When designing a home in New England, homeowners often face a choice between the rustic, enduring appeal of timber framing and the flexibility of conventional stick framing. Both have their merits, and often, a hybrid approach is the best solution.
The Timber Frame Aesthetic
Timber framing uses heavy timbers joined by mortise and tenon, pegged with wooden dowels. This method creates a self-supporting structure that allows for open floor plans and soaring cathedral ceilings without the need for load-bearing interior walls. The exposed wood offers a warmth and grandeur that is hard to replicate.
Conventional Stick Framing
Stick building (stud framing) is the industry standard for a reason. It is generally more cost-effective and easier to insulate to modern passive house standards without specialized enclosure systems like SIPs (Structural Insulated Panels). It offers immense design flexibility for complex roof lines and layouts.
The Fregeau Approach
We specialize in both. Many of our clients opt for "hybrid" homes—utilizing timber framing for the great room and kitchen to create a "wow" factor, while using efficient stick framing for bedrooms and garages. This balances budget with aesthetic impact.