Finding local log beams

Our design called for some plain old dimensional lumber (two 2x12's nailed together) for exposed beams in the great room.  We decided to try to find something more interesting, sustainable and local.  Our first thought was old barn beams, but that turned out to be difficult to find for the 20-foot long timbers. A friend with a beautiful forest nearby suggested some red oak trees which had been killed off recently by a leaf wilt fungus. We could take these standing dead trees rather than have to cut down live ones.  An added benefit is  the wood will not need as much time to cure.

  

 

The wood beams will lend a naturalistic feel to contrast some of the modern elements of the house design.

We're very grateful to our friends for sharing this lumber with us.

Picking just the right trees.

Wally and Eric assessing the situation.

Timmmberrrr!

Marking off the log for 20+ feet.

Our good friend, Wally, doing the hard work!  Big thanks to Wally and his chainsaw.

Pre-construction pics

Imagine another mailbox and a shady pathway up to the front porch.

A view to where the future house will be, just behind the trees.

 Looking north from the front of the lot.

Looking south from the "front porch."

Dream Come True

We are building a new home!  We've both been dreaming about this for a long time, separately, and now, gratefully, we are building this house together. 

Our plan is to build an economical, comfortable, warm, efficient, beautiful home on a small lot in Yellow Springs, Ohio. Our back porch will overlook a community-owned meadow and the front porch faces the common woods.

We will post progress reports with photos and details of the construction, including many of the green building features.  Stay posted.  Construction to begin this Spring.