Why Early Timber Frame Collaboration Saves Architects (and Clients!) Time, Money and the Headache

At Osotimber, we’re more than just timber frame designers, we’re collaborative problem-solvers, Passivhaus-trained detailers, and material-led system thinkers who help bring architectural visions to life, without the guesswork.

When we’re involved early in a project, we help architects navigate complex decisions, avoid costly revisions, and ensure every detail aligns with high-performance, low-carbon outcomes.

Here’s what that looks like in practice.

Rendered view of a contemporary new build home for some self-build clients. A successful collaboration between OSOTIMBER and MW Architectural

Approx. 2 min read

Case Study: Brooklands, Leicester – A Deep Design Partnership with MW Architectural

We connected with MW Architectural via LinkedIn while they were exploring SIPs (Structural Insulated Panels) for a contemporary Passivhaus-style home in Leicester. SIPs can be attractive for their speed, but they rely heavily on petrochemical foam, offer limited circularity, and tend to restrict creative flexibility, especially when things get technically ambitious.

Instead, we suggested a more adaptable and sustainable approach: a timber frame system using Scottish-made I-beams from James Jones, paired with blown cellulose insulation, a breathable, low-carbon alternative. With us involved early, this pivot was efficient, well-supported, and ultimately better aligned with the project’s performance goals.

From there, we became a key conduit between the architect, engineer, and client, helping to realise complex details like floating masonry walls and significant cantilevered roof surfaces. These kinds of features demand careful design coordination, especially in high-performance timber builds, so clear communication and collaborative modelling were vital.

Not every suggestion was taken on board, and that’s okay. Construction is rarely black and white. We pride ourselves on being agile, open-minded, and focused on the bigger picture, helping teams move forward with clarity and confidence.

OSOTIMBER in-house designed and detailed JJI structure starting to take shape on site. As you can see, there are some complex overhangs and structural requirements to overcome!

Integration = Confidence

The architect had strong, bespoke design intentions, and we helped translate those into a robust, buildable frame. From real-time 3D modelling and IFC file coordination, to site-ready timber frame drawings and precise steel fabrication details, our input eliminated clashes, reduced delays, and supported informed decision-making throughout.

The result? A high-performance structure that delivered on the architectural vision, complete with exposed glulam elements internally, celebrating the beauty of the timber frame.

Progress on our contemporary timber frame build on site.

Real Carbon Savings, Real Results

We also introduced a recycled foam glass foundation system paired with low-cost strip foundations, something we believe is a smart solution to many high-carbon alternatives. This choice drastically cut back on concrete, steel, and petrochemical materials, while simplifying engineering and lowering costs.

By pairing this with a fully natural timber frame, the primary structure and insulation were not just high-performing, they were renewable, traceable, and inherently lower impact.

Internal view of how timber I-beams transfer loadings on the internal face/flange and minimise structure in-between to maximise insulation and performance! Steel members are also kept on the warm side to minimise the effect of cold-bridging.

Let’s Build Better, Together

Now nearing completion and fully weathertight, Brooklands is a testament to what early collaboration can achieve. When architects bring OSOTIMBER in early, they gain a proactive partner who adds clarity, solves problems, and helps create buildings that are as smart as they are beautiful.

If you're working on a new build and want to preserve design intent while unlocking lower-carbon, high-performance solutions — we’d love to talk.

Written by Natalie Ross