Ely Timber Works

Timber Framer Mark Olson is a master craftsman with an ability to create stunning spaces that feel timeless. In my case, we were seeking an addition to a small, hand-crafted log cabin into which we had lovingly squeezed for more than 30 years – a favorite, remote, lakeside site near the Boundary Waters. The need for more space was great – for overflow sleeping, for eating around a table instead of from laps, for visiting comfortably with coffee in hand, and for enjoying the beauty and breeze through well-lit windows. But the challenge for us was how to create a space that worked to incorporate all these needs with one that worked aesthetically with the existing cabin. Upfront, we spent time with Mark, listening, discussing, and planning. He shared design ideas and creatively figured a way to meet the goals as well as get the logs across the lake and then up a hill to this roadless site. We watched as a beautiful frame structure was built, a space created, and Mark’s signature post and beam work laid in place. In a room filled with windows and beautiful woodwork, we realized we wanted to keep the simplicity and beauty of the wood, so he additionally created several built-in units – a bookcase that reflected the designs of the room and a cabinet for storage. The result is a stunning new space that provides the diversity of use we sought and a room that complements the existing structure beautifully. I cannot recommend Mark Olson highly enough.
– Barb H.