Architectural Tutorial: Timber Frame

A residential construction method used commonly in the 17th and 18th century, timber framing did more than just create sturdy structures.  It has impacted design elements and details that have been incorporated into architectural styles for years beyond.  Today, we most commonly see elements of timber framing in mountain, lodge and adirondack style homes.  Originally, it was a form of carpentry that involved taking large pieces of wood and joining them together with woodworking joints.  Wooden pegs, braces and trusses were employed.  In modern construction, these elements can still be seen but often are more ornamental rather than structural.  

Visbeen Architects incorporates timber framing details in a variety of style homes.  It can add a thread of rustic to a contemporary or formal style of architecture or solidify the lodge-esque feel.  Here are a few examples...

In mountain, adirondack, lodge and timber frame homes, there are a number of products that can help achieve the overall look.

1.  Roofing:  GAF Roofing has an impact resistant line of shingles called Grand Sequoia that are meant to give a rugged wood-shake look at a fraction of the cost of traditional state, wood shakes or expensive metal roofs.

2.  Hardware: Rocky Mountain Hardware makes hinges, door and cabinet hardware, faucets, sinks and more that give a rustic, yet refine feel.  Their products can be seen in such places as Idaho's State Capitol, Pelican Hill Resort near Newport Beach, California and Sun Valley Resort, in the rocky mountains of Central Idaho.

3. Lighting:  Old California Lantern Company creates high-quality lighting fixtures inspired by California history and architecture, offering handmade products in Bungalow, Cottage and Western Style. 

4.  Windows:  Pella Windows create standard and custom windows for a variety of architectural styles, but in addition to their traditional hardware collection, Pella offers Rocky Mountain Hardware.  Each piece is handcrafted in solid bronze and available in a diverse palette of hand-applied finishes for those who want their windows to make a personal, enduring style statement.

Sources:

http://www.loc.gov/rr/print/list/100_tim.html

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Timber_framing