CONTEMPORARY TIMBER FRAME STRUCTURES CASE STUDY
Windmill Hill
This listed timber framed farmhouse had developed over several centuries and showed evidence of multiple phases of alteration and repair. Concerns had been raised regarding structural movement, decay within principal members and the long term impact of previous interventions.
The key challenge was to distinguish between historic fabric of significance and later repairs that were either failing or causing harm. A balanced approach was required to satisfy conservation requirements while allowing the building to remain in active use.
A detailed condition survey was carried out and drawn records of the timber frame produced. Timber species, conversion methods and jointing techniques were identified, decay mechanisms assessed and a repair strategy developed that prioritised retention of historic material and minimal intervention.
The proposed repairs respected the building’s historic character while improving its structural performance and longevity. The approach was supported by the conservation officer and provided the client with a clear and well reasoned route forward.
ROLE
Historic timber building consultant
CLIENT
Private client
CONSULTANTS
Architect, structural engineer, conservation officer
TIMBER STRCTURE
Oak frame farmhouse
IMAGE CREDITS
Client and architect
On site construction - Preparing the framework
On site construction - The lattice framework