Working primarily on 18th and 19th century homes, I have a keen appreciation for both the craftsmanship and design abilities of early American builders. Unlike today, where architecture and building are often though of as separate disciplines, many early American carpenters possessed a deep understanding of timelessly pleasing shapes and forms and could competently design their buildings.
While a few men like Samuel Mcintyre embodied the true spirit of the Builder/Architect, many more early American carpenters were inspired by widely available pattern books that publicized good design and building practices. Carpenters took pride in modifying and individualizing these designs to suit clients needs and their personal aesthetic. In an age when materials and labor was inexpensive and abundant, and many clients tastes and budgets left them unrestrained, the early builder was able to construct buildings of remarkable uniqueness that is uncommon today.
It was with the spirit and ingenuity of the early builder that I set about to design a small structure to meet the needs of my client for a modest 8'x 10' garden shed. My goals for the project were to develop a functional and beautiful outbuilding for approximately the same cost of a mass produced shed.
My final design, which will undoubtedly require more time and effort to construct then the average garden shed, contains Greek revival trim elements, custom windows and doors, and natural pine board sheathing. To prove I'm not squarely stuck in the past, I have a plan to retrofit a standard exterior light fixture with solar powered components.
I will make sure to update the blog as the project progresses. For now, we will have to wait until the ground thaws to begin construction.
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