The recent revival of Timber Framing as a building method dates to about 35 years ago. As such, it’s only now time that the early homes of this period are turning over and being remodeled in any significant number. From the start, one selling point of timber framing was that due to the structural point loading of the posts, rather than the more traditional platform framing of interior walls, eventual removal or relocation of walls to change the floor plan or update utilities would be much easier.
With this project, we put this theory to the test.
When Daniel called me to set up an appointment to view our home and discuss a project, he mentioned he was considering the purchase of an existing timber framed home and wanted me to inspect it, decide what potential it had, and perhaps do some work on it. I was skeptical. New Energy Works Timberframers simply isn’t a remodeling company, and we were reasonably busy with designing and building new timber frame homes.
Daniel came with his wife Sheri to the Vermont Street Project, my own home and the 2011 Fine Homebuilding HOUSES Home of the Year. They had found it online, and it had hit a nerve. It had a sense of calm and intimacy that Sheri craved, and that was lacking in the home they were looking at. As I mentioned that I was skeptical that this was a project we wanted, Sheri looked a bit wistful, and Daniel grew concerned. He confided in us that the site was perfect, but that without our involvement, he and Sheri had decided to pass up the purchase. They needed us to turn this mishmash of a home into one that really worked. We were hooked, and my wife Maxine, who does our interiors, signed on with me to help out. My only requirement was that they would have to fasten their seat belts, as this was going to require a very complete re-do.
“The New Energy Works team came in and walked us through the process to create a home of peace and beauty. There is not a day that goes by where we are not overwhelmed with gratitude for what our home has become.” Daniel & Sheri, Homeowners, Lake Oswego OR
-
The completed remodeled exterior of this timber frame family home in Lake Oswego, OR includes new fenestration, covered entry, timber elements, siding, and a reclaimed timber pavilion. (Photo by Loren Nelson Photography)
-
The original exterior of the 1980's timber frame was dated and lacked cohesion.
-
From the start, one selling point of timber framing was that due to the structural point loading of the posts, rather than the more traditional platform framing of interior, eventual removal or relocation of walls to change the floor plan or update utilities would be much easier. After remodeling, this home offers an open, flowing floor plan. (Photo by Loren Nelson Photography)
-
The lower level living areas were constrained and separated in the original layout of a timber frame home in Lake Oswego, OR. The original fenestration, as seen here, had interrupted views and overabundant light.
-
An outdoor living and dining area adjacent to the home was crafted from industrial as-found timbers and artisan concrete with an arbor to connect to the home, all framing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. (Photo by Loren Nelson Photography; reclaimed timbers from Pioneer Millworks)
View Comments
Beautiful!!!