A striking example of how Prolam glulam can achieve both structural and architectural design goals, this modern farmhouse combines soaring ceilings, exposed beams and open plan living to create a home that is both impressive and inviting. 

Designed by Gowans Walters & Associates and engineered by Steven King-Turner, the Woodman Residence was conceived as a modern farmhouse with timeless appeal. It defining feature is the epic 8-metre-wide gable and cathedral ceiling in the kitchen, dining and living areas. With a steep 35-degree pitch roof and exposed timber structure, the home strikes a balance between grandeur and homeliness. 

Prolam’s engineered timber beams and bracing solutions, manufactured locally in Motueka, were central to the design. 

Visual PL12 beams were used as exposed ridge and rafter members in the vaulted ceiling. The oversized sections, treated with eco-friendly MCA treatment and finished with Cutek Genia Cedar coating, provide both structural integrity and a natural warmth that elevates the interior. In total, 14 290 x 63 machine-finished beams measuring 5.2m in length were installed, adjoining a single 405 x 88 ridge beam spanning 7.2m.  

Non-visual PL8 beams and PL12 beams were incorporated throughout the build for lintels, studs, and engineered walls, ensuring a complete structural solution. 

A 2.7m high x 5.1m long Prolam PLX Portal was specified for the garage, delivering robust load-bearing capacity while maximising the opening and simplifying on-site construction.  

According to the design team, Prolam products delivered a range of benefits: strength, durability, dimensional stability, and ease of installation. With the support of Prolam’s in-house engineers, the design, specification and building consent process was streamlined – enabling the architect to confidently showcase structural timber as an architectural feature; and the project to move from design to construction more quickly. 

The result is a home that not only meets but exceeds expectations. Visitors are immediately struck by the ‘wow’ factor of the raked ceiling and the warm timber aesthetic, while the builder praised the smoothness, cost-effectiveness build and plans to enter the project into the Master Builder House of the Year awards. 

“The exposed beams and rafters in the living area are truly the showpiece of this home. With Prolam’s support and range of sizes, we were able to deliver the client’s vision for a grand architectural feature with a structurally robust and sustainable timber product.”
- Gowans Walters & Associates