04/ Joinery
the geometry of strength
Joinery is the backbone of traditional timber framing, defined by the precise shaping and interlocking of timbers. Across centuries and cultures, craftsmen developed regional techniques using measured cuts and fitted pegs to unite individual pieces into enduring structures
Kanawa-tsugi
Kanawa-tsugi is a compound scarf joint that extends timbers through interlocking profiles and concealed wedges, which are driven to draw the joint tight and transfer load through compression without metal reinforcement.
Mortise and Tenon
The strength of a mortise and tenon comes from its precise fit, where the tenon locks tightly into the mortise to form a stable, rigid connection.
Bladed Scarf Joint
The bladed scarf joins two beams end-to-end through precisely cut profiles, extending their length while maintaining strength and structural continuity.