SEGD_Design - (Page 64) “When you look at a cross section of the dike, you will see no sharp corners,” notes van Santvoord. “We also had to look for form solutions that could cope with the severe climate conditions. These objects are almost the only obstacles on the dike. That’s why they’re made of concrete with a heavy foundation, and finished at the top with double-curved tiles.” The structures were sited to provide breathtaking views of the sea and Dutch Wadden Islands to the north and the IJsselmeer (the great freshwater lake formed by the dike) to the south. Stairs built into each of the monoliths invite children and their families to climb on the structures and interact with the information found there, including stats on the heights of various cities in relation to sea level. The third interpretive element is a 600x600 cm (20-ft. square) tile map of the Netherlands, providing a geographic perspective of the dike system. Use of the ceramic tile posed some significant challenges in the project, says van Santvoord. After an initial baking, images are transferred to the hardened tiles via transfers (1 transfer per color) produced through a process similar to silkscreening. “It has to be a very accurate job, with very little tolerances,” he explains. “During the baking process, the pigments are flowing in the edges a bit and the registrations have to be very exact. If done well, though, it creates beautifully sharp images.” A 20-ft.-square tile map embedded in the dike provides a geographical perspective of the Netherlands and its dike system. Take ImageCast™ Out To The Ball Game… ImageCast™…an innovative, patent-pending process that offers the ability to create truly personalized awards that combine the enduring beauty of cast bronze with the detailed look of a photograph. ImageCast™ is perfect for awards, trophies, or any recognition plaque that tells a pictorial story. ImageCast™ Legacy Plaques Custom Door Pulls Photo use courtesy of Thomas-Swan Sign and the San Francisco Giants. For more information, visit our website or call 1-800-950-1317 in the U.S. or 1-800-628-8439 in Canada. ©2008 Matthews International Corporation www.matthewsbronze.net segdDESIGN 61 http://www.matthewsbronze.net
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