@Build_Culture I dont see any knee braces, and the joist dont look to be cantilevered. Just wondering how you were able to meet lateral load requirements.
@wrathofgnon It appears that the damper system requires hold downs at the posts on either side. Does this mean the system would require a positive attachment to a footer?
This is how you run an elliptical mould in situ, using a simple wooden sledge holding a reverse (zinc I believe) mould, in plaster. Not easy but certainly not impossible. You can do this too, create a more beautiful, decorated ceiling, door or window surround, cornices, etc.