SightGlass, 7th Street : Pouring and Polishing the countertops

Once the molds have been carefully removed, we check for voids and begin the polishing operation. The subtle yet satisfying detailing and use of materials throughout the project is the result of designing for a truly collaborative and explorative construction process.  A collection of talented craftsmen contributed to the one-of-a-kind features of the space, from recreating the Japanese art of Shou-sugi-ban for a decorative burnt wood siding treatment to piecing together over 38 reclaimed steel joist hangers for a custom light fixture. See more photos on the Boor Bridges site. 

Concrete is a challenging medium-heavy, difficult to mix, (especially with additives) and tricky to achieve consistent finishes. The mold construction must be spot on because every blemish shows and the molds must be strong enough to withstand the vibration process. Vibration consolidates concrete in two stages: first by moving the concrete particles, then by removing entrapped air.

After the molds have been removed, Justin and Jerad begin the polishing process with a Diamond embedded grit pad.

Water polishing the counters- starts with a 200 grit pad and moves through the grits to finish at 800 grit before the sealing process.

Sight Glass, 7th Street : The Ancient Japanese Technique of Shou-Sugi-Ban

Shou Sugi Ban is an ancient Japanese exterior siding technique that preserves wood by charring it. Traditionally, Sugi, or Japanese Cyprus, was used. Nowadays, designers and architects have used other species of wood like Douglas Fir, Cyprus, and Oak. The process involves charring the wood, cooling it, cleaning it, and finishing it with a natural oil. Although time consuming, the final product is not only gorgeous, with its rich, silvery finish; the charred wood also resists rot, insects, and fire and can last up to 80 years.

Jesse surveys the boards prior to the burning process.

Jay ignites the planks with a roofing torch.

Before we perfected our “vortex box” technique we tried a standing wall burn. 

Jesse at the burn.

Jay removes the softer burned out sections with a wire brush exposing the standing grain. This process yields that beautiful “stand blasted look” but with a black carbon patina.