e Magic of Drywall

A Common Material for a Stunning Design

by James Tuer Architect AIBC LEEDap AIA

Drywall, sometimes known as gyp rock or sheet rock is an everyday material that is capable of making a clever design pop. It can also create an interesting contrast when used in conjunction with timber frame elements.

Careful planning and a good drywall contractor can give amazing minimalist results. ere are specialty metals suppliers that o er extruded aluminium pro les that will allow the drywall installer to create nished drywall edges next to “shadow reveals”. Typically 1/2” reviews can terminate the drywall against a ush baseboard, a wood window jamb extension or a wood doorway eliminating the need for casing that sits proud of the drywall. Sometimes a cost savings can even be achieved since the typical Douglas Fir commonly used for windows and doors casing has recently become quite expensive.

Careful “Backframing for both ceiling drops as well as ceiling “step-ups” can make for very interesting three dimension designs which will catch the light di erently depending on which way the drywall plane will face. is can create an interesting element in an otherwise unremarkable space.

In conclusion, Drywall is an inexpensive interior nishing material that has the added bene t of an excellent sound bu er as well as a good re rating. It can also be doubled or tripled to further dampen sound transmission.

It can also be hung on what is known in architecture’s terms as a reliant channel or rez bar. is method helps to isolate and dampen noises created by impact or vibrations. Once the metal bar is screwed into the jousts or studs, the drywall is then attached to the bar itself and is now