Homestead Timber Frames

The Company ~

In 1985 Bruce and Cyndy Gardner decided to build a timber frame home on a lovely farm in East Tennessee.  Their mutual interest in architecture along with Bruce’s construction background provided them with the knowledge to enthusiastically tackle this then little known way of building.  Timber framing was the perfect choice as they wanted a more traditional look for this piece of land.  White oak timbers were purchased from a local mill and Bruce began learning about mortise and tenon joinery in an old barn on the place.  

That first simple home was followed by another frame for a couple who wanted a house “just like that”.  And a timber framing career was launched. 

Their company grew and over 200 hand crafted oak frames were raised throughout the U.S.  They learned a lot and met and worked with some of the best in the business.  They attended the second national timber framer’s conference at Marlboro College in 1986 and became very active in the Timber Framers Guild of North America.  Bruce served on the Board of Directors of this organization and Cyndy organized the next two national conferences.  

The Gardners have been away from the industry for the past 12 years.  However last year they had the opportunity to begin a new timber frame company.  It focuses on what they love best – working with good wood and interesting people.  Homestead Timber Frames was born and the couple is using their knowledge to craft lovely oak timber frames for appreciative clients like you.   

Bruce and Cyndy are also passionate about organic gardening, fly-fishing, birding, and are voracious readers….in their spare time.

Our Shop  ~

Homestead Timber Frames is located in the heart of Appalachian country where high value is placed on recreating the art of long ago.

The Cumberland Plateau is a natural wilderness area that stretches from northeast Alabama to the far northern hills of Kentucky. Its beauty is unmatched anywhere in the U.S. with the number of waterfalls that are located within its boundaries. Life is old here and smiles are plenty. We are proud to be a part of Cumberland County and the work ethic that comes from its heritage.

Crab Orchard is located right off Interstate 40 midway between Knoxville and Nashville. Our shop is operating from an historic building known as the ‘ol Kemmer store. It’s a handsome landmark and we would love to have you visit anytime you’re close by. Smell the oak shavings upon entering the front door and hear the chisels carving out mortises by hand. Yes, our timber frames are still hand-made the old fashioned way up here on the Cumberland Plateau in Tennessee.

Our company holds dear the responsibility of sharing our craft with interested people.  Please feel free to contact us with your building questions whether you consider yourself a timber frame buyer or not.

 Bruce & Cyndy On Video ~

Click here to watch the video.