A Magical Installation
This winter we have been busy building and installing our 5th Magical Bridge Playhouse! This is the biggest one yet, with a theater stage that is over 3 times larger then any previous stage. Here’s our crew after doing the final test assembly of what we built in our shop: (from left to right) Jose Luis, Kevin, Jose (Kevin’s father), George, Marco (team leader), and Moises.
On site in Santa Clara, the crew first installed the playhouse girder system so the general contractor, Robert A Bothman could form the concrete ramps and curbs around it, ensuring a perfect fit. Once the concrete work is finished, we return to assemble the playhouse, dodging the winter storms.
Up goes the 1st wall! This curved Theater Entrance wall with redwood curtains is the linchpin - everything builds out from here.
With the 1st floor walls and 2nd story deck frame installed, the crew turns to adding the decking to the entire lower level. How beautiful is that stage floor? Made from Thermory Ash decking, not only is this stage beautiful but it will last through every performance for decades to come. Thermory is ash lumber modified by unique heat and steam processes to provide rot resistance and exceptional durability. This gleaming stage will provide an expansive space for imaginative play, schedule performances and impromptu theater.
The second story walls start going up next, while the big roof is re-assembled on the ground next to the playhouse. What a beautiful day for installing a playhouse. Barbara’s there to make sure all is going as planned.
As work on the second story assembly continues, the crew dons special safety equipment in case of an accident.
What better way to end the month then with installing the roofs? The large middle roof and the two smaller side roofs are pre-built back at our shop. The crew delivers them to the Magical Bridge site, then Bothman’s team cranes the roofs into place, with the BB team handling the guide ropes . It is tense, exciting day that requires lots of teamwork to get everything done right. And to add to the fun, it started to rain just as we got started!
Scaffold goes up so the crew can safely finish the roofs - bolting in place, adding trim, and stain touchup. The guys are busy finishing every little detail!
The roofs are up! Barbara approves.
Next phase - adding the elevated walkway to the upper level of the playhouse. Still so much more to do, but just think - In a few months this playhouse will be at the heart of bustling playground!