There are build days—and then there are Shed build days. The kind filled with learning, laughs, BBQ smoke, and the unmistakable sound of new friendships being forged alongside timber joints.
That was the scene on Saturday, as members of the Ambleside Men’s Shed, joined by Shedders from the Hackberry, Naismith, and Arnprior McNab-Braeside Men’s Sheds, officially kicked off the Timber Frame Gazebo Construction Project—a collaborative summer build that’s as much about connection as it is about craftsmanship. The team of Sheds plans to build a 18′ x 16′ Double Hip Roof Timber Frame Gazebo for the Ambleside community in the west end of Ottawa over the course of the summer, with a “Gazebo Raising” celebration to be scheduled in August. More Sheds are expected to join in for the build, including the Ottawa Makers Shed.
Under the expert guidance of resident timber framing guru Stephen Snaith, 32 participants in groups of 2–4 got hands-on with the ancient craft of mortise and tenon joinery. Some mortises came out cleaner than others—but every cut was made with enthusiasm (and in some cases, a little forgiveness from teammates).
“Special thanks as well to Murray “The Grill Master” Doggett, who not only kept the build moving but also kept the burgers and hot dogs flowing, and to John Neven, who made sure the day included equal parts learning and laughter”, says Ambleside Shed President Jan Skora.
As with all great Shed projects, no plan is set in stone—or timber. After some animated discussion (and perhaps a few good-natured jabs) among John, Murray, and Stephen, the gazebo design took a bold turn. Stephen proposed a simplified and stronger king beam gable roof with a cupola, an elegant design that’s easier to build and more inclusive for all skill levels. As one Shedder put it: “Even the minimally skilled among us can contribute meaningfully to the building process.” It’s a testament to the creative process at its best, where collaboration doesn’t just improve the plan, it improves the experience. Win-win!
The process will be captured on video from start to finish over the summer, telling a story of how Shedders are coming together to better the community, strengthen their bonds and celebrate good old fashioned teamwork. Both Men’s Sheds Canada and Men’s Sheds Ontario are proud supporters of this exciting initiative.
This project isn’t just about building a beautiful timber frame structure. It’s about sharing tools, techniques, laughs, and lunches, learning from each other and creating something lasting. Plans will be updated and finalized in the coming weeks, and more training sessions will be scheduled to help everyone sharpen their mortising and tenoning skills before the build begins in mid-June. Stay tuned for updates as the summer unfolds.
Says Jan, “I can’t wait to see what we build together! Let’s make this summer unforgettable.”