Lesson # 6: Structure Matters. The beauty of post and beam design is the number of options you have. The structure may be designed using either interior bearing walls when privacy is desired or a simple bearing post where openness is what you want. Instead of an entire wall, a post will suffice. This is unlike a stick-built house where much of the weight of the building is supported by full bearing walls, thus reducing the possibility for openness. Your options become limited. With a post and beam you have the choice. Choice is a powerful a word when building and it comes in many guises and options.

Timber Frame Open Design