Combining the last 1500 years of timber framing tradition with the last 150 years of technological advancement to bring our clients dreams and aspirations to life.
Your Timber Frame Home starts with you!
From the outset our process focuses on you and your dreams. We work closely with you to design a stunning home that meets all your needs and budget. We then work with you and your general contractor as the building progresses, the timber frame is raised and your home is completed.
Carrying Timber Framing Tradition into the Future
Timber framing tradition commands giving the highest priority to quality. We sign our name on every frame we erect. As a result, if ever our homes are taken down, our names will be found still ascribed to our craftsmanship.
Technology has come so far in the last 150 years and we not only incorporate it but are striving to push it forward. Through our sister company (Bassett Precision Tools) we are researching and developing the next generation of timber framing tools and techniques. This technology includes the latest in computer design as well including the use of generative design, extended reality, and other computer aids to bring your dreams to life.
Exhibition Portfolio
The following is a selection of work designed and completed by Mason Bassett demonstrating a wide range of timber framing capabilities.
The American College of the Building Arts (ACBA)is based heavily on the Compagnon du Devoir apprentice to master program from France. ACBA condensed it to fit the American Bachelor’s of Arts model but kept the pillars of education that set it apart. Among these pillars is the idea of doing a capstone project to show one’s progress at the end of 4 years. Mason’s Capstone therefore was to build a roof model based on the Beebe Windmill in NY that incorporates a number of challenging and technical details. Among these are the curved principal rafters of the main onion dome, an intersection of an ogee dormer in to the curved main dome, and a race of ball bearings that allow the entire dome to slew around 360° to mimic the slewing motion of the original windmill.
Onion Dome
Octagonal Pavilion
At a previous employer Mason Bassett received an opportunity to build a demonstration frame to show off the shop’s talent. In response he designed and built this octagonal dome that includes diagonal wind bracing and a curved copula. All curved members were made by laminating white cedar on a form to create the correct shape. Then entire structure is about 13’ in diameter and perfect for picnic shelter, hot tub, etc.
Family Chapel
Out of the ashes of tragedy grow the roses that bring beauty back into our lives. Such is the case of this family chapel. The Chapel is adjacent to the family cemetery that shelters (among others) 11 family members that perished in a aviation accident several years before.
The Greek Cross design of the chapel is as old as Antiquity and has long drawn worshippers in and pointed them towards heaven from which all comfort and healing comes.
Japanese Pool Pavillion
What do you build when you’re pool has a view few can match? A Pavilion inspired by the Japanese with a curved roof line that complements and adds to the beauty of the surrounding mountains!
This is a great example of designing to meet the client’s exacting demands and having the skills to accomplish such a design. Hips and valley rafters (compound joinery) have always been a challenge in the timber framing community but this frame took it to the next level by employing curved hip rafters instead of straight and square. In short if you can dream it we can build it!
