Category O — Unusal Ornamental

Gold: Foreman Fabricators

Title of Entry: Copper Ceiling
Materials: .125" alloy 110 mirror copper sheet for panels; .040" alloy 110 mirror copper sheet for joint covers;
alloy 5052 mill finished aluminum sheet for supports
Finish: Mirror finish with an air dry, spray-on acrylic lacquer, high gloss
Total Labor Hours: 100

This 1600-square-foot area was a concept only on drawings when Foreman Fabricators bid it. The project ended up encompassing 220 hours of fabrication balanced with 100 hours of project management time. The contract included install, for which a subcontractor needed 600 hours. There were a variety of challenges to be overcome throughout the process, including:
-Scheduling: There was constant pressure to finish on time, but the team had to wait on a floor installation to be complete before they could move forward with dimensioning. Then, constant changes to layout necessitated continuous remeasuring. 
-Mirror finish: This delicate finish required extreme care during fabrication and even more caution when being installed, as parts were lacquered before delivery. The lacquer scratched easily, and the highly reflective surface showed even the smallest imperfections.
-Hole locations for lights: The designer could not decide which lights to choose, or where they should be located, which forced GC to request that Foreman Fabricators cut in field. This meant they had to install the panel, mark where the lights went, remove the lights, ,cut the hole, and reinstall - all while protecting a highly sensitive lacquered finish.
-Missing studwork: Foreman Fabricators had to make and install their own studwork so that they had a substrate giving their panels support.

Despite these and other hurdles, Foreman Fabricators was able to produce a one-of-a-kind copper ceiling that will be enjoyed and admired by family and visitors for years to come.

To learn more about Foreman Fabricators, and to view more of the company's signature work, visit www.foremanfab.com.