Star of Bethlehem?

No...Not quite.

Shining example of our craftsmanship?

We like to think so.

The Picture above is the view of the Timber Framed Cupola, looking straight up from the alter of the Bethlehem Monastery of the Poor Clares in Barhamsville, VA.

This cupola was flown in with a crane, and the top of the structure reaches about 45' high.

This cupola is just one small detail in this intricate frame. This 3D rendering of the Monastery shows the complexity of the project from the inside out.

After the rasing, it's amazing how the drawings seem to come alive.

This frame is made of Douglas Fir, and consists of over 31,000 board feet of Heavy Timber.

The Joinery is mostly of traditional style Mortise and Tenon, with some steel as required.

Both the interior of the Sanctuary

and the Alter area show Arched Beams that add so much character and unique detail to this beautiful building.

The finished product is nothing short of amazing.

Although not a celestial body, or a navigational beacon, a Timber Frame from Vermont Timber Works is the BRIGHTEST idea of all.