Austria and Norway share a rich tradition building with wood. An enormous treasure of experience and skill accumulated over many centuries, reflecting in impressive structures. Nowadays the knowledge of these original construction methods disappears increasingly. For this reason, this work deals with the traditional way of building, which developed in both countries. All starts with an outline of the historical situations. Different circumstances, like the position in the European context or climatic conditions, had a massive influence on the building activity.d by the exterior circumstances emerged various construction types, perfectly adapted to their environment.The work describes the principles of every building method and focuses mainly on the joints.

Notched-log structures represent the most important similarity between Norway and Austria. Although the basic principle stays the same, many regions have specific ways to formulate the corner joint, which give every building a unique character. In addition to the wall setup, there are also solution approaches to other parts of the structure, from the foundation to the roof, the elements are examined regarding their execution.

Six examples, three of each country, were selected for a closer study, all of which with specific characteristics of the country’s wooden building traditions. Archive material forms the base for the research of each construction. Another step is the photographic documentation and digital reproduction of the object.