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September 8, 2020

Metal Craft News

Textures of Bronze Alloys

Textures of metal are one of the defining elements within buildings or spaces. Various design intent can be implemented by selecting the most suitable material and finishes.

The following pictures are an excerpt from Kikukawa’s finish samples displayed in Kikukawa’s showroom, Studio K+. Within Studio K+, various selected samples, from the typical finishes to the extraordinary finishes, are on display to showcase the diversity of metal textures, and as an inspiration board for designers.

Bronze finish samples displayed in Kikukawa's showroom, Studio K+. Differences of bronze alloys are explained on the chalkboard.
Bronze finish samples displayed in Kikukawa’s showroom, Studio K+. Differences of bronze alloys are explained on the chalkboard.

Common finishes, such as hairline (HL) or vibration (PHL or VIB), can be made-to-order by differentiating various factors such as depth or frequency. These slight changes create an impression when used as a large architectural panel, through elements such as the reflectivity of the panels.

Left: Bronze, deep hairline (D-HL) and matte clear coating finished. Right: Brass, scratch hairline (Scratch HL) and matte clear coating finished.
Left: Bronze, deep hairline (D-HL) and matte clear coating finished. Right: Brass, scratch hairline (Scratch HL), and matte clear coating finished.
Left: Copper, vibration (PHL or VIB) with matte clear coating finish. Right: Bronze, deep vibration (D-PHL or D-VIB) with matte clear coating finish.
Left: Copper, vibration (PHL or VIB) with matte clear coating finish. Right: Bronze, deep vibration (D-PHL or D-VIB) with matte clear coating finish.

In addition to these material finishes, metal can be texturized by adding processes such as hammertone (Tsuchime). A bespoke pattern can be designed by changing the size of the pattern or its frequency and is sought after for interior projects. These hammering textures can be applied in addition to the hairline (HL) or vibration (PHL or VIB) as required.

Bronze, vibration (PHL or VIB) with hammertone (Tsuchime) and matte clear coating finish.
Bronze, vibration (PHL or VIB) with hammertone (Tsuchime), and matte clear coating finish.

Other textures are implemented by designed polishing or grinding patterns. Pictured below is such an example. To the left is Kishage, a series of circular hairline (HL) finishes applied randomly, and to the right is Feather, a series of polishing marks applied diagonally. These and other original Kikukawa finishes are being explored and developed to understand and expand the design possibilities of metal.

Left: Brass, Kishage (randomly applied circular grind marks) with matte clear coating finish. Right: Brass, Feather (randomly lightly applied polishing marks) with matte clear coating.
Left: Brass, Kishage (randomly applied circular grind marks) with matte clear coating finish. Right: Brass, Feather (randomly lightly applied polishing marks) with matte clear coating.

Each of these textures shown can be furthered by applying a coat of sulfurization (FURUMI).

Click here for more information on Kikukawa’s sulfurization

Kikukawa is able to respond to various design requests, including the development of new design patterns as required. Therefore, please consult us on the availability of textures, feasibility or design assistance.
*Please note that the impression of these pictures may differ from the actual sample. Therefore, please confirm the finish with an actual sample prior to the final selection.

Click here for more information on Kikukawa’s bronze sample finishes

Click here to contact us for more information on Kikukawa’s showroom, Studio K+