Zahner Star Blue™
STAR BLUE™
STAR BLUE™
Patinated Copper Patina
Star Blue copper is a preweathered surface patina on copper offered by A. Zahner Company. The custom copper sheet product provides a range of unique visual color textures on authentic copper surfaces.
Zahner began working with copper patination when the company was formed in the late nineteenth century. To get the aged copper look of ancient domes requires entire centuries of weathering in conditions that are neither too dry nor too humid. Zahner uses a technique that speeds up this process.
INFORMATION
USE
The custom patina can be used on a range of different wall paneling systems, roofing systems, and architectural accents, as well as art and sculpture projects of any scale. Patinas are often preferred over paints for their natural weathering and aging, a much desired trait compared with painted surfaces which deteriorate.
MATERIAL
Zahner operationalized the Star Blue patina on copper for the Kansas City Star Production Facility, the first large-scale application of Zahner’s proprietary rapid-patination process.
The artistic patina has variation in tone and texture, an uncommon trait that is sought after in the architectural metals community. The development of stable patinas on copper requires a strong background in science, and an understanding of chemical compounds, various climates, and their atmospheric and local conditions.
THE STAR BLUE DIFFERENCE — RESOLVING VERDIGRIS
Verdigris refers to a chemical process applied to copper in order to create a blue-green color. Specifically, it references copper acetate, a pigment which develops as a reaction between copper and acetic acid.
The problem with verdigris patina standards, is that it can leave the material in a soluble state.
Zahner patina technicians have mastered the process of taking verdigris to an insoluble state, ensuring that the patina is fused to the surface.This is the Star Blue surface, a chemically stable patina produced safely using rapid-patination offered by A. Zahner Company.
PROJECTS
HANDS OF MAN, PUBLIC ARTWORK
Hands of Man is an artwork by L. William Zahner, made as a gift to The Salvation Army in Kansas City. The artwork was produced by tracing the hands of Salvation Army employees. These hands drawings were scanned and cut in copper, using Zahner’s art fabrication facility.
SUNY CAMPUS COMMONS AT NEW PALTZ
The State University of New York (SUNY) Campus Commons addition in New Paltz is a centerpiece for the school’s audacious program. Designed by ikon.5 architects, the glass and metal ‘crystalline palisade’ was ‘grown’ on the plinth of an existing concrete building. The new construction is designed for LEED Silver certification, incorporating radiant heating and cooling, photo-optic lighting controls, and substantial natural day lighting and views.
174 NORTH ELEVENTH
178 North Eleventh is mixed-use residential renovation designed by Kutnicki Bernstein Architects. The building features an antique patina on copper sheets provided by Zahner.
