TIMBER, CRAFT & COLLABORATION

From crafted timber frames to heritage-inspired barns, New Energy Works brings the enduring beauty of timber framing to the modern equestrian world.

When Drake Ambrosino walked into his first Timber Framing Guild conference in the middle of the 2009 financial crisis, the room felt tense. Builders were bracing for impact, projects were stalling, and no one was thinking about expansion. But one speaker stood out. The founder of New Energy Works spoke not only with realism but with optimism — confident in craftsmanship, confident in people, and confident in the future of timber framing.

That tone stayed with Drake. “His attitude was positive even in difficult times,” he recalls. “He was optimistic about new opportunities. That was a reason to connect with him.” What began as a conversation turned into a visit to the company’s New York shop, where Drake experienced the culture firsthand: a welcoming atmosphere, a rock-solid business, and a deep, steady commitment to building well. Within months, they shook hands — and 17 years later, Drake still says, “It was dumb luck, blind faith, or just the right place at the right time. Great folks, great product, and fun client opportunities.”

A Builder With a Human-Centered Philosophy

Long before timber beams entered the picture, Drake’s career began in real estate, selling vacant land and representing builders. That experience quickly revealed something that didn’t sit right with him — strained relationships, frustrated clients, and a process that felt unnecessarily heavy. “Building should be a joyous event,” he says. “A dream come true.”

So he returned to his early interest in construction, got his contractor’s license, and stepped into the role with a clear philosophy: “We’re going to have fun building your house.”

Even today, that mantra guides him. “If you take the steps in simple order, keep the tone light, and make sure everyone understands the process, it becomes a fun experience,” he says. “The enthusiasm becomes infectious.”

The Craft of Timber Framing

New Energy Works, now with decades of projects across the country, has earned its reputation through craftsmanship, engineering strength, and a genuine ethos of stewardship. Their frames — often Douglas fir, sometimes other species based on a client’s preference — are built to last not just years, but generations.

But what sets them apart goes beyond structural integrity.

It’s the way these buildings make you feel,” Drake explains. “As humans, we want to feel comfortable in nature. A timber building brings that feeling to life. It’s warm, strong, secure — and it offers a calm attitude.”

From backyard pergolas to complex commercial spaces, wineries, event venues, and custom homes, their work spans all building types. Designs often begin in-house with their architectural team, incorporating site visits, client goals, and the unique requirements of each project. They also collaborate seamlessly with outside architects and designers. Once the plans are set, the New Energy Works shops craft each frame, coordinating with local trades to bring the project to life.

“We are good builders first,” Drake says. “Craftsmanship is our foundation, but our real commitment is to serving our clients and delivering quality work, no matter the scope.”