Soulcraft Timberframe

Through a family connection I became aware of Oliver Marx and Soulcraft
Timberframe. I had visited his workshop and seen several of the buildings he had constructed. I liked his designs and meticulous work.
I lived in a modest 1500 square foot 30 year old Morewood bungalow which was to say the least "unpretentious". From a practical point of view
there were problems with the front door exposed to the summer sun becomming to hot to touch and in winter obstructed by snowdrifts. I asked Oliver for a solution and he designed and built a porch with an elegant timberframed gable that solved both my problems and caused the steet facade of the building to look elegant.
After that experience I requested Oliver to design a second floor to my garage (with an 8 foot overhang supported by matching timberframe
to alleviate snow accumulation in front of the garage door). The second storey allowed for a car lift to rise through an opening in the floor giving us an extra space for a third car but still providing a finished loft for storage and workspace. The construction method allowed for a hoist to lift heavy objects to the loft.
Both above projects were accomplished in a timely manner and on budget.
The next work that I requested from Oliver was to design and build a large deck off the walk out basement with (for the floor above) a partially roofed balcony supported on timberframing. Once again Soulcraft produced great plans and drawings that satisfied the city planning department. As usual the project was on time on budget and the result was excellent. Even though we have not advertised the house for sale we now have people approach us wanting to be advised if we ever do want to
put it on the market.

Oliver Marx is truly an artist and craftsman. He cut the frame for a three season gazebo/sunroom. Oliver's precision and uncompromising quality are key for the complex work that resulted in a unique and beautiful structure. Oliver's patience allowed waiting for the perfect place to erect the finished product. The entire process demonstrated skills in design, technical expertise and an appreciation for tasteful finishing.
Building a timberframe is different from standard construction and Oliver understands this resulting in a collaborative experience that makes the construction rewarding both in the journey as well as the finished product.

We were initially referred to Oliver Marx and SoulCraft by our architect. We contacted a total of three builders to get quotes and Oliver was the only one who encouraged a one on one meeting before offering any prices. After several meetings, we awarded the complete contract to Oliver which included not only the timberframe but the ICF foundation, SIP wall and roof panels plus general contracting for the entire project.
The quality of work was higher than I expected, as was the craftsmanship in the timber frame joinery.
It was always a pleasure to work with Oliver. He was very accommodating throughout the project and was genuinely interested in our opinions and concerns. As with most custom builds, there were many changes along the way and Oliver managed all of them professionally and in a timely manner.
Our dream home was completed within our budget and time frame which were two of our biggest concerns.
It has been almost two years since completion and Oliver has always been quick to respond when we call him to investigate any concern with the home.
I would recommend Oliver Marx and SoulCraft to anyone looking to see their project through from start to finish.

Mark Nelson