Post and beam are still the most popular construction style in Japan. Many of the beams are laminated beams using different grade in symmetric or asymmetric designs. The main objective of this study was to use low value wood product to make symmetric beams. The designs used were define in order to limit the transformation step. In the Japanese post and beam construction, a beam such as studied in this study shows a limited interest especially when compare to solid wood beams such as Helm Fir. The idea of using low-grade hardwood in the flange of a softwood beam may be promising for special application.