North House is excited to launch the Build With Purpose program, which aims to put student-built timber frames in communities across the region. Each year, North House students build 2-3 timber frame structures suitable for a variety of purposes. From picnic shelters to outdoor classrooms, these beautiful and sturdy timber frames look great at parks, camps, schools, and more. When traditional craft, student learning, and community combine, we all win!
Past projects of this type include timber framed structures at Camp Menogyn (Grand Marais, MN), Gale Woods Nature Center (Minnetrista, MN) , the Tofte Town Park (Tofte, MN), the Care Center (Grand Marais, MN), the Hub (Eau Claire, WI), and many others.
How it works
Nonprofit organizations, including municipalities, tribal nations, and not-for-profit colleges/universities can select from four designs to choose a project that best meets their needs. They then apply to purchase the frame for a fixed price. Applications are reviewed by North House and the selected organizations are notified. Frames are built at North House by students registered in five-day Basic Timber Framing courses offered May-September. The completed frame will be available for pick-up immediately following the course. Note, many frames have been successfully stored indoors (ideal) or outdoors (covered) for many months before being raised.
The purchase price includes the completed timbers, pegs and fasteners, plans, and one course registration for a representative from the organization to take part in the Basic Timber Framing course at North House. The majority of projects at North House use Eastern White Pine timbers, sourced sustainably and milled locally (5 miles from campus). White Pine is both easy to work and excellent to use green, as it remains fairly stable as it dries. The timbers are band-sawn and have a uniform “rough cut” surface.
The purchase amount does not include transportation, foundation, materials for sheathing, roof decking, enclosing, or raising the structure. Raising assistance may be available, but must be contracted separately with the instructor. North House can provide some examples of approximate costs for a completed project, but the final cost depends on many factors and must be determined by the organization.
Each design has been reviewed by an engineer. Depending on the project site, an engineer's stamp may be required; this is available but would add additional cost.
Frames must be picked up within a week of completion. Occasionally, a longer storage period can be pre-arranged. A storage fee would apply.
Applications from all values-aligned non-profit organizations are welcomed. Preference is given to Cook County and North Shore projects, but any organization with a timber frame dream is encouraged to apply.
Organizations can choose from the following designs. Small modifications to meet site-specific needs may be possible.
- 16x20 King Post: $7100
- 16x24 Basic Truss: $6050
- 12x34 Shed Roof: $8350
- 16x20 for enclosure: $6400
- Here are detailed drawings of the above designs
A 50% deposit is required within 2 weeks of being notified of selection. The balance of the project is due the day the course begins.
Application
In 2024, the first year of the program, the application will remain open until filled. Organizations that are interested in being considered in future years are encouraged to fill out the application form and check the box to indicate future interest.