McWood Studios
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CSI Accessibility Ramp

Founded in 1977, McWood Studios is a design and fabrication shop located in a state-of-the-art facility in Toronto, Ontario. Our studio creates scenery and sets for Film, Television, and Theatre; booths and displays for tradeshows; and custom millwork for museum and art exhibits. We collaborate with designers and architects to deliver unique projects to clients across Canada and the U.S.

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Project CSI Accessibility Ramp
Client Centre for Social Innovation 192 Spadina Avenue Toronto
Design TABC The Architect Builders Cooperative
Architect Oleson Worland Architect
Photos © McWood Studios

The 100-year-old fir beams required extensive processing. We scraped lead paint, removed metal fasteners and kiln dried lengths before slicing into usable blocks. Sets of blocks are mounted on plywood risers, connecting them to steel structures under the ramps and landings. The design utilizes the fir blocks as both divisions between landings and as seating. The railings, uprights and plates are ½” hot rolled laser cut steel. We incorporated tactile indicators, wayfinding lighting and stainless floor grating. Everything was prebuilt in the shop for minimal welding and onsite disruption. The wood and steel are sealed with a non-toxic finish.

Behind the scenes shows the processing of the raw, century old lumber and the pre-fit block sets.