As the design for our adaptive reuse campus was evolving, we knew we wanted to incorporate timber framing for many reasons. Not only would we be giving new life to this run-down farmstead and providing a safe and beautiful space for our team to work, but we would be showcasing innovative building techniques to inspire generations to come.

Originally, we had gorgeous designs that illustrated what the campus’ welcoming reception space would look like:

Primarily working with Gregg Scott, retired architect, Engel Architects, and our internal team, we pulled together a plan. The building would be our functional show space, a place of honoring the legacies that came before us, and an opportunity for us to give back to our community – it had to be perfect.

We wanted the new structure to blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings, using timber as the primary material. A question arose: how do we maximize natural light while showcasing the timber frame structure?

A grand timber structure with glass walls that would flood the interior with natural light while showcasing the beauty of wood.

Crafting the Vision

We gathered around the conference table, sketching out ideas and brainstorming. The vision was clear: walls that would act as a transparent veil, blurring the lines between the interior space and the outside world.

The timber would give the walls a warm, organic feel, while the glass would create a sense of openness.

We decided to glaze directly to the timber structure. This allowed us to have a very seamless appearance almost as if the glass grew out of the timber.

Engineering the Dream

Next, it was time to get down to the technical details. We knew these walls would have to withstand everything from the weight of the structure and the glass assembly to the force of the wind and rain. So, we began by analyzing the loads.

We partnered with structural engineers and suppliers and started running calculations, determining the size and spacing of the timber posts, beams and glass sizing.

Tackling Thermal and Moisture Challenges

As we moved forward, we knew we couldn’t overlook the practicalities. Timber is a living material—it expands and contracts with changes in temperature and humidity. To manage this, we planned to use flexible glazing systems that could accommodate these natural movements without compromising the seal between the glass and timber.

But that wasn’t all. We needed to ensure that the curtain wall would be energy-efficient and weather-resistant. Someone proposed using high-performance glazing with low-E coatings to reduce energy consumption.

To keep moisture at bay, we discussed various sealants and flashing systems. We knew that water infiltration could lead to rot or warping of the timber, so this was a critical part of the design.

Bringing the Design to Life

With the design finalized, we moved into the detailing phase. We worked closely with our fabricators, creating precise shop drawings that captured every dimension, joint, and connection. The drawings had to be flawless—any mistake could lead to costly delays during construction.

In the workshop, the timber elements were carefully crafted. We decided to use CNC machines for the timber joinery ensuring a perfect fit. The timber  beams and posts were then finished with Sansin SDF stain and sealer  to enhance their natural beauty and protect them from the elements.

Installation

Finally, the day arrived to install the timber frame. The site was buzzing with activity as cranes lifted the timbers into place. Piece by piece, the building began to take form. At the time of timber frame assembly the glass sizes were field verified and released for manufacturing and  to be installed after the roof was on the building to ensure no moisture would get trapped in the assembly.

It wasn’t all smooth sailing. There were a few hiccups—an alignment issue here, a stubborn peg there—but we tackled each challenge head-on, making site adjustments as needed.

A Masterpiece Completed

As the sun set, casting a warm glow through the newly installed timbers and glass we took a step back to admire our work. The timber frames looked like elegant, organic lines crisscrossing the glass, framing the views of the surrounding landscape. Inside, the space was bathed in natural light, just as we had envisioned.

The team was thrilled! The timber curtain walls  had become the building’s defining feature—a perfect blend of form and function. We knew we had created something special, a testament to the beauty of timber and the power of thoughtful design.

The Legacy of Our Work

In the end, our timber curtain walls aren’t  just walls—it was a statement. It told the story of our commitment to craftsmanship, sustainability, and the seamless integration of nature and architecture. And as we packed up our tools and plans, we knew that this project would stand as a lasting example of what we could achieve together.