Master Craftsman: Steven Lang of Lang Stair & Rail

Spirit Ironworks, led by the brother-and-sister team Rachel and Tim Miller, specializes in fine metalwork, including blacksmithing, to create custom pieces for residences, businesses, restorations, and art installations. Their work ranges from intricate master staircase railings to custom doors, fireplace screens, and even large-scale sculptures. The company's focus is on crafting unique, handmade metal objects, often employing traditional methods while also integrating new technologies. One notable project involved an East Hampton house where they created a curved elliptical staircase with custom balusters and a polished, sanded finish. This piece served as the focal point of the home, a project that took eight months from design to completion. For a Southampton home, they designed and built a stainless steel staircase with a custom railing and a hand-hammered stainless steel fireplace screen, working with a material known for its difficulty. They also produced a 14-foot-tall door, a fireplace surround, and a driveway gate for another Southampton residence, emphasizing that every item they create is one-of-a-kind and handmade. The Millers' workshop showcases their diverse capabilities, featuring metal filigree, various finishes, steel flowers with graphite and mica powder finishes, and even gold-leafed flowers. Stainless steel is a popular material among their clients, along with custom patinas that give metal an aged appearance. They even crafted a door with 12 bronze portholes and corrugated stainless steel paneling, going to great lengths to match existing bronze hardware in the home. Their passion for metalworking originated from their childhood, with their father owning a coin store where they were introduced to heating and working metal. Tim Miller, an 11-year-old, was captivated by the art of blacksmithing during a visit to the Bellport-Brookhaven Historical Society’s blacksmith shop, inspiring him to pursue the craft. He earned a BFA in metals and founded Spirit Ironworks in 2001, while Rachel, who also holds a B.F.A., manages the business operations. The name "Spirit Ironworks" reflects their philosophy of infusing their personal spirit into their creations. The Millers emphasize that mastering metalwork takes years of dedication, involving reading, classes, and engaging in professional forums. They view their work as a continuation of their artistic pursuits, with clients often acting as patrons of their unique metal art. While Tim primarily leads the metalwork, Rachel manages the business side, a division of labor that evolved as their projects grew in complexity over nearly two decades. Their 5,000-square-foot shop houses two coal forges, power hammers, and a gas forge, supporting a team of eight workers. Beyond residential projects, Spirit Ironworks engages in historical restoration, such as restoring a 15-foot weathervane for the Vanderbilt Museum and Planetarium, and creating art installations, including feathers for a large sculpture near the Wyandanch railroad station. They also fabricated a 45-pound wrought iron bell clapper for a Jeff Koons retrospective. The company combines traditional blacksmithing techniques with modern technology, like an induction forge that uses magnetism to heat metal precisely. This allows them to create custom items such as nails for international projects. Despite the historical nature of blacksmithing, Tim believes it remains a vital craft, fulfilling a unique demand that many might not realize still exists. #SpiritIronworks #Metalwork #Blacksmithing #CustomFabrication #StaircaseRailings #HomeDesign #ArtisanCraftsmanship #HistoricalRestoration #TimMiller #RachelMiller

Randy Steyert, owner of South Fork Decking in East Hampton, specializes in transforming outdoor spaces into luxurious oases for Hamptons homeowners. He emphasizes that while many focus on interior design, the outdoor area provides an equally significant opportunity to create a beautiful and functional extension of the home, ideal for entertaining guests, enjoying coffee, or watching children play. Steyert, along with his wife and co-owner Sarah, who handles operations, grew up in the East End, giving them a unique understanding of the local aesthetic and community needs. In addition to his entrepreneurial role, Steyert serves as a Sag Harbor Village police officer, a testament to his commitment to the community. He once famously rescued a man from a burning building on his way to work, showcasing his dedication both as a craftsman and a public servant. Steyert's carpentry journey began in his youth, learning from his uncles who instilled in him the importance of focus and respect for tools. While initially exploring various carpentry tasks, he also pursued a career in law enforcement, serving in the New York City police department before transitioning to the Sag Harbor police force. This dual career path allows him to pursue his passion for building while maintaining his community service. His business, South Fork Decking, specializes in deck replacement, design, material selection, rendering, permitting, and construction. He prides himself on a collaborative approach with homeowners, viewing each project as new construction where old structures are removed and replaced with custom designs. The decking industry is evolving, with new materials offering enhanced durability and aesthetics. Steyert notes that while traditional wood options like ipe and mahogany remain popular for their natural beauty and ability to complement home aesthetics, composite materials are gaining traction. Approximately 70% of his projects use wood, while 30% incorporate synthetic options. Mineral-based composites, particularly Deckorators, are favored for their wood-like appearance, longevity, and superior heat regulation. He highlights the importance of selecting materials based on homeowner preference, whether it's the natural individuality of wood or the splinter-free, color-consistent benefits of composites. When working with wood, Steyert employs specific techniques like board breaks and perpendicular boards to ensure uniformity and prevent rot. He also incorporates rain escape systems to waterproof areas beneath wood decks, channeling water away, and uses Camo hidden fastener systems and joist tape for a clean finish and watertight seal. Deck design is critical, moving beyond mere functionality to consider aesthetics, performance, and adherence to building codes. Steyert engages homeowners in discussions about their vision for the space, ensuring that railings, steps, and seating arrangements optimize flow and comfort. He prefers glass inlaid railings or cable railings for their seamless views and modern aesthetic. Decks can also be customized with various features, including built-in hot tubs, seating, and outdoor kitchens, which require careful planning for weight support and utility hookups. Pergolas are often added for shade and shelter. For pool areas, specific codes must be met, and materials like Deckorators are recommended for their non-slip and heat-resistant properties. South Fork Decking also designs and builds outdoor showers and integrates lighting for safety and ambiance. Beyond standard decking, the company has expanded its services to include projects like outdoor woodworking shops and deck offices, catering to the growing trend of remote work. Steyert's dedication to craftsmanship and his passion for transforming outdoor spaces into functional and beautiful extensions of the home are central to his business philosophy, evident in the careful selection of materials and the joy he derives from seeing families enjoy their newly crafted outdoor oases. #HamptonsDesign #DeckConstruction #OutdoorLiving #HomeImprovement #MasterCraftsman #RandySteyert #SouthForkDecking #ArchitecturalDesign #CustomCarpentry

This blog post outlines the comprehensive range of builders' metalwork available from Wickes, emphasizing the critical role these components play in construction and structural integrity. The selection encompasses various essential items designed to provide strength, stability, and corrosion resistance for diverse building applications. Key categories of metalwork include angle brackets and plates, joist and truss hangers, wall ties and wall starter kits, rope and chain, sheet metal, and PVC and metal angles, tubes, and rods. Angle brackets and plates are fundamental for reinforcing joints and connecting structural elements. These items, along with mending and nail plates, are crafted from durable materials like stainless or galvanized steel, ensuring robust connections and long-term performance. Joist and truss hangers are crucial for securely attaching floor joists and roof trusses to supporting structures, distributing loads effectively and preventing movement. The availability of different types, such as timber-to-timber mini joist hangers, highlights the versatility and specialized nature of these products for specific construction needs. Wall ties and wall starter kits are indispensable for masonry construction, providing stability to cavity walls by securely connecting inner and outer leaf masonry. These components are vital for preventing wall collapse and enhancing the overall structural integrity of buildings. Rope and chain offer a range of utility beyond structural applications, including securing materials, hoisting, and general-purpose use on construction sites. The availability of various types, such as blue polypropylene rope, suggests options for different strength and application requirements. Sheet metal, including materials like aluminium checkerplate, is presented as a versatile option for various protective, decorative, and functional purposes. Its application can range from cladding and fabrication to providing durable surfaces. PVC and metal angles, tubes, and rods, such as Rothley antique brass angles, offer solutions for edge protection, framing, and decorative finishes, providing both structural support and aesthetic value. The use of stainless or galvanized steel across many of these products underscores their high strength and corrosion resistance, making them suitable for both interior and exterior applications where durability is paramount. The article reiterates that Wickes stocks an extensive range of these metalwork components, highlighting their suitability for various building projects due to their durable construction and material properties. The emphasis on high strength and corrosion resistance across the entire range ensures that builders and DIY enthusiasts can find reliable solutions for their construction needs. This broad selection of metalwork facilitates efficient and safe construction practices, ensuring structural soundness and longevity in various building projects. #BuildersMetalwork #ConstructionMaterials #AngleBrackets #JoistHangers #WallTies #SheetMetal #StructuralComponents #CorrosionResistance #BuildingSupplies

The Campbell residence in Asheville, N.C., exemplifies the "mountain modern" style, a design trend gaining traction nationwide. Designed by Living Stone Design & Build, the house is strategically placed on a steeply sloping lot, with its front facade facing the top of the slope and the rear overlooking the road and the primary view. The design prioritizes conforming to the land's topography, making the house wider than deep to minimize its environmental impact. Drawing inspiration from the region's indigenous Craftsman-style homes, the residence emphasizes structural integrity and the use of natural materials. Local fieldstone and cedar, both stained and painted, are prominent, alongside heavy-timber post-and-beam construction and eave brackets, which are characteristic of the Craftsman aesthetic. To integrate a modern sensibility, the design incorporates clean lines and deep overhangs, which also serve the practical purpose of solar gain protection. Notably, the absence of corner boards and the use of mitered corners provide a full, clean reveal. HardiePlank paneling was utilized for the upper exterior walls and soffits as a cost-saving measure, while the mitered corners and stained accents were intentional design splurges. The blend of Craftsman and modern styles addresses the preferences of clients relocating from regions where modern design is more prevalent, creating a home that is both traditional in its essence and contemporary in its details. The exterior features a massive masonry presence, achieved with cost-efficiency in mind. The chimney at the rear elevation rests on a partial concrete foundation, saving costs and avoiding encroachment on the carport space. Steel support was integrated into the screened porch's flooring to manage the load from the chimney and fireplace. Additional exterior highlights include heavy cedar post-and-beam timber brackets beneath a triptych of windows on the front facade's bump-out. This bump-out houses a seating nook with built-in benches and a tabletop, designed to replace a traditional dining room. Meals are taken here or at a dining table with fold-down leaves, which functions as a credenza when not in use, optimizing space within the shallow house design. Both the nook's tabletop and the dining table were crafted by one of the homeowners from reclaimed boxcar wood. The architectural plan also incorporates two private home offices, each with its own porch, situated at the rear of the house to provide solitude and scenic views for work. Given Asheville's emphasis on outdoor living, a third, west-facing screened porch was included for family use, complete with an outdoor kitchen. Further cost-saving measures were implemented throughout the interior. An oversized barn door was constructed from scrap wood by the trim carpenter, avoiding the expense of custom-made options. In the master bedroom, prefabricated wood sheets from Home Depot were used for an accent wall, a more economical choice than individual wood pieces. Blocking within the wall during framing allowed for floating shelves, reducing the need for traditional end tables. The children's rooms featured carpeting and bunks built from scrap wood to manage expenses. A woodworking shop off the carport was also incorporated to cater to the homeowners' specific interests. The design, with significant homeowner input, resulted in a residence that supports family activities, work, entertaining, and aging in place, all within an aesthetically pleasing framework. #ModernCraftsman #MountainModern #HomeDesign #SlopingLot #NaturalMaterials #CostSavingMeasures #OutdoorLiving #SustainableDesign #AshevilleArchitecture

Architect Luke Lowings of Carpenter Lowings, in collaboration with American sculptor James Carpenter, designed a patterned glass staircase that serves as the focal point of a newly renovated apartment in Hong Kong. This striking 5.5-meter-tall structure spans both stories of the apartment, leading up to a rooftop terrace that offers views of the bay. Integrated above the staircase is a four-meter-wide skylight that not only floods the interior with natural light but also features a hydraulic mechanism, allowing it to fold open for roof access. Lowings emphasizes the staircase's dual function: it acts as a subtle yet significant sculptural element, enhancing the aesthetic appeal, and plays a practical role in modulating daylight. This design helps to mitigate the harsh glare and intense heat characteristic of the Hong Kong climate. The staircase is engineered to appear weightless, contributing to an ethereal ambiance rather than dominating the living areas. The design ensures that natural light from the skylight is reflected from the structural glass panels and diffused through the transparent treads, extending deep into the lower floor of the apartment. This approach maximizes light penetration in compact spaces, transforming them into bright and inviting areas. The skylight is equipped with sensors that prevent it from closing on obstructions and activate automatic closure during strong winds. An alarm system is also in place to alert residents when the glass door is closing, preventing accidental entrapment on the roof. When the skylight is closed, it frames a view of the sky, which is mirrored in two large structural glass screens flanking the staircase. These glass screens are adorned with a linear pattern designed to evoke the appearance of falling rain. This pattern, combined with the reflections and the veined marble surfaces throughout the hall, creates a subtly disorienting visual effect. The staircase itself is constructed from heat-strengthened laminated glass, with minimal titanium fittings joining its components. Each stair tread comprises three layers of glass and is supported by only three fittings, further contributing to its minimalist and transparent aesthetic. Carpenter and Lowings, who established their studio in 2001, have a history of collaborating on glass installations, including notable projects for Norman Foster's Hearst Tower and Grimshaw's Fulton Street Station in New York. The project's success is also attributed to the contributions of structural engineer Eckersley O'Callaghan, executive engineer C M Wong, interior design firm AB Concept, lighting design by Sirius Lighting, staircase fabrication by Sedak GmbH, and skylight production by MEIA. Photography for the project was provided by Kitmin Lee, Edmon Leong, and Carpenter Lowings. #HongKongApartment #GlassStaircase #SkylightDesign #CarpenterLowings #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalInnovation #NaturalLighting #ModernInteriors

Architect Annabelle Selldorf highlights the 1906 Pierpont Morgan Library in New York City as a significant inspiration for design, particularly its triple-tier Circassian walnut bookcases. She notes the innovative design where the stairs appear to be invisible, contributing to the bookcases' seemingly floating appearance. These hidden stairs are described as narrow due to space constraints within the original structure. In her own contemporary library projects, Selldorf frequently integrates rolling ladders instead of concealed staircases, often sourcing them from Putnam Rolling Ladder Co. She praises Putnam as a significant New York company known for its enduring quality and design. Samuel Putnam founded the company at the turn of the 20th century, initially producing trestle ladders, step stools, pulpit ladders, industrial steel ladders, and the iconic "Classic No. 1" rolling library ladder. Gregg Monsees, the current president of Putnam, emphasizes that the core design of their rolling ladders has remained unchanged since 1905, reflecting its timeless functionality and aesthetic. Historically, Putnam's residential rolling ladders were predominantly specified by high-end architectural firms for the private, wood-paneled home libraries of affluent clients. During the mid-20th century, specifically from the 1920s through the 1970s, Putnam's primary clientele shifted to commercial sectors, with telephone companies, dry-goods stores, and prominent clothiers like Brooks Brothers being their largest customers. The building and renovation boom that commenced in the 1970s played a crucial role in the company's survival as demand from traditional commercial clients began to decline. This period allowed Putnam to adapt and maintain its business. Before 1980, Putnam exclusively manufactured its ladders using red oak. However, in response to evolving market demands and design preferences, the company expanded its material offerings to include a wider variety of wood species. Currently, Putnam provides ladders crafted from cherry, ash, hickory, beech, walnut, birch, maple, teak, and mahogany, catering to a broader range of interior design schemes and customer tastes. These ladders are described as robust enough for industrial use yet possess the refined appearance of fine furniture. Putnam Rolling Ladders are also supplied to retailers like Rockler, which promotes them for diverse applications beyond traditional libraries. These uses include wine cellars, lofts, stock rooms, kitchens, and closets, showcasing the versatility and practical appeal of the product. The standard Putnam ladder is constructed from high-grade red oak, which is then filled and varnished. Each step is 4.5 inches deep, dadoed, and screwed into the 13/16-inch thick rails, further reinforced with rods beneath each step for added stability and durability. The ladders are typically measured vertically for tracks up to 8 feet 11 inches from the floor, though custom lengths and various wood species are available, delivered either finished or unfinished to meet specific project requirements. #PutnamRollingLadder #AnnabelleSelldorf #LibraryDesign #CustomLadders #Woodworking #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #WoodSpecies #HomeLibraries

Marta Layton, an independent designer operating Sunday Morning Kitchen and Bath in Flower Mound, has distinguished herself by transforming ambitious home renovation ideas into tangible realities. Her expertise extends beyond typical kitchen and bathroom remodels, encompassing comprehensive whole-home transformations that address structural changes and aesthetic upgrades. Layton’s approach prioritizes client collaboration and detailed planning, offering services that include technical floor plans, 3D renderings, and video walk-throughs to help clients visualize their projects before construction begins. She meticulously guides clients through the selection process for all elements, from cabinet hardware and appliances to countertops and flooring, ensuring that all choices align with their vision and the home's overall design. Once selections are made, a comprehensive plan is provided to construction crews, streamlining the execution phase. A notable example of Layton's work involved a 40-year-old home in Flower Mound owned by Kelly and Stewart. Despite the home's age and outdated features, including a small kitchen, fragmented master bathroom, and deteriorating fixtures, the couple envisioned a modern, functional space suitable for hosting their grandchildren. Layton’s renovation addressed these challenges by replacing old cabinets, appliances, and windows, and reconfiguring the master bathroom into a unified, spacious area. The kitchen underwent a significant expansion, allowing for a standard-sized refrigerator and incorporating modernized upgrades such as a blue island, a functional drawer under the cooktop, a corner optimizer, and an integrated trash can insert. Structural modifications included the removal of non-load-bearing walls and the installation of new flooring and fresh paint throughout the remodeled areas, which also encompassed a guest bathroom and laundry room. Layton’s design for the Jack and Jill guest bathroom became a favorite feature for Kelly, highlighting the designer's ability to create aesthetically pleasing and practical spaces. In the master bathroom, upgrades included a recessed medicine cabinet with eye-level storage and an electrical outlet, a taller sink, and a 72-inch bathtub. Layton specializes in homes that present complex design challenges, particularly older properties requiring extensive renovations, and leverages her network of quality contractors to ensure high-standard execution. Her initial client consultations are thorough, often lasting several hours, to fully understand client desires and present possibilities through on-the-spot modifications to renderings. Layton’s professional accomplishments are underscored by her awards, including the “Best Contemporary Kitchen—Large” from the DFW chapter of the National Kitchen and Bath Association in October, which recognized her for meticulous space planning, custom cabinetry, and modern design. She also received a Chrysalis Award, honoring excellence in the residential and commercial remodeling industry. These accolades, combined with her certification from the National Kitchen and Bath Association and five Contractor of the Year awards, reflect her dedication to continuous learning and her strong design acumen, which she developed after moving to the United States. Her expertise in color selection and complex space design consistently places her in a leading position within the industry. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #KitchenRemodel #BathroomRemodel #AwardWinningDesigner #CustomCabinetry #3DRenderings #FlowerMoundHomes #SpacePlanning

The article focuses on loft ladders, which are essential for safe and convenient access to attic spaces. Loft ladders are available in various materials such as aluminum, timber (redwood pine, spruce), and steel, and come in different configurations including 2-section, 3-section, 4-section, powered, and telescopic designs. These ladders are designed for durability and ease of use, ensuring stability and smooth operation for regular access. The article highlights that these ladders serve a dual purpose: enabling homeowners to store seasonal items efficiently and potentially expanding living spaces by making the loft more accessible. The selection of a loft ladder often depends on specific needs, including maximum height requirements, preferred material, and desired features like insulation or fire resistance. Brands such as Fakro, Manthorpe, TB Davies, Telesteps, and Werner offer a wide range of options to cater to diverse customer preferences and structural requirements. Key considerations when choosing a loft ladder include the maximum height it can reach, with options ranging from approximately 0.47m to over 3m, accommodating different ceiling heights. The width of the ladder also varies, typically from 0.33m to 0.69m, to fit various loft openings. The weight of the ladders themselves ranges from 3 kg for lighter models to over 90 kg for more robust or specialized units, influencing the ease of installation and operation. Installation of a loft ladder is presented as a straightforward process. It begins with accurately measuring the loft opening to ensure compatibility with the chosen ladder. The top bracket of the ladder is then securely attached to the loft entrance. After securing, the ladder is extended, and its base is positioned on the floor, ensuring it is straight and properly aligned. A crucial step involves testing the ladder by gradually climbing it and operating it several times to confirm safe and smooth functionality. Adhering to the manufacturer’s instructions is emphasized for a successful and safe installation. For products like the TB Davies LuxFold Timber Loft Ladder, it comes with an insulated hatch, improving energy efficiency by preventing heat loss. Fire-resistant options, such as the TB Davies FireFold Timber Loft Ladder and the Werner FireguardPRO Timber Loft Ladder, offer enhanced safety with trapdoors designed to withstand high temperatures for extended periods. Remote-controlled powered options, like the TB Davies ElectricFold Remote Control Metal Loft Ladder, provide added convenience. The article also touches upon related products such as loft hatches, which complete the loft access solution, stressing the importance of combining ladders with appropriate hatches for a comprehensive and safe loft entry system. These comprehensive solutions ensure both functionality and safety for accessing residential loft spaces. #LoftLadders #HomeImprovement #AtticAccess #HomeSafety #DIYHomeProjects #BuildingMaterials #HomeStorage #InteriorDesign #Renovation

This article, part of 'The Architect's Alphabet' series, focuses on the open-stair designs employed by C. Emlen Urban, a prominent architect in Lancaster during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Urban's architectural expertise was likely influenced by his father, Amos Sylvester Urban, a carpenter who operated a planing mill. This early exposure provided Urban with an understanding and appreciation for the intricacies of millwork fabrication, including the construction of stairs, balusters, handrails, and complex compound curves. The article defines an open-stair design as one where the stair tread extends beyond the supporting wall below, allowing for the application of architectural ornamentation beneath each tread. In contrast, a closed stair features treads contained within a 'stringer' and does not project beyond the wall. Urban skillfully utilized both styles, demonstrating a keen eye for design creativity and meticulous detail in their application. Specific examples of Urban's open-stair designs are highlighted across various architectural styles and building types. These include residential projects such as the 1906 Edwardian Eclectic design for J. Calvin Schutte, the 1922 Tudor Revival for Herman A. Wohlsen, and the 1937 Colonial Revival for John H. Swanger. Additionally, the Lancaster Municipal Building, with its 1932 Neoclassical interior, also showcases Urban's open-stair work. These examples illustrate his use of diverse decorative stringer appliques, such as picture-frame boxes, raised blocks, and traditional scrolls. The article also presents instances of Urban's closed-stair designs, further demonstrating his versatility. These include the 1886 Queen Anne style for Jonas B. Martin, the 1897 Chateauesque for Peter T. Watt, the 1903 French Renaissance for Stevens Girls School, and the 1906 Gothic Revival for Grace Lutheran Church. Urban's ability to master and adapt to these eight distinct and diverse architectural styles while managing the complexities of stair construction is emphasized as extraordinary. The author speculates that Urban's proficiency in various stair designs stemmed from his childhood experiences in his father's planing mill, where he likely studied technical manuals on stair design. The article notes that open stairs are more commonly found in residential designs, offering architects greater freedom for artistic experimentation, as seen in the Schutte and Swanger homes. Regarding materials, hardwoods like oak and maple are typically used for residential stairs, while public buildings such as the Stevens School and the Municipal Building often feature more durable materials like marble, terrazzo, and granite for their treads. Gregory J. Scott, a local architect and Fellow of the American Institute of Architects, contributes this column. #Architecture #CEmlenUrban #StairDesign #OpenStair #ClosedStair #HomeDesign #ArchitecturalHistory #LancasterArchitecture