These lines were centered on each of the four faces of the column. (2) To create a smooth surface that passes through the four profiles, the Nurbz Cross Sections tool was employed. (3)

The surface was trimmed using the Trim with Line tool to accommodate for the soft and different ceiling heights. (4)

The surface was translated as stacked plywood sheets using the Contour tool. At a spacing of 1 1/2”, 3/4” plywood and 3/4” mdf (medium dense fiberboard), the surface produced 82 plywood cross sections.

To accommodate for the column in the center of these cross sections, a hole was cut using the Trim with Line tool. Each individual cross section was then moved on to 5’ x 5’ plywood sheets to create a layout for the CNC (Computer Numerically Control) router. (5) The Split with Line tool sliced the cross sections in half for assembly around the column. (6)

To facilitate the assembly sequence, each unique cross section was identified with 2D text. The router engraved this text onto the layers. (6) The sheets were exported via DXF to be used by the CAD/ CAM software driving the CNC router.

Layers of birch plywood with intermediate layers of stained mdf are stacked floor to ceiling. (7-8) The geometric description for each profile became the database for the CNC tool path.

The final effect of the new column is threefold. As part of the entry sequence, the curvilinear form of the sculptural column graciously encourages circulation into the main living area, the play of light and shadow lures people visually into the space, and finally, it provides a comfortable place to naturally recline.

Designs and story by Susan Melsop
Story edited by Zandra Vaye