A timber frame is a beautiful and unique element adding the natural elegance of wood to the home’s interior and/or exterior. Not only is it a feature that enhances the home’s space, but depending on the design, it is largely a structural element as well.
Timber frame home design allows for a broader scope of design elements that are not present in conventional homes including cathedral ceilings, large open spaces that do not require support posts or walls interrupting the space, large windows, and flexibility of the overall design aesthetic.
Some variations of timber frame home design easily accommodate budget requirements and individuals’ lifestyles. You can select a full timber frame home, a hybrid timber frame home, or use timbers to accent specific spaces in the home of your dreams.
Designing a custom home allows you to create a living space that reflects your style, preferences, and lifestyle. Here are some key aspects to consider when beginning the journey of custom home design.
Consider your Lifestyle
Begin by assessing your needs, preferences, and lifestyle. Consider factors such as the number of family members, work requirements, hobbies, etc. Do you like hosting large get-togethers or prefer a smaller cozy feel to the space? Think about how you want to live and use your home and begin to determine what goals you have for your custom design. Pro tip: Write them down! Jot down any ideas you have at this stage. This will help your design team gain as much insight as possible to provide you with the home you envision.
Budget Planning
We won’t spend too much time on this topic today, because it is a topic for discussion all on its own. But it is certainly something to include in your design planning process. Establish a realistic budget for your custom home project. This should include not only construction costs but also factors like permits, landscaping, site and site development costs, and interior furnishings. A typical turnkey construction budget from a builder will not include property and development costs. With timber frame homes, you have other choice selections as well. Will it be a full frame, hybrid, or accents? What type of finish do you like? Color, species, and bent styles, also are factors to consider. Establishing a budget beforehand helps the team at TImbercraft design a plan to suit not only your lifestyle but your wallet too.
Evaluate your site
Consider the characteristics of your building site. The topography, orientation, and local climate can influence the design and energy efficiency of your home. Here is where we get into the fun questions like, “Is it a lake home, are you in the mountains, is it a wooded lot, are you on a hill”… These are things to discuss with your design professional since they are well suited to design a home that compliments the natural surroundings of your property.
Designing for Function, Aesthetic & Energy Efficiency
While the beauty of a timber frame home is what most homeowners evaluate first, we want to make sure you also prioritize functionality in your design. Think about how each space will be used and how different areas will flow together. Consider factors such as storage, traffic flow, and accessibility.
Next, define your aesthetic preferences. Whether you prefer a traditional, modern, minimalist, or eclectic style, communicate this to your design professional. Collect inspiration from magazines, online platforms, and other sources to help convey your vision. You can also check out some of Timbercraft’s inspiration to see what other clients have done with their timber frame home design.
Integrate energy-efficient and sustainable design principles into your plan. This can include using eco-friendly materials, maximizing natural light, and incorporating energy-efficient appliances and systems. A benefit of working directly with Timbercraft on your home design is the energy-efficient building materials that work well with a timber frame are already part of the process. You will be introduced to thermal envelopes for the walls and roof, and foundation systems best suited for this type of construction.
Construction Collaboration & Building Code Requirements
Timber framing is a unique building method, established and practiced for hundreds of years. It provides greater design and building flexibility, but it is recommended that the construction and installation team be versed in the building method. Traditional joinery, large timbers, and support systems are all designed to maximize the client’s vision, and they are different than standard framing, so make sure your build team is familiar with these building practices. Pro Tip: We know a guy… so chat with us about recommended installers for your timber frame!
In regards to building codes, your design professional should be familiar with these requirements ensuring that your design complies with local building codes and regulations. Collaborate closely with your architect, designer, and construction team throughout the entire process. Regular communication can help address any issues that may arise during construction.
Interior Design and Finishes
The last (and potentially most fun) aspect of designing your home is the selection of interior finishes. Because you already have a beautiful natural element showcased throughout your home, choose materials and finishes that align with your aesthetic preferences and lifestyle that compliment the frame.
Why choose Timbercraft to design your timber frame home?
Timbercraft’s design team is led by James E. Miller, who has been designing in the timber frame industry for over 15 years. Timbercraft listens to the needs of each client and develops the spaces they envision in their home that suit their lifestyle, all while designing for structural requirements and aesthetic appeal. By working closely with each client throughout the process, the design of each home begins to transform organically, bringing their vision to life.
Not only does Timbercraft develop custom homes, but has an inclusive library of home designs that span single-story, multi-story, lakeside, mountainside, large and small, hybrid, and full frames. Not sure where to start when it comes to designing your home? Take a look at the Timbercraft Design Library to get some inspiration!
Remember that the key to a successful custom home design is effective communication with your design professionals and being actively involved in the decision-making process. Additionally, staying flexible and open to expert advice can lead to a home that not only meets your expectations but exceeds them.