University of Michigan Rusty Steel Garden Archways
Project ID: #2095
Five rustic metal archways complete the natural landscape. They weave a connection between the botanical gardens and the student research gardens.
- Corten steel with natural rust patina
- Donated vintage garden tools (lots of shovels!)
- Arranged and welded as standalone pieces (no mesh backing)
- Designed by University of Michigan landscape architecture alum
The first Japanese style metal archway starts at the public bike path. They alternate as they dot the landscape, acting as waypoints along a winding path. They connect the student research garden to the red-roofed outbuilding, through a Michigan wildflower sanctuary, all the way to the parking lot at the Matthaei botanical gardens.
The volunteer community and friends of the Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum donated the often-vintage tools that were incorporated into fanciful and charming arrays. Left to rust, they have a patina to match the natural color of the Corten steel. For park landscape design, they lend a stately feel. As landscape architecture pieces, they are sure to last while the weathering steel adds shows of its time-worn patina. Season after season, the Corten and the tools rust together and the wide garden arch design becomes a landmark not long forgotten.
Showcasing Craftsmanship at the University of Michigan
Our team proudly fabricated the custom Rusty Steel Garden Archways installed at the University of Michigan. These striking architectural features blend durability with artistry, serving as both a functional structure and a lasting design statement on campus.
Purpose Behind the Design
The garden archways were built to do more than frame pathways—they were designed to create a welcoming experience for students, faculty, and visitors. Each archway:
- Defines entrances and walkways with bold, modern character.
- Complements natural landscaping by blending steel’s earthy tones with greenery.
- Symbolizes tradition and endurance through materials that grow stronger over time.
Benefits of Rusty Steel Archways
- Iconic Appearance – The weathered patina gives each archway a timeless, rustic aesthetic that stands out while harmonizing with the environment.
- Durability – Fabricated from weathering (Corten) steel, these archways develop a natural rust layer that protects against corrosion.
- Low Maintenance – No refinishing or repainting is required—the steel’s patina preserves itself.
- Sustainability – Long life cycle and fully recyclable materials make this a smart environmental choice.
Our Fabrication Process
From raw material selection to the final installation, every step of the fabrication was handled with precision and care:
- Custom Engineering – Designed to exact specifications to meet structural and aesthetic requirements.
- Expert Welding & Finishing – Each archway was built with clean lines and reinforced joints for strength.
- Natural Weathering – The steel was intentionally left untreated, allowing the patina to form naturally and uniquely.
A Lasting Legacy
These Rusty Steel Garden Archways are more than just campus features—they’re a testament to the craftsmanship and innovation of our team. By combining industrial strength with artistic design, we delivered a project that will inspire and endure for decades.
