Portfolio - Reception Desk

Approached in 2016 to create a unique, dramatic, and artful reception desk to greet investors and partners from. Overseen by Kasian Architecture, Kirk Van Ludwig proposed a concept off a simple pencil sketch. The next 16 months Van Ludwig would hone the concept while searching for specific Garry Oak to fill in a 20 foot curved steel span. A protected species on Vancouver Island, he found wind blow down Garry Oak that had been drying for 5 years. With manipulation, these pieces would cover the entire span.  

Over 2100 lbs of curved hot rolled steel make up the arc. “My intention was to bridge the 3 pieces of curved steel with 2 single large pieces from the tree.  The arc, steel weight, and desk portion would naturally balance the desk eliminating the need for steel gables or attachment to the floor,” says Van Ludwig.

The layered offset and height differential of each steel plate offer depth and variance. Torch cut openings mimic the wood’s natural edge while wood extrudes through for a dramatic effect. Functionally, the wood is placed so natural voids replace grommets. Interior elements of the desk feature storage compartments, printer stand, and hidden cabinets for personal items.