Architecture is often celebrated more as an art than a science—even by those who practice it. Most definitions of architecture begin with the word “Art.” Yet architecture is a discipline grounded in real-world constraints: clients, budgets, functional programs, physical parameters, and the challenge of responding to or resisting nature. In truth, the art of architecture is built on a foundation of science. Unfortunately, many projects fall short of achieving true architectural artistry because the scientific rigor required is seen as too costly. Budget is too often the excuse for under achievement, becoming the scapegoat for missed potential.  However, every year we see buildings that achieve both artistry and structural performance while maintaining budgets, fulfilling program requirements, harmonizing with nature, and meeting client expectations.

This session is an examination of award-winning solutions in metal, delineating inherent beauties of metal, and exploring design tools.

Learning Objectives:

• Challenge the notion that budget limitations prevent high-quality architectural design.
• Explore common economic benefits and cost-efficiency strategies used in metal buildings.
• Identify key design principles and recurring themes in successful metal building projects.
• Discover architectural tools that support innovative and budget-conscious metal design.
• Examine emerging trends and future opportunities for metal in architecture.

Presenter:

Brent Schipper

Founding Principal, ASK Studio

Brent Schipper, AIA, is a founding principal of ASK Studio, a design-focused architecture firm based in the Midwest. With over 30 years of experience, he leads the studio’s design vision, emphasizing a regional design language shaped by functional form and structured rhythm. Since its founding in 2006, ASK Studio has earned over 70 design awards and 90 project features in national and regional publications. Brent is a passionate speaker on the impact of design and a frequent contributor to METAL Architecture and Metal Construction News. He has presented at METALCON and served as a moderator for the 2023 State of the Metal Construction Industry webinar. A Professor of Practice at Iowa State University, he teaches architectural design and has lectured at South Dakota State University and Dunwoody College of Technology. Grounded in creative constraint, Brent finds inspiration in the balance between design ambition and practical realities.