Liquid Metal In Depth: Copper Finishes
Copper is one of the Earth’s native metals – a material that has been shaping human civilisation since the prehistoric era. Coveted for its versatility, it was used to create other valuable metals such as bronze. Its presence remains in everyday life today, being used for important utilitarian roles such as wiring, motors, plumbing and roofing. In interiors, copper brings an understated luxury, whether through lighting, fixtures or decorative accents, its warm hues add depth. Unlike metals traditionally associated with wealth, such as gold and silver, copper carries the notion that there is beauty to be found in the everyday.
However, copper finishes have always been of interest in the world of architecture. Its rich orange-red lustre is unique among metals and is still used extensively in architectural applications today for how it blends a prestigious appearance with immense pliability and durability. With our bespoke copper finishes, the possibilities are widened even further.
By transforming copper into a liquid metal finish, we retain all the intrinsic qualities that make this material so remarkable in a paint form that can applied to almost any surface. This innovation allows designers to incorporate the opulence of copper in ways that were once impossible.
Properties of Copper Finishes
Copper finishes have the same properties and reactions as solid copper. One of their key advantages is corrosion resistance which will not deteriorate even in challenging environments and unexpected chemical reactions, meaning it is particularly beneficial for external copper cladding and architectural detailing.
Copper’s low thermal movement quality means it will reduce the amount of expanding and contracting it undertakes in temperature fluctuations, in turn reducing structural stress. A highly conductive metal, copper is efficient in transferring electrical energy and heat.
While these qualities are well-known, many do not know of copper’s antibacterial properties. It is antimicrobial and anti-biofouling, actively reducing bacteria and other pathogens on its surface, thus is particularly desirable in hospitals, hospitality and high-traffic public areas. These attributes make copper finishes a premium choice for professionals working on new builds, refurbishments and bespoke designs and are concerned about creating a healthier environment.
Copper is a soft metal, meaning that using a finish rather than a solid material makes more structural sense in architecture. By using a liquid metal finish, you get all of the benefits of copper without having to plate a material and create considerable a weight surplus. But that illusion is part of its allure, the impossibility of having a copper exterior wall or interior ceiling, that makes it such a treat for the eyes.
Visually, copper finishes will age and patina when exposed to oxygen and moisture like the solid material. While oxidisation can lead to the formation of rust which can weaken a material, it is also a chance to craft something extraordinary when controlled by an artisan through planned material degradation and patina formation. This is where Revelare elevates architectural design, harnessing the beauty of controlled patina to create depth, texture and a timeless appeal.
Copper Finishes in Architecture
Across the world, you can find aesthetically inspiring examples of copper finishes being used to create architectural spectacles.
In London lies the GMS Estates headquarters, a new structure that has been integrated between two townhouses built in the 1700s. The folded triangular roof features a flush copper-bronze alloy rain screen, designed to weather naturally and blend harmoniously with the historic architecture. This thoughtful addition maintains the character of its surroundings while exuding a striking presence – glowing like an illuminated lantern.
Just a half-hour drive across the capital, the historic Queen’s Tower shows how the ageing of copper material can change its appearance. Originally, its copper dome was a more neutral colour that didn’t attract too much attention. That was until time and exposure shifted it into a bright green which it now boasts as a landmark feature. This type of roofing was popular in the US, too: weighing in at well over 80,000kg, Minneapolis City Hall has the heaviest copper roofing in the USA. Because of this mass, it is no longer practical to make copper roofing anymore, but the same effect can be achieved with a far lighter copper finish instead.
Across the Atlantic Ocean, the Chapel of St. Basil in Houston, Texas adopts a metallic variation to copper, with a glided copper finish. Covered in a thin layer of gold spread across its 70-foot-tall dome, it is a testament to the scale of what can be achieved with a copper finish.
How Many Types of Copper Finishes Are There?
In terms of mechanical finishes, copper has four different types which each give a unique texture:
- Matte: For an authentic look
- Polished: For a bright, mirror-like surface that could be an exterior wall panel
- Directionally Textured: For a fine, satin-like surface that could be used for esteemed rooms that are designed to leave a lasting impression
- Non-Directionally Textured: For a utilitarian look that suits lobbies, elevators, lobbies or bathrooms
However, the total number of copper finishes does not stop there, as there are numerous chemical finishes that can be set. A natural patina on copper will result in a verdigris, which is a green patina. The oxidisation process starts with us carefully sanding and cleaning the surface and from there, we apply the patina using a range of techniques. As the chemicals react, the metal comes alive with colour, and we stop the reaction at just the right moment to cement the starting point.
A natural patina will verdigris over time to bring out a wide, unpredictable range of hues, but we can also pre-patina the copper finish for a particular look and feel, as well as build additional layers through sanding and polishing.
Conversely, synthetic patinas use controlled techniques to create specific outcomes you cannot find naturally. It is all your choice, from the colour to the texture and depth, whether you prefer soft, weathered hues or bold, contrasting depths.
In addition, there are metallic coatings (as seen with the Chapel of St. Basil in Houston, Texas), sulfide treatments and selenide treatments. Add to that the possibilities when mixing these techniques together, and there is a practically endless range of copper finishes with Revelare’s bespoke surface finish artisans at the helm.
Craft the Extraordinary with Revelare
Copper’s legacy in architecture is one of elegance, resilience and timeless appeal. With our innovative liquid metal finishes, we honour this by allowing you to achieve the rich warmth and durability of copper without the limitations of solid metal.
At Revelare, we believe surfaces should captivate, inspire and tell a story. Whether you seek a subtle aged patina, a high-gloss sheen or a completely unique finish crafted by our artisans, we bring your vision to life with precision and creativity. Contact us today to learn more about our offerings or request a sample to see how we can realise your project.