Wood and Steel Together

Wood Shingles and Steel Frame

This residential building around the corner on Baker Street between Pine and California was built about 25 years ago.  Garage doors usually demand a relatively wide opening that needs to be supported by an overhead beam.  Here the architect solved two problems using a steel frame.  It supports the garage door opening and also provides lateral stability to the building to resist earthquakes.

Most designers would conceal the steel frame within or behind the exterior wall to maintain the "rustic shingled" look.  Here the architect decided to show it all to good effect.  Almost decorative, It's a nice contrast to the wood shingles.