Technical Design Solutions for Theatre

Two Methods of Constructing Terrain Decks

David Cunningham

 

This article describes two methods of constructing decks with contoured surfaces. These decks rest on substructures consisting either of oddly raked platform units or of contour ribs affixed to gates (frames) or studwalls. Plywood lath woven or arranged in layers on top of the substructure smooths out the contours while providing the surface with the necessary strength. Successive layers of increasingly flexible materials such as chicken wire, carpet padding, and burlap give the deck its finish contours and texture.

The lath used can be cut in many widths and shapes from lauan or plywood ⅛″ to ½″ thick. However, the best material for lath is ¼″ plywood ripped into 2″ strips and ...