Corten Steel

Corten steel is a weather-resistant structural steel that matches stainless steel in durability and performance. Produced exclusively under license from the US Steel Corporation, it is highly resistant to atmospheric corrosion due to the addition of small amounts of chromium, copper, and nickel. This steel can be used outdoors without any protective coatings, as exposure to changing weather conditions—wet and dry cycles—naturally forms a protective patina. In simple terms, the steel rusts, and that rust becomes its shield.

This steel is not only modern but also exceptionally durable. The delicate brown patina covering the surface makes it highly practical, eliminating the need for cleaning or repainting while ensuring superior corrosion resistance. Due to the alloying elements, the patina is dense and nearly impermeable to oxygen. In fact, regular exposure to moisture followed by drying further extends the lifespan of Corten steel.

Corten steel surface changes over the years:

Corten steel is a remarkable material that is gaining popularity in gardens and urban spaces worldwide. Its distinctive rich orange color and naturally oxidizing surface make it a highly desirable choice for architectural projects. This steel is commonly used in landscape architecture, facades, fences, lighting fixtures, and various other outdoor applications. Choosing Corten steel eliminates many common concerns—there is no risk of paint peeling over time (a frequent issue with painted metals), corrosion weakening the structure (a common problem with poorly prepared outdoor products), or the material becoming outdated (as Corten steel’s color continuously evolves). In fact, this metal strengthens over time, as its patina layer seals the metal’s pores and prevents further corrosion.

Every Corten steel product is unique, with variations in the intensity of its patina coating. Initially, the surface appears bright orange, but over time, it darkens. Exposure to different weather conditions—such as temperature fluctuations, rain, sun, shade, humidity, and contact with other materials—further enhances its individual aesthetic, making each piece one of a kind.

Although Corten steel is primarily used for outdoor applications, it also has great potential for interior design. However, in indoor settings, the material must be treated with special protective coatings (see the "Rust-Proofing Methods" section).

To explore various uses for this steel, try searching for keywords like "Corten products" or "Corten design" in Google Images.

While Corten steel is best suited for outdoor environments—where exposure to rain and drying cycles create its signature browning effect—many people are now incorporating its striking appearance into interior spaces, such as furniture accents, wall features, and fireplace bases. It is important to note that without regular wetting and drying, the natural browning process does not occur. However, this effect can be achieved artificially using special chemicals, where a browning activator is first applied, followed by an indoor-use varnish to seal the patina layer.

For more interior design inspiration using Corten steel, try searching for keywords like "Corten indoor" or "Corten inside" in search engines.