University Vision Becomes Reality

University Vision Becomes Reality
University Vision Becomes Reality

Tournesol custom planters transform a University into a welcoming, modern, upscale space

These organically curved aluminum planters, designed for a North American university, combine function and sculpture to elevate campus landscape design.

The university envisioned planters that help define gathering areas and guide pedestrian flow. These fluid, non-linear shapes echo the natural movement of campus life. Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, aluminum delivers long-term durability without sacrificing elegance.

From Sheet Metal to Sculptural Form

At our Port Orchard, WA manufacturing plant, a new series of custom aluminum planters is taking shape—each one designed for a North American university interior. What begins as flat aluminum sheet quickly transforms into something more: a sculptural element that defines space, movement, and experience.

Welding & Structural Assembly

Precision welding brings each form together, creating seamless connections that ensure both strength and refined geometry.

Sanding & Surface Finishing

In our Port Orchard facility, our skilled team hand-finishes every planter to erase weld marks and smooth organic contours. This labor-intensive step ensures the seamless edges and consistent finish. By refining these sculptural forms, our team prepares every surface to meet the precise geometric standards of a finished Tournesol product.

To ensure a flawless finish, after sanding, our preparation team next hangs the planters on racks in a specialized wash booth, using pressure washers and a dedicated solution to clean every interior and exterior surface. Once prepped, powder-coating specialists apply an epoxy primer and a final color coat, curing them in a 400°F oven for 17 and 20 minutes, respectively, to achieve the smooth, consistent finish that defines our products.

Lightweight yet durable, aluminum planters are ideal for large-scale installations — resistant to corrosion, easy to move, and built to perform through all seasons.

Kidney shaped
Kidney shaped
Oval Shape
Oval Shape
Organic 3 sided shape
Organic 3 sided shape

Custom casters installed

Designed for Dynamic Campus Landscapes

These planters aren’t just beautiful — they’re adaptable. Each one is engineered with custom casters, allowing the planters to be repositioned easily as the environment changes. Whether following the sun for seasonal planting or shifting layouts for college events, this flexibility ensures the landscape can evolve over time.

Built with Collaboration in Mind

Behind every planter is a team — from designers and engineers to the skilled fabricators in Port Orchard who bring the vision to life. It’s a process rooted in partnership, precision, and a shared passion for craftsmanship.

At Tournesol, we help shape spaces that inspire people to gather, learn, and connect.

Related Posts

Commercial Planter Material Options
Blog
Commercial Planter Material Options
The Nature of Outdoor Materials
Blog
The Nature of Outdoor Materials
The World of Wilshire
Blog
The World of Wilshire