Built Exactly the Way You Envision It
Custom Timber Frame Design & Engineering
From concept to construction-ready plans, our experienced team transforms your vision into precisely engineered timber frame designs you can trust.
✓ Trusted Since 2011 | ✓ 2,000+ Projects Delivered | ✓ Post-Delivery Support | ✓ Dedicated Project Manager
Jump to: What are my options? - How much is this going to cost me? - What do you provide? - What is the process? - FAQ
Let's get you a set of plans that fit your needs...
Option 1
Plan Modifications
Need some tweaks to an existing TFHQ plan? We can modify any of our plans to your requirements and get them engineered for your location.
Option 2
From Scratch Custom Design
Not finding a plan on our site? Then, this is the route for you. You will get exactly what you are envisioning. It includes everything in one of our stock plans.
Option 3
Engineering Services
With developed relationships with engineers in the US and in Canada we will get your plans reviewed and make them comply with local codes and approved.
Testimonials
What Timber Frame HQ customers are saying.
12x16 Pavilion
I worked with Chris Miller, he was very knowledgeable and made good recommendations for detailing and overall design. We are erecting the pavilion in the next few weeks, I'll send you guys some pics once complete.
26x38 Garage
Little longer timeline than hoped, but overall very happy with the result. The drawings were very helpful and clear, with no issues with the timbers we cut from the design
48x48 Monitor Barn
William was very helpful and patient with my questions and requests for adjustments. I very much look forward to completing my timber frame build using these plans!
20x20 Shed Roof Tiny Home
The company was patient and accommodating.
Teton Reclaimed Timber Frame
William was a pleasure to work with. He designed a timber frame barn home for us using only reclaimed timbers that I amassed over the last several years. I highly recommend him and hope to use him again when it comes time to build the shop.
24x36 Sugar Shack Plan
I would like to take the time to say thank you to Brice, William Woody, and the entire staff for such excellent quality plans and customer service second to none whenever I needed parts etc ;or had questions.
14x12 Post and Beam Plan
Very professionally designed plan.
16x21 Hammer Beam Pavilion
This project was my first Timberframe project, and Chris helped tremendously with, not only the design, but his advice was also critical to my execution of cutting the frame! We are constantly getting comments and feedback from others on how beautiful our pavilion is!
30x46 Post and Beam Pavilion
Everyone was super helpful and very prompt. I can't say enough about what a great job you guys do.
22x30 Kingpost Pavilion
The design team was very responsive; email queries were answered within hours. I am very happy with the experience and the plans.
24x48 Shed Roof House
The team at Timber Frame HQ did an excellent job adapting their structure to my, as well as the clients, design. This was my first heavy timber residence project so I was quite new to this process. I would highly recommend them for future projects.
16x28 Mezzanine
Each member of the team was prompt and courteous. They invested time in understanding my priorities while honoring the budget I set for the project.
30x40 Heavy Timber Barn Plan
My client wanted a showcase for his taxidermy business that resembled Cabela’s in Hamburg, PA. I was at a loss on how to build this for him. I came across Timber Frame HQ, and from the first conversation, I knew it was going to work out. I will be using Timber Frame HQ again.
48x48 Monitor Barn Stable
Great and friendly experience. Can get a follow-up on questions after the fact. Highly recommend Timber Frame HQ.
- Use Our Online Design Calculator -
Try our calculator for an estimate on your dream timber frame.
Our new custom design calculator will give you that estimate within 15% (on most projects it’s much closer). Just answer a few questions about your timber frame design and we’ll give you a number. If you like what you see, then we can talk further and draw up a concept.
Average Custom Timber Frame Plan Pricing:
Small Timber Frames
(i.e. 12x16) average @$1,500 for design and construction document completion.
Medium Timber Frames
(i.e. 20x20) average @$2,500 for design and construction document completion.
Large Timber Frames
(i.e 30x30 and greater) average @$4,000 for design and construction document completion.
What do you provide?
3d Views of Assembled Frame
3d Views of Disassembled Frame
Dimensioned Plan Views, Elevations, and Sections
Mortise and Tenon and/or Post and Beam Call-Outs
Joinery and Connector Details
Timber List for Material Ordering and Connector List
Available Add-Ons:
- This add-on provides you with a set of drawings that delves into the details of the frame and its joinery to the extreme. Each piece of the frame is dimensioned and specified on its own sheet and classified by name and quantity. This will allow the cutting of the frame to be as proficient as possible and reduce any head-scratching at the sawhorses.
- This add-on provides you with drawings that go beyond just the heavy timber structure. This drawing set will include simple floor plans, architectural elevations showing the exterior of the building with windows and cladding, and wall section details including both timber frame and enclosure and how they connect.
- This add on provides a structural seal on the plans by our Engineers that are licensed in your state and/ or province. Includes force diagrams to foundation for proper foundation design by others. Available in all US States except Illinois. Available in the following Canadian Provinces: AB, BC, ON, SK, and YT. This engineering does not consider lateral loading (resistance to racking).
- This add-on illustrates the whole building make up so that the engineer can seal for lateral loads. If your structure is an open air structure, lateral loads will be included regardless of architectural service add-on selection. Please note: This is only available with Architectural Services Add-On Service.
Timber Frame HQ team members did exactly what I needed to design our 30 x 36 workshop. With the construction and design fundamentals understood by me, the team created the details which made:
- The fabrication of every component so much easier as each piece is thoroughly detailed with all pertinent information on each of the 106 different component cuts consisting of 287 pieces,
- The architectural drawings are highly detailed and easily understandable.
- With Timber Frame HQ alliance with licensed local engineers provides a confirmation of structural integrity mainly for our family, and the local building inspectors, peace of mind.
We were in need of their design services only which they provided expertly, and in a timely fashion. When a question arose, the team conducted a zoom meeting to visually solve question an issues. Found this very efficient for all parties. I would expect the same high level of execution in their additional capabilities. I highly recommend this company to all who are in the market for their services.
Greg Hill
Georgia
What's Our Design Process?
- 1Preliminary Meet and Greet Call - This is where we get to know each other, talk about your project and see if we are a good fit for each other. Designing is personal process and we want to make sure you have the best team possible for your project. This meeting usually takes about 30 minutes. There is no cost associated with this call.
- 2Statement of Work - This is the project contract. It sets and aligns expectations. It can contain details to help with that alignment including, but not limited to, clarification of scope and associated billing rates.
- 3Project Kick Off Call - A project kickoff meeting is the first meeting between you and the project team. It’ll take place after contracts have been signed and a deposit value secured. The purpose of a project kickoff meeting is to introduce the team, understand the project background, understand what success looks like, understand what needs to be done, and agree on how to work together effectively – it’s a chance to level set and get the team and you on the same page.
- 4Conceptual Drawings - Basic 2d set with plan views, elevations and 3d renderings. The goal at this stage is to represent to the team the frames' design/intent and offer the first review by all. Once approved by the client, engineering (if applicable) and detailing of the plans will commence.
- 5Engineering - Our conceptual design will go through preliminary sizing for site specific loads. We will report back to the client any changes that need to be addressed. This is when a reaction diagram for proper foundation design will be supplied if engineering services are part of the scope.
- 6Construction Drawings - This is the build-to set of drawings. A complete 2d set with all the information is created. At this stage we will also create all the 3D isometric and exploded drawings needed for construction. It is the final set of drawings that will be utilized by the entire team.
- 7Piece Drawings - This set delves into details of the frame to an extreme and provides you or the timber frame company all the info to cut the frame as efficiently as possible. Each piece of the frame is dimensioned and spec'd out, a final timber list is prepared and a cut sheet is produced.
Are you ready to get your project started?
Contact us today to setup your free preliminary meet and greet where we get to know each other, talk about your project and see if we are a good fit for each other. Designing is personal process and we want to make sure you have the best team possible for your project. This meeting usually takes about 30 minutes.
Getting a timber frame designed is a big, exciting commitment...
Custom Design FAQ
Our design projects usually take 3 to 4 weeks to complete from commencement of the design process. This is just the length of time, not the amount of time spent on your project! We have multiple projects going simultaneously.
The more specific the better. It allows us to create an accurate estimate.
That is OK! We can guide you from our experience when it comes to the specifics of how to design and build timber frames. One thing we do ask you to do is to be prudent and accurate about your budgeting. This allows us to be good advisers for your project!
Our statement of work is part of our proposal that clarifies what the project requires from us to fulfill your needs. It gathers the information you have provided on the Custom Design Questionnaire and translates into a clear path of what we will do for you and the project.
No, we do not. Given that there are varying degrees of soil characteristics across the country, we urge you to find a local engineer for this aspect. Along with our engineering service, we can provide the loads down to the foundation to give your local foundation engineer what he/ she needs.
No, we specialize in timber frame. Think at minimum 6x6 posts and 3x5 bracing.
Of course! We are happy to provide examples of the type of work you would see from us.
Are you ready to get your project started?
Contact us today to set up your free preliminary meet and greet where we get to know each other, talk about your project and see if we are a good fit for each other. Building is a personal process and we want to make sure you have the best team possible for your project. This meeting usually takes about 30 minutes.
Here's How You Can Reach Us:
- Phone: Speak directly with our friendly experts by calling 888-552-9379. We're available 9-5, M-F to answer your questions and provide personalized advice.
- Email: Prefer to write to us? Send your inquiries, ideas, or feedback to projects@timberframehq.com. We strive to respond to all emails within one business day.
- Online Contact Form: Fill out the contact form below. It's a quick and easy way to get in touch, and we'll get back to you promptly.
Hello, I’ve purchased a set of plans from you and the emails with the information I thought I saved is lost. How is it best to reconnect with you regarding my account with you.
Gerry Lauer – 612-581-8610 – GerLauer@gmail.com – old address that maybe on file, 4721 4th Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55419 – Current address most likely not on file, 9205 Main Street, Silver City, SD 57702.
Thank you for your assistance
Gerry
Watch your email; we have sent the plans to you.
Hello , I am interested in getting an actual paper patern.
Would it be posable to get the prints / or plans mailed or shipped some way?
Regards Bob
If you are talking about our stock plans, we certainly can for additional charge. Please email your request to support@timberframehq.com
This is Chris Allen. I have a maple 16 to 18 feet long and 35 inches round. Thought maybe you need it. 715 213 3386
Thank you, but we don’t directly purchase timbers.
Hello, I am looking to learn more about the types of foundations placed under these timberframed pavilions. I am in the Pennsylvania area and our local design frost depth is 3 feet. Thanks.
We do not generally design foundations. Given that there are varying degrees of soil characteristics across the country, we urge you to find a local engineer for this aspect. Along with our engineering service, we can provide the loads down to the foundation to give your local foundation engineer what he/ she needs.
Hello
I’ve purchased a set of your plans. The 12×12 Timber Frame Gazebo. Great plans. Just wandering if they can be modified to 16×16 ?
Jason, that change would be a complete redesign, but we could certainly help you with that. Please fill out the questionnaire if you’d like a design estimate.
I am looking for a certified design for a Truss that will be made with White Oak 3in X 6in Timbers. Needs to cover a span of 23ft 4in. Want a pitch of 4.5:12. Each truss will be set on Beams 5ft on center. Want decorative black patch plates.
262-909-2077
Rob, please go to our Custom Design page and fill out this form. That’s the best way to get in touch with our designers and get an estimate for your project.
I’m thinking about building the 18×24 salt box cabin and getting the timbers from a local sawmill, however I’m trying to come up with an estimate for the materials cost of the entire project before I buy the plans. Is there any way I could find the dimensions that the posts are cut to as well as the total length of timber combined?
Here are the timber specs:
Posts –8×8x 10′, 12′ 16′
Purlin–8×10x 10, 18′
Rafters – 6×8x 8′, 14′, 8×8×8′
Plates –8×10×18′
Tie Beams – 6x8x12′, 6×10×12′, 8x10x14′
Braces – 4×8×5′
Total of 3118.1 Board Feet
I am renovating my home and need assistance
Donald, How can we help you with your project? Reach out to us at projects@timberframehq.com with your questions.
I will provide the labor.
How long are lead times if I order wood from you?
How long to design?
Are the drawings submitable for building permit.
John, our kit lead times are from 6-8 weeks, if no engineering is required. Sometimes those are needed depending on the scope of work and the building permit. Design can take as little as 2 weeks depending on engineering requirement. Yes our custom plans are 100% ready for the building department. Reach out to the team at projects@timberframehq.com for more info.