ThistleWood Timberframe

About Us

Typically, timber frame structures by Thistlewood are crafted in salvaged and recycled Douglas Fir, new Douglas Fir or new Eastern White Pine timbers, but other species are available. Thistlewood promotes the use of reclaimed wood wherever possible, especially old growth Douglas Fir beams salvaged from demolished old warehouses and factories.

All joinery is traditional mortise-and-tenon secured with oak pegs, except where engineering requires additional metal fasteners. Complex roof systems, dormers and unique joinery techniques are a specialty for both residential and commercial structures. Thistlewood's millwork division can also supply reclaimed lumber for flooring, casework, staircases and trim. The majority of Thistlewood's timber frames are enclosed with stress-skin insulation panels (SIPS), and we also offer SIPS installation services.

Timber embellishments, including chamfers, quirk beads, hand-carved details on gunstock posts and hammerbeam bents are commonplace. Major timbers are test-fitted and finishes applied in the shop to allow ease of assembly and rapid frame completion on site.

Traditional, contemporary and other unique and specific design requests can easily be accommodated by Thistlewood's experienced staff, and many options can be included to successfully express the client's architectural and aesthetic desires.

In short, Thistlewood provides timber frame design, production, assembly and site raising and SIPS supply and installation. Full general contracting and project management services are also available for all our projects. For more information, please contact us at: homes@thistlewoodtimberframe.com

A Message from our Founder

On behalf of everyone at Thistlewood, I want to thank you for your interest in our traditional timber frame homes. Since 1982, Thistlewood has grown and matured as a company of individuals dedicated to the design and construction of finely crafted timber frame structures, built using only time-honoured joinery techniques. In my opinion, this ancient method is simply the best way to build using heavy timbers.

I am proud to know our homes are constructed by caring individuals who pride themselves on fostering and reviving a craft that was nearly forgotten. I am also proud to consider our past clients friends. They live in, and enjoy the fruits of our labours in their homes every day.

Timber framing has taken me on a personal quest to far off places to seek and improve my knowledge of the craft and has made me feel humble in the shadow of structures built by nameless comrades from the past. I have had the privilege of standing shoulder to shoulder with Amish farmers helping to raise a barn, I have seen apprentices become accomplished joiners with more skill than my own and I still feel elated when I see the traditional pine bough being nailed to the ridge of every new home we build.

Constructing a new home is like taking a journey, where ideas and dreams become real, and precious memories are added to one's life experience. We are but stewards of the earth and its resources, but what better legacy to pass along to future generations than a home built with a passion for excellence, a reverence for valuable resources honourably used and a respect for those in whose footsteps we follow. Please don't hesitate to let us know how we can assist in making your project a reality - we're here to help in any way we can.

Happy Building!
Scott A. Murray