A Story of Design Precision, Renewal, and Craft

Every space tells a story.
Sometimes, that story begins with something already in place — a structure that once served beautifully but no longer fit the vision.

Backyard seating area with a small triangular pergola and fire pit before installation of the new mass timber cabana. — The original triangular pergola and patio seating area prior to redesign — this space was later transformed with a handcrafted mass timber cabana.

That was the case with this project. The homeowners already had a timber pergola in their yard — one they loved — but they were ready to evolve the design and redefine how their outdoor space functioned.

So they reached out to Western Timber Frame™ to relocate their existing pergola and create a new centerpiece: a mass timber poolside shelter that would merge strength, beauty, and comfort in one unified timber frame system.

Existing triangular timber pergola and poolside patio seating area before installation of the new mass timber poolside shelter.
The previous triangular timber pergola, shown here before relocation, was carefully moved by our team to make way for the installation of a new mass timber poolside shelter featuring exposed timbers, a two-tone natural finish, and TimberVolt® outdoor power integration.

Timber frame cabana with black ebony stain and natural tongue-and-groove roof by a pool — A timber frame cabana finished in deep black ebony creates a cozy, shaded gathering space by the pool.

Modern timber frame cabana with shed-style roof in black ebony stain.
A spacious timber cabana now stands poolside, its bold ebony beams and warm natural roof creating a space for connection and calm beneath twinkle lights.

Reimagining the Space

Our team carefully disassembled and relocated the existing triangular timber pergola, making way for a new dual-structure design that balanced precision engineering with natural warmth.

Existing triangular timber pergola and poolside patio seating area before installation of the new mass timber poolside shelter. — The previous triangular timber pergola pictured here was removed before Western Timber Frame installed the new mass timber poolside shelter featuring exposed timbers, a two-tone natural finish, and TimberVolt® outdoor power integration.

Modern timber frame cabana with a shed-style roof in black ebony stain, featuring cozy poolside seating, hanging wicker chairs, and warm string lights beneath natural tongue-and-groove ceiling panels. — A handcrafted mass timber cabana with bold ebony posts and a natural wood ceiling creates a relaxed, elegant poolside retreat.

Under the direction of Design Manager Chase Bronson, the project evolved into a two-part installation. A pre-existing pergola relocation and installation handled start-to-finnish by our team.

Together, they form a mass timber poolside shelter that feels timeless, open, and grounded — a space that invites gathering and rest.

Project Features

18′ × 20′ Roof Size Cabana
16′ × 20′ Footprint Size
10″ Post Size for a confident, architectural stance
Knee Braces: Standard
Two-Tone Finish / Black with Natural T&G Ceiling for visual depth and contrast
Beam End Profile: Axis
TimberVolt® Inferno Outdoor Power System – seamless lighting, entertainment, and device charging

Each detail serves both form and function — transforming an ordinary space into an architectural focal point that integrates naturally with its surroundings.

Mass Timber Design: Beauty in Structure

Timber cabana glowing at dusk with lights and hanging chairs by the pool — Soft lights and hanging chairs make this timber frame cabana feel like an inviting retreat as the sun sets.

Mass timber construction allows structure and finish to become one.
The exposed joinery, wide-span beams, and natural grain bring a sense of authenticity that can’t be imitated by synthetic materials.

This mass timber poolside shelter is more than shade — it’s an expression of architectural integrity.

The Axis beam profile gives a clean, linear rhythm, while the natural tongue-and-groove ceiling softens the light and texture beneath. Every surface is tactile, every joint deliberate.

And through the TimberVolt® Inferno System, power flows invisibly through the posts — ready for lighting, sound, and entertainment without exposed cords or conduit.

The Dovetail Difference®

Behind every Western Timber Frame project is a philosophy we call The Dovetail Difference® — the union of old-world craft and modern precision.

Here’s what sets it apart:

Precision-Cut Joinery – Dovetail Interlock™ engineering ensures lasting structural strength.
Prefabricated Efficiency – Components arrive pre-fit for quick, clean installation.
Integrated Power – TimberVolt® systems make lighting and comfort seamless.
Exposed Timbers – Each beam is chosen for both performance and natural beauty.
Commercial-Quality Construction – Built to endure heavy use and environmental exposure.
Respectful Process – From relocating the previous pergola to final finish, every step is handled with care.

Every joint, every beam, every finish reflects a belief that craftsmanship still matters.

For Contractors, Designers, and Commercial Clients

Although built for a private outdoor space, this project reflects the same engineering and detailing that define our commercial timber frame work.

For professionals in architecture, hospitality, and landscape design, mass timber offers:

Scalable Designs adaptable for resorts, restaurants, and public courtyards
Reduced On-Site Labor through precision-cut prefabrication
Sustainable Building Practices using renewable, carbon-sequestering materials
Fire Resilience – large timber members maintain structural stability longer under heat
Long-Term Durability with minimal maintenance
A Biophilic Aesthetic that connects indoor comfort with outdoor air

The same structural clarity that makes this poolside shelter feel natural in a backyard makes it equally powerful in commercial architecture.