SILK MILL 145
LUXURY CONDOMINIUMS
Kent, Ohio
In the Spring of 2003 I was commissioned to design and install a timeline of sorts depicting the many former inhabitants and lives of the historical building (See: GeoHistorianProject-SilkMill). Originally the owners envisioned a 10' x 10' area on the available wall, but it soon grew into a much more ambitious project.
Having never worked with the Dryvit System, (a type of exterior wall system), I basically approached this project in the same manner as I do most of my work: Draw with the Saw! All the forms were cut from 2 x 4' sheets of outsulation ,(Styrofoam-like insulation material), then pieced together to create the larger composition. Not being aware of the actual installation procedure, which involves wrapping the entire surface with mesh and acrylic stucco, I was met with horrified expressions and loud objections when I first showed the guys on the crew my sketches: too many curving, organic shapes! Once they educated me about the process, we were able to compromise on the number of curves... it proved to be a challenge well-worth the effort for all of us.
Working 18+ hour days, (I basically lived on-site), I was able to finish the project in 2 weeks. It was one of the most exhilarating and satisfying experiences of my life.
I welcome any and all opportunities to do more.