A bespoke performance space
Situated on a constrained coastal site in Rockport, ME, the Shalin Liu Performance Center presented a complex set of logistical and design challenges. The limited space required precise coordination to even fit the siding adjacent to the neighboring structure. Under these conditions, we constructed a complex timber substructure to support sloped seating, an assembly that demanded meticulous planning and execution.
The project featured a high degree of exposed timber, requiring not just structural but also aesthetic considerations. We employed various curved glulam elements that had to meet strict tolerances, which necessitated detailed engineering and craftsmanship. The ceiling assembly incorporated glulam beams augmented with steel tension rods, a design decision that required close coordination during the fabrication process, ensuring both structural integrity and visual cohesion.
By integrating these various components—glulam beams, steel rods, and complex geometries—we navigated tight tolerances and intricate assemblies, ultimately delivering a technically rigorous yet visually appealing structure. This project stands as a concrete example of our capacity to meet stringent design and construction demands within a challenging physical context.
did you know?
Why does species matter?
The choice of timber species plays a vital role in the aesthetics and structural integrity of a design. Each species offers unique grain patterns, colors, and textures that contribute to the overall look and feel of a finished project.
The natural beauty of wood is enhanced by these distinct characteristics, allowing for endless design possibilities. Moreover, different timber species possess inherent structural qualities, such as strength and density, which directly impact the required sizes of timbers in a final design.
Understanding the properties of each species is essential in ensuring that the selected timbers meet the structural requirements while achieving the desired visual appeal.
