The mirrored ceiling at Workplace Resource in Denver, Colorado, transforms a multi-use showroom into an immersive, inspiring gathering space through innovative use of metal.

The design team sought to create an environment that could seamlessly transition from casual lounge settings to a 100-seat lecture or panel discussion venue. To define this otherwise open area, the team selected a highly reflective, textured ceiling treatment that would introduce movement, drama, and emotional impact. The solution was a custom ceiling system. The selected Pattern was designed to evoke the appearance of “Wind on the Water” with a mirror-polished surface with subtle texture that interacts dynamically with light.

Madeline Sapyta, NICIDQ, creative studio director at Workplace Resource, says the light and reflective metal material allows for a lower ceiling height to be successful in defining the space and in shaping the overall impact it has on those interacting in the space. Rodriguez stated, “In terms of metal, it’s really good workmanship with every sheet being pounded.”

With a total project cost of approximately $96,000 and spanning 1,822 square feet, the ceiling installation serves as the visual and experiential centerpiece of the space.

The ceiling panels were fabricated by Sheet Metal Supply Ltd. of Grayslake, Illinois, from 1/16-inch-thick stainless steel. Although the supplier provides sheets up to 48 inches wide, the ceiling was designed with 45-inch panels to accommodate custom bends on all sides. This approach enhanced structural integrity while enabling the panels to integrate seamlessly with the grid system above, maintaining accessibility for building services.

Fabrication posed unique challenges because of the mirror-polished, textured surface, which leaves virtually no margin for error. According to Ben Kweton, president of Sheet Metal Supply, advanced aerospace-grade laser cutting technology was critical to the project’s success. Proximity sensors enabled the laser head to float precisely over the textured surface, ensuring flawless cuts without damaging the finish. Precision Safan press brakes with European-ground tooling and non-marking accessories further ensured that the panels retained their pristine appearance during bending and forming.

SRB Acoustics of Centennial, Colorado, completed the installation in collaboration with general contractor i2Construction of Denver. SRB Acoustics project manager Dan Parker credits the collaborative process and the innovative panel design for transforming a naturally flexible material into a robust, high-performance ceiling system.

From a sustainability standpoint, the project benefits from stainless steel’s durability, longevity, and full recyclability. The material’s long life reduces maintenance and replacement over time. Ultimately, the project demonstrates how metal can be used not only as a functional building material but also as a powerful design element—one that defines space, enhances flexibility, and creates a memorable, light-filled experience for occupants and visitors alike.

The world’s leading global brands rely on Metal Composite Material (MCM) for branding their buildings. Precisely matched colors, the ability to create custom-branded graphics, and the capacity to execute intricate and complex designs are among the top benefits of MCM.

Learn more about MCM > https://ow.ly/FGfX50XaB84

Photos courtesy of 3A Composites and Sobotec Ltd. Design by CORE Architecture

#metalconstruction #architecture #branding

We are counting down the days until the MCA Winter Meeting! Together, we’ll explore emerging trends, tackle shared challenges, and shape the future of metal construction. Non-members are welcome. We look forward to seeing you!

Get the latest > https://metalconstruction.org/index.php/events/winter-meeting/winter-meeting-2026

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• Stay informed about current technology, codes, standards, and sustainability issues.

• Participate in collaborative research to ensure your company sector is represented when making important decisions.

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Photo Courtesy of MCA Member Lorin Industries, Inc.

Designed by Studio GangDesigned

#metalconstruction #metalcompositematerial #insulatedmetalpanels

When the Flint Cultural Center Academy sought a modern, high-tech aesthetic for its new facility, THA Architects Engineers identified insulated metal panels (IMPs) as the ideal solution. IMPs were the only system capable of delivering the dynamic rhythm of shapes and colors envisioned by the Flint, Michigan school district.

“The IMPs also allowed us to use stud and gypsum exterior wall construction to support the watertight, lightweight panels and defer the cost of masonry backup,” explains Jeffrey L. Bennett, AIA, project manager and architect at THA Architects Engineers.

The lightweight nature of IMPs provided designers with the flexibility to extend the roof’s overhang—an essential architectural feature. The prominent overhang above the building’s entrance creates a striking visual, appearing to float effortlessly.

From a performance standpoint, the three-inch panels meet Michigan’s latest energy code requirements, offering a comprehensive wall panel solution. The building’s exterior showcases 28,500 square feet of panels in four distinct colors—yellow and three shades of grey. The artistic arrangement of metal panels and glazing, including a unique curved section, allows for southern exposure and elegantly separates classrooms from the gym and cafeteria areas.

“With two-story elements and tall gym and cafeteria spaces, the metal panels helped us choreograph the façade’s transitions from solids to transparencies,” Bennett notes.

The design team was particularly satisfied with the chosen color palette. “We created a checkerboard effect with the grays, which effectively broke up long bands of metal and enhanced the panel design’s efficiency,” Bennett adds. The architects were able to select from the IMP’s standard color options, avoiding the additional costs associated with custom colors.

To further protect the metal panels and glass, a brick base was integrated into the façade, enhancing both durability and aesthetics. One notable challenge was the transition where the curved IMPs rise above the three-foot-high brick base.

Bennett describes the solution: “We designed a curved, exposed metal flashing using pie-shaped pieces to keep moisture out at the transition.” This special flashing creates a distinctive sill condition that highlights the metal panels at this critical junction.

IMPs consolidate six wall components into a single, high-performance product, featuring concealed clips, fasteners, and sealants at the joints. Factory foaming minimizes the potential for gaps within the panels, ensuring superior insulation and weather resistance.

“Our goal was to create an ultra-contemporary expression that emphasizes technological advances in education, and the sleek metal panels reflect the high-tech look we were striving for,” Bennett states.

Sustainability was a key objective for the project. The architects anticipate that the high-quality IMPs will ensure a long building lifespan with minimal maintenance. The 78,000-square-foot school provides experiential learning opportunities for students from kindergarten through sixth grade.

By integrating high-performance IMPs, the Academy is benefiting from improved energy efficiency, reduced maintenance costs, and enhanced occupant comfort.

We’re proud to work alongside such amazing clients, partners, and colleagues. Wishing you a prosperous 2026!

Photo Courtesy of MCA Member: 3A Composites

#metalconstruction #architecture

The Anne Carlsen Center, located in Jamestown, North Dakota, was founded on the principle that every individual has inherent worth and deserves the opportunity to lead an independent life. The Center strives to be a top provider of education and services for individuals and families of all ages facing challenges such as cerebral palsy, orthopedic, vision, and hearing disabilities, autism, pervasive and other behavioral disorders, and various medical conditions.

JLG Architects has collaborated with the Anne Carlsen Center to create a master plan for a pioneering facility that emphasizes education, independent medical care, and housing. This project aims to strengthen the school’s pedagogical approach while exploring innovative methods to promote independence for all children. The center will include 22 rooms for medically complex acute care patients, 12 long-term care resident rooms, collaborative learning areas, family-focused residential units, a Center for Ideation, and an interactive exhibit space dedicated to the center’s history.

A 2025 MCA Design Award winner, the custom-designed 110,000-square-foot home enhances the organization’s capacity to serve its clients. Its exterior showcases architectural metal wall cladding in a colorful palette, creating a lively and inviting atmosphere for patients and their families. The building features a modern, rectilinear design, with all-metal wall panels used creatively, incorporating corrugated textures and bursts of neon-bright colors around ribboned curtainwall windows. A courtyard play area combines simple geometric shapes and isolated color blocks, reminiscent of Mexican architect Luis Barragan’s work, adding warmth during cold North Dakota winters.

JLG Architects worked with contractor MG McGrath and relied on Petersen to provide PAC-CLAD metal cladding. Designers selected various profiles, including 1/2-in. and 7/8-in. corrugated perforated panels used as a screen at the entrance, along with plain metal sheets. The main finish is Cool Color Bone White, complemented by a range of custom accent colors—Champagne, Lemon Twist, Center Stage Green, Gulfstream, and Purple—to ensure the center stands out even during gray or snowy winter days in the Northern Prairie.

To understand the full range of services offered by the Anne Carlsen Center, it’s useful to know about its namesake. Anne Carlsen was a distinguished educator for children with various disabilities, aware of the challenges they faced. Born on November 4, 1915, she had no forearms and limited lower leg function. Her progressive parents made sure she received the same education as her siblings. Through surgery, prosthetics, and therapy, she learned to walk and earned a Ph.D. in a field focused on the needs of students with disabilities. As she advanced academically, Carlsen became principal of what was then called the Crippled Children’s School in Jamestown. Her advocacy for individuals with disabilities earned the school national recognition, and it was renamed in her honor in 1980. When the new facility opened, it expanded therapeutic services and added residential support for 34 residents, along with outpatient care.