7 Timber Home Entries (+1 Log Entry)

Welcoming, Reassuring and Secure. Despite any stylistic differences and "rustic factors", an entryway to a log or timber home should evoke positive feelings of "home." When it does, that first impression makes all the difference.

View from Inside a Porte Cochere entry. Entry #2 will show the full view.

A timber framed entry itself cannot be designed in a vacuum.

The proportions, roof slopes, massing and stylistic choices depend completely on not only the rest of the floor plan design, but the surroundings and "tone" of the home itself.

Below you'll see 7 timber entries (plus one log entry) built and designed by Arrow Timber Framing. While crafting traditional joinery and milling premium timbers makes for beautiful post and beam work, homeowners find ultimate value in holistic design adjustments to make timbers seamlessly compliment the floor plan.

Hybrid timber framing allows for placement of timbers in select areas, both structural and decorative, and entryways are essential to the look and feel.

Look through these entries below, and see which ones speak to you most.

1. Elegant Classic Timber Entryway

1. Subtle arches and tandem posts bridge the gap between european style elegance with a more traditional timber frame look - representive of the "Classic" style.

When utilizing exposed beam construction techniques, the possibilities are nearly endless for customizing the look and feel of your front elevation. Surprisingly, even large wood beams can still have a very sleek, modern look. At the same time, square posts and beams can also wax highly rustic, not to mention the integration of log posts which can take the rustic factor up a few notches.

The entry is more than a front door, it's a first impression of what you call "home".

These differences are best described visually, and below are 9 more entries using timber framing, as well as one using logs...although not a log cabin.

Timber Home Entryways Using Log, Post & Beam

2: Craftsman Home Porte Cochere Entry

2. A large porte cochere entry is the focal point of this sprawling floor plan. Due to the large massing and angled knee-braces, this fits the overall scope of the home better than a smaller entry with post and beam.

3. Arts & Crafts Entryway

3. Tapered posts and subtle arches give this hybrid timber home elegant Craftsman vibes with just a touch of Modern. This entry does draw attention, but in a reserved, classy way

4. Rustic Mountain Home Entry & Porte Cochere

4. A Rustic Mountain Home with influences from Native American longhouse, Timberline Lodge and Nordic Architecture. Steep roofline is softened and strengthened by a porte cochere with strong timber posts and stone bases. Note the triangulation of the entry door.

Are you seeing the wide range of possibilities with hybrid timber design?

While this article is specifically showing entryways, for those looking to explore custom home design ideas, "The Little Book of Timber Home Plans" is available now, chapter by chapter in E-Book format.

If you've already entered your email, you'll have access to that book + "The Art of Hybrid Timber Framing." If you haven't yet, it's as simple as letting us know which email to send the E-Books to, it's easy to unsubscribe and we won't fill up your inbox with repetitive emails, just send out helpful insights & design inspirations.

Learn more about "The Little Book of Timber Home Plans"

5. Hybrid Rustic Entry

5. This entryway seems more subdued from this angle but features large timbers that are substantial and safe feeling closer up, at the same time, the proportions, roof lines and sizing keep a subtle balance that doesn't overpower, yet provides a focal point.

6. Craftsman Farmhouse Entry

6. This entryway brings a cozy and spacious width that is inviting, yet unassuming. With elements of craftsman, farmhouse, rustic & even modern design styles, the entry post angles help the wider span dramatically.

7. Modern Timber Entryway

7. Without the rooflines or surfaces, this home may be more traditional, yet those touches make all the difference in adding a timeless modern feel. The entryway is consistent with that slight modern emphasis, yet without a dated overemphasis. Strong posts on stone bases, flanked by two different siding surfaces and white siding behind it, this gives just enough variety yet feels totally cohesive.

All of these entry photos can be clicked to view more photos of those finished homes. Those interested in browsing floor plans will find even more ideas and inspiration. While you've seen 7 timber entries, we've got one more using log posts. Although square timbers are most popular for clients, there is still cases where log posts work well, and you can get that log-cabin feel without the difficulty of maintaining one.

Bonus: Rustic Log Post Entry

While plenty of traditional log posts have made their way into hybrid timber homes, it's hard to beat the statement that these massive log posts make on this rustic hybrid home. Mixed with large arched timber truss elements to compliment their strength, it's a fortress feel that feels organic.

That's just a small taste of the variety of styles and looks that timber framing brings to the table.

If inspiration is what you're after, check out more projects and make sure you get a free copy of our Timber Design Books.

Looking to discuss adding timber framing to a floor plan? Or get one designed from the ground up? It's easy to get in touch, and no obligation necessary. The right fit is what matters most.