Words from my colleagues, clients and friends:

Ben Brungraber, Fire Tower Engineered Timber

I have known the stress of competing with Mike Beganyi – when he and I would submit proposals for interesting design/build projects.  I was regularly struck by how efficient and lovely were his designs and professional were his presentations.  It has been much more fun, to work with him on many projects over the past seven years.  His modeling skills are remarkable and his drawings tuned to the users’ needs.  Both his architectural education and experience, coupled with his years working in design/build, has leant his designs both tremendous appeal and buildability.  Mike is great at working to budgets and a wonderful communicator among team members.  We always look forward to working with Mike Beganyi.

The Round Barn, a project with Fire Tower Engineered Timber.

Everett Skinner IV, Great Country Timber Frames

“No matter how complex the project, Mike has a natural gift of being able to conceptualize a timber frame structure in a 3D environment. His many years of experience of hands-on building experience, shop production, and computer modeling make him an invaluable part of our team. His creative spirit never fails to impress!”

An antique carousel pavilion with Great Country Timber Frames.
Mike Williams, Montague Timber Frames

I met Mike in 2012 while attending one of his Sketchup classes and have been blessed to work with him since. Since this class I have used Sketchup to present frames as 3D models to potential clients, to collaborate more efficiently with architects and designers, and to cut joinery more accurately and efficiently in the shop. I use 3d modeling for every project to this day and it’s been Mike’s long-term commitment as a teacher that has enabled me to enhance these skills and stay up to date with an ever-changing software. 

Mike has also guided the timber design and engineering process for many of our projects. Mike has an extraordinary ability to design timber frames that are appealing and complex to the eye yet are practical to fabricate and assemble. Mike just sees it uniquely. You can’t replicate his knowledge and experience, you just have to call Mike. Above all, I know I can trust and rely on Mike’s training, design, and advice for my business. 

In addition, amongst timber frame shop drawings Mike recently emailed me videos of him flying thousands of feet above glaciers and mountains in Switzerland. Mike trained for his license in paragliding…he is officially one of the most interesting people I have ever met.”

A pool pavilion with Mike Williams, Montague Timber Frames.

Jeff Yates, Jeffrey Yates Architects

“Mike has the multiple talents that are necessary for pushing ideas through to the built project. I cannot recommend him highly enough.”

A private residence project for New Energy Works with Jeffrey Yates Architecture.
John Treybal, Sellers Treybal Structural Engineers

“It is a pleasure working with Mike.  He draws from a broad range of experiences, allowing him to understand and blend the different perspectives of those involved in the construction industry – engineers, architects, contractors, suppliers, home owners, etc.  As an engineer, it makes my job easier when the timber frame design and drawings are in Mike’s capable hands.” 

A private residence – a barn with a half court basketball court. A project with Cushman Design Group, Sellers Treybal Structural Engineers, and New Energy Works.
James Fifles, Ridgeline Log and Timber

“I have witnessed Mike Beganyi’s superior capabilities as a leader, instructor, lecturer, and mentor. His masterful command of various 3D modeling and drafting software programs, extensive timber framing expertise, and comprehensive understanding of many construction disciplines were evident the first time that I attended one of his classes.

Consistently demonstrating his desire to communicate applicable techniques and share knowledge from his vast experience made him the paramount instructor for my profession. Interfacing with Mike Beganyi is a key highlight in my pursuit of a successful career as a designer and timber fabricator.”

Deanne Varble, New Energy Works

“Mike is that unicorn that can both design and implement. His taste for solid design is stellar, he is keenly aware of the details without loosing the big picture, and he can also tell you if it can actually be built. To boot, he’s naturally collaborative, a listener, and a pleasure of a human being who is fun to work with.”

A trade show booth I collaborated on with Deanna for New Energy Works.
Parker and Bethany, Perpetually Devastated

“We feel very lucky to work with Mike. His collaborative approach to design has helped us streamline our work and enhanced our building processes from start to finish, and in the process he’s become a wonderful long-distance friend.”

Interior of a 1973 Airstream renovation.