When you choose a piece of outdoor art or garden wall art from LisaSarah Steel Designs NZ, you’re choosing something that’s been made to last. Every piece is crafted in New Zealand using high-quality metals designed to stand up to our weather — from sea spray to strong sun.
I work with 3mm corten steel, 304 stainless steel, 316 marine-grade stainless steel, and 3mm aluminium, depending on the look and finish you love. Here’s a little more about each type and how to care for them.
Corten steel, also known as weathering steel, is a favourite for garden art and sculptures because of its warm, natural tones. Over time, it forms a stable rust-like patina that protects the steel beneath from further corrosion.
The surface develops gradually — from grey steel to a rich, earthy orange-brown.
It’s designed to be outdoors permanently — no sealing or painting needed.
To speed up the weathering process, you can occasionally mist it with water during dry spells.
Care Tip:
Corten steel requires little maintenance. Just avoid placing it directly on surfaces where water runoff could stain, until the final patina is reached — for example, concrete patios or pale pavers. There is an amazing product called Penetrol (available in both spray and paint form) that can be applied to your art or sign. This will seal it at the time you coat and stop it from rusting further.
304 stainless steel is durable, strong, and ideal for outdoor wall art in more sheltered spaces. It’s resistant to rust but not completely immune — especially near the coast. That’s why my 304 stainless pieces are professionally electro powder-coated for added protection and a flawless, contemporary finish.
The powder coating helps prevent tarnishing and makes cleaning easy.
Available in a range of colours to complement your outdoor space.
Care Tip:
To prevent salt and environmental deposits forming on your art or signs, wipe down your powder-coated piece every few months with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid harsh abrasives to keep the coating smooth and glossy.
For customers near the beach, 316 marine-grade stainless steel is the ultimate choice. This is the same steel used on boats and coastal architecture.
It offers the best resistance to salt, humidity, and air pollutants.
Ideal for coastal homes where sea spray is a constant companion.
Care Tip:
Rinse occasionally with fresh water to remove salt buildup and maintain its shine. A quick polish with a stainless cleaner once or twice a year will keep your outdoor art, numbers or signs looking brand new
My aluminium garden art and outdoor wall art pieces are made from 3mm aluminium — a strong but lightweight metal perfect for large wall pieces or areas where weight matters. I use alumnium for some of the larger art and signs.
Every aluminium piece is powder-coated in a durable, UV-resistant finish.
It won’t rust, making it an excellent choice for humid or coastal environments.
Care Tip:
Just like stainless, wipe occasionally with a soft cloth and mild detergent. Powder-coated finishes are long-lasting, but keeping them clean helps preserve their colour and sheen.
Whether you choose corten steel, stainless, or aluminium, every piece is cut, finished, and assembled right here in New Zealand. I’ve designed my range of garden sculptures, outdoor wall art, and steel art to thrive in our unique climate — from frosty mornings to sea air and summer heat.
Each material has its own character, and with a little care, your garden art will continue to look beautiful for many years to come.
Explore the full range of garden art, outdoor wall art, and sculptures at www.lisasarah.com.
Handmade in New Zealand, designed to last — and made for your space.
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