Designing timber frame homes is a very personal journey for homeowners. We started designing our own timber frame almost fifteen years before we actually built it. The design we ended up building was not even close to the early designs. We built a smaller, more charming home. We traveled many roads leading to this design, discussing simplicity and complexity, weighing the size and scale options, and always, style.
We poured over books of very old home designs. The kit homes from Sears, Wardway, Aladdin, and Van-Tine offered a sense of history. Stickley’s craftsman homes were charming. Many of these designs offered character that would work well when translated into timber frame construction. So much of what made them special and unique actually carried from one design to another. They were designed to a human scale, something missing in many homes today.
The Creekside was designed to fit our lifestyle and to be comfortable. It sits on a small footprint and is energy efficient. The living space is open and flows well, but not overwhelming. We designed in smaller, cozy spaces for the office and reading nook, while making sure that this home will age in place. Designing a timber frame home that brought all of this together was important to us.
Sharing this experience with people who visit us at Goshen Timber Frames is important to us. We want to help them design a home that works for them. We see many clients who are interested in the older character and style similar to our home. Whether they want smaller or larger, they are looking for a sense of shelter in their new home.
So, my advice as you research your new timber frame is to design and build what draws you, what engages you, and what works for you. Don’t think about the current trends, but design a home that fits with your land and your lifestyle. You will be well rewarded.
