The optimal solution to complex briefs may require combining the benefits of multiple materials. Commonly, for example, a designer/architect might like the visual aesthetic of a specific material, which lacks the required structural strength.

Using innovative techniques developed to extend the potential of metals as a planter material, robust steel planter liners can be clad with soft metals, such as lead, brass and copper. The resulting composite planters are typically stronger and lighter, and can be made larger, than would be the case using the soft metals alone; and this extends the use of the soft metals into environments and applications which were previously not possible.

The Image Gallery shows lead clad planters commissioned for the newly-opened Rosewood London, an £85m refurbishment of the landmark Pearl Assurance headquarters on High Holborn. The original design intent was for the planters to be manufactured in solid lead, but this created two key problems:

  • 4 nr. imposing cone planters were too large to be made in solid lead, as the planters would collapse under their own weight,
  • 10 nr. large trough planters were too heavy in solid lead to be safely installed on top of a wall surrounding an outdoor seating area.

The solution was to design and manufacture stainless steel planter liners, which were then clad in 3mm thick lead sheeting. The resulting composite planters deliver the aesthetic of lead desired by the architect, whilst relying on the superior strength and strength-to-weight ratio of steel for the planters’ technical performance.

IOTA can also combine steel planter structures with other non-metallic materials, such as timber, stone or ceramic; and planters can also be made utilising high tech composite panels, such as Aluminium Plastic Composite.