About Us — hero image

About Us

Our Story

Company founders, brothers Pete and Wayne Peters, discovered their love for timber framing in the late 1980s. Their old family barn, built in 1885, became a curiosity: how could it stand so straight and strong for over a century while newer farm buildings had fallen to pieces? That barn was a timber frame, and it sparked a lifelong journey of learning the craft and eventually starting Cornerstone Timberframes in 1991.

Cornerstone Timberframes founders reviewing timber frame plans

A Love for the Craft

In the early years, the Peters brothers worked out of a small barn, unloading timbers by hand and using a single-sided planer to square and surface the wood. Joinery was cut with chisels, ship’s augers, and hand saws. Despite the hard work, a love for the craft and the gratitude of their clients kept them learning and improving.

As demand grew, so did Cornerstone. In 2002, following a successful tradeshow in Minneapolis, the little barn gave way to a larger shop with modern tooling—making it possible to take on more complex projects while maintaining meticulous attention to detail.

Growing Into the Next Generation

When the brothers were ready to retire in 2015, Pete’s daughter Tanya Bachmeier stepped forward to lead the company. Tanya had joined Cornerstone in 2001 to help run the office, but quickly became involved in the design and finishing side of the business—advising clients on stain and finish options and, before long, applying finishes to their timber frames after hours.

In 2016, her husband Nevin Bachmeier joined the team, bringing a planner’s mindset and a passion for creative solutions. Their leadership has guided Cornerstone into a new era of mass timber and commercial work while staying rooted in the family’s original values of integrity, quality, and service.

Innovation, Sustainability & Care

Learning and openness to change have always been central to the company’s growth. The same tools and skills once focused on custom homes and cottages now support large commercial and civic structures. In 2016 Cornerstone began working with glulam beams; in 2018 the first of two CNC timber cutting machines was added, followed soon after by cross-laminated timber (CLT) panels able to span long distances as floors and walls.

A broader vision continues to come into focus—one that honours land, water, and sky, and the communities that depend on them. We are committed to reducing waste, supporting healthy ecosystems, and being good ancestors to the generations who follow. This is part of the joy of our work.

The old 1885 barn that started it all still stands nearby in a historic village, inspiring new generations. The love for timber framing it sparked at Cornerstone Timberframes continues to burn brightly. We invite you to reach out about your own timber frame or mass timber project—let the dream begin.

To learn more about our values and people, explore Our Foundation and meet the team on the Our Team page.

Historic 1885 barn that inspired Cornerstone Timberframes

Watch: Our Story

A short introduction to Cornerstone Timberframes — our story, craftsmanship, and values.

“I am honoured to carry the family tradition, creating beautiful timber frame structures, and building on a legacy of integrity, honesty, and authenticity. We value relationships, respectfully acknowledging the importance of collaboration while striving to exceed our clients’ expectations.”

— Tanya Bachmeier, CEO