Copper: Elevating Design
Inspiration and Innovation Through Copper in the Built Environment
Sponsored by Copper Development Association, Inc.
A broad discussion of Copper and how design professionals can utilize its amazing properties to create beautiful, efficient, long-lived buildings and thus contribute to the sustainability of our built environment. Includes review and examples of available technical resources. Examples of successful applications of design fundamentals. In addition, current award-winning projects inspire creativity of design professionals.
Photo courtesy of Edd Cote
Portsmouth Abbey Student Center, Portsmouth, Rhode Island, Winner North American Copper in Architecture Award 2025
Sheet Metal Contractor: Crocker Architectural Sheet Metal Co., Inc., North Oxford, Massachusetts
Architect: ikon.5 architects, New York, New York
Metal Finisher: DLSS Manufacturing, Burlington, North Carolina
Copper Development Association Inc. (CDA) is a U.S.-based not-for-profit association of the global copper industry, bringing together North American copper and copper alloy semis fabricators and the global copper mining and production industries. CDA is committed to promoting the proper use of copper materials in sustainable, efficient applications for business, industry and the home.
Originally published in Architectural Record
Originally published in April 2026
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
- Identify copper, common copper alloy families while understanding sourcing and extreme recyclability of architectural products.
- Analyze copper’s unique properties that contribute to functional yet efficient design and systems.
- Realize the functional contributions of copper and copper alloys to sustainable building design.
- Assess recent construction projects utilizing copper and copper alloys in roofing, wall cladding, and ornamental systems.
