Custom architectural fabrication is the process of designing and building bespoke structural elements that fit the unique needs of a specific project.
Whether it’s for a feature staircase, a commercial awning/canopy, or custom railings, the process of custom architectural fabrication requires working with architects and project leads to manufacture solutions that are tailored to both the functional purpose and aesthetic goals of a particular project.
Architectural Fabrication in Action ↓
Feature Walters fabricated and installed 20 elegant shelter canopies for Viva Shelters in Toronto’s York Region.
These impressive canopies consist of three segments of architecturally exposed structural steel (AESS) seamlessly welded together. Finished with automotive-quality paint, each canopy not only provides durable protection against the elements but also features a modern design that enhances the urban landscape.
Understanding Architectural Fabrication
At its core, architectural fabrication blends design with expert craftsmanship to create one-of-a-kind elements like staircases, fences, awning solutions, and enclosures that enhance the front of your project.
This process can involve a variety of materials, including stainless steel, corten, aluminum, copper, wood, fabric, and even complex sheet metal designs.
The versatility of custom architectural metal fabrication ensures that each project can meet precise aesthetic and structural requirements.
The Fabrication Process
When starting a custom project, the journey begins with an in-depth consultation. This is where digital fabricators use their years of experience and material knowledge to map out the design.
From here, CAD drawings are produced to ensure the final design aligns with the project development timeline and the client’s vision.
This meticulous planning phase ensures that when the metal punches, laser cutting, and estimating come into play, the project moves forward efficiently, even in the late stage of the project.
Architectural fabrication often includes the creation of engineered metal sub-structures, providing a strong core for key elements like custom railings or ceiling grids.
These sub-structures can also be critical for achieving sound dampening, durability against corrosion, and even sun damage protection.
The integration of these features ensures the final result is not only stylish, but practical for long-term use.
Why Custom Architectural Fabrication Matters
Custom architectural fabrication isn’t just about creating visually striking designs; it’s also about ensuring each piece has a functional purpose.
A high-quality custom staircase or display can be more than a decorative element—it serves to protect valuable merchandise, provide sound structural integrity, or deliver a stylish first impression to tenants or visitors.
For example, custom metal awning structures offer durability against corrosion and can be engineered to serve as the right commercial shade, blending seamlessly with the fabric structures or fences that may be part of a project’s larger design.
The use of high-quality materials like copper and stainless steel in architectural metal fabrication ensures that even metal structures or custom signage can withstand the elements and maintain their structural integrity over time.
When paired with expert design and craftsmanship, these materials result in a high-quality experience for both building owners and users.
Architectural Fabrication in Action ↓
Feature Walters fabricated and installed a stunning staircase for a New York Financial Firm in midtown Manhattan.
This elegant feature stair features a graceful curvature that encourages interaction and enhances the bright environment of the expansive office space. The design incorporates stainless steel handrails with concealed connections, while the treads are elegantly set in the wall to a hidden stringer, creating a striking floating effect.
Materials and Versatility
One of the key benefits of architectural fabrication is the wide variety of materials that can be used to meet specific project needs.
Whether your design calls for a sleek finish, textured leather, blackened steel, or the rugged weathered look of corten steel, custom fabrication allows you to achieve the exact look and feel you’re aiming for.
Architectural fabricators also specialize in designing solutions to protect against environmental challenges like corrosion or sun damage, while still maintaining a strong aesthetic.
This versatility is key to delivering a final result that blends form and function, whether the project involves custom architectural metal fabrication or enclosures that have to meet specific technical requirements.
Wrapping Up
Custom architectural fabrication plays a critical role in delivering unique, high-quality solutions for modern buildings and public spaces.
With the right team of digital fabricators and years of experience, your project can benefit from expert consultation, precision CAD drawings, and the use of a variety of materials to meet both aesthetic and structural goals.
Whether it’s custom stairs, unique metal work or even sculptures and artwork, custom architectural fabrication can make a lasting impact on any project.
Feature Walters is proud to work with progressive architects and engineers to create the unique elements that define leading-edge architecture.
Contact us today to find out how our unique combination of scale and attention to detail can contribute to your next project.
The Feature Walters Design Guide
ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE.
Our Feature Walters team has created this guide as a resource to help educate and inspire you with the many styles, materials and finishes available for architects seeking leading-edge architectural options for feature staircases.
"*" indicates required fields