Courses

Learn the planning, layout and joinery necessary to construct a traditional timber frame (post and beam) structure, such as North House's blacksmith shop, bread oven shelter, fish house classroom, and other structures around campus. The course begins with the basic mortise and tenon joint, and then expands on these techniques…

Since at least 300 AD, the birch bark and sod roof has been the most important roof type in Scandinavia for heated homes. The sod both insulates and protects the waterproof bark layer from sunlight and wind. This combination can last 50-70 years before the birch bark needs replacing. The…

Before Sketch Up and other CAD programs, timber framers brought a low-tech but highly skilled approach to layout. Techniques for lay-out varied depending on geography: German methods, French methods, Japanese methods and American methods all differ. Using the method he learned in German trade school, instructor Gerald David will lead…

This course offers students the opportunity to immerse fully in the craft of timber framing by building a larger and/or custom-designed timber frame structure. Whether creating a getaway cabin, woodshop or retirement home, or structure for your community or organization, the beauty and durability of a timber frame structure offers…

Tired of unimaginative, small outbuilding kits available from your local lumberyard? Explore all the basic elements of timber frame construction and take home a hand-crafted building. More than 100 timber frame buildings have been built and raised throughout the country by North House students since 1997.  During the first days…