Tag: agriculture (Page 2 of 2)

Jeremy Topitzer of Lyonsville Carpenters sources material for and builds structures within his community. Timber framing, by design and nature of weight and substance, provides a deep sense of connection to place. Two years ago, Jeremy worked with Fabric of Life to host a workshop on building a timber frame structure at the Bassett Road property. He took the time before that workshop to share why he does what he does. Gratitude to Jennifer Martin, our former Program and Partnership Coordinator for capturing this conversation back then.

“I’ve been thinking how old barns sequester carbon” – keeping old buildings and their timbers functional, dry, and solid means that new materials are not needed to sustain the structure far into the future. And when they are damaged, restoring them continues to sequester carbon. And if a building does need to come down, then intact timbers can be saved and repurposed in another structure, ideally nearby. By striving to use original material, we can almost guarantee that it is local. Buildings in this region were built with what was available locally. 

“As craftspeople, we have the opportunity, and the responsibility, to continue this methodology and mindset. I see the importance of recognizing the global picture of the craft we practice — whatever that may be.” Local timbers of spruce, pine, hemlock, oak, birch – they all have function and purpose in buildings meant to stand the test of time. Jeremy says that for him, studying the impact of his choices adds to a mindful business practice. What matters beyond me? Where does what I do fit in?”

The Big Picture.

Timber frames are rooted in age-old techniques, where each structure is designed according to need and site constraints. In contrast, most modern builders are using carpentry tools and building techniques which were developed from manufacturing processes of the 1950’s.

“I’m using tools and techniques that few other carpenters do.  On a daily basis, I pull out a handsaw, plane, and chisel. It’s as important to preserve craft as it is to preserve buildings – the healthiest part of our culture is hand-craft – that which is passed down from human to human. While this may not be the most lucrative and is not often seen as saving the world, it is in the sense that you are humbling yourself to something. Lack of humility is the reason were in the mess we are in globally. Confining yourself to craft curtails egoism and in that way, through the practice of craft, you are helping to save the world.”

“Through restoration, I witness the craft of the framers before me. I am duplicating and imitating what other builders, whose buildings have stood the test of time, have done before me. I may be 200 years too late, but I’m still learning from them.”

Ashfield Barn, Hand hewn spruce, 1830ish. The East and South walls are getting extensive reconstruction.

The 2×6 stud framing that was added 60 years ago is now gone and the original horizontal wall girts will be reproduced. Scarf joint connects existing structure to new.

We achieved lift off and the rotten substructure was removed.