Robert Somerville  Building Projects
INSPIRED BY NATURE / DESIGNED WITH CARE / BUILT TO LAST

Elm timber frames

Elm timber frames
East-Anglian-Elm-2-1
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East-Anglian-Elm-9-1
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Elm timber frames East-Anglian-Elm-2-1 P8010126-970-1 IMG_2351-970-1 DSC02537-970-1 P6180315-970-1 P1460004-970-1 East-Anglian-Elm-9-1 DSC02555-970-1 DSC00310-970
For projects in the East of England, there is a surprising opportunity to build with elm wood. Old elm hybrids survive here that are resistant to Dutch elm disease. Found in hedgerows and corners of woods, there is a potential for a sustainable source of elm from 6” to 36” diameter. The quantities are often too small for contemporary sawmills, so Robert sources and mills the elm himself. This region also has a tradition of elm timber framing which dates from the 18th century. This tradition is ripe for revival. As a locally sourced material, elm timber framing fits with Robert’s design ethos. He has made two new elm frames from scratch. For each project a team is gathered, including professional timber frame carpenters.  The option of involving local volunteers can also be considered. Everyone agrees that the sturdy, honey coloured timbers, often with waney edges intact, hold something of the essence of the woods they came from and with their gently undulating tiled roofs, the structures fit perfectly in the Hertfordshire countryside. For every new timber frame, 20 new locally sourced elm saplings are planted. If you are interested in a new timber frame made of local timber, please contact Robert.
The sight, smell and beauty of the elm frame makes me smile every time I walk inside.
Elm frame owner