All posts by Eris Creative

Accessories, Barn Homes

Planning for Solar Panels on Your Barn Home Kit

Image

solar panels

Solar is the fastest growing alternative energy source in the world—a trend most would have dismissed as a fluke 48 years ago. That’s because photovoltaic systems back in 1970 were wildly expensive, costing around $70 per kilowatt an hour. Today, you pay significantly less at just 12 cents an hour per kilowatt. The overall price for kilowatt hours has dropped more than 10 percent since 1980. If these trends continue, analysts believe solar will inevitably contribute 20 percent to total energy consumption in the United States by 2030.

It’s easy to see why solar is one of the best disruptive technologies out there, and why an increasing number of homeowners are opting to make the switch. While we ourselves do not manufacture solar panels, we can definitely help you get set up with some when you go through the process of designing a barn home kit with us.

Here are some things you should consider before retrofitting your barn house building kit.

Infrastructure

Sixty percent of households don’t have sufficient roofing infrastructure to support solar panels.

One standard 60-cell residential solar panel can weigh between 40–50 lbs. Powering a house efficiently will require the majority of your roof’s surface area, in order to properly aggregate enough power to the inverter and into your battery bank.

A good night’s rest comes courtesy of our homegrown Pacific Northwest timber. This wooden material is handcrafted onsite and cured using a process that denotes longevity. If you don’t mind sacrificing a little open space in the vaulted ceilings, the installation of extra support beams can reinforce the weight of the panels. We also recommend tweaking the roof pitch for maximum sun exposure. Check out our Flex Design option to learn more about how to further customize your kit!

How Much Does Solar Cost?

The average gross residential cost for solar panels before factoring in tax credit reductions can hover between $16,800 and $30,000. Sleek solar products like Elon Musk’s powerwall and solar roof can cost $12,000 to $15,000 for a 2,000 sq. ft. home. The powerwall, a highly efficient and discreet battery system, will add another $3,000 to $6,000 depending on your needs. However, sticking with conventional solar panels is still the better option at this point in time.

Simplicity is a universal philosophy amongst our rustic designers. For a 3,000 sq. ft. home with a $200 monthly power bill, a conventional 8.5 kW system would only cost $26,000 to install. At this scale, Tesla’s photovoltaic cells would only be able to produce 6.25 kW at a $60,000 price point, giving you less for more.

Tax Credit Reductions

Federal tax credits for solar last year saved the average individual $5,000. A tax credit is a dollar for dollar reduction of the price you pay for installation. 30 percent is the current reduction rate. Eventually, this rate will drop to 26 percent in 2020. A trend which will continue to fall unless Congress chooses to renew the program’s reduction policy. With only one year left, applying for these reductions before installation would be the most prudent move you could make.

What is Net Metering?

Net metering protects the energy you generate onsite from being abused by utility companies. If a utility company overuses the power you contribute to the grid, then you’re entitled to reparations. Running your meter backwards will result in credit that can be used on your next electrical payment. Each state is different depending on where you are. Be sure you do some research before turning your kit into a self sufficient off-grid mecca.

Ready to take the first step toward designing your dream home today? Request a free quote to get started!

Pavilions, Wedding Barns

Outdoor Wedding Pavilion ‘I dos’

Image

outdoor wedding pavilion

Weddings are notoriously expensive events for many families and would-be couples. Minus the honeymoon, the average cost for a wedding in the U.S. bounces between $19,182 and $31,970. Still, this is a formative event; a day that sets the tone for many years to come. After all, lasting wedding day impressions are easily made through atmosphere and setting alone.

Our wedding barns demand a certain respect, as they’ve become great investments for property owners and event planners alike. But like weddings, they’re expensive. Several have homes all over the country, with the largest of our portfolio hosting gorgeous weddings and events in Arrington, Tennessee. And while wedding barns make for a spectacular day of ‘I dos,’ the same caliber of ambiance can be accomplished with a thoughtful outdoor design—all at a fraction of the cost.

Outdoor weddings have climbed the ranks to become a formidable alternative to traditional church ceremonies. With more people opting for an idyllic natural setting, taking steps to enhance your scenic property can pay dividends for your business. Timber-frame pavilions are a great option for bringing your outdoor space up to par.

A good structure, like any marriage, should be measured by its dynamism, as well as its durability. Outdoor pavilion kits offer an intimate feel without breaking the bank. Designed in our signature post-and-beam style, our pavilion kits are a symbol of longevity—the significance of which transcends its practicality.

But a good structure, like any marriage, should also be measured by its utility and resilience. In other words, our pavilions make for great outdoor spaces long after vows have been exchanged. Between covered kitchens and outdoor fire pits, or special occasion gathering spaces for clients to rent, there’s no shortage of uses for these classic all-wood structures.

Ready to take your wedding and event property to the next level? Request a free quote to get started today!

Timber Frame

Timber Framing: An Ancient Craft Shaping the Future of Construction

Image

Timber framing is an ancient construction technique with roots dating back to 200 BC. One of the oldest building methods still practiced today, timber framing combines meticulous craftsmanship with premium wood materials to create extraordinary structures that are as durable as they are beautiful. While similar to post and beam construction, this building method utilizes traditional and decorative joinery to join its heavy timber components instead of metal fasteners and connectors. This approach gives way to dramatically open interiors that feature exposed wood members throughout and seamless connections defined by their precision and beauty. 

Keep reading below as we delve deeper into the world of timber framing, exploring what it is, its history, and why it remains a popular choice for construction today! 

What is Timber Framing?

At its core, timber framing is a remarkable building method that utilizes large, heavy wooden posts and beams to create the framework of a building. These wood members are carefully crafted and joined together using traditional woodworking techniques such as mortise and tenon joints, wooden pegs, and scarf joints. Picture the building frame as a giant set of intricately designed Legos, where each piece interlocks perfectly with the next. This method results in buildings with a robust frame capable of supporting heavy loads and providing exceptional structural integrity.

timber-frame

A Brief History of Timber Framing

Timber framing’s rich history stretches back to ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans. It flourished in medieval Europe and was brought to North America by European settlers in the early 1600s. Today, historic timber frame buildings still grace rural landscapes in the United States and Canada, including parts of the original colonies.

Why Timber Framing Endures

Since its inception, timber framing has stood out for its intricacy, craftsmanship, and strength. Though timber framing has evolved to keep up with modern demands, this construction style still boasts an elaborate framework reminiscent of centuries past. Of the many benefits timber framing offers, a few come to the forefront as wholly unique and rewarding advantages for building owners and occupants alike. 

For those interested in building a timber frame home, here are some notable aspects of timber frame structures that have allowed this construction style to endure for thousands of years: 

Strength and Durability

Timber framing is renowned for its exceptional strength and longevity. The massive wooden beams used in timber framing can support heavy loads and withstand the test of time, often lasting for centuries.

Sustainability

Timber framing is an eco-friendly construction method known for its superior strength and energy efficiency. The density of the timbers, combined with their naturally insulating qualities, allow these buildings to retain their strength over time and keep their occupants comfortable in any season. 

Architectural Beauty

Timber frame buildings are well known for their timeless beauty. Their exposed wooden beams and intricate joinery create a warm and inviting interior with high ceilings and open spaces that are visually stunning.

Versatility

Timber framing is a highly versatile building method used in various types of buildings, from traditional homes and barns to modern commercial structures. Its joinery system allows for flexible interior layouts and architectural creativity that you won’t find in most homes or structures built today. 

Energy Efficiency

Timber frame buildings can be highly energy-efficient structures. The thermal mass of timber helps regulate indoor temperatures, reducing the need for excessive heating or cooling. 

Is Timber Framing Right for You?

Whether you’re considering a new home, a barn, or a commercial structure, timber framing offers a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution that you can count on for a lifetime. Its enduring craftsmanship, exceptional materials, and sustainable characteristics make it a worthwhile investment for the future and one you can proudly pass down to your children and grandchildren. 

At DC Structures, we offer several pre-engineered timber frame home designs that you can modify and customize for your property. We can also turn any ideas you have for your timber frame home or structure into a completely custom design centered around your vision. 

Ready to take the next step in your project journey? Call us at (888) 975-2057 or request a digital catalog here!

 

Materials Package, Pavilions, Timber Frame

Level Up With A Timber Frame Pavilion Kit

Image

If there’s one thing most people can agree on, it’s that time spent in a beautiful outdoor setting is never time wasted. The average adult’s morning consists of the kind of chaos that seems to be an unavoidable precursor to the daily dance of shuffling kids to school and racing to work so they can stare at a screen for eight or more hours. If you’re exhausted just reading that run-on sentence, then chances are high you are more than familiar with this scenario.

While time unplugged in the great outdoors is always good for the soul, there are always steps you can take to enhance the outside space in your own backyard. A timber frame pavilion creates a tantalizing outdoor atmosphere that is wonderful for hosting friends and family. Whether it’s utilized as coverage for your patio, a shelter for your hot tub, an outdoor kitchen or a fire pit, all-wood pavilions are beautiful structures that add value to your property.

DC Structures designs and assembles stunning timber frame pavilion kits for customers all over the U.S. While people have their reservations about the quality of a pre-engineered building package, our pavilion kits are anything but blasé. Our collaborative pavilion kit design process entails making sure that the pavilion we design will mesh seamlessly with existing structures on the property. Further, they are designed using the Pacific Northwest’s finest heavy timbers.

If you’re ready to transform your outdoor scenery into a cozy place for unwinding and entertaining, download our digital catalog and start planning for your space. Or, if you’re ready to get started sooner, request a free quote!

Apartment Barn, Barn Homes, Barn Kits, Barns, Engineered Barn Kit, Garages & Workshops, Materials Package, Post & Beam

What’s the Deal With Barn Kits?

Image

barn kits

The word ‘barn’ comes with a lot of connotation, and so does the word ‘kit.’ When taken together these two words can make for a negative view of barn kits, and a fundamental misunderstanding of the value they can provide. Further, there’s a tendency to pigeon hole barn kits into a specific category, which makes the broad applications of these versatile structures relatively unexplored.

Building kits can be simply defined as pre-engineered materials packages, consisting of wet-stamped blueprints and the necessary construction materials for a project. These packages are builder-friendly and construction-ready, making it easy for your chosen contractor to turn the kit into the finished product.

Other benefits of barn kits include cost efficiency and sustainability. The process for designing a pre-engineered package helps to minimize unnecessary costs associated with construction projects. Additionally, engineers’ meticulous calculations about which building materials will be needed for the kit make them inherently sustainable due to their lack of wasted or excessive construction materials.

Barn kits range in style, size, price, use and quality, depending on which company you choose to be your barn kit design and assembly partner. The important thing to remember is that not all barn kits are created equal, and some barn kit companies are better suited for the job than others. Ultimately, it comes down to your personal goals for the construction project.

DC Structures specializes in the design and assembly of high-quality barn kits that are easily modified to meet a variety of lifestyle needs. Contrary to what their name suggests, barn kits are not just for livestock. While our flexible selection of barn kit designs are well geared toward horse barns and facilities for other animals, that’s only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to all the barn kit’s possible uses.

Over the years, we’ve helped clients transform our standard kit models into elegant barn homes, practical apartment barns, RV garages, workshops and more. Don’t let the word ‘barn’ throw you off, because our use of the word in this context refers to the stylistic elements of our package designs that pay homage to the classic barn aesthetic. More so, it’s a nod to the post-and-beam construction method that forms the backbone of our signature style.

Post-and-beam barn kits are designed to last for several generations if given proper attention and upkeep over time. In addition to longevity, the use of timber-frame construction methods makes for highly customizable layouts and detailed craftsmanship. This makes DC Structures’ barn kits and objectively better investment than many of the kits being offered by our competitors.

If you’re going to put your money toward something as monumental as a new home, garage, workshop or barn, shouldn’t you feel confident in the return on your investment? If you’re ready to take the first step toward enhancing your lifestyle with a new barn kit design, download our digital catalog for inspiration. Ready to get started today? Request a free quote to get the ball rolling!

Accessories, Barn Homes, Post & Beam, Timber Frame

Rustic Inspiration: Barn Home Ideas

Image

The barn home is a classic house design with a timeless aesthetic. With their throwback features and exposed wood finishes, barn homes can be otherwise thought of as houses designed in the style of barns or barns converted into living spaces. While barns may call to mind farm-related images such as livestock and dirty boots, the reality is that these types of homes are well suited for elegant personalized touches. When designed with a commitment to long-term durability and fine craftsmanship, barn homes make for great investments. Here’s a look at some of our favorite barn home interiors to give you a better idea of how barn living translates to a luxurious house that you can call home.

[cme_grid post_id=”9043″]

If you’re ready to get started on your own barn home project, request a free quote today!

Construction, Lighting, Materials Package, Post & Beam, Timber Frame, Upgrades

Room With A View: Planning For A Window Wall

Image

window wall

Nothing brightens a room like natural light shining through a big window, but what if you could amplify that effect? The addition of a window wall means you can make the most of your outside view, whether that’s a stunning outdoor landscape or a bustling urban scene. Further, window walls add a breath of fresh luxury to any interior space, be it a residential home or a commercial property.

For those who are unfamiliar with the term, a window wall is a large expanse of glass that replaces one of a building’s exterior barriers. Window walls make for stunning views, increased natural lighting and an easy way to add to the elegance of your space. Highly customizable, these building features can span anywhere from a section of the wall to the entire exterior side. Additional personalization can be achieved by way of the client’s desired shapes and finishes.

DC Structures designs and assembles pre-engineered materials packages in the reliable style of post-and-beam construction. This building method, which is often referred to as timber framing, makes for sweeping open-concept interiors and increased structural longevity. Further, this construction style lends itself to highly customizable layouts due to a decreased need for load-bearing walls as additional structural support. From a design perspective, this makes it very easy to plan for a window wall. Of course, there are still some very important considerations to evaluate during the planning phase of your window wall project.

The most important thing to consider before adding a window wall to your building plans is the exterior barrier that you would like to replace. Positioning plays an important role when it comes to security, privacy, practicality and energy efficiency. It’s imperative that you get it right the first time, as a poorly placed window wall can easily go from classic elegance to sheer annoyance—particularly if it is subject to intense sunlight from sunup to sundown. Ask yourself if a window wall in your desired location will result in unwanted glare or natural light overload.

Smart placement for your window wall should also entail a consideration of privacy that many know and appreciate as an inherent comfort of home. For example, a window wall in the front of your home could pose both a decrease in privacy and an increase in security risk. With valuables on display in clear view, burglars could find it easier to case your home for theft. What’s even more alarming is that it could provide an unwanted assessment of your habits and vulnerabilities—which is especially concerning if you live alone. Intelligent window wall placement will keep your living space from turning into an unintentional zoo.

Last but not least, it is of high importance that the materials used in your window wall be designed with energy efficiency in mind. Windows are harder to insulate than standard exterior barriers, so the thermal performance of the windows will make a big difference in terms of energy costs and home comfort. DC Structures is proud to partner with quality window suppliers to ensure our customers’ window walls will maximize natural lighting while deflecting unwanted heat or chill. If you’re ready to get started on your one-of-a-kind home with an elegant window wall feature, request a free quote today!

Barn Kits, Barns, Engineered Barn Kit, Equestrian, Materials Package

When Horse Barn Kits Come to Life

Image

horse barn kits

DC Structures has designed and assembled countless horse barn kits. From small wood barns with one to two horse stalls all the way up to large-scale equestrian facilities for boarding businesses, there’s no horse barn project outside the DC wheelhouse.

Earlier this year, we shared some construction progress photos of this luxury horse barn in Tryon, North Carolina. Starting with a Columbia 72’ barn kit, these clients transformed this floor plan into an eight-stall horse barn with a double-sized tackroom. Upstairs, a raised center-aisle loft makes way for hay storage and a viewing platform.

With construction finishing in the middle of this year, these clients and their equine friends have had a chance to settle in and make themselves at home. Check out the end result in the collage below!

Thinking about horse barn plans for your own property? Request a free quote today!

[cme_grid post_id=”8814″]

[cme_grid post_id=”8832″]

Construction, Engineered Barn Kit, Garages & Workshops, Post & Beam

Under Construction: Garage Apartment in Sandy, Oregon

Image

garage apartment

At any given time, the DC Structures team is hard at work designing pre-engineered materials packages for clients across the U.S. This stunning garage with living quarters is currently under construction in beautiful Sandy, Oregon. Adapted from our flexible Oakridge 48’ kit design, this luxurious garage apartment is expected to finish construction within the next few months.

Designed with a number of practical features that add convenience to the homeowners’ lifestyle, this large, multi-use residence includes a first-floor workshop and drive-through RV garage. Upstairs sits an elegant three-bedroom home, replete with custom river a rock fireplace and a large partially-covered deck for year-round enjoyment. A rooftop cedar cupola increases natural light while heavy timber trusses and select-grade Douglas fir posts add a touch of rustic charm.

Created in the durable style of post-and-beam construction, this garage with living quarters was built to last. Our post-and-beam building kits are assembled with top-quality lumber from the Pacific Northwest. This use of untreated heavy timbers has many benefits, including structural integrity, sweeping open-concept interiors, and an elegant aesthetic. Further, it allows for highly customizable floor plans due to the fact that post-and-beam buildings do not require load-bearing walls.

The Oakridge barn design is DC Structures’ most popular-selling kit, likely due to its highly versatile layout. Wonderfully suited to serve as a multi-purpose building, we’ve seen this flexible floor plan adapted for a number of practical uses. From barns with apartments to workshops with loft offices to RV garages with upstairs living quarters, the Oakridge is more often than not the right kit for the job.

If you’re thinking about a garage with living quarters for your own property, request a free quote today. Our experience spans the contiguous U.S., and our portfolio of projects is a testament to the quality craftsmanship of our work. Whatever it is you hope to accomplish with your garage apartment design, DC Structures can make it happen.

[cme_grid post_id=”8774″]

Construction, Options, Post & Beam

Post and Beam Construction: A Timeless and Structurally Sound Building Method

Image

Post and beam construction is one of the most enduring and celebrated building methods in the world. With roots tracing back to ancient Europe, this construction style has stood the test of time as a symbol of architectural beauty and durability while seamlessly evolving to keep up with shifting industry demands. Whether you’re an architect, a builder, or a homeowner, understanding the unique aspects of post and beam construction can transform how you approach your next project.

If you’re interested in utilizing this building method for an upcoming build, keep reading below to learn more about this time-tested construction technique, its key characteristics, and what makes post and beam construction an excellent choice for your home or structure. 

What is Post and Beam Construction?

Post and beam construction is a centuries-old building method that utilizes vertical posts and horizontal beams to create the foundational framework of a structure. Its wooden members are joined by metal fasteners and connectors, either visible or hidden, to secure its sturdy interlocking frame.

Unlike a conventionally framed structure, which requires load-bearing walls to support the upper floors and roof, a post and beam building relies almost entirely on its timber posts and beams for structural support. This unique feature paves the way for spacious, vaulted interiors, where its wood framing components become a focal point of beauty and strength.

Key Characteristics of Post and Beam Construction

Post and beam buildings feature several unique aspects that make them highly desirable — not the least of which is their flexibility and exposed wood frame. At a glance, here are some of the most notable characteristics of post and beam construction that keep clients coming back for more:

Aesthetic Grandeur

At its heart, post and beam construction stands out for its ability to create expansive, open spaces that embrace natural light and offer unobstructed views. This design freedom allows for soaring ceilings, large windows, and a sense of connection with the surrounding environment, making it a preferred choice for homes and buildings in scenic coastal, high desert, or wooded locations. 

Durability and Longevity

Post and beam structures are known for their robustness and resilience. Their use of heavy timber posts and beams ensures superior structural integrity, allowing these buildings to endure for generations. 

Versatility

Post and beam construction offers immense design flexibility. Whether you envision a rustic cabin, a modern minimalist home, or a traditional barn, this method can accommodate your architectural preferences. Its adaptability to various styles, climates, and landscapes makes it an attractive choice that provides complete creative freedom for your interior and exterior. 

Sustainability

As sustainability gains importance in construction, post and beam construction aligns well with eco-conscious principles. Natural materials coupled with the longevity of post and beam structures reduce its environmental impact. These designs can also incorporate energy-efficient features, further enhancing their eco-friendly characteristics. 

Embracing Tradition and Innovation with a Post and Beam Structure

Post and beam construction is more than just a building method; it’s a fusion of form and function. Its rich heritage, combined with its ability to meet contemporary design needs, makes it a compelling choice for any construction project. If you’re envisioning a space that balances aesthetic appeal with structural integrity, consider the timeless elegance of post and beam construction.

At DC Structures, we offer an extensive line of pre-engineered post and beam building designs that you can modify and customize for your property. No matter your vision, we’re here to help you bring your dream heavy timber structure to life. 

Ready to explore the possibilities of post and beam for your project? Contact us to transform your ideas into reality! Give us a call at (888) 975-2057 or request a catalog today to start gathering inspiration for your personalized structure. 

Barn Kits, Engineered Barn Kit, Materials Package, Options, Post & Beam, Upgrades

Flexibility for Your Vision: DC Flex Design

Image

flex design

DC Structures made its name by designing an innovative line of prefabricated post and beam building kits. With a variety of kits ranging in size, price and scope, DC Structures prides itself in the versatility of its offerings. That said, we understand some people won’t always find exactly what they’re looking for in our selection of standard kit models. That’s why we’ve decided to introduce a little bit of flexibility to the process.

If you’ve ever looked through our selection of kits and thought it would be much better suited for your needs with a few adjustments here and there, then DC Structures’ Flex Design process is for you. Flex Design enables you to make structural changes to one of our existing pre-engineered materials packages, including changes to building height and width, as well as custom add-ons and removal of interior posts. This is in addition to the standard options and upgrades, which means even more personalization for your kit.

One of the most common alteration requests we receive from our customers are changes that add more space. Our post and beam construction method is known for creating open spaces and high ceilings, but sometimes customers want to take it a step further. Whether you’re looking to up the ante vertically or horizontally, Flex Design gives you the option to increase the height and/or width of one of our standard kit models. The owners of this barn in Fall City, Washington did just that, and now have plenty of space for their home business.

Another change people inquire about often relates to the positioning of posts within sweeping interior spaces. Post and beam construction already lends itself to spacious, open rooms. That said, sometimes an exposed post can interfere with a customer’s vision for the space. Now, with Flex Design, we are happy to eliminate posts you’d like to give the boot, thereby creating even more drastically open spaces.

Outside of changes that modify the size or interior layout, we oftentimes receive requests for minor custom touches to be added to one of our existing kits. Whether you’re looking for a custom deck like the one on this modified Columbia kit, one-of-a-kind timber framing or anything in between, the design team at DC Structure is happy to accommodate your ideas. Our goal is to design a structure that effectively meets your lifestyle needs, whatever they may be.

If you have a vision for a barn, barn home or equestrian facility you want to add to your property, DC Structures is up to the task. We’ve designed stunning prefabricated structures for clients all over the country, and with the addition of our Flex Design option, we are now equipped to better serve our customers. Request a free quote and start customizing your kit today!

Animals, Barn Kits, Barns, Engineered Barn Kit

From Design to Blueprints: Easy Building Design Process

Image

easy building design process

When we ask our customers about their experience with DC Structures after the completion of their project, we often hear a similar sentiment—”the process was just so easy!” At DC Structures we take pride in our easy building design process, making every step of our client partnerships as simple as possible. It’s what we refer to as The Process, and what it means is that we will be with you at every step of the way.

The Process begins with you, and figuring out exactly what you’re looking for. If you don’t already have a kit in mind, our project coordinators will collaborate with you one-on-one to narrow down the specific features you want included in your structure. This will allow our design team to identify which of our several pre-fabricated kits will best meet your needs. After that, they’ll walk you through our countless upgrades and options that let you make your kit uniquely your own.

Once you’ve selected your kit and upgrades, our design team will get to work producing your final design and creating the blueprints for your structure. They’ll work closely with your project coordinator to make sure everything you asked for is present in the final design. Once ready, we schedule a final review with you and your contractor to make sure everyone is on the same page before moving forward with your pre-engineered building materials package.

Next, we pre-construct your structure using the finest sourced materials available, and ship the kit to your building site by your desired deadline. But, the process doesn’t end there. As an experienced and innovative construction firm, DC Structures provides building support throughout the construction process.

At DC Structures we understand that building a new barn, home, riding arena or work space is a major investment, and we do everything in our power to make sure you are satisfied with the finished product. Our process, based on principles of communication and customer service, ensures that we are as helpful to our clients as possible, and that your structure is completed with care and craftsmanship. Request a digital catalog today to begin your very own building process with DC Structures.