At Weber State University, the installation of custom heavy timber pergolas has transformed outdoor areas into vibrant learning and gathering spaces. More than shade structures, these commercial-grade builds showcase the intelligence of timber frame design—a building method that is both time-tested and forward-thinking.

Multiple timber pergolas over outdoor benches and tables on a college campus courtyard, offering shaded gathering and study space. — A cluster of Western Timber Frame pergolas creates comfortable, shaded outdoor spaces for students to collaborate, study, or relax in the courtyard of a college campus.

The Smarter Way to Build: Timber Framing

Unlike conventional post-and-beam methods, timber framing uses large, exposed timbers that are interlocked with precision joinery. This creates structural stability and architectural beauty at the same time. Western Timber Frame takes this a step further with The Dovetail Difference®—our signature interlocking system.

Close-up of Douglas Fir pavilion posts with The Dovetail Difference™ interlocking joinery system. — Precision-cut timber posts featuring The Dovetail Difference® for unmatched strength and stability.

The dovetail joint, known for its strength in fine woodworking, is scaled up for mass timber construction. This means every pergola is not only stronger but also smarter:

Resists twisting and warping even in extreme weather.
Locks tight under pressure, rather than loosening over time.
Creates a seamless look, with hidden hardware and clean lines.

This method is ideal for universities and commercial campuses where long-term durability and minimal maintenance are essential.

Commercial-Grade Heavy Timber Design

Large timber pergola over walkways connecting academic buildings on a college campus — Timber pergolas bring shade and architectural interest to a college courtyard pathway.

Each Weber State pergola was engineered with Douglas Fir timbers from our 8000 Series, stained in Canyon Grey for a modern, enduring finish. Built freestanding in the Traditional style, these structures feature:

Roof Size: 22’ x 22’
Footprint Size: 20’ x 20’
Post Height: 8’ bottom of support beam
Beam Profile: Axis with Classic Knee Braces
Hardware: Knife Plate system for maximum strength
Delivery & Installation: Standard, 3–4 weeks

This scale makes them ideal for large group gatherings, outdoor classes, and campus events, where both aesthetics and performance matter.

Why Heavy Timber Creates Better Learning Environments

Timber is more than a building material—it’s a teaching tool. Studies show that natural materials like wood reduce stress, increase concentration, and promote well-being. This makes timber an ideal choice for universities and commercial campuses where learning and collaboration are the focus. Natural timber in classrooms can reduce heart rates and promote a sense of calm, improving academic performance. Similarly, universities around the world are embracing timber:

A study by Wood for Good found that wood in classrooms lowers heart rates and supports healthy learning environments (source)

The University of British Columbia has become a global leader in mass timber education buildings, with projects like the Earth Sciences Building and a growing campus portfolio of timber construction (ThinkWood), (Naturally Wood).

At the University of Idaho, the ICCU Arena demonstrates how heavy timber can span large spaces and create inspiring places for learning and gathering (WoodWorks PDF), (USDA Report).

By choosing a heavy timber frame design built with The Dovetail Difference®, Weber State University is part of this worldwide movement—creating smarter, healthier spaces where learning thrives.

A Lasting Investment for Commercial Campuses

For institutions like Weber State, timber frame structures are more than aesthetic choices—they are long-term investments. Heavy timber not only withstands weather and high use but also communicates permanence and tradition. When built with The Dovetail Difference®, these pergolas will serve generations of students with little upkeep required.

Western Timber Frame specializes in commercial outdoor timber structures that combine craftsmanship, engineering, and architectural vision. For universities and organizations alike, the result is clear: smarter spaces, stronger communities, and more inspired learning.