At Alair Homes, we know that building a home is about more than just materials — it’s about creating something meaningful, lasting, and deeply personal. That’s why we’re proud to work alongside exceptional trade partners like Cornerstone Timberframes, whose passion for craftsmanship and collaboration shines through in every structure they create.
We spoke with the Cornerstone Timberframes team to learn more about their origin story, their approach to timber framing, and what drives their commitment to quality and sustainability.
Project Featured: Stuart Lake Custom
The Story Behind Cornerstone Timberframes and What Drives Their Passion
Q: Can you tell us a bit about the history of Cornerstone Timberframes and what inspires your work?
In the late 1980s, brothers Pete and Wayne Peters were struck by the enduring strength of their family’s 1885 barn — still standing tall while newer farm buildings had long since deteriorated. That moment sparked a fascination with traditional timber framing, leading them to study the craft in depth. In 1991, they turned that passion into a profession, founding Cornerstone Timberframes with a focus on historic craftsmanship and quality construction.
The early days were hands-on and humble. Working out of a small barn, they unloaded timbers by hand and crafted joinery using only chisels, ship’s augers, and hand saws. The learning curve was steep, but their commitment — and the appreciation from their clients — kept them going. Their reputation grew steadily, and by 2002, after a successful tradeshow in Minneapolis, they moved into a larger shop equipped with more advanced tools, opening the door to greater efficiency and scale.
In 2015, as Pete and Wayne looked ahead to retirement, Pete’s daughter Tanya Bachmeier stepped into a leadership role. Having joined the company in 2001, she had already spent years immersed in both client care and hands-on finishing work. Her husband Nevin joined in 2016, adding valuable planning and problem-solving skills to the team.
Cornerstone’s growth has always been rooted in learning and evolution. They embraced new materials like glulam beams and introduced CNC technology in 2018, allowing for more precise, efficient cuts. That same year, they expanded into cross-laminated timber (CLTs), offering new design possibilities for larger, more complex builds — all while maintaining their dedication to sustainability.
At its core, Cornerstone’s story is about more than timber. It’s about craftsmanship, family, and stewardship — a deep respect for the land, resources, and legacy we leave behind. The original 1885 barn that started it all still stands today, preserved in a nearby historic village, reminding the team of their roots and the purpose that continues to guide their work: to build structures that last, inspire, and honour the environment for generations to come.
Collaboration & Connection
Q: How does Cornerstone collaborate with others?
They view every project as a collaboration centred on craftsmanship and shared vision.
Their team values ongoing communication, detailed planning, and flexibility, working alongside builders, designers, and homeowners alike to ensure every detail aligns perfectly.
Cornerstone takes pride in building trusting relationships, ensuring that everyone’s ideas are heard. This collaborative approach yields a seamless process, resulting in a finished product that reflects everyone’s aspirations, meticulously crafted with attention to detail, integrity, and care. Ultimately, they see each project not just as a structure, but as a shared journey that creates lasting beauty and meaning.
Craft Meets Precision
Q: What most people don’t realize about building a timber frame structure?
Many people don’t realize that building a timber frame home or cottage is a highly intricate and precise craft that combines artistry, engineering, and traditional techniques. It’s not just about assembling large, beautiful logs or beams; it involves meticulous joinery, precise measurements, and often manual craftsmanship that can take months to complete. Each joint must fit perfectly to ensure the structure’s stability and aesthetic appeal, sometimes requiring hand-cut and fitted joinery that has been refined over centuries.
Additionally, many people don’t appreciate the level of customization and architectural flexibility that timber framing allows. The open, soaring interior spaces—free from load-bearing walls—are made possible by the strength of expertly crafted timber joints. This traditional building method results in a uniquely durable, resilient, and efficient space that ages beautifully, often becoming a cherished heirloom.
A Signature Touch
Q: What is a unique feature of the Cornerstone Timberframe process?
Cornerstone Timberframes employs a unique pre-finishing technique that sets their work apart. Before the timber frames are installed on-site, each piece is carefully sanded, stained, and finished in their workshop, ensuring a consistent, high-quality appearance and protection. This pre-finishing process allows for precise color and stain application, which can be tailored to match the homeowner’s aesthetic preferences. It also significantly reduces on-site labour and mess, enabling a smoother installation process and minimizing exposure to weather elements that could delay finishing. The results are beautifully finished timber frames with a durable, uniform surface, which enhances their natural beauty while providing long-lasting protection.
This innovative approach not only improves efficiency but also ensures that every corner of the timber frame reflects Cornerstone’s commitment to craftsmanship and quality.
A Partnership Built on Shared Values
Q: What has your experience been like working with Alair Homes, and what do you value most about the partnership?
Cornerstone values strong collaboration with building partners, and we are honoured to have the opportunity to work with Alair. We are aligned in terms of commitment to quality, design and working alongside the customer to build the home or cottage of their dreams. We’ve enjoyed working together and look forward to many future projects!
At Alair Homes, we’re fortunate to collaborate with exceptional partners like Cornerstone Timberframes. Their passion for craftsmanship and purposeful building enhances every project, helping us create homes and cottages that are not only visually striking but rooted in lasting quality and meaning.
