It&amp;’s best to keep timber frame manufacturing simple, says Prestoplan Purpose Built sales director Andrew Acford. &amp;“Most UK timber frame is still based on the proven Canadian platform system but the level of prefabrication has increased. However more prefabrication requires improved interfaces with builders and trades and I&amp;’d say most builders aren&amp;’t yet ready for more sophisticated systems.&amp;”<p></p><p> Grant agrees that simplicity is key to success. &amp;“Designs haven&amp;’t changed much over the last five to ten years and although some systems are being progressed, few of them are showing signs of making money. In essence, timber frame is best kept simple on the manufacturing side, although CAD design facilities have helped greatly in the last few years.&amp;”</p><p> Pace Timber Systems recently acquired roof truss manufacturer Llewellyn Timber Engineering from Rok Property Solutions. Pace only launched in January 2000 yet expects &amp;£15.5 million turnover during 2003 and md Phil Key says: &amp;“There&amp;’s a move towards using closed wall panel systems such as Westbury&amp;’s Space 4 and we&amp;’re currently developing our own flat packed closed wall panel system in conjunction with influential London-based architects. This system, to be launched later this year and aimed primarily at the social and speculative housing sectors, …