Timber-Frame Design

Crafting Custom Timber Frames That Balance Beauty and Strength

Quarry View Building Group provides tailored timber-frame design services that combine aesthetics, performance, and buildability. Every timber-frame structure we design is crafted to meet the unique goals of our clients—accounting for usage, location, materials, and engineering standards.

Our approach blends traditional craftsmanship with modern tools to deliver functional, cost-effective designs with high structural integrity and timeless style.

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What Is Timber-Frame Construction?

Timber-frame construction uses large, exposed wood members to form the primary structural frame. Posts, beams, and braces are carefully sized to support loads and create wide-open spaces without the need for interior bearing walls.

Typical connections include mortise and tenon joints, secured with hardwood pegs or metal fasteners—depending on design and code requirements. Unlike light framing, timber-frame systems emphasize strength, durability, and architectural visibility. They are ideal for barns, homes, venues, and mixed-use buildings where the structure becomes part of the design.

Comprehensive Timber-Frame Design Process

Our design process starts with a discovery meeting to understand your goals, budget, and aesthetic preferences. From there, we gather project requirements, evaluate the site, and shape a layout based on square footage and span needs.

Our design team will:

  • Develop conceptual layouts

  • Coordinate roof pitch, elevation, and load-bearing elements

  • Select joint types and framing details

  • Plan connectors, bracing, and integration with shear walls or panels

  • Evaluate raising sequences and site access

  • Produce shop drawings with joinery and layout details

  • Align with envelope, MEP, and foundation systems

  • Collaborate with the full project team and field crews

This early coordination ensures smoother construction with fewer changes later.

Timber Frame Styles That Fit Your Vision

We design for both strength and aesthetics. Exposed timber adds warmth and texture to a structure, making it a visible architectural feature.

Common styles include:

  • Hammer beam truss

  • King post truss

  • Queen post truss

  • Common Truss

  • Common rafter/principal purlin design

Each design reflects the client’s goals and the building’s context.

Choosing the Right Wood Species

We help clients select timber species based on performance, appearance, and cost. Options include:

  • Douglas fir for cost cost-effective but strong and stable

  • White Oak for exceptional strength, but more checking

  • Hemlock or pine for cost-effective

  • Reclaimed or native species for unique character

Selections are tailored to structural needs, finish goals, and regional availability. We also coordinate procurement to reduce lead times and support sustainability goals.

Joinery and Connection Solutions

Joinery is central to every timber-frame structure. We offer both traditional and modern options:

  • Hand-cut mortise and tenon or dovetail joints

  • Hybrid joints using steel or concealed hardware

  • Each connection is designed to meet specific load requirements and code standards.

Field-Ready Designs for Efficient Construction

We design timber-frame structures with real-world conditions in mind. That includes:

  • Staging and access planning for raising the frame

  • Foundation design that accounts for point loads

  • Fit-up sequences that reduce rework

  • Connector details for efficient assembly

  • Integration with envelope, mechanical, and structural systems

These elements help crews work efficiently and safely, while protecting the budget and schedule.

Addressing Design and Construction Challenges

Quarry View helps clients overcome common hurdles like:

  • Budget or sourcing limitations

  • Site access for raising

  • Inspection or engineering requirements

  • Truss or layout complexity

  • Coordination with architectural and envelope systems

Through early planning, documentation, and teamwork, we keep the process moving forward.

Supporting Architects and Builders Alike

We collaborate closely with project partners throughout design and construction:

  • Sharing connection and layout drawings

  • Participating in shop coordination

  • Answering RFIs and clarifications

  • Assisting with field joinery and rigging

  • Ensuring long-term performance and finish quality

Our involvement extends beyond drawings—we support project success from start to finish.

From Concept to Completion

Quarry View supports timber-frame projects from concept through build. Our designs have been used in:

  • Farmhouses and custom homes

  • Barns and riding arenas

  • Event venues and churches

  • Passive House and envelope-intensive structures

  • Adaptive reuse and historic preservation

Each project combines architecture, engineering, and fine wood craftsmanship.

Why Quarry View?

As a timber-frame company, Quarry View blends form and function to deliver smart, stable structures. Our team brings decades of experience in timber design and construction, offering:

  • Design flexibility with structural performance

  • Architectural intent paired with budget-conscious choices

  • Long-lasting frames that stand the test of time

Supporting Open Floor Plans and Load Management

Timber framing allows for open, uninterrupted spaces. Our team designs for:

  • Clear-span bay dimensions

  • Truss and beam sizing

  • Lateral and shear resistance

  • Floor load support

  • Vertical load transfer to the foundation

We balance architectural openness with structural safety.

Integrated Envelope and Systems Coordination

Timber-frame design must work in harmony with the rest of the structure. We coordinate framing with:

  • Wall systems and exterior finishes

  • Air barriers and insulation strategies

  • Fire protection methods

  • HVAC and lighting paths

  • Roofing and waterproofing details

Our integration ensures a seamless transition between systems.

Let’s Build Something Enduring

Quarry View’s timber-frame design services turn vision into structure. From aesthetic beauty to structural reliability, we create frames that inspire.

Contact Quarry View Building Group to work with expert timber-frame designers who understand the craft, the structure, and the construction process.

Let's Discuss Your Project