As an artisan stone mason that started his training in Qualicum Beach in the late 70s, I became classically trained. After decades of installing standard Ashlar (random square) and random fit in many materials, I moved towards innovations in style and mixed materials that worked well together. Active in multiple disciplines over the years, from bulk excavation to building envelope repair, the combined experience allowed for designing outside of the box where many singular-trained disciplines get trapped in the classical loop.
Some of these innovations involve combining traditional techniques with natural forms, accented by light in wood, stone and metal. One such recent example are the stone pillars built for the Hurley residence in Nanoose Bay. While keeping within traditional parameters for some of the build, we used mixed materials and finished with shadowboxed glow-in-the-dark motif inserts and a strip mid-point in the CIP (cast in place) black cap.
To achieve this, we cast separated colours with epoxy and laid over powder-coated steel. The cap strips are poured in aluminum C-channel and set into the cant strips. The glow-in-the-dark materials are the highest quality phosphorescent rare earth minerals and are a combination of strontium, aluminate, europium, and dysprosium to achieve the brightest and longest-lasting glow. No electricity is required, and the glow lasts for 12 hours even in low-light conditions and stays active for 20 years.
The pillars are framed on each side by yellow cedar to accent the style of stonework and, over time, will produce a natural patina that works. We are pleased to announce our partnership with an additional seasoned artisan Haemish Beaton. His extensive experience in a variety of builds, with a focus on anything wood, brings another layer of experience and depth to the company.
When an artisan has extensive classical experience in multiple disciplines, minor deviations from the norm is natural and can bring an appeal to the finished product that separates it from the banal. Creating extraordinary from ordinary has become the company’s mantra, which appeals to many.
Whether it’s a bath renovation, outdoor living space or residence, we bring a combined 70 years of experience and innovation to the design table. Some of our experience and expertise includes timber frame structures, site prep, bulk excavation, structural retention (gravity, Sierra slope, timber and gabion), water control, water features, custom ground-up builds, outdoor living spaces and specialty signage.
Whether it’s contemporary with a twist, craftsman, art deco or refined rustic, we’ve got you covered and are happy to provide a free initial consultation. Phone us at 250-927-8979 or visit our website at www.ramccullochbuilders.ca.
