Good British tradition Norm :-)

Brick sh... houses stood for ages, as did iron bridges and early suspension bridges.

Started about 1300, based on experience after that.

Couple of 4x2's should hold it. Half inch ply won't move. What's wrong with that I ask.

If you'd built it with 2x1 and 1/4 ply, you' be afraid to touch it! Not worth it.

Regards DaveP

Yes, but I expect a single two-by-four would have been sufficient.

My brother is a builder, he says if a house was built 50 years ago it'll be standing in another 50, but a house built today is made from a bare minimum of materials, to a minimum cost, and has a design life of 15 to 20 years.

Sometimes over-engineered is an aesthetic plus, not just an extra cost.

That poor dog loses out again

http://norman.walsh.name/2006/10/31/bookcase#comment0002

you better build a kennel for your next project

That "poor dog" generally sits in one of two comfy dog beds, or on one of two couches, or in my chair, or in my lap. He sleeps on our bed, often on my pillow.

The word you're looking for is "pampered". :-)

I build like you. I also always go with screws for all construction even though nails are cheaper and potentially faster ("Robertson" screws of course). Two benefits: they aren't ever slipping out, and they do come out easily when you want them to without wrecking the wood. Especially useful for projects you may wish to undo in future (seems like this is a good candidate). All homes should be built with screws so the wood can be reused.

I think I would have just hired a professional, but I am lazy so go figure!