Community is the driving force behind timber framing. Historically, “it took a village” to raise a timber frame. Before cranes and other modern conveniences, the whole town would show up to help raise a barn or a home. It served two functions: a single family’s home was built in a day, and the community came together in a show of mutual support and strength.
All of us at BFDB found timber framing by way of community, and it is that intrinsic aspect of timber framing that has kept us so passionate about the craft.
We encourage our clients and their friends and family to take part in the process as much or as little as they wish, and we encourage festivities around the raising as there would have been in the “old days.”
Buffam Falls Design/Build has worked hard to provide frames and community projects for all budgets, so long as the mission is right. Bunkhouses, barns and homes have been built on donated labor and equity. Workshops, fundraisers, events and grants can work individually or in tandem to achieve high quality structures for deserving communities and individuals. Reach out to see if BFDB can work with you!
Here is a photo of community raising in 2011 in Andover, NH. An old timber framer was diagnosed with ALS, and instead of an ugly wheelchair ramp, he wanted to enter and exit his home in style. BFDB was called to the job, and on a sunny summer day 50 friends and family descended on the job site to raise and roof the covered bridge in one day. There was barbecue and games for the kids, and the support and love shown that day was boundless.
Below are some photographs of workshops and smaller, crowd funded projects hosted by Buffam Falls Design/Build and owner, Hank Brakeley.
