Northern Bay Timber Frames

A timber frame should be carefully designed for the way you plan to use your home or outbuilding. Because they are freestanding structures, timber frames lend themselves to an open living concept.

You will want to have your floor plan in place as well as the desired window and door placement as these will help determine the spatial design of the timbers. Having a floor plan will allow the placement of timbers in an arrangement that will set off the different living areas without the need for partition walls. You will also want to channel traffic in natural patterns and avoid post and brace placement in these areas.

Knowing window and door placement will preclude the interruption of frame members in viewing space, both interior and on the exterior glazing. Because the frame carries the load of the structure, large glass areas are possible. Most exterior braces are 30"-36" which is the distance it will extend both down a posted member and across a tying member along their faces(interior braces are 24"-30"). For planning purposes, on an 8' wall height, subtract 8" of depth for the horizontal member to a height of 7' 4" to indicate the bottom of the member. Then allow 3' away from the post at that height for where the brace intersects the horizontal member. This will be a safe distance to allow for window/door placement. Be sure to allow for trim widths as well.

You will want to factor in beam depth to your ceiling height. Main carrying beams are usually 10". Meaning a ceiling height of 8' will allow for a clearance of 7' 2". floor joists are usually 8" in depth. Ceiling heights greatly affect the feel of your home. Generally a lower height will cause a more intimate ambiance of closeness by bring down the scale. Raising it  causes the opposite effect making a space seem proportionally larger.

Of course ceiling heights, window and door placements, and spacial design can all be adjusted. This is part of the fun of design. The important part is to work at the space you want to create for the home you want, and remember to have fun.

As always you may call with any questions if you would like some guidance as you think through your project . Thanks. Rob Hutchinson (207) 479-6257.