Perched on the rugged slopes of the Transylvanian mountains at an elevation of 5,000 feet, the Dragan Valley Barn is more than a structure—it is a testament to the endurance and ingenuity of generations of Romanian farmers. Built nearly 200 years ago, this barn served as a sanctuary for livestock and a linchpin in the seasonal rhythms of mountain farming life.
Constructed from hand-hewn White Oak, locally known as Romanian Sissle, the barn was designed to endure the relentless mountain elements. Its original roof, long weathered by the harsh Transylvanian winters, was replaced with durable slate after a storm generations ago, reflecting the farmers' resourcefulness and adaptability. Beneath that protective roof, the barn housed livestock and their vital feed, providing both sustenance and shelter during the brutal high-altitude winters.
Inside, a long trough carved from seasoned oak stretches the length of the barn, a tactile connection to the past when hands shaped wood with care and purpose. The barn, filled with the scent of hay and the contented sounds of grazing, stands as a haven for the herds that rely on it, while the enduring oak beams and planks silently tell the story of their makers.
Location: Romania
Species: White Oaks (Romanian Sissle)
Materials:
Timbers and Planks
Surfaces De-nailed and De-metaled
Axe Cut and Hand-Hewn
Though this historic structure stands secure, its legacy remains intact, awaiting careful deconstruction to preserve its timeless craftsmanship. Ready to begin a new chapter, it carries with it the strength of its materials, the echoes of its history, and the spirit of those who built it.
The Adventure of Rediscovery
Unearthing the treasures of the Dragan Valley Barn was no ordinary endeavor. This majestic structure, though battered by time and storms, concealed within its frame a treasure trove of meticulously crafted oak. Each timber, axe-cut and hand-hewn, bore the marks of a bygone era, when the rhythm of life was inseparable from the land.
The journey to reclaim these timbers required both care and respect. Each plank and beam will be de-nailed and de-metaled with precision, ensuring their integrity while revealing the patina of age and use. The intricate grain of the White Oak, its weathered edges softened by decades of service, carries the soul of the Transylvanian mountains and the spirit of the farmers who built the barn.
From its strategic location to its architectural brilliance, every element of the barn reflects a deep connection to the land and its rhythms—a legacy preserved in its timbers.
Elevating Design: White Oak in Modern Projects
Imagine the storied White Oak timbers and planks of the Dragan Valley Barn infused into your next architectural project. These materials, rich with history and character, transform spaces into living works of art that connect past and present.
In a residential retreat, the oak beams add warmth, authenticity, and timeless elegance, turning a house into a sanctuary steeped in history.
In hospitality spaces, the wood invites guests to experience the tactile beauty of a bygone era while blending seamlessly with modern luxury.
For custom projects, these materials provide a unique foundation for designs that inspire and captivate, where every plank tells a story of resilience and artistry.
To use this wood is to bring the Transylvanian mountains into your project—a gesture that honors its origins while crafting a space that inspires awe.
The Prestige of Craftsmanship
The Romanian Sissle White Oak from the Dragan Valley Barn is more than a building material—it is a symbol of heritage and strength. Its grain holds the wisdom of generations, its scars speak of endurance, and its beauty reflects the natural harmony of its mountainous home. Incorporating these timbers into your design is a tribute to the craftsmanship and determination of the past, ensuring your project stands as a timeless masterpiece.
Bring History to Life: Contact Three Forks
Are you ready to infuse your next project with the history, beauty, and resilience of the Dragan Valley Barn? The 200-year-old White Oak timbers and planks, imbued with the spirit of Transylvanian mountain life, are waiting to become part of your legacy.
Our pricing process begins with an initial phone consultation to understand the specific reclamation needs of our clients, often resulting in a custom order. We then conduct research on the location and logistics involved, followed by submitting a contract that outlines a set price for the recon team to visit the site. We’ll provide various options for the specified reclamation, fully documenting and photographing them for the client to review. Once the client selects an option, a 50% deposit is required, with the remaining balance due upon delivery. This process ensures clarity and transparency every step of the way.
Contact Three Forks today to learn more about this rare and extraordinary find. Whether for a bespoke residential retreat, a hospitality destination rich in character, or a custom architectural vision, these storied materials will elevate your design to something truly extraordinary.
Begin your journey now. Let Three Forks guide you in crafting a space where history, design, and the enduring strength of the mountains come together to create something unforgettable.
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