The secret to turning ideas into buildable metal projects

The Coffee Shops™. 

How education, digital tools and early collaboration support architects from concept to construction. 

In a recent interview, Mercedes Harris, architectural marketing manager for Western States Metal Roofing, discussed how the company works with architects, designers and specification professionals to help bring metal roofing and wall panel projects from concept to reality. 

Mercedes explained that her role centers on education, product selection support and building long-term relationships with architects. Through accredited educational programs and direct collaboration, she helps design teams evaluate metal roofing and wall panel systems while ensuring their ideas can be translated into practical, buildable projects. 

At the American Institute of Architects (AIA) show, Western States Metal Roofing highlighted its roofing and wall panel systems, specialty finishes and design resources. Products such as wood-grain finishes, rust-inspired finishes and copper-look options generated interest because they offer desired aesthetic qualities while providing the durability of steel. 

Beyond trade shows, the company emphasizes ongoing relationship-building through follow-up discussions and educational opportunities. Mercedes noted that lunch-and-learn presentations have become an important way to stay connected with architects. “Now we have AIA certified lunches... giving practical educational information they can really apply to their projects,” she said.  The company’s newly accredited AIA continuing education courses focus on roofing and siding sustainability while helping architects earn professional education credits. 

Another key focus of the company’s architectural outreach is making information easy to access. " We are heavily invested in digital resources and just making answers quick for architects. Our website is like a thesaurus of metal information,” Mercedes said. According to Mercedes, Western States has invested heavily in digital resources, including photo galleries, downloadable CAD details, Building Information Modeling (BIM) files, specification-building tools, color visualizers and 3D textures. These tools help architects research products, compare options and make decisions without waiting for direct assistance.   

Throughout the conversation, Mercedes repeatedly stressed the value of early collaboration. By involving manufacturers during the design phase, architects and contractors can work together to address performance goals, installation considerations and project execution challenges before construction begins. 

Ultimately, Western States Metal Roofing aims to serve as a resource and partner for both architects and contractors and help make the process of choosing materials as smooth as possible.  

Learn more about Western States Metal Roofing, and its architectural resources.