A single handed, low cost construction study, with the following incentives. Round walls are better tied together. Floor support is spread in three directions instead of the usual single direction. Three directionality mutually stabilizes individual joists.

Above: Early August 2002. View from neighboring roof (of shed which is being replaced).

The single handed approach to sculptural building is slow but sure. Time consumption was of less concern than money. The plan for producing manageable joist sections flat upon a "work bench" was appealing. Hanging many of these sections before "mortaring" them together seemed plausible. It is working, but admittedly, the laborer, (me), dreams of more automation ;)

Poles pruned from woods provide temporary support , until joists sections can be mortared. Pole pruning improves the woods instead of using dimension lumber which tends to force woods to grow overcrowded and unhealthy. Also, the poles inspire the the feeling of this building process which intends to portray a grove of trees.

Close view from bottom reveals method. A cement with 1/4" (1/2 cm) stone is applied to mesh laid upon a bench, both sides. The mesh edges are left bare. The cured section is then hung upon top wire in picture and fully bent to hold. Later, mortar will be applied.

Alignment tolerances were not important in this building. Irregularities were welcomed, in part to explore the looser symmetries of nature. Some floor joists happened not to align in a straight line. Instead, some variance has been allowed, both because it eased the building process and as a curiosity, given the mutual support in three directionality. I gave long consideration to optional plans in which curving joist paths would add to the "grove like" effect of this building, (but abandoned these for costs of time and material).

It was hoped that this construction study would in part inspire new construction ideas. It always works for me. Persistent labor can push thoughts forward and embolden otherwise reluctant thoughts about building. Automation in sculptural building construction, (with equipment attainable for a small town contractor), has occupied much my thinking in this job. A link to some of these thoughts will be provided as soon as possible.

The content on this website, http://harmoniouspalette.com, is placed in the public domain only as a free exchange of ideas and as a "hard studied wish to serve life". The author assumes no responsibility for the improper use of the concepts in these web pages, as all relevant laws of life and local codes should be verified and observed before any building or experimentation proceeds. discussion is welcome, please write.  Bo Atkinson

-