The Toroks were building an elegant mid-century modern style home, and were largely basing their concepts on the cubist movement. Collectively we concluded that the house would benefit from a decidedly organic element, and that is when I brought topography to the table.
Home
The primary panel for the landing holds a topographical map which represents the neighborhood the house is actually located within.
Each line of the map is made from 1/8” thick steel flat bar. They were meticulously bent by hand using a very effective, yet rudimentary leverage tool.
Peak
The top corner of the first flight panel is Lummi Peak, which is visible from the West facing windows of the house. The small landing panel, and the second flight panel, are continuations of the Lummi Peak topography.
Hikes
The second flight grab-rail/guardrail, shows a section of the creek which flows from Fragrance Lake. This is one of the owner’s favorite hikes.
Bridging The Gap
The loft above the dinning room is flanked by a panel which has the topography of half of Deception pass. The center strut of the guard follows the path of the bridge which spans between the island in the middle of the pass, and the southern edge. It required a great deal of research to find a map which showed the topographical details hidden beneath the water.
Connections
The landing of this staircase is held up by 3/4” steel rods which are suspended from the internal ceiling structure of the house. It was important to maintain a minimal effect when it came to the attachment methods for these rails, so I machined custom brackets which would allow the rails to interface directly with the 3/4” rods.
Dynamic
By incorporating variations to the width of material used for the topographical lines, a very dynamic balanced was achieved between having a piece that can be seen through, yet also shows a wonderful volume as one moves around it.
There’s MORE On Its Way
Please check back soon, we are currently waiting for the installation of the exterior guardrails, which feature their own stunning topography. There is also a chandelier, three light fixtures, and an automated projector lift currently being produced for this house.