ABOUT THE FOUNDER — COLIN GRAAT
A craftsman shaped by heritage, guided by precision, and driven by purpose.
Colin Graat’s connection to timber framing began long before Revive Timberworks. Growing up in rural Port Colborne, he spent his childhood exploring and working around a weathered century-old timber-frame barn that stood on his family’s property. Its quiet strength, exposed joinery, and enduring character sparked a fascination that never left him. What began as childhood curiosity grew into a lifelong appreciation for heritage structures and the craftsmanship required to build them.
Years later, after immersing himself in books, seminars, and hands-on learning, Colin chose to turn that passion into a profession. Revive Timberworks was founded with a simple goal: to blend timeless tradition with modern precision and create timber-frame homes and structures that stand as lasting reflections of the people who live and work within them.
Today, Colin’s work is guided by a deep respect for the craft and a steady commitment to doing things the right way. He is continually sharpening his knowledge–studying joinery methods, improving processes, refining design principles, and learning from others who share his dedication to the timber-framing tradition. That same mindset is carried into his family life, where he enjoys sharing the craft with his three young children, giving them hands-on experience in the shop and teaching them the value of patience, detail, and meaningful work.
Outside the frame shop, Colin gravitates toward woodworking, nature, and the kind of simple, honest activities that restore clarity and purpose. His quiet, thoughtful approach shapes every project Revive Timberworks takes on–from the first sketch to the final raising. Clients appreciate not only the structures he builds, but also the calm, dependable process he provides along the way.
At the heart of Colin’s work is a belief that a timber-frame structure is more than a building. It is a legacy–crafted with care, built to endure, and meant to be cherished for generations.
Mission Statement
At Revive Timberworks, our mission is to honor the heritage of timber framing while advancing it with modern design, engineering, and careful craftsmanship. We build timber-frame homes and structures that are strong, enduring, and beautifully made–spaces that reflect the values of the people who inhabit them. Guided by tradition, strengthened by precision, and grounded in integrity, we create work that inspires, endures, and becomes part of a family’s story for generations.