— Jan & Mary Blakslee, Hope, ID

“FIVE YEARS AGO MY WIFE AND I VISITED SANDPOINT, IDAHO.”

Our purpose was to learn a bit more about timber frame construction from a well respected craftsman and perchance to build a comfortable vacation home.  His design expertise, credentials and passion for his work all stood out.  Thus began a collaboration that over time morphed from get-away cottage to primary residence....an unsuspected but wonderful journey!

A thorough topographical map of the building site and discussions of “must haves” began to shape design.  Multiple drawings, an interactive 3-D computer representation and numerous exchanges of ideas focused our thinking.  Collin listens, provides imaginative ideas and clearly is a master of his trade.  In a tour of his shop, we saw first hand the intricacies of  timber framing and met his team of exceptional dedicated and talented craftsmen.

Once the foundation had been poured the next phase of construction began.  We didn’t realize that the whole frame was built  in his shop by hand and then trucked to the site.  The huge crane lifted timbers into place, mortise and tenon joints fitted flawlessly with wooden pegs securing them.....the structure took shape.  Drone photos and time-lapse photography recorded it all.  State-of-the art building practices and products were used throughout with particular attention to energy efficiency and sustainability.

The house is now complete.  It is a sheer delight and well beyond our expectations.  It isn’t often that you give your builder and his carpenters appreciative hugs.  Bravo to Collin for working with us in creating a beautiful home.

— Jan & Mary Blakslee