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Esherick House Handrail 
Case Study
Fall 2023 
Instructor Philip Ryan

The handrail bracket forms the transition between the stair handrail and the wooden wall panels. It is an interesting detail because it connects wood elements with different shapes, angles, and functions. Its form demonstrates that it was designed in response to the positions and orientations of both the handrail and the wall panels. A circular plate with four screws secures the bracket to the wall, providing a stable and balanced connection. In contrast, the handrail is attached to a rectangular plate with two screws, whose elongated shape corresponds to the direction in which the handrail runs. The ½-inch-diameter bronze bar acts as a mediating element, supporting the handrail and rotating to accommodate its angle. The use of bronze conveys a sense of structural strength, while its visual and tactile relationship with the wood creates an overall feeling of warmth.

Original Handrail Bracket Detail by Louis Kahn
Built Handrail. Image taken in Esherick House
Concept Model Diagram
Screw Connections
1”=1” Rounded MDF
Side View 
3D Printed Connection Detail
Back View
Model Elements
Front View 
Back View 
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