Project in Focus: Traditional Picket Fence with Ledged and Braced Gates

Crafted with Care, Inspired by Heritage

At Sutherland Joinery, we believe true craftsmanship lies in the details — in the materials we select, the traditional techniques we uphold, and the thoughtful collaboration we bring to each project. Our recent commission to create a traditional timber fence and pair of handcrafted gates brought all these elements together, with a design rooted in historic joinery practice and carefully adapted for modern longevity.

The project consisted of two bespoke gates: one a tongue and groove panelled framed, ledged and braced gate, and the other a lighter picketed ledged and braced design — both referencing the practical and enduring styles and joinery methods detailed in George Ellis’ Modern Practical Joinery, first published in 1902. This iconic joinery book is still very relevant today when constructing pieces that are similar in form and technique to that of what would have been made a century prior.

We worked closely with the client to refine a distinctive picket profile based off of a historic catalogue. Once the shape was agreed, we created a jig to replicate it consistently across every picket — a modern tool used in service of traditional design.

Although a picket fence built at the turn of the 20th century would have likely been constructed from pitch pine, for this fence we chose douglas fir as a readily available similar alternative . This resilient softwood offers dimensional stability and natural resistance to decay, making it ideal for joinery exposed to the elements. To further protect the timber, each component was treated with a high-performance wood preserver before being finished with Jotun Demidekk paint in Ice Plant Green — a soft, heritage-inspired tone. This Norwegian-made coating is known for its long-lasting, flexible finish, providing outstanding weather protection.

Attention to detail continued through to the ironmongery. Traditional cast iron hardware was selected, including forged Suffolk latches and ‘H’ hinges by ‘from the anvil’. Although this hardware looks traditional, it benefits from a durable powdercoated finish and black stainless steel hardware.

This project represents what we value most: joinery that honours traditional methods, is built to last, and is tailored with care to the client’s vision and the site’s character. With heritage at its core and craftsmanship in every joint, it’s a quiet but confident contribution to the landscape — one we’re proud to stand behind.

Picket fence with picket ledge and brace gate, painted in Ice Plant Green.

Frame, ledge and brace gate. Painted in Ice Plant Green.