We were requested to make this piano functional again and in order to do that we had to deconstruct and remove all the internal structure.

Before doing any changes to the piano, we design a few digital renderings for the client. We usually do renderings, we think is the best way to show clients our ideas. The final product doesn’t have to be the same to the initial digital sketches, but normally follow the same concept!

In order to do so, we had first to remove the key slip, fall board, music rack, lid, lid prod, keyboard, action frame and bumpers.

The next step was to loose and remove around 216 and 236 strings. This was a slow process, as the strings are making a great amount of pressure. Each string has a tension of 160-200 pounds, resulting a total string tension of 35,000 pounds. This high stress is supported by a strong cast-iron frame (the plate). The strings must be loose and removed in a very specific way, always trying to keep the tension balanced along the plate.

Once the strings where removed, the next step is to remove the 1000lb cast iron plate. Not easy!

Without the plate in place, the only piece remaining before reaching the piano structure is the soundboard.

With the heavy parts removed, we took the piano to the studio.

Taking in consideration a few changes from the initial renderings, we started the modifications of the piano into a shelving unit.

There we detached the legs, pedals and inner structure (beams), The last were use for the legs of base of the shelf. We had to strip and re coat the piano. Some parts where re stained as well.