A living example of connectedness on the planet...

The Eartha Madre Project

Timbers cut and prepped for the framing

In our decision to build a straw/clay home, timber framing was the obvious choice for the structural element of the building that would support the straw/clay infill and earth plasters we desired to use.  The techniques used in timber framing date back to Neolithic times, and have been used in many parts of the world for centuries.  Timber framing is the method of creating structures of heavy timber jointed together with pegged mortise and tenon joints. Diagonal bracing is also used to prevent racking of the structure.  The timbers used in our construction were locally harvested and obtained from the Fort Apache Timber company.

Timber Framing Workshop May 1999

Wall “bents”, partially assembled and waiting for the crane to lift them.

The timber framing was accomplished through a workshop held on the site by Robert Laporte of EcoNest Company.  With his experienced team of Canadian craftsmen assisted by workshop members, we braved all forms of weather during the several day event including winds in excess of 70 mph.  Their detailed notching, carving and fitting of the massive timbers was awe inspiring and with precision, the timber frame began coming together.

The structure takes

shape

Tall posts grew from the concrete pillars and connected overhead in an incredible network of beams and braces joined with amazing skill and precision.  The entire structure — which can last for centuries — was truly a sight to behold as the pieces came together through a graceful dance of teamwork, craftsmanship and experience. 

A master of

balance

The only “modern tools” used in the frame raising were the come-a-longs to support the timbers in place as the mortise and tenon joints were connected.  Large old mallets, with the battle scars from many years of use, were expertly wielded.

Standing inside the completed timber frame before the roof went on gave us the sense that we were standing amongst living trees and an enormous sense of accomplishment.