The British architect Will Alsop has included Corten steel in his design of a new subway station and bus terminal to be built in Toronto, as well as a 19-storey block of flats he is currently working on in London. "My usual warning to the client is don't lean against the wall in your best suit," he said.
The material, Alsop says, is certainly more popular than it used to be. "It has an inbuilt warmth to it that is a very attractive quality."
As well, its earthy brown colour can offer a striking contrast with other items. It fits especially well in older parts of downtowns where there are brick buildings, and especially in gardens, where it helps to highlight brightly coloured flowers, Alsop said.
