Fine Finishes

Galactic Sculpture Stargazing at the brilliant night sky is best accomplished far from city lights. Viewing the stars and constellations with all the shimmering and twinkling effects of their light, however, is now possible from inside the home.

Legend Designs sculptor Jim Vann uses state-of-the-art materials and techniques to deliver that same twinkling night-sky effect inside custom homes. His fiber-optic star ceilings are “living” scale sculptures of the Northern (or Southern) Hemisphere’s stars, constellations, nebulae, and other galaxies. “I make it changing and interactive. Just like the sky, you can get tired of looking at the stars if you see them all the time,” Vann says. “I invented a way for the stars to twinkle, not just come on like most star ceilings. It looks like it’s alive.”

Homeowners can choose sculptures of the known universe, the Milky Way, constellations, or just constellation outlines. Light levels can be increased and dimmed using the sculpture’s controls. A light organ that responds to music by illuminating thousands of points of colored lights is optional. The sculptures can also be programmed to shimmer to the sound of a person’s voice.

Using cast acrylic sheets, acrylic fiber-optic strands, LED lights, and the 38 different processes of his patented design, Vann can create nearly any size or configuration of star ceiling or wall panel. The sculptures are remote-control operated but can also be programmed for voice activation. A back-up control panel is included, and the controls can be incorporated into a home’s automation system. Because of the accuracy and level of detail, each sculpture can take a year or more to complete. Vann and his crew handle all aspects of installation. 360.739.0183. www.legenddesignsllc.com.

Architectural Jewels Artist-blacksmith Greg Leavitt crafts ironwork that is both architectural and decorative. The jewelry-like quality of much of his work is strongly influenced by the Art Nouveau movement, although he has rendered pieces in a diverse and eclectic array of styles. Forged-iron gates for gardens and driveways, railings, grilles, garden sculptures, and interior metalwork are among his most common projects.

Leavitt strikes a balance between pleasing the client and pleasing himself with the commissions he takes. Initial consultations with clients include a review of his complete portfolio, during which Leavitt notes the projects they respond to.

One memorable commission that Leavitt and his daughter, Camille Leavitt, collaborated on featured two repoussé trees, one built around large boulders and standing 30 feet high, the other supporting part of the client’s house.

Working in the hand-forged blacksmithing process, Leavitt’s primary materials are iron, copper, stainless steel, and bronze. Leavitt offers several finishes, clear-coated for protection. All installation is done by his studio. 610.367.8867. www.gregleavitt.com.