GETTING EDGY
The ground surface underneath the shade pavilion will be a fine gray/white compacted gravel. We looked into multiple shapes and sizes of gravel aggregate that could drain water, withstand heavy pedestrian foot traffic and wheelchair accessibility, and allow the shadows to read cleanly on the surface. One of the great benefits of the Rural Studio is that we can look at previous projects and critique the material used in the design. We found the compacted gravel at the Newbern Library worked well against water runoff from the Thesis barn roof. To contain the gravel, we are using 1/4″ corten steel at 20′ width x 8″ height as the edge.
First, we draw strings across the site to place the location of the edge metal. Once the location of the edge metal is selected, we level and trench the dirt to 8 inch depth. Next the plate is cut to is correct width and placed into trench using steel angles keeping it straight. The last step requires driving 1″ carbon steel rods into the ground and welding them to the plate. These steel rods are spaced 24″ on center.