Timber Frame Basics
A one-day Walk and Talk training event exploring historic timber-framed buildings in the remarkable medieval town of Lavenham, Suffolk, with Stephen Boniface.
Learn from real buildings in one of England’s finest medieval towns.
Join Stephen Boniface for a practical day exploring Lavenham’s exceptional collection of historic timber-framed buildings in their original setting.
Throughout the day, you’ll examine a diverse range of buildings while discussing timber-framing techniques, construction methods, common defects, conservation principles and appropriate approaches to repair.
The format combines guided walks, visits to important historic buildings and informal professional discussion. Rather than learning in a classroom, you’ll develop your understanding directly from the buildings, materials and details encountered around the town.
Questions are encouraged throughout, and the programme will naturally adapt to the interests of the group and the buildings encountered on the day.
A full day exploring Lavenham.
Meet in Market Square for a welcome and introduction, followed by a walk around the square.
Refreshments and discussion at a local café.
Walking Tour One.
Guided visit to The Guildhall.
Lunch at The Guildhall Café.
Guided visit to Little Hall.
Walking Tour Two.
The formal training day concludes. Delegates are welcome to continue with an optional informal discussion and Q&A at The Swan Inn.
Timings are approximate and may vary slightly on the day.
Topics we’ll explore
Understanding historic buildings, including dating, construction and materials; timber-frame basics; identifying defects and conservation issues; and inspection techniques, including non-invasive and invasive investigation.
We’ll also discuss traditional repairs and appropriate materials, preparing Schedules of Work, contract considerations and the value of sketching during building inspections.
Your booking includes
A full day of expert-led training, guided exploration of Lavenham’s historic timber-framed buildings, entry to Little Hall and The Guildhall, sketching materials and a digital CPD certificate on request.
Lunch and refreshments are not included and can be purchased on the day.
Accessibility
The event involves walking through Lavenham’s historic streets and visiting heritage buildings. Surfaces include paving, cobbles and uneven ground, with occasional steps and changes in level.
Please wear suitable outdoor footwear and dress appropriately for the weather.
Further information
For full course information, learning outcomes and joining instructions, visit the Timber Frame Basics course page.
Historic Lavenham, Suffolk.
Lavenham’s streets, public buildings and historic interiors provide an exceptional setting for studying traditional timber framing, conservation and repair in context.
Market Square, Lavenham, Suffolk. Full joining instructions will be provided to booked delegates.