8 Ways To Make Steel Buildings Stand Out

Before, people traditionally used concrete or wood for buildings. But with the advancement of technology, steel buildings came into existence. Steel buildings offer a lot of benefits over the other options, making them the first option for people today.

This is why a lot of industrial constructions are now made of steel. Similarly, homeowners prefer steel structures for man-caves, workshops, she-sheds, and garages.

However, one drawback of a steel building is that it isn’t visually appealing and looks plain. But this shouldn’t discourage you from considering steel buildings because this construction material can offer a lot of benefits. And here’s the most exciting part: there are plenty of ways you can make your steel building stand out and look more inviting and visually appealing. So, are you ready to make your steel building stand out from the rest? Here are some ways to make it happen:

Pick The Right Style For Your Roof

The look of a steel building will depend on the style of the roof. That’s why you need to choose the right one that will suit the design of your building. You should also consider your personal preference and the style that will fit with other buildings in your local area.

When it comes to steel building, there are two roof styles to choose from—pitched roof and mono sloped roof.

  • Pitched Roof

This roof style can be easily recognized by its triangular shape. In fact, it’s the leading option when it comes to roof style for steel buildings.  Another good thing about a pitched roof is that it can easily shed snow and water. It can also offer additional space for vaulted ceilings or attics. And most importantly, it allows more ventilation. However, extremely high wind speed may peel materials away from the pitched roof.

A Low Cost Container House in South Korea by JYA-RCHICTECTS which features a simple gable roof
A Low Cost Container House in South Korea by JYA-RCHICTECTS which features a simple gable roof. Explore the full project here.
  • Flat or Mono Sloped Roof

The mono sloped roof, on the other hand, is characterized by a gentle slope that runs from the façade of the building to its back. Usually, it has a six-degree pitch that facilitates the running off of the water. Usually, this roof style is used in commercial or industrial buildings.

35th Street is one of the world’s largest steel housing project by Teget in Turkey and features flat roofs topped with crushed gravel.
35th Street is one of the world’s largest steel housing project by Teget in Turkey and features flat roofs topped with crushed gravel.
See the project here.
The WFH House, made from shipping containers features a mono sloped roof.
The WFH House, made from shipping containers features a mono sloped roof. See how the roof was built here.

Nevertheless, the design of a mono-sloped roof is beneficial if you want to install PV solar panels. This makes it a great option for those who want to have an energy-independent and energy-efficient steel building home that stands out. Unlike the first roof style, this one is a lot easier to construct and needs fewer materials. But its low pitch makes the mono-sloped roof more prone to water leakage. Thus, it isn’t advisable for high snow or high rainfall locations.

Nonetheless, roofing materials for steel buildings come in different thicknesses, colors, and finishes. Thus, make sure to pick one that’s best suited for your construction project and one that will meet the planning approval without neglecting the overall appearance of your building.

Opt For A Visually Appealing Color

The color you choose may either make or break the overall appearance of your steel building. One way to improve your property’s curb appeal is to pick a relaxed color for the building’s exterior. The majority of steel building manufacturers provide a wide variety of colors. With that in mind, don’t simply stick to standard and boring colors.

A model home in Lagos, Nigeria by Kalsi Construction using light gauge steel, features a bold yellow accent in it shiplap cladding facade.
A model home in Lagos, Nigeria by Kalsi Construction using light gauge steel, features a bold yellow accent in it shiplap cladding facade. See more about the project here.

For a more modern look, you can never go wrong with dark blue, beige, or gray. But if you want to achieve a look that’s rustic or more traditional, consider shiplap or wood siding. When choosing the right color, keep in mind that you’re only limited by your imagination. Hence, you need to consider experimenting. After all, customizing your steel building colors is an effective way for your building to stand out.

Install Shutters, Windows, And Doors

To make your steel building stand out as well as more inviting and welcoming, consider adding shutters, windows, and doors. These are common elements of houses. Even when you’re only using your steel building as your shop, these elements will make your space more appealing. When it comes to shutters, windows, and doors, there are plenty of options available. But make sure to choose one that will suit the style of your home or building, as well as the other buildings around your property.

The Striking Facade of Angular Windows for Drivelines Studios in Maboneng, Johannesburg by Lo-Tek
The Striking Facade of Angular Windows for Drivelines Studios in Maboneng, Johannesburg by Lo-Tek. Explore the full project here.

Installing windows will allow natural light into your property. From trim color to shape and size, you can customize the windows to match your building and make it more visually appealing. A large expansive window can add appeal and drama. However, you shouldn’t be afraid to use garage-style windows. After all, it’s for a steel building. Shutters, on the other hand, are an added touch that will make the steel building look homier.

When it comes to doors, installing these elements will make the space easier to access while enhancing curb appeal. Just like with shutters and windows, there are plenty of options to choose from to make your steel building stand out. In fact, you can also order a custom door for the building to boost its overall appearance. Nevertheless, some of the best doors that you can use are glass patio doors, barn doors, overhead doors, metal walk doors, embellished doors, and double front doors.

Invest In Landscaping

Though it’s a costly way to make your steel building stand out, landscaping can be worth it considering it helps you achieve your goal of having an eye-catching structure. Did you know that even simple landscaping can transform the overall look and feel of a simple steel building?

An inviting pool garden for this Modular Shipping Container Home in Manhattan by MB Architecture.
An inviting pool garden for this Modular Shipping Container Home in Manhattan by MB Architecture. See the full project here
These container homes are surrounded by a lush garden with large trees.
These container homes are surrounded by a lush garden with large trees. Explore the full project here.

Adding trees, annuals, perennials, flowers, and shrubs can make the area feel more like home. You can incorporate landscaping elements around the perimeter. At the same time, you should never forget the lawn. To make your steel building more welcoming, add a lush green and healthy lawn, as it can soften the building’s look.

Colorful flowers will also brighten up your space. Furthermore, adding stone pathways and walkways that have bushes, shrubs, and grasses can also make the steel building more attractive.

Landscaping is quite expensive, but smart designs can offer you a considerable return on investment. 

Add Lighting

Both landscape and outdoor lighting can add a touch of style to the structure of your steel building. The lighting’s arrangement and style can help in making your building more inviting and feel like home. Furthermore, it can also be used in highlighting the building’s architectural elements.

A residential project in Abuja built using shipping containers features an array of outdoor lighting.
A residential project in Abuja built using shipping containers features an array of outdoor lighting. See the full project here.

With the right lighting, you can add drama and make the space cozier, especially at night. Farmhouse and sconce style lighting can illuminate the space without sacrificing or overwhelming its overall appeal.

Make An Entertaining Space

Another way to make your steel building stand out is to create an entertaining space outdoors. From an outdoor kitchen and covered dining area to pergolas and fire pits, there are endless ways to make such gathering spaces close to your steel building. Also, these places can easily be accompanied by thoughtful lighting and landscaping. Remember, the entertaining area can be as simple or intricate as your budget allows.

A residential project in Abuja built using shipping containers features an outdoor seating area.
A residential project in Abuja built using shipping containers features an outdoor seating area. See the full project here.

Add A Porch

Steel buildings with a porch tend to stand out more compared to standard buildings without architectural features. Consider a deep porch for a rocking chair or make a covered area for outdoor entertaining. Also, keep this suggestion in mind: when you’re designing a porch, make sure to go beyond the basics. It means playing with various styles, materials, and colors to make your steel building look and feel exceptional.

This container home in Toronto features 2 planted terraces.
This container home in Toronto features 2 planted terraces. See the full project here.

Add A Wainscoting

In addition to a porch, you should also take into account wainscoting, as it can make your steel building more visually striking. It will also make the building feel more like a home. Adding stones or bricks is a good way to achieve a well-designed look. The good thing is that you don’t have to spend a considerable amount of money on this. All you need to do is change the siding’s color to make the same effect. To draw attention to these details, make sure to opt for a contrasting color.

Corten Steel Cladding on this Metal Home add dimension and texture to the facade.
Corten Steel Cladding on this Metal Home add dimension and texture to the facade. See the full project here.

Final Message

Making a steel building stand out may seem like a costly, complex, and extensive process. But if you’re familiar with what it involves, and when you consider seeking help from steel building professionals, the process will become a lot easier. Compared to the costs involved in constructing conventional buildings, the expenses involved in buying steel building materials are considerably less. With that in mind, you’ll have the financial flexibility to experiment to make your steel building stand out. 

Whether you’re using a steel building as a residential or commercial space, hopefully, the above-mentioned ways will help you make your building look more inviting and visually appealing. One more thing: by keeping the space clean and well-maintained, you can be certain that passersby will turn their heads and you’ll surely receive a lot of praise. There’s also a tendency that they’ll ask you for some advice on how you achieved such a look for your steel building.

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