildings into extraordinary works of art, adding beauty, character, and a touch of the extraordinary to the urban landscape. "Ornamental Designs From Architectural Sheet Metal" is a comprehensive guide to this fascinating art form, showcasing the infinite possibilities and creative genius that it embodies.

Ornamental Designs from Architectural Sheet Metal: The Complete Broschart & Braun Catalog, ca. 1900 (Dover Pictorial Archive)

by Jacob Broschart

4.6 out of 5