ORO Editions

Loblolly House

Taylors Island, Maryland, 2006

Instituto Geológico de Cataluña is wrapped in an exterior skin constructed of weathering steel plates perforated with various diameter holes, configured in a pattern representative of the region's geological map, providing both shading and symbolism (ArchDaily 2014). The low-carbon steel alloy (known in the US by its trade name CorTen) is naturally oxidizing, and after several years of useful corrosion, it achieves a protective coating with a matte orange-brown rust-like appearance that needs no paint or other finish (Structure 2005).

Loblolly House employs untreated western red cedar for its slatted rain screens on three sides, overlapping both windows and opaque skin. The layered facade becomes a metaphor of the surrounding pine forest's structure while simulating the forest's patterned daylight (Timberlake + Kieran 2008). The architects explain, "A study of the natural characteristics of the material, available water-repellents and preservatives, and detailing strategies led us to leave the cedar untreated..." (KieranTimberlake 2009). The example shows both the aged silver-gray that cedar can achieve and the darker staining that is possible. Such darkening and variability may be more or less desirable, depending on one's preferences. Here, the difference is mostly due to variations in the detailing of drainage and drying.