Material Study
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is not one material
Stainless steel is a family of alloys. The grade determines its corrosion resistance, formability, surface behavior and how it responds to finishing. At Studio MA REN, alloy selection is part of the design process — not a default choice.
The Five Families
Austenitic
The most widely used family — grades 304 and 316 are both austenitic. Non-magnetic, highly formable, excellent corrosion resistance. The standard for interior architecture, precision furniture and design objects.
Ferritic
Higher chromium content. Magnetic. Good resistance to stress corrosion cracking. Less formable than austenitic grades. Common in automotive and appliance applications.
Martensitic
High hardness and strength after heat treatment. Limited corrosion resistance. Used for cutlery, surgical instruments and precision tools.
Duplex
A hybrid structure — austenitic and ferritic combined. Higher strength than either alone, with excellent resistance to chloride corrosion. Preferred for marine, coastal and structural applications.
Precipitation-Hardening (PH)
Heat-treated to achieve very high strength levels while maintaining corrosion resistance. Used in aerospace, high-performance engineering and precision components.
Grades Used in Our Work
| Grade | Corrosion Resistance | Structural Strength | Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| 304 | Good — general interior | Moderate | Interior furniture, architectural components, design objects |
| 316 / 316L | Excellent — marine / chloride | Higher than 304 | Coastal environments, outdoor furniture, food-contact surfaces |
| 2205 (Duplex) | Excellent | Very High | Structural components, high-demand environments |
| 430 | Moderate | Moderate | Decorative trim, interior applications |
Material selection is architectural
The right alloy depends on the environment, the fabrication method and the intended life of the object. For most indoor furniture we use 304 — it offers the best balance of formability, surface quality and long-term stability. For food-contact surfaces and coastal environments, 316L is the correct choice. The decision is made per project.
Designed to last
We specify certified, traceable stainless steel on every piece. The goal is not aesthetic durability alone — it is structural and material integrity over decades of use.