Ron Blank & Associates, Inc.

2011

Please note: you will need to complete the conclusion quiz online at GreenCE.com to receive credit

SPECIFYING ARCHITECTURAL MILLWORK AND CABINETRY

Course Number: JAS12A An AIA Continuing Education Program Credit for this course is 1 AIA/CES LU/HSW Hour

Course Sponsor: Julian & Sons Fine Woodworking 1723 Cross Street Heber Springs, Arkansas 72543 501.362.7933 www.julianandsons.com

An American Institute of Architects (AIA) Continuing Education Program

Approved Promotional Statement: Ron Blank & Associates, Inc. is a registered provider with The American Institute of Architects Continuing Education System. Credit earned upon completion of this program will be reported to CES Records for AIA members. Certificates of Completion are available for all course participants upon completion of the course conclusion quiz with +80%. Please view the following slide for more information on Certificates of Completion through RBA
This program is registered with the AIA/CES for continuing professional education. As such, it does not include content that may be deemed or construed to be an approval or endorsement by the AIA or Ron Blank & Associates, Inc. of any material of construction or any method or manner of handling, using, distributing, or dealing in any material or product.

An American Institute of Architects (AIA) Continuing Education Program

Course Format: This is a structured, web-based, self study course with a final exam. Course Credit: 1 Health Safety & Welfare (HSW) Learning Unit (LU) Completion Certificate: A confirmation is sent to you by email and you can print one upon successful completion of a course or from your RonBlank.com transcript. If you have any difficulties printing or receiving your Certificate please send requests to certificate@ronblank.com Design professionals, please remember to print or save your certificate of completion after successfully completing a course conclusion quiz. Email confirmations will be sent to the email address you have provided in your RonBlank.com account.

Please note: you will need to complete the conclusion quiz online at GreenCE.com to receive credit

Learning Objectives
By completing this course, the design professional will be able to: Discuss the history and evolution of woodworking techniques Identify traits of woodworking periods and styles List the types of common millwork and explain the importance of a job well done Identify the importance of detailed design drawings Explain how wood species, color, cut, and finish affect the built environment List the attributes of various types of wood finishes Discuss basic installation and design techniques

Woodworking & Millwork An Introduction

History of Woodworking
Ancient cultures developed sophisticated techniques for shaping wood. Many of our modern tools have been used for thousands of years.

- Handsaws - Chisels and Gouges - Finishing Oils

- Planes - Sandpaper

Joinery
Older techniques mostly relied on physical joinery. Although veneers and glues have a long history, adhesive technology did not bloom until the 20th Century. Up until then, craftsmen used animal glues (hide glues) to fasten certain joints. Common physical joints:
- Mortise and Tenon - Dovetail - Rabbet - Lap Joint

Modern Techniques
The modern woodworking shop uses a combination of traditional techniques and new technologies. Yet the foundations of the craft have changed little.

20th Century Technologies:

Plywood & Composite Boards Synthetic Adhesives Metal Connectors CNC Cutting & Shaping Power Tools

Periods & Styles

Three British furniture designers from the 18th Century hold substantial influence. Each of these men published books filled with their designs, which were copied by other furniture and cabinet makers. Their styles are extensions of the Queen Anne and Rococo periods: - Thomas Chippendale - Thomas Sheraton - George Hepplewhite

Periods & Styles

The more common American styles grew out of a backlash against ornate styles of architecture and furniture found in Europe. They are characterized by simple lines and facades, and high quality materials: - Shaker - Arts & Craft - Mission

Periods & Styles

The 21st Century brought us contemporary styles that rejected the conventions of the past. Designers created non-linear forms and geometric shapes; they used new materials to break free from the constraints of historical design: - Plywood - Metals - Plastics - Glass

Architectural Input
Some architects go so far as to design the furniture that best complements their building style. Here (left) is a table that Frank Lloyd Wright designed for the Francis Little house.

Here (right) is an example of a Charles and Henry Greene design, a piece that has become an icon of the Arts & Crafts period.

Architectural Input
Modern day architects often help guide their clients interior design. Sarah Susanka, well known for her Not So Big concept, advocates craftsmanship and quality.

Window trim details, coffered ceilings, custom

nooks, and built-in furniture are all integral to the architecturally designed home. Custom

millwork adds value and warmth to almost any

setting, but especially the home.

Modern Interpretations
Today, architects, interior designers, and woodworking shops work together to craft rooms that either hold true to convention, or blend various styles:

Room Elements
Flat panel doors (slab) Modern crown molding Contrasting colors/woods Contemporary bar stools Imported / African wood Minimalist style

Modern Interpretations
Today, architects, interior designers, and woodworking shops work together to craft rooms that either hold true to convention, or blend various styles:

Room Elements
Raised panel cabinetry Single domestic wood Traditional moldings Arched top rails Fluted columns High style

Specifying Architectural Millwork

Learning the Language

Architects sometimes specify the millwork. Sometimes this task is left to the interior designer or construction foreman. In any case, knowing the components and the language will facilitate the design process, and ensure the building progresses on schedule.
Crown Molding Return Frame & Panel Ceiling

Beveled Glass Display Cabinet

Fluted Column

Raised Panel Drawer w/ Beaded Rail & Stile

Cathedrals Technique

Crown Moldings

Crown molding creates the top hat for both rooms and cabinetry. It can range from a single simple profile, to an elaborate built up molding. Local millwork firms either stock or custom cut these profiles on request. Crown is sometimes used to hide a joint between two dissimilar materials (wall and ceiling treatments). Note: For the installer, crown molding represents one of the most challenging pieces of architectural millwork. Experts only need apply.

Chair Rail Moldings

Chair rail molding can be installed in a number of variations. Like crown molding, it too can be installed as a single piece of trim, or built up with several individual piecesa combination of flat stock, beads, coves, and ogees. Chair rail is frequently used on top of wainscoting to cap the lower trim elements. Designers can also use it to create a horizontal plane or to add visual interest to the wall.

Base Moldings

Base moldings are usually necessary for even the simplest forms of architecture and interior design. In rooms, base moldings serve to hide the joint between the flooring and the wall (typically an open joint, to allow for expansion and contraction of the floor). They also provide a visual foundation for both rooms and cabinetry. Base moldings should be proportional to the room height/size (i.e. the larger the room, the higher the ceiling, the larger the base molding).

Wainscoting

Wainscoting is generally a sign of high craft and quality. And although it can be designed for a rustic setting (i.e. knotty beadboard paneling), it is often associated with richer interior finishes. Wainscoting provides a substantial visual foundation to the room. Extending the wainscoting to a higher elevationor covering the entire wallcreates a more formal look called judges paneling.

Raised Panels

Rail Horizontal frame member Stile Vertical frame member

Raised panels were first developed in the 17th century as a way to manage the seasonal movement of wood. Since this technique allows the panels to float inside the frame, it prevents them from cracking. Today, the most common method of joining the rail and stile together is a cope and stick joint. Cutters used on this joint also create a recessed area (dado) that secures the panel in place.

The Importance of Drawings

Conceptual Drawings

Today, architects have access to a wide variety of CAD programs. Designers can create photorealistic 3D renderings, which are then used to create construction drawings. From concept through execution, detailed drawings ensure that the final project meets expectation of both the architect and the client.

Detailed Drawings = Successful Projects

Example: Construction Drawing

Detailed Drawings = Successful Projects

Detailed Drawings = Successful Projects

CONCEPTUAL DRAWING CONSTRUCTION DRAWING

FABRICATION

Custom woodworking firms typically use conceptual drawings to create their production drawings. Details matter!

Wood Species, Selection & Finishing

Wood Species & Color

When selecting the wood species for architectural projects, perhaps the most important criteria is color. The natural wood color will determine the overall feel of the built environment.

Wood Species & Color

Blonde

= = = =

Clean, Modern

Pine

Rustic, Colonial

Red
Much like Robert Plutchicks wheel of emotions, wood species are often associated with certain architectural styles or moods.

Warm, Classic

Formal, Traditional

Brown

Wood Grain

Next, wood grain determines the character of the wood. Although the grain is inherent to the wood, different sawing techniques reveal unique patterns.

Wood Grain
=
Quartersawn, Riftsawn

Formal, Restrained

=
Plainsawn , Uniform Grain

Casual, Classic

Plainsawn w/ Burl & Knot

Flashy, Bold, Rustic

Wood Finishing
The last consideration is the wood finishyet this has a significant effect on the quality of every project. For custom architectural millwork, specifying the type and level of finish is a requirement. This includes: 1) Sanding 2) Finish Type & Level 3) Polishing 4) Installation Touch-Ups

Specifying Wood Finishing

Sanding is accomplished with successive stages or grits of different sandpapers. Specify: 220 Grit Minimum Final Stage No Cross Grain Scratches Finishing is completed in layers. Two variables determine the number of steps involved: Finish Type Oil, Lacquer, Shellac, Urethane, etc. Desired Lustre Low, Medium, or High Polishing or hand rubbing finalizes the finish, creating a surface that is rich and sensual: Not Required---Desirable

Wood Finishing
Finishes serve three main functions: Protection (UV/Water/Chemicals) Visual Embellishment (Lustre) Color Enhancement

Creating a custom finish is a blend of experience, science, and art.

Chatoyancy is a word used to describe the optical depth of wood grain, or its three-dimensional appearance. Penetrating oils, such as linseed and tung oils, are sometimes applied as a base coat to achieve this dazzling effect.

Wood Finishing

Custom woodworking shops have access to a great variety of finishes. Between satin and gloss, there are a thousand different lustres and appearances. The best finishes are often formed from a combination of productsoils, clear coats, and waxes.

Wood Finishing

Although the wood finish is supposed to bring out the beauty of the wood, it can also work against that objective. Beware: it also exaggerates minute defects.

Wood Finishes Table

Finish Appearance Protection Durability
Does not last and needs to be reapplied frequently

Reversibility
Can easily be removed with solvents Completely reversible using alcohol

Rubbing Qualities
Needs to be buffed

Wax

Creates shine

Very little

Shellac Nitro-cellulose lacquer

Fair against water, Some yellow or orange tint, good on solvents Durable depending on grade used except alcohol Transparent, good gloss Good protection Hard and durable

Excellent

Completely reversible using lacquer thinner Difficult to reverse

Excellent hard finish

Conversion lacquer Transparent, good gloss

Yellow warm glow, pops grain, darkens with age Warm glow, pops grain, lighter than linseed

Excellent protection against Hard and durable many substances Very little Fairly durable, depending on number of coats Fairly durable, depending on number of coats Fairly durable, depending on number of coats

Excellent hard finish

Linseed oil

Needs sanding out None as oil is absorbed Needs sanding out None as oil is absorbed Needs sanding out None unless many as oil is absorbed coats applied

Tung oil

Very little

Oil-varnish mixes Source: Wikipedia

Similar to oils unless many Low, but more coats applied, then takes on than pure oil characteristics of varnishes finishes

Details & Examples

Details, details . . .
Millwork craftsmanship and installation require expert skill. The consideration of several factors are essential to achieving properly installed, beautiful, long-lasting results: Infrastructure Blocking Expansion/contraction Are the corners of the room squared, rounded? Measuring and cutting Grain pattern orientation Joinery Attention to detail Experience and expertise are a must for high-quality craftsmanship!

Details, details . . .

Knowledge from the past sometimes gets lost. Dentil molding represents a structural element and should always be installed in a vertical position. The Supreme Court building and carved pediment show correct form. Modern designers often fail to follow this rule.

Details, details . . .

Correct Careless!
Custom architectural millwork differentiates itself with proper wood selection on all cabinet and trim parts. Contrast the mismatched cherry panel on the left, with the custom crafted fir panel on the right. Flat sawn stock exhibits grain cathedrals. These cathedrals should be centered, and they should always point up!

Incorrect

Walnut burl panels create a striking appearance for this executive desk. The detailed architectural trim helps support the visual weight of this finely crafted office.

Contrast and Detail

This game room is crafted from a variety of textures and colors. The African Padauk coffered ceiling, doors, and trim contrast well with the blond hardwood flooring.

Kitchen

By specifying custom kitchen cabinetry, designers can create flexible storage solutions and architectural trim patterns beyond the range of any factory supplier.

Tradition and Timelessness

Simple, yet elegant. The figured Black Walnut millwork and doors creates a room that exudes tradition and timelessness, yet doesnt abandon comfort or style.

Modern

The lighter wood and contrasting trim complement the simple geometry of the slab door cabinets; together they create a clean and modern style for this office.

A Final Note
Architect

Interior Designer

General Contractor

Client

Suppliers

Subcontractors

The best construction projects are the result of a team effort. Clear specifications, detailed drawings, and open communication are essential for success.

Course Summary
Now, the design professional will be able to: Discuss the history and evolution of woodworking techniques Identify traits of woodworking periods and styles List the types of common millwork and explain the importance of a job well done Identify the importance of detailed design drawings Explain how wood species, color, cut, and finish affect the built environment List the attributes of various types of wood finishes Discuss basic installation and design techniques

AIA Course Evaluation

In order to maintain high-quality learning experiences, please access the evaluation for this course by logging into CES Discovery and clicking on the Course Evaluation link on the left side of the page.

 Ron Blank & Associates, Inc. 2011

Please note: you will need to complete the conclusion quiz online at GreenCE.com to receive credit

SPECIFYING ARCHITECTURAL MILLWORK AND CABINETRY

Course Number: JAS12A An AIA Continuing Education Program Credit for this course is 1 AIA/CES LU/HSW Hour

Course Sponsor: Julian & Sons Fine Woodworking 1723 Cross Street Heber Springs, Arkansas 72543 501.362.7933 www.julianandsons.com

About the Course Sponsor:

Julian & Sons has been designing, fabricating, and installing custom woodworking for over 25 years. They have installed projects from Puerto Rico to Hawaii, from Texas to Alaska. They cater to discriminating clients, to those seeking quality and craftsmanship without compromise. Using the best quality woods, they blend traditional woodworking techniques with cutting-edge technology to produce artistic environments for both businesses and residences. Their signature products are hand-sanded and hand-rubbed, to create an heirloom quality finish that is beautiful, durable, and renewable. They offer a complete line of services: Site Consultation Conceptual Design Lighting Design Detailed CAD Drawings Custom Fabrication Delivery & Installation

Julian & Sons Fine Woodworking, Inc. 1723 Cross Street Heber Springs, AR 72543 Phone: (501)362-7933 FAX: (501) 362-7728 Website: www.julianandsons.com Email: info@julianandsons.com

Image Credits:
Julian & Sons Fine Woodworking American Institute of Architects World & Universal Academy The Wood Whisperer MultiCam, Inc. McFeelys (GHC Specialty Brands) Franklin International (Titebond ) Artisans of the Valley Washington Post Columbus Wood Products Horizon Custom Furniture Furniturestocks.com The Metropolitan Museum of Art American Decorative Art 1900 Foundation Rockler Woodworking & Hardware Chief Architect Wikipedia.com Bell Forest Products Lumberjocks.com Fine Woodworking (Taunton Press)

Course Author: Daniel Ernst