Staircase II: Half done

It looks like the staircase is going to be one of those things in the house that will come out more beautiful than we ever imagined. Here's a detailed view of the landing. The false stringers along the back wall meet with the baseboard of the landing at a 45 degree angle. Willy had actually intended for the stringer to move down to the landing, but cut it too short and had to improvise the joint. It actually looks better than the original plan. You can see the profile of the baseboards with the pieces leaning against the wall at right. 

 The second image shows a view similar to the one given in the previous posting, but with a better view of the false stringers (along the side of the upper staircase) and of the the upstairs windows. After looking at the unfinished staircase for months, it's good to see the finished product taking shape.

If you look carefully, you'll notice checks (cracks) in the posts and the beams. This is what hemlock does as it dries. It actually tightens and strengthens the frame. The staircase, though, should not do this.