August 2015 35
tion? Aluminum crosstie-alternatives in between the pavers, installed every 4 to 5 feet
that tied into the in-ground aluminum edging that ran all along the walkway. This
method was time-efficient and effective.
The pergola presented some minor hitches. The wood used was Douglas fir lumber
from British Columbia, which in itself was the first issue as Quebec is on the opposite
side of the country, and since no suppliers in the region had the required sizes in stock,
they had to be shipped quite a distance.
A carpenter was sub-contracted to build the roof on site. It was determined that the
best construction method was to put it together and stain it on the ground, even though
space was limited at the time, and then set it onto the wood trusses with the help of a
crane.
Techo-Bloc's director of education once said: "Permeable pavement doesn't have to
look like orthopedic shoes!" This project seems to be great evidence of that.
Top, Left: Riviera-toned Travertina slabs pave the cooking
and dining area. The lighting includes Vision3 down lights
on the columns, Lubo Spectabilis path lights, and Kichler
AZT up lights. The fire bowls are from Grand Effects.
Top, Right: The fire feature is also built of Baltimore
retaining wall stones in brushed pewter and Riviera-toned
Piedimonte caps. The fire insert is from Grand Effects.
Aberdeen slabs in azzurro were installed on this level.
Above: Piedimonte caps were installed for the treads and
risers of the steps. Baltimore wall and Piedimonte caps
make up the columns. It took a 37-person crew 8 months
to complete the project.
DBM
LC