Decorative and Rigidized Stainless Steels: differences, applications, and advantages

Embossed and Textured Stainless Steels: how to choose the right finish for your project


In the world of stainless steel, aesthetics and functionality increasingly coexist. The surface of the material, once chosen solely for its durability and resistance, is now a distinctive element of creative design. There are two principal forms of stainless steel which, although sharing the metals’ natural versatility and visual appeal, differ greatly in structure, processing, and purpose: decorative and rigidized stainless steels.
These are patterned and embossing stainless steels. 
Both represent advanced and respected solutions in the fields of architecture, furnishing, transport, and industry, but each meets very specific needs. Knowing their characteristics is essential to making informed and long-lasting choices.

Decorative Steels: the perfect combination of aesthetics and functionality


Embossed steels are stainless steel sheets or coils on which geometric or natural pattern surface textures are impressed, designed to create a refined appearance. The processing of these materials takes place through a mechanical decoration process, with patterns made using rollers that permanently imprint the chosen design on only one side of the surface of the sheets.
These steels are selected not only for their aesthetic appeal, but also for their excellent mechanical and corrosion resistance properties: the ability to transform a simple stainless panel into a unique decorative surface capable of giving visual value to the environment is just one of the fascinating characteristics of these stainless steels. Decorated stainless steels are ideal for interior cladding, decorative panels, facades, receptions, elevators, showrooms, and in general for all those spaces where image plays a key role.

The finishes offered by MTS Metalspeciali, such as Linen, Square, Leather, Striped, Check’s Dama, Bead Blasted, reflect the desire to combine design and technical functionality in a single solution. Each pattern originates from formal study and is designed to last over time without losing its definition or brilliance.
 MTS is able to supply these stainless patterns on coils or sheets, in the various finishes 2B/2R/BRUSHED and in the different grades AISI 304 / AISI 316L / AISI 430 without minimum quantities.
The most commonly stocked thicknesses are: 0.6mm – 0.8mm – 1.0mm – 1.2mm – 1.5mm – 2.0mm
The standard sheet sizes always available in stock are: 1250x2500mm – 1250x2250mm – 1250x3000mm – 1500x3000mm, while non-standard sizes are produced in about 7 days from the order date.

Rigidized Stainless Steels: structure and design at the service of any project

Textured steels, also known as patterned stainless steels (or also dimpled stainless sheets / dimpled stainless steels / rice grain stainless sheets / rice grain steel sheets) differ from Decorated stainless steel in their intended use – as well as appearance! In this case, the processing has not only an aesthetic value, but meets precise functional needs, such as: increasing the mechanical rigidity of the sheet, better limiting wear and potential damage in high-traffic areas.
Through a cold embossing process, the surface of the sheet is modified three-dimensionally, generating deep and regular patterns, such as the common 5WL (rice grain type). The final effect is that of an extremely resistant surface, thicker to the touch, capable of hiding scratches, dents, and fingerprints, with surface embossing perceptible on both sides of the sheet.


MTS Rigidized steels can be supplied in different grades (AISI 304 – AISI 316L – AISI 430) and in 2B/2R/BRUSHED finishes without minimum quantities.
The commercial sizes always ready in stock that MTS can prepare in 2 working days are: 1000x2000mm – 1250x2500mm – 1250x2250mm – 1250x3000mm – 1500x3000mm, while non-standard sizes can be produced from scratch in about 10 days from the order date.
The thicknesses always ready in stock and available without minimum quantities are: 0.8mm – 1.0mm – 1.2mm – 1.5mm – 2.0mm.

Technical and visual differences between Decorative and Rigidized stainless steels


Although they may seem similar – they’re both stainless steel sheets - there are substantial differences emerge in the depth of the pattern, in the technical function, and therefore the aesthetic result.
Decorated steels feature a finer and more discreet pattern, visible but not invasive, and are perfect for those seeking visual refinement without sacrificing simplicity. The decorative motifs integrate with the environment and enhance it, but do not overpower its architecture.
Rigidized steels, on the other hand, offer more pronounced and structured patterns. Their marked geometry increases bending resistance, allows the use of thinner thicknesses, and contributes to protecting the sheet from daily stresses. However, this does not mean that Rigidized stainless sheets cannot have their own aesthetic impact, especially in projects where an industrial and material look is an essential added value.

Applications and intended uses

The most important factor in choosing between Decorated and Rigidized steel is the destination. 
In the world of interior design, commercial spaces, or hospitality, Decorated steels are widely used. Designers appreciate them for their clean shapes, regular design, and the possibility to easily combine them with other noble materials such as glass, wood, or stone. They are ideal for walls, false ceilings, furnishing details, columns, elevators, bar counters, hoods, kitchens, facades, etc.
In contrast, in contexts where mechanical performance, cleanliness, and long-lasting durability are essential, Rigidized steels represent the most effective choice. Their deep embossing acts as a structural reinforcement, allowing use in elevator cabins, transport vehicles, professional kitchens, laboratories, and industrial environments.

Cleaning and maintenance: comparison


Both pattern rolled surfaces and pattern embossed surfaces are easy to maintain, thanks to the intrinsic properties of stainless steel itself, which guarantees corrosion resistance and hygiene.
However, Rigidized steels offer an additional advantage: the depth of the pattern makes them particularly effective in hiding the signs of time, such as micro-scratches or streaks. On the other hand, Decorated steels, precisely because of their aesthetic function, require greater attention during cleaning, especially when used in high-traffic environments.

The MTS range: specialization and customized service

One of the strengths of MTS Metalspeciali is precisely the ability to offer both types of material, with a complete selection of finishes and patterns ready in stock and with customized cutting service.
Whether it is a sophisticated design architectural project or a technical supply for the industrial world, MTS supports its clients in the selection, ensuring quality, reliability, and speed. The deep knowledge of finishes and targeted consulting allow finding the perfect solution for every context, without compromises.

Conclusion: which steel to choose?


The choice between Decorative and Rigidized stainless steels depends on the balance between functionality and aesthetics. In a project requiring refinement, harmony, and a visually polished surface, Decorated steel is the ideal answer. In industrial contexts subject to wear or in demanding environments in terms of safety and cleanliness, Rigidized steel offers the most complete performance.
In both cases, relying on MTS means choosing a competent partner, present in the market of stainless steel finishes and patterns for over 75 years, with the most complete catalog of patterns and finishes and specialized technical consultants for 360° support.

Do you have a project and don't know which type of steel is best suited? The MTS team is at your complete disposal to evaluate materials and applications.


For any information, contact us at +39 0221711812 or write to us now to receive samples, technical data sheets, or personalized consulting.
With MTS Metalspeciali, the surface is much more than a detail!