It is impossible to miss the stunning Staten Island Courthouse that stands resolutely overlooking the New York harbor. The building’s four copper-clad towers catch the morning light, acting as a beacon for those arriving by ferry. The facility’s contemporary use of copper earned it a spot among the top 15 magnificent building projects receiving a 2017 North American Copper in Architecture Award (NACIA).
The NACIA program recognizes and promotes North American building projects for their outstanding use of architectural copper and copper alloys. Now in its 10th year, the annual awards program showcases a wide range of projects, all of which highlight craftsmanship, attention to detail and architectural vision.
"The outstanding quality and ingenuity of the copper projects submitted over the past ten years is truly inspiring," said Stephen Knapp, the Director of the Sheet, Strip, & Plate Council for the Copper Development Association (CDA). "Not only is copper known for its sustainability and durability, its innate beauty continues to make it an appealing building material. Every year I am amazed by the innovative ways copper is being applied."
Four years after receiving its first NACIA award, the University of Arizona is being honored again for its impressive construction of the Biomedical Sciences Partnership Building on the Phoenix Biomedical Campus. The 10-story building’s unique texture is achieved by manipulating 90-95 percent recycled copper into perforated panels. Copper was selected for this project for its longevity and ability to protect against direct sun exposure, which reduces the buildings energy costs and contributes to its natural facade.