At Timberpeg, we are happy to work with our clients to realize their visions, whether their dreams are large or small. Last week’s post was a perfect example of this, where we provided structures spanning in size from a pergola to a winery frame for Owera Vineyards. With homeowners as well, we are more than happy to work with you on projects large or small. In many cases, our clients wish to build a home where one portion of the home, typically the great room and other public areas, are constructed with timber framing while the rest of the home uses conventional construction, which is often referred to as a hybrid timber frame home.” This is the story of one such home, the Foxstead Farm home in Earlysville, Virginia. 
Smith and Robertson, our local independent representatives, consulted with the owner to build a house blending contemporary and historical design elements. The exterior of the home takes a more modern, elongated shape, allowing for great views of the 80-acre property throughout the house. Meanwhile, the board-and-batten siding and cedar shake roofing firmly ties the home with the past. The third-story crow’s nest is the standout architectural feature of this house, providing 360 degree views with wrap-around bench seating perfect for reading a good book or hosting cocktail parties .
Inside, the central section of the home is timber framed, while the wings of the house use 2×6 construction. The great room showcases the posts and beams with mortise and tenon joinery, with the cathedral ceiling allowing for a bank of windows that provide views of the farm and Blue Ridge Mountains beyond. A large stone fireplace with massive wooden mantle is the centerpiece of the great room, while lamps and furniture by local artisans tie the room together.
A large archway from the great room leads to the dining area, providing separation of space while allowing easy traffic flow between the rooms. The dining area provides ample space for six to dine, since the homeowner felt more space would be unnecessary for the family’s lifestyle. When outdoor entertaining is in order, an adjoining screened porch is just steps away. The kitchen maintains a simple aesthetic with hickory cabinets and granite countertops yet has all the amenities needed for the modern home cook. The laundry and mudrooms are conveniently located next to the kitchen. 
Rounding off the downstairs space, the wing on the other side of the great room provides a playroom and a guest bedroom suite. A library featuring wood paneling and another fireplace is also present here. Upstairs, we find one wing holding additional guest bedrooms and the other with the master suite. The master bedroom is simply appointed with more work by local artisans, while the master bath is composed of travertine, as is its stonework art. Since the crow’s nest was inspired by the owner’s former beach house, access from the second-floor balcony is provided by a ship’s ladder. If you are interested in learning more about this timber frame home project, please contact Timberpeg to learn more. You can also read an article about Foxstead Farm from Charlottesville Home here. 
Photographs by Virginia Hamrick