Straight Lines
September 8, 2010

In my spare time (which is sparse these days) I like to check out the world of modern architecture. I think it’s because I’m intrigued with things that have a beginning and an end. To me the modern world of design is the simplest form of a straight line. However, it can be very difficult to achieve a straight line. Just recently, I checked out some homes which exemplifies the meaning of straight lines. Nice place huh….

Take, for example, this concrete form that surrounds the pool. Instead of using pre-made cinder blocks or covering it up with veneer stone, the designer chose to use wood slates to form a horizontal pattern.

If you want to see a supreme example of this technique, check out Japanese design firm Wonderwall. Mr. Katayama takes it to a different level with molded concrete from raw cedar board planks.

Where most people would tend to stick in the corner of their garage, this homeowner carries the same theme into the front mailbox. Notice how the box and the concrete all line up.

It's all in the lines.

Lines come in all shapes and sizes. I like it when it creates the illusion of making things float.

This entry step may appear like any other, but actually it's not. Check out the floating technique of the smooth stucco edge base.

If you’ve ever put a deck into your backyard, you’ll probably use deck screws to make it happen. For dorks like me, I’ll stick to seamless clean lines, so I’ll kill myself and spend 4x the money to make this happen while everyone else will not even notice the difference.