Timber Framers Guild Forums General General Forum Questions Hip Roof Gazebo - need some ideas for Frame

I have been requested to design, cut, raise and roof a Gazebo in the neighbourhood of about 20 ft square.
The wall framing is pretty staight forward, but the owner wants a 4 sided Hip roof at a low pitch angle (4/12 ish) and I would like to accommodate this request.
Of course, the roof would be open on the inside to display the frame. Lack of interior posts would be preferred. They are agreeable to metal Hardware for joinery if required.
I'm requesting ideas for the design of the roof structure.
Don't know what is practical or feasible. Does anyone have any plans or ideas to assist in this project? If so, please post them here or email me. Thanks, Jim Haslip
jlhaslip@telus.net

You prably know this, but a hip roof like this traps heat up in the peak, so it is good to have a cupola or some kind of vent up there to let the hot air out.

Good luck!

Jim:

Have you ever seen a hip roof framed with a dragon beam? I've never done it, but I've seen it, and it looks really cool. CB.

Thanks to everyone who posted or emailed their info for this posting. It has been quite helpful.
The owner has decided on a stick frame design for this project... too bad.
It seems that the best way to bring four hips together would be a dragon beam at each corner.
Thanks Jim Rogers and Daiku for your input. Very informative...