(external view)

The Bamford Library – Harper Adams University. Slow grown Scots Pine (Pinus Sylvestris) from a northern latitude was used for the external columns. Some of the oldest structures in the world are made from this superb timber, such as the Norwegian stave churches and loft houses, all built from hewn Scots Pine over 10 centuries ago!! With a coat of good quality finish and some maintenance the durability of these columns will be considerable.

(internal views)

This unique timber structure is built entirely from slow grown Scandinavian Scots Pine. The grower and sawyer specialised in supply of windmill spars that required very good durability and strength characteristics. The main roof beams were over 10 metres long and required careful procurement. The structural columns were turned round and slotted for fixing the steelwork. A vertical slot was cut into the columns to create a pre-determined point for the shrinkage crack. Carbon steel tendons tied the structure across with 6mm vertical ‘hangers’ to ensure they had positive camber. This is a remarkably economic and innovative timber structure using timber and steel together to great effect.