Here are 5 outdoor timber frame structures that would make great additions to your home.

5 Outdoor Timber Frame Structures You Should Add to Your Home

Dwight Smith   |   Jul 17, 2024

One of our favorite things to do as timber frame designers and builders is to help clients learn about the benefits of outdoor timber frame structures. The rich beauty of timber fits just right in outdoor spaces. Some of our most popular timber frame kits and additions focus on outdoor additions and we love the process of designing for maximum enjoyment of natural spaces.

What Goes on the Outside of a Timber Frame House?

While you can theoretically put any number of outdoor timber frame structures on the outside of a home, these are some of the most popular options we recommend for our clients:

1. Pergolas

Pergolas are the ideal outdoor timber structure when you want protection from direct sunlight while still maximizing airflow. The open grid design of pergolas gives enough shade to stay comfortable without fully blocking the sun and the breeze. These structures are also excellent in areas with high winds and heavy snow because they don’t fight the elements head-on.

Does a pergola add value to a home? Certainly. While the value will depend on the overall home and the size of the pergola, you can expect potential buyers to pay extra for a beautiful outdoor space like that created by a timber pergola.

The cost of pergolas varies widely depending on the size and the materials used. They can range from $5,000 to $15,000 or more.

2. Patio Covers

If you already have a patio, a timber frame patio cover would be the ideal way to provide shade and protection for it. We can design custom covers based on the size of your patio, the materials you prefer, and your goals for the space. Patio covers are directly connected to the home so it’s important to design them to fit seamlessly with the overall home.

Patio covers made with timber can vary considerably in cost due to the various sizes of patios and the cost of different timber materials. They can range from $4,000 to $20,000 or more for large patios.

3. Arbors

An arbor offers a more affordable, smaller option for adding an outdoor timber structure to your home. Where is the best place to put an arbor? Arbors are often used to separate different sections of a garden or outdoor space from other sections. The shade they provide can be welcome on warm, sunny days and they are great spaces to add a bench or sitting option.

Because they are smaller than pergolas, they are more economical and are popular with budget-conscious homeowners. It’s possible to install an arbor for $1,000 to $2,000, although the cost can certainly vary based on the size and the materials you choose.

4. Trellis

A trellis is typically added to other structures like arbors to provide a framework for vines and plants to grow up and around the structure. Many times arbors will include a trellis so you can coax fragrant and beautiful flowering vines to grow and create a vertical green wall for shade a aesthetic appeal.

The average cost of a trellis is $200 per square foot, but they can cost more or less depending on the wood you choose.

5. Gazebos

Gazebos are some of the most popular outdoor timber structures for homeowners who want a place to enjoy in all seasons. The elegant octagonal shape is always intriguing and provides a sense of romance while the full roof provides protection from the sun and the rain. It’s the perfect space for meditation, a romantic dinner, or for kids to play.

Gazebos can be surprisingly affordable to build, with smaller ones costing as little as $3,000. Of course, if you want a larger gazebo the price rises accordingly, costing as much as $10,000 or more depending on which type of timber you choose.

Talk to the Experts in Timber Frame Structure Design

The best way to decide on the right timber frame outdoor structure for your space is to speak with one of our expert designers.

Contact Hamill Creek for your timber frame construction needs, ranging from gazebos to homes—our expertise covers all. We prioritize genuine quality and thrive on crafting exactly what you envision.

Blog Archive   /   A Guide on Designing a Passive Solar Timber Frame Home

Ready to build your dream home?

Contact Us