Last year we designed and built a one-of-a-kind light fixture for the Kraay Family Farm's new exit barn in Lacombe, Alberta. It looked great in our studio as we built it on a custom-welded steel stand. As we sculpted the piece, we knew it would be viewed from underneath when mounted high in the barn, so we focused our efforts there. To get a proper view of the feature as we worked, we had to lie on the floor. The Kraays are of Dutch heritage, and their name translates to crow, hence the crow motif throughout the farm. One of the three crows was sculpted to hold a loop of the light fixture wire. This past week, I loved seeing the completed fixture for the first time. The Kraays had fulfilled my vision perfectly, with the installation and accessories. The rustic chandelier looked spectacular in the giant vaulted ceiling space.
Spinning wheel
We constructed the undershot waterwheel for Kraay Family Farm two years ago. The challenge was to build it in sections for shipping while keeping it easy to assemble and balance. The Kraay family installed it and built the sluice boxes. We fabricated the mining cars (hidden) to catch the tailings this spring. It was magical to see the wheel spinning slowly and majestically. The attraction is now a popular landmark and feature on the farm.
Kraay tire horse
It is always exciting to see our completed projects on site. We design and build them in our studio over many weeks or even months. We build larger projects in sections that we are not able to assemble in our shop. Smaller pieces look very different in the studio than they do out on site. Once we finish the pieces, we carefully load them onto trailers and send them down the road. Often, our clients generously take the time to send pictures, which we greatly appreciate. But nothing beats walking up to a fully assembled project to see it in its permanent home in person. Our clients often do a fantastic job of landscaping around them to make them fit perfectly into their surroundings.
My visit to Kraay Family Farm was magical. The farm was moderately busy, and the sun was shining warmly. Best of all, I was guided by Rachel & Reuben Kraay. They and their crew have made amazing progress over the last three years, since my last visit. As we strolled around the farm, we discussed ongoing challenges and dreamed a little of future projects to make the property even better. We appreciate being included in the farm’s journey. Stay tuned for exciting developments…
