In the News...

Mt. Desert, Maine; May 2009 -- Premier timber frame manufacturer, Sweet Timber Frames (www.SweetTimberFrames.com), of Mt. Desert, Maine has completed the raising of an exceptional barn frame in Sorrento, ME, just outside Bar Harbor, and is now cutting the frame for the main home. Situated on an idyllic property high on a cliff overlooking Sullivan Harbor and Mt. Desert Island, these two Sweet Timber Frames structures are breathtaking. These traditionally joined timber frames will showcase the purity of the handcrafted frame — the raising of such a structure is truly a sight to behold.

John Sweet, owner of Sweet Timber Frames says, "The use of timber framing was essential for this family — the property is breathtaking in every way, and they needed a barn and home to match. We are more than happy to oblige."  The frame that they've just completed erecting is an impressive two story 36' x 60' barn structure, which is built solely from traditional mortise and tenon-joined hemlock frames, and like all Sweet frames, there are no metal supports or nails used whatsoever. Each frame is a unique wooden sculpture composed of large beams that lock together with wooden pegs to form the visible interior. The pegs act as a locking mechanism with the joints of the timbers, so that when the frame of the house is assembled on-site, the only element holding the entire structure together is wood.

In addition to the sheer beauty of the timber frame itself, there are also eco-advantages to this type of construction. The use of natural timbers, as compared to brick, concrete or other fabricated products, considerably reduces the carbon footprint of a home build. Timber frames can also reduce the energy used in heating the home because they provide a high level of insulation. 

The two-story 36'x60', 4,320 square foot barn was raised first (the frame for the 6480 square foot main house is being cut now, and will be raised in late spring). On the first floor, this barn structure will have a four-car parking area on the north side, and a living area and kitchen on the south side. The second floor will include all the living space and bedrooms, with ten dustpan dormers upstairs and double windows in each dormer. Both buildings will have a traditional shingle style exterior.

Founded in 1981, Sweet Timber Frames is a family owned and operated company that specializes in handcrafted, sustainable timber frames. The Sweet Timber Frames team is passionate about the challenges and rewards of each frame cut and erected, knowing it's a truly unique piece of art. To learn more about Sweet Timber Frames, or this project, please contact Amber Rouleau at amber.rouleau@hotmail.com  or at 860-677-0560, or visit www.SweetTimberFrames.com.