Photo: David Dulberger

Anagama kiln shed

A kiln shed provides a unique opportunity to add beauty and functionality to a kiln site. The anagama shed has been added onto twice since its original construction, first for extra wood storage and a second time to cover the door of the kiln from weather during loading/unloading and firing. This shed also has large vents along the east facing side for smoke ventilation, which can be opened during a firing and closed when the kiln is not in use. This shed measures 32'x42' with a 21'x14' extension.

Soda and train kiln shed

When pricing materials for this shed I knew I could save a lot of money by searching local classifieds for used and repurposed ​items. Along the way I found an entire apple processing factory that had been dismantled and was being sold off piece by piece. I made a deal with the owner for all of the columns and headers that I would need and hauled them back to the kiln site on a flatbed trailer. Instead of pressure treated lumber I ended up using industrial sized painted steel columns and beams. Because of the size and shape that I came up with, I ended up ordering custom trusses and roofing metal. I also bought a few extra beams and columns to use as support for a rolling kiln door for the anagama kiln. This shed measures 32'x44' with a 15'x'17' extension.