Corten steel is commonly used in architecture and gardens because of its exceptional resistance to the elements, but increasingly it’s appearing in interior design. The vivid, textural finish of this distinctive metal looks at home in rooms with an industrial or rustic theme. From stylish kitchens through to commercial bars, there are so many settings where Corten (AKA weathering steel) fits right in. Thinking about bringing the outside in and using Corten in your interiors? Let this blog inspire you.
1. An Extension for Art
In London, a Grade II-listed home was given an extension dedicated to the owners’ private art collection, designed by Gianni Botsford Architects. The exterior of the building is made of a Corten frame, but the weathering steel theme continues inside. This bespoke cabinet complements the exposed brickwork and houses a quirky hidden toilet.
2. Post Office Apartment
Architects 1508 London designed this conversion of a Victorian post office into a unique apartment. With double-height living room and plenty of space for art on the walls, the look is airy and spacious. Perforated concrete panels in cream pair beautifully with this stunner of a Corten staircase, delivering a warm colour pallet.
3. Bushfire Rebuild
In 2009, just one week after completion, Chris Clarke’s minimalist home ‘Callignee 1’ was razed to a metal skeleton by the Black Saturday bushfires. When it came to creating the new version of the house (‘Callignee 2’), fireproof materials were a must. As well as being circled by a ring of boulders, the incredible home features an abundance of weathered Corten steel.
4. A Corten Couch
Corten steel might not be a material you’d associate with cosying up in front of Netflix, but this Italian designer settee challenges that idea. The Asami Iron sofa, designed by Matteo Guerini and Mara Vernocchi for Colico, combines the structure of Corten with soft upholstery in contrasting muted tones.
5. Geometric Patterns
Weathered Corten is often selected as a standout material for feature walls. But in this design, Corten is the neutral, whilst geometric tiles are the exception. With the patterns on the tiles picking up the rich tones of the weathered floor, walls and counter, the colourway gives off a retro, seventies vibe.
6. Rustic Bathroom
Texture is the order of the day in this spectacular rustic bathroom. A combination of natural woods, stone floors and all that Corten make for a tactile, aged finish. Corten steel is a strong choice for bathrooms and shower enclosures because of its performance in damp environments. The cut-outs in the ceiling here add even more interest.
7. Feature Fire
Flames really bring out the layers of colour in weathering steel, which is why Corten fires always look good. This one takes the concept to another level, quite literally: as well as the stunning, double-height feature wall, that centrepiece offers nifty Corten log storage.
8. Industrial Headboard
In this well-designed studio apartment in Brazil, the Corten effect of the headboard is softened by lights and pale bedlinen. The overall look is warm and inviting, combining the industrial aesthetic with a feeling of restfulness that could be straight out of a high-end hotel.
9. Corten Kitchen Island
The island has become a hallmark of the modern kitchen design. Usually, plinths like this are made from wood, but this bold alternative, in Corten steel, really makes a statement. The power of mixing materials is shown here through a marble worktop, wicker pendant and even an aged brass splashback.
10. Corten Splashback
If you don’t have the space or the budget for a kitchen island, consider a Corten steel splashback like this one. Easy to fit and easy to clean, a splashback like this makes a striking change from traditional stainless steel.