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Scarlet Fever: Red perforated metal trend

Vibrant, bold and emotionally appealing to the senses, red perforated metal isn’t a trend for the faint of heart.

One of the strongest colours in the architectural palette, the use of red in architecture has even been celebrated in a dedicated book – Red: Architecture in Monochrome – which showcases red buildings around the world.

But why is red so popular? It’s a colour that literally stops you in your tracks. Typically associated with power, danger, strength and love, in some cultures red symbolises luck, prosperity, celebration and happiness.

Red is basically one of the most emotionally-triggering and stand-out colours you can use in an architectural project.

Red perforated metal uses

Adding a red finish is an easy and cost-effective way to make an architectural statement when using perforated metal. When red perforated metal is used as a facade, a building has an intense and instant impact. For other uses like balustrade, that feature becomes an immediate focal point.

Just take a look at this tennis centre in Blacktown, which uses a red metal mural, created by Arrow Metal, to great effect. It’s the perfect contrast to the outdoor landscape – with the red colour continued inside to motivate and energise players.

We also love the use of scarlet perforated metal for this cultural centre in France by Peripheriques/Marin + Trottin Architectes. The striking 3D angular form of the building, especially when combined with vibrant red, makes this venue anything but square.

Or the red metal stairs created created by London studio Diapo for a residential client, the stairs were inspired by a Tate Modern installation which the homeowner wanted to re-create.

How red perforated metal is made

If you’re ready to go bold with your project’s perforated metal, all Arrow Metal perforated metal – in-stock, made-to-order and customised – can be coloured red in any shade of your preference, from classic bright and bold reds to rich ruby tones.

A colour is added to perforated metal either by:

• Anodising: Anodising is a way to make your perforated metal more durable. Colours can be added during the anodising process, resulting in a weather-resistant finish that won’t peel or flake.
• Powder-coating: Powder-coating applies paint powder electrostatically, resulting in a hard, coloured metal surface.

We’ll advise which type of finish to use for your red perforated metal depending on your chosen base material, product use, location and any environmental factors.

Coloured perforated metal expertise

Download our brochure and explore our range of in-stock and made-to-order perforated metal, or our bespoke perforated metal solutions. If you’d like to make a product enquiry, call us on (02) 9748 2200 or send us an online enquiry and we’ll get back to you.