Ferguson
Beams
This project was particularly challenging and rewarding, as it involved designing and installing two architectural beams for an extension to an old Irish cottage. The key objective was to repurpose a salvaged 12” x 12” native Elm timber beam from the original cottage structure and incorporate it into the new build.
During the renovation of the original part of the cottage, we discovered a majestic 12” x 12” native Elm timber beam. The clients were determined to incorporate this beautiful piece of history into their new extension. This meant I had to get creative to meet their vision.
The first task was to transform the single large beam into two usable pieces, which involved ripping the giant beam in half to create two 12” x 6” sections. However, with the new house being over 16 feet in width and the timber only 10 feet long, I had to come up with a solution to extend the length of each beam.
To achieve the necessary length, I designed and fabricated mild steel extensions, which increased the overall length and added a modern architectural touch to the beams. Additionally, I incorporated components from two vintage Ferguson tractors as structural cross-bracing. This not only enhanced the beams’ structural integrity but also added a unique, historical element that reflected the clients’ strong architectural ties and appreciation for their property’s history.
The end result was two very bespoke architectural beams that seamlessly blended the old and new elements of the cottage. These beams now stand as a testament to the property’s rich history and the clients’ commitment to preserving and enhancing its architectural legacy. It was a challenging brief, but one that ultimately delivered a unique and meaningful addition to the renovated cottage.
