construction process
The Watchtower
The Watchtower is a project that simulates real world construction as it applies to stair stringers, window framing, floor and wall framing, cantilevers, and roof ridge construction.
An Exercise in Light Wood Framing
The model uses scale basswood members to represent light wood construction at 1/4" = 1'-0". Basswood is the only material used to frame this structure, with the exception of the chipboard foundation, which represents concrete.
From Foundation to Roof
The construction starts with an appropriately sized foundation to accommodate the frost line of Boston soil and includes the framing of a ground floor with a stair as well as an upper floor with windows and a slight cantilever over the ground floor. It has a framed roof that is pitched to shed snow loads and precipitation which is necessary for Boston's climate.
SECTIONS | PLANS
