The fifth facade

Yesterday was centered around installing the roof, which, as one of my favorite architects ever calls "the fifth facade".  This man designed a building so singular and iconic that the 2000 Olympics incorporated the building into its logo.  Ironically, due to the inevitable conflict that arises over the construction of such a unique structure, as well as the distance that separates Europe from Australia, Jorn Utzon HAS NEVER BEEN TO THIS BUILDING IN ITS COMPLETED STATE.  I find that staggering.

The only similarity between me and Mr. Utzon is that we are both architects.  It ends there.  He has more talent in his hangnails than I could ever hope for.  Despite this vast gulf of skill, I, with my crew of kids, neighbors, and my very own pops realized the fifth facade of our party shack yesterday and had a great time doing so. 

The initial challenge was deciding that I would build the entire roof diaphragm on the work table and we would lift the entire rigid frame (carefully) in place and secure it to the framing.  I chose this route as the alternative was to be a rafter monkey on a light, rickety frame not meant for live loads other than snow and wind.  In addition, the translucent roofing material will not support human weight, so I chose the safer method of controlling the installation without fighting gravity, a 4:12 roof pitch, or fragile materials.

So here's where I introduce the bicycle analogy into this post:  like a wheel, which is made up of many spindly elements (spokes and rim), once tied together and properly tensioned this unit is an incredibly strong structure.  This roof, once assembled and laterally braced with the roof sheathing became a rigid and light structure that was easily lifted into place by 4 adults and 4 teens/tweens.  Some tricky manouvering and voila, we have shelter.

This has been a cool week.