Copper is used on the exterior of Samara primarily as ornamentation. Wright had strong opinions about ornamentation; Patterson explained Wright's belief that it must be integral to the nature of the architecture, or it would "debase" the structure. The copper fascia is completely integrated with the design motif at Samara.
The fascia was installed in four -foot long sections, in keeping with the basic four-foot square design of the house. The ornamental copper units on the lower fascia were installed every two feet so that the seams connecting the four-foot sections would not be noticeable. Furthermore, the triangular shape of the ornaments echoes the elongated triangular design of the Samara motif. The copper fascia gives a sculptural quality to the entire exterior of Samara.
Prior to the installation of the copper fascia the rooflines were outlined in the same Philippine mahogany used for the rest of the home. The flat copper fascia was added to the upper roof in 1967. Dr. Christian continued to search for an artisan who could make the pressed units for the lower fascia to Frank Lloyd Wright's specifications.