---
title: How HOK Uses Architectural Metal to Support & Enhance Designs
description: HOK is the modern poster child for inspiring, uniquely creative architecture. Here's how they use architectural metal to boost their design impact.
---

[Roll Forming Blog ](https://blog.dahlstromrollform.com)

# [How HOK Uses Architectural Metal to Support & Enhance Designs](https://blog.dahlstromrollform.com/how-hok-uses-architectural-metal)

 Written by [Dahlstrom Roll Form](https://blog.dahlstromrollform.com/author/rob-loll) | Feb 8, 2017 4:24:53 PM

If you’re interested in creative uses of architectural metal, look no further than [HOK](http://www.hok.com/). They have many examples, but these are some of the most inspiring.

## HOK's Inspirational Uses of Architectural Metal

### 1.  Spire London

*Images: [InHabitat](http://inhabitat.com/europes-tallest-residential-tower-breaks-ground-in-london/)*

Spire London is a “residential tower,” the definition of luxury apartment living. At 771 feet high, it currently stands as the tallest residential tower in Western Europe.

It boasts bronze-colored metal detailing on the lower floors, with matching feature fins on its pavilion buildings.

The design uses [mixed materials](https://www.dahlstromrollform.com/architectural-design-mixed-materials/), with metal complementing the traditional brickwork and elegant marble.

 

### 2.  University of Florida Research and Academic Center

*Image: [University of Florida](http://pharmacy.ufl.edu/education/doctor-of-pharmacy-degree-pharmd/entry-level-pharmd/orlando-campus/)*

*Image: [GKD Metal Fabrics](http://www.gkdmetalfabrics.com/blog/hok_designs_uf_research_center_with_versatile_gkd_metal_mesh.html)*

The UFRAC uses a mixture of metal mesh, glass, and a steel skeleton to create a beautiful and functional design. The mesh blocks many detrimental effects of direct sunlight, while allowing natural light into the building. HOK worked with [GKD Metal Fabrics](http://www.gkdmetalfabrics.com/) to realize this sharp design.

The building is four stories with a multi-story atrium entry. 10 panels wrap around the exterior and connect to metal supports.

Metal was definitely a functional choice as well as aesthetic - Florida infrastructure needs to stand up against hurricane-force winds.

### 3.  Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center (ARTIC)

*Image: [HOK](http://www.hok.com/design/type/aviation-transportation/anaheim-regional-transit-center-artic/)*

*Image: [ArchDaily](http://www.archdaily.com/615466/anaheim-regional-transportation-intermodal-center-hok/551cb857e58ece845e00009c-portada_cf005522-jpg)*

The ARTIC was born from a challenge: create an icon that would welcome a new age of transportation to the region. It currently serves as a transportation hub for more than 3 million people a year.

Its design matches ETFE technology to the geometry of its steel skeleton. The skeleton is structured to create a high-ceilinged atrium space that circulates air and light. The space is fresh and bright, even with the daily crush of people.

### 4.  Dali Museum in St. Petersburg, FL

*Image: [HOK](http://www.hok.com/design/type/civic-cultural/the-dali-museum/)*

*Image: [Orlando Sentinel](http://www.orlandosentinel.com/travel/destinations/florida/st-petersburg/orl-travel-salvador-dali-museum-photos-photogallery.html)*

Like the UFRAC, the Dali Museum in Florida needed to be strong enough to withstand hurricane-force winds. The building is grounded by a hurricane-resistant box that encases a gorgeous glass structure.

The designer had a strong understanding of his purpose - he wanted to create a structure that participated in the artist’s work rather than competing or detracting from it.

One of the most notable design components is the double-helix glass and steel element inside the building. Glass and architectural metal come together to create a futuristic, surreal environment to match Dali’s art style.

## Want to make metal work for your next architectural project?

Here are some related articles on metal aesthetics and design:

- ###### The Appeal of Tarnished Metal Architecture
- ###### [Nonferrous Metals in Architectural Design ](https://www.dahlstromrollform.com/architectural-metals-nonferrous-metals/)
- ###### [How to Harness Metal's 'Living Finish' for Impactful Design](https://www.dahlstromrollform.com/architectural-metals-living-finishes/)

<https://blog.dahlstromrollform.com/hs/cta/wi/redirect?encryptedPayload=AVxigLK%2Fu%2FXJW%2FIWrXv30gB9HRZTYM1tnAsKgNyAh3FcTsYmx3wP7ryjNrfW2VwdvNKj3pHXvBW8v9LcmEu3FuTE%2BRyiBeY3waev9aHi3bjlx35U8FZDt7eEySp4MTYZR4RvCDXZSq1Nerd0OmNps5dcOGdZTofvXooOOxjleGR%2BjQwh3gyRthmrq6ZuU1V0I3AGJq5piIXxELwgOvkelBgq%2B6QEHT7UtHs%3D&webInteractiveContentId=195208037436&portalId=1620924>

 

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