Posted by Daniel G. on Nov 28th 2014

Rethinking Metal Planters in Commercial Design

Tapered Modern Fiberglass Planters with Brushed Bronze Finish

Struggling to find commercial metal planters that satisfy project specs? You're not alone. Popular material choices like bronze, raw iron and Corten steel planters often place frustrating limitations on design. To sidestep these challenges, many architecture and design professionals, contractors and developers are turning to more versatile alternatives. 

When it comes to mimicking the look of metal, one of the most desirable substitutions in commercial planters is ArmoreCoat finishing. 

To understand how this method is changing the metal planter game, let's start by answering some common questions. 

Modern planters with
corten steel finish.

Is ArmoreCoat a faux metal finish? 

No. Many of our commercial clients have seen large custom planters with faux metallic finishes enter the design scene in recent years. And while this technique serves a purpose in particular settings, it leaves something to be desired if the goal is an authentic metal aesthetic. 

ArmoreCoat closes the gap between the real metal look clients want and the versatile product performance they require. It's a sophisticated coating process that utilizes genuine metal materials. With the ability to layer virtually any material in actual aluminum, bronze, copper and more, the design opportunities grow exponentially. 


What’s the advantage for my clients? 

This is an excellent question with a multi-part answer. Here's the rundown: 

First and foremost, design freedom. Working with bulky and expensive solid metal materials often results in design compromises rather than satisfied specs. Simply put, metals can be unforgiving. That's where ArmoreCoat finishes come in. Real metal coating can be applied to most any of our composite, fiberglass and commercial planter designs. Any shape, any size, any aesthetic - no limits in sight. All made to order with each unique project in mind. 

Lightweight fiberglass planters
with a heavy look.

Metal alternatives yield long-term, cost-saving results. Lightweight durability, low-and-no-maintenance performance and liner-free plantscaping all with a secure, heavy duty look: These are pretty major perks that clients look forward to with ArmoreCoat Planters. Still want the metal patina feel? This can be achieved during the manufacturing process. Plus, many ArmoreCoat finishes will continue to mature and patina over time - like real metal without the risk of the planter corroding or rusting through. 

How authentic do ArmoreCoat finishes really look? 

Exceptionally authentic. Examples like our Satin Aluminum Planter Boxes and custom Corten Steel Planter paired with a faux boxwood hedge only begin to elaborate on the quality. Bottom line, large custom planters with ArmoreCoat finishes are manufactured with high-end applications in mind. From luxury hotels to commercial site furnishings. 

What’s the design process? 

We work closely with development firms, contractors and professionals in architecture, design and landscaping to follow three simple steps: 

Step 1. Choose a plant container. We recommend beginning your search with our full selection of fiberglass, PVC, steel and other composite planter boxes. 

Step 2. Select a real metal finish like bronze, copper, aluminum, Corten steel or raw iron. 

Step 3. If you don't see your size online, give us your specs for shape, size and accessories. We've worked on everything, from large-scale privacy screens fitted with custom artificial hedges, to monogrammed planter designs incorporating hotel logos and branding. 

Start your project today. Call or email us at 1-888-320-0626 sales@plantersunlimited.com