By Don Browne
In 2025, we published Why Architects Are Choosing Polymeric Roofing. But for many readers, a piece like this raises another question: Who is choosing polymeric roofing for their projects?
Here are just a few examples of polymeric roof tiles selected by prominent architects for distinctive, signature projects.
In 2015, Valparaiso University in Indiana began a campus redesign inspired by Gothic collegiate architecture. As part of the initiative, the school constructed Beacon Hall, a four-story, 85,000-square-foot residence hall featuring suite-style rooms and modern amenities.
To complement the building’s architectural design, FGM Architects, a Midwest firm specializing in civic and educational projects, selected composite polymeric slate tiles from Westlake Royal Building Products’ DaVinci Roofscapes, a Polymeric Exterior Products Association (PEPA) member.
The single-width polymeric slate tiles offered the traditional appearance the project called for without the weight of natural slate. That was particularly important for Beacon Hall, where the roof deck had weight limitations and needed to support substantial HVAC equipment.[i]
Designed as a 7,000-square-foot retreat for empty nesters, this Long Island home was created around comfort, wellness and a strong connection to its wooded surroundings. The Up Studio, known for its custom residential and hospitality projects, selected synthetic cedar shakes from PEPA member Brava Roof Tile in Lake Forest.
The composite shakes were chosen to capture the character of natural, hand-split cedar, with varied textures, colors and widths, while offering durability and performance needed for a long-lasting roof. The material resists cracking, rot and fading and is made with recycled post-industrial polymeric materials, combining low maintenance with sustainability. It also carries a Class A fire rating and Class 4 impact rating, providing added protection in coastal environments where high winds can be a concern.[ii]
When this suburban Buffalo complex, originally known as the St. Mary of the Angels Convent and Motherhouse, was converted into senior living apartments, the local community wanted to preserve its historic Gothic Revival architecture. Design/build firm The CRS Companies was tasked with maintaining the authenticity of the original 1928 design as part of the adaptive reuse project.
To replace a heavy slate roof that had outlived its expected service life by decades, CRS partnered with local roofing consultant The Browne Company to identify a modern alternative. The team selected a composite slate roof tile from PEPA member EcoStar LLC that offers a lightweight, highly durable solution capable of withstanding Buffalo’s harsh winters and other environmental elements.
The composite tiles also provide an authentic slate appearance that complements the restored 102-unit apartment complex, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
From collegiate residence halls and other multifamily projects to high-end custom homes, polymeric roofing gives architects and builders the design flexibility, performance and sustainability to bring project visions to life.
To learn more about polymeric roofing solutions and connect with manufacturers and suppliers, please visit our website.
[i] “Unique Use for Polymeric Roofing at Valparaiso University,” Building Enclosure, September 15, 2015
[ii] “The Victory Lap by The Up Studio,” Architectural Record, May 20, 2026