Looking to hang new shelves, install kitchen wall cabinets, or mount a TV on a wall? If you are, you are going to need a secure fixing to ensure they stay in place. However, because wall studs are hidden behind walls, they are not always easy to find.

While you can use the best plasterboard fixings on a wall to support whatever you're putting up, but for extra security and peace of mind, especially when hanging heavy objects, inserting fixings into a timber stud is the answer.

Instead of second-guessing where they are by tapping the wall, a stud finder is the sensible and smart choice for accurate readings. Here, the pros reveal how to get the best out of a stud finder.

Types of stud finder

There are two common types of stud finders, electronic and magnetic. Electronic stud finders are typically more expensive than magnetic stud finders. However, they have more features and can generally detect more behind-the-wall features, such as cables and pipes

Mark Irving, building expert at Build & Plumb, shares how electronic stud finders work: “They operate by sensing changes in material density behind a wall’s surface.” He adds, “When placed against a drywall surface, the device will calibrate the baseline density. Then, as it moves, it will detect increases in density. They can also detect live electrical wiring, metal pipes and deep framing members.”

However, they can be fooled by certain elements, as Irving shares, “While particularly useful for going through thicker drywall, they require a full calibration before each scan and can often be confused by plaster walls, tile, and dense insulation.”

Magnetic stud finders are much simpler and use a strong magnet to do the hard work, as Irving shares, “They are ideal for identifying fasteners and require no batteries or calibration. However, they only work when ferrous fasteners are present and will often miss studs if adhesive was heavily used during installation.”

Shop these stud finders to help find studs, cable and pipes

Using an electronic stud finder

Before you start using an electronic stud finder, Paul Kerr, building specialist at Beatsons Building Supplies, offers some sensible advice: “First and foremost, you need to make sure the stud finder has enough battery power, as low battery power affects the reliability of the tool.”

Once checked, the next step is to calibrate the stud finder, continues Kerr, “Begin calibrating the machine by holding it against the wall, in an area you know doesn't already have a stud.”

He adds, “Once calibrated its a simple case of slowly scanning across the wall horizontally, making sure you don't lift it from the surface at any time. The device will then light up or beep when it detects the edge of a stud.”

Irving shares a few tips for moving the device: “To move the device, keep the stud finder as flat as possible and in full contact with the wall, slowly moving it horizontally.” He adds, “I recommend moving around 1-2 inches per second, as moving too quickly can reduce the sensor response time and may cause you to miss studs.”

Its important to identify both edges of the stud so you can get the centre. Timber studs are commonly 50mm x 100mm or 50 mm x 75mm, or slight variations on these sizes.

Using a magnetic stud finder

These are more basic than electronic stud finders and to start using one Irving suggests, “Begin by scanning in areas where fasteners are most likely to be present. This is likely to be near electrical switches, corners, vertically from the framework, and around 400mm from a known stud location.”

Start by placing it against the wall, then move it slowly horizontally. Keep your movements consistent. When it passes metal screws or nails, Iriving says it will, “cause a noticeable ‘pull’.”

Once you’ve found the screw, nail, or fastener, assume it's in the centre of the stud. You can gently tap with a hammer on either side. When it sounds hollow, you’ve passed the stud.

Irving adds some sage advice, “Remember that magnetic stud finders may be less effective if adhesive was used heavily in the wall. Additionally, if fasteners are deeply set, it will also make it harder to find studs."

Common stud finder mistakes to avoid

It’s easy to assume that a stud finder will work without too much trouble, but there are mistakes to avoid to get the best from it. Irving says, “Most typical errors that arise from stud finders are misuse, incorrect interpretations or the failure to cross-verify any findings.”

Kerr points out the biggest issue: “The main problems arise from a lack of proper calibration; you need to give it time to properly assess the depth of your wall.” Irving adds, “I always recommend double-checking that an electronic stud finder has been calibrated correctly before use, as this is a likely issue for a false negative.”

Another common mistake is moving a stud finder too quickly, shares Kerr, “You want to avoid moving too fast or haphazardly across the wall, as this can lead to mistakes.”

Irving says, “Ensure the finders are flat against the wall with no tilting, and always make sure you identify both edges of the stud, as failure to do so could result in missing the stud entirely.”

Kerr points out that false positives are a common mistake DIYers make. To stop this happening, he says, “Pay attention to clues within the walls (radiators, sockets, boilers, etc.) so you don't accidentally pick up pipes or cables with the scanner.”

Irving shares how to avoid cables: “Electrical cables are most likely found vertically or horizontally from sockets and switches, and directly above any electrical accessories.”

To ensure an accurate reading, Irving suggests double-checking a wall, “Once you believe you are finished with your findings, double-check and then check again to be as safe and accurate as possible.”

FAQs

How far apart are studs in a wall in the UK?

Knowing how far apart the studs in a wall are helps determine where other studs are located. Irving points out, “In the UK, timber wall studs tend to be around 400mm or 600mm centres.” He adds, “400mm centres tend to be the most common spacing in the UK, as they are the most compatible with 9.5mm plasterboard.“

However, 600mm centres are common elsewhere, says Irving, “600mm centres are typically used in timber frame construction as they require thicker plasterboard.” Kerr adds a note of caution, “UK studs are usually placed around 400mm apart, though this depends on the age of the house; older houses can differ.”

One simple tip is to locate the centre of the first stud, the next stud along and measure. If the distance is 400mm, the centre of the next stud should be 400mm.

How reliable are stud finders?

Stud finders have an important job, so it's important they are reliable. Paul Kerr says, “Electronic and magnetic stud finders are usually very reliable, around 70%-90% reliable in fact.”

However, Irving says, they are not perfect. “Their accuracy depends on the type of stud finder used, the wall's construction, and ensuring the finder is calibrated before use.”

Kerr continues, “Magnetic scanners are pretty much perfectly reliable at picking up screws and nails in studs. It usually comes down to making sure you don't pick up other items in the wall.”

He adds, “For best practice, you can use an electronic stud finder to find an approximate stud, and use the magnetic scanner to pinpoint nails and screws within the stud to confirm it.”

A stud finder is an essential tool for finding studs in a wall. So if you have some smart kitchen shelving ideas or wall panelling ideas, make sure to use the stud finder. If you are building a partition wall makes sure to set the studs 400mm or 600mm apart. This will make it much easier to find them later.

While the word bungalow is commonly associated with homes that only have one floor, single storey timber frame home ideas push the boundaries of what is possible when you opt to have just one floor of living space.

And regardless of what drives the need for a single level floorplan, this doesn't need to limit you in terms of what can be achieved.

From vast vaulted ceilings through to contemporary pavilion style properties, we've rounded up 10 single storey timber frame home ideas that prove you don't always need a second floor when choosing a timber frame construction.

1. Build two if you can't build double

The owners of this single storey timber frame home idea had originally wanted to build a two-storey home. But, early meetings with the local planners meant they had to re-think their plans. As the building was in close proximity to a listed building, they were advised a double storey wouldn't get approval as it risked taking prominence over the listed property.

Working with Welsh Oak Frame, they were instead able to design a single storey timber frame home that gave them the living space they needed, along with spectacular views thanks to the large, glazed gable end.

And, even though they weren't able to build a double storey home, they were able to build two buildings. The latter took the form of a triple garage with a guest apartment above, freeing up the main build for personal use, but still providing guest accomodation when needed.

2. Single storey timber frame homes can be contemporary too

The beauty of a single storey timber frame home is that the removal of a second floor makes them a prime opportunity to build the contemporary home of your dreams.

"Renowned for their versatility and accessibility, single-storey homes are a firm favourite across the UK and remain the preferred property type for a significant number of self builders," says Derek Dawson, managing director of Scandia-Hus.

"The advantages of single-storey living appeal widely, extending from young families to the older generation, but they have design advantages too," he adds.

"With fewer internal load-bearing walls, the layout of a bungalow can be made largely open plan, and beautifully bright interior spaces can be created as a result,"

This property from Scandia-Hus, constructed from a timber frame is pavilion-like in its appearance, featuring a white rendered exterior, paired with a flat black roof and large back aluminium framed sliding patio doors, offering an instant connection between indoors and outdoors.

3. Take advantage of the height and add a mezzanine level

This beautiful home in the Cotswolds began life as a badly converted barn and, under vision and careful design direction by architects McLean Quinlan, was transformed into an elegant, contemporary country residence.

Fergus Stuart, sales project consultant at Carpenter Oak explains how.

"The project reimagined the structure as a generous family retreat: at its heart sits a dramatic 9-metre-high green oak frame, handcrafted and installed by Carpenter Oak, creating a striking central volume that blends structural presence with calming, open space.

"Inside and out, the architecture balances scale, warmth, and simplicity. The exposed oak frame supports wide, airy interiors under an oak-boarded ceiling, resulting in a home that feels bold whilst offering comfort, character, and a deep connection to its landscape."

The beauty of a vaulted ceiling, a common feature in many single storey timber frame homes is of course that it gives you extra height. And, while it's not alway needed, or indeed enough for a full second floor, it certainly gives options for the addition of a mezzanine that's perfect for a snug or small home office idea.

4. Embrace the immediate connection to the outdoors

Much the same as when designing any type of self build, choosing where to spend your budget on a single storey oak frame home is about figuring out your priorities, and allocating monies accordingly.

In some cases, such as this property from Carpenter Oak, it can mean looking at options such as hybrid structures can be ideal

"This new build home in the country is a bespoke oak-frame residence that brings together rustic charm and contemporary living. Set in a rural landscape, the home has a carefully crafted structural hybrid oak frame where the oak frame features in the open plan kitchen diner and living room only," explains Fergus Stuart.

"Choosing a hybrid-frame was a more affordable way of having impressive living areas, without the cost of an oak frame throughout the building," he adds.

"The large patio doors in the kitchen-diner open out onto a sunny terrace, allowing for indoor/outdoor living, and the home maximises natural materials, delivering a residence that feels warm, solid, and in harmony with its surroundings."

5. Make your entrance a feature

If you're considering a single storey timber frame home idea, take the opportunity to make your entrance a real feature.

Without a second floor over-shadowing your front facade, you can add an oak frame porch that celebrates the materials your home is constructed from. As well as providing excellent shelter from the elements, it also adds instant kerb appeal to your home.

Just be sure to avoid any porch mistakes when considering the size, height and how you will use your porch.

6. Clad your timber frame home in brick and top with a tiled roof

Although some single storey timber frame home ideas celebrate the material they are constructed from, others choose to building using timber vs masonry for other reasons.

"Some clients prefer them as they remove the danger of stairs, ensuring the safety of young children," explains Derek Dawson, "and having all rooms on one level means everything is within easy reach for parents.

"With only one floor, bungalows are also easier to clean and maintain, both inside and out," he adds, "with tasks such as window cleaning, gutter clearing, and roof inspections simpler to perform than on two-storey properties.

"Or, if there are restrictions on ridge heights on a plot of land, a bungalow or chalet design can be the ideal solution," says Derek.

In this instance, it may be that you then prefer to switch up the external cladding ideas for your home, with brick and a traditionally tiled roof one option as demonstrated here.

7. Combine a green roof with timber cladding

The advantage of using a natural material such as timber is that it lends itself well to environments where nature prevails. Naturally warm and suitable for both traditional and contemporary homes, this single storey timber frame home from Carpenter Oak is a striking example of how engineered timber can create expansive, contemporary spaces without compromising warmth or character.

"The design, by Roderick James Architects, centres around an oak portal frame, achieving impressive open interiors and long spans, allowing the structure to feel light, airy and refined," explains Fergus Stuart.

"This engineered approach ensures both strength and visual clarity, offering a modern interpretation of oak framing that suits the building’s lakeside context. The result is a calm, spacious building that blends performance with natural material beauty," adds Fergus.

For an extra eco-friendly finish, consider using a green roof and combine with energy efficient features such as a heat pump.

8. Think carefully about proportions and balance

When working on the design of a single storey timber frame home, it's still important to think about getting a balanced design and layout.

And, even if you're choosing single storey as you're designing a lifetime home, it doesn't mean you need to take a long, rectangular corridor-like approach to your layout .

In this project, a U-shaped design features two gable ends, connected by a central section. Adding visual interest, it also helps create natural zones, while still giving full accessibility to every area.

9. Match your entrance to your exterior but make it easy maintenance

If you are proceeding with a single storey timber frame home idea because of current, or potential accessibility issues, be sure to also consider your driveway materials too when finalising your hard landscaping plans.

"Without having to struggle with steps on a daily basis gives those with reduced mobility confidence that they can comfortably enjoy and manage their home for years to come," says Derek Dawson, but that only works if you take both inside and outside into account.

Choosing finishes such as a resin driveway with a modern single storey timber frame home can give you not only a sleek and stylish entrance, but also a practical and future-proof surface for years to come.

10. Look at custom build sites for your single storey timber frame idea

If you're less interested in building a completely bespoke single storey timber frame home, and instead prefer to root yourself within a community, a custom build site may provide you with the best of both worlds.

This single storey timber frame home features all the elements of a traditional oak frame home, but in one single storey. Using the turnkey service meant the homeowners were able to still make design choices, but had the stress of building entirely from scratch themselves removed.

Plus, it was one of the first houses in the country to use AeroBarrier technology to achieve a below Passivhaus airtightness level. A mechanical ventilation with heat recovery system (MVHR), solar panels and air source heat pump, also make the home incredibly energy efficient.

Keen to find out more regarding custom build opportunities for single storey timber frame homes? Take a look at Webbs Meadow, where 13 custom build homes have redefined community living.

And, to help you understand just how much budget you might need to fulfil your dream, check out our guide to oak frame home costs.

If you’re building a new home or extending an existing house and have done some research, you’ve probably realised that timber frame construction is a popular choice.

It’s energy-efficient, quick to build, and affordable, making it popular among self builders looking to cut energy bills and speed up their projects. With improvements in building regulations and tighter energy efficiency requirements, timber frame systems have also evolved a lot over the years.

Today, many timber frames are manufactured in factories to strict quality standards and come equipped with all the necessary insulation, airtightness membranes, and service zones. These are known as closed panel systems, and they’re a great choice because they offer reliable performance and third-party accreditations to ensure you meet all the necessary regulatory standards.

However, not every project can take advantage of closed panel systems. If you’re building an extension, particularly one where access is difficult, it might be more practical to build the frame piece by piece, or “stick by stick.”Or, perhaps you own an older timber frame in need of renovation. Either way, whether building from scratch or upgrading an existing frame, you’ll need to know how to insulate your timber frame walls effectively.

How to insulate a timber frame – why even non-closed panel systems are more energy efficient

A timber frame is essentially a structure made from softwood studs, typically about 38 x 140mm, with OSB/3 (Oriented Strand Board) attached to create a strong, load-bearing wall.

These days, thermal performance has become more advanced, and insulation products are used to eliminate heat loss by covering the timber structure either inside or outside the frame.

What’s great about timber frame systems over traditional build methods is that the spaces between the studs are perfect for fitting insulation, improving the wall’s thermal performance without adding unnecessary thickness.

What are the rules for insulating a timber frame

When insulating a new timber frame home or a timber frame extension, one of the main considerations is energy efficiency, as this directly impacts your energy bills, but it’s also essential it’s completed in line with the rules and regulations.

To ensure your home meets the Building Regulations, your insulation must provide the necessary level of thermal performance, commonly measured as a U-value. The U-value reflects how well a material prevents heat from escaping – the lower the U-value, the better the insulation. U values are calculated from the thickness of a building element and the level of thermal resistance the insulating materials provide.

For a timber frame wall, you’re aiming for a U-value of 0.18 W/m²K for extensions and upgrades to existing walls, and ideally something lower than 0.18 W/m²K for new builds – subject to passing the SAP calculations assessment.

How to choose the right insulation

When insulating a timber frame structure, there are several building elements relating to the external walls and roofs. There are several insulation options available, each with their own distinct features, benefits, and potential drawbacks.

While you need to choose the right type to hit a U value or thermal resistance, you’ll also need to think about sustainability, fire safety, durability, and how well the insulation manages moisture. You’ll also need to consider how easy the material is to install, especially if you’re doing the work yourself.

The most common insulation options include mineral wool, rigid foam boards, sheep’s wool, cellulose, and spray foam insulation. While the more detailed pros and cons of each type can be found in our guide to types of insulation, they are all suitable for timber frame structures, with each one offering varying degrees of suitability.

Insulating external walls

In timber frame walls, insulation is placed between the timber studs in the wall cavity. Mineral wool is a popular option because it’s affordable, fire-resistant, and provides good acoustic control. It’s also DIY-friendly. However, mineral wool has a lower thermal resistance, meaning thicker walls are needed to meet U-value requirements.

Rigid foam boards (e.g., PIR) deliver better thermal performance, but they’re trickier to install, especially with thicker boards. To avoid heat loss through air gaps, it’s crucial to cut the boards squarely and fit them tightly to the frame.

If sustainability is your priority, cellulose insulation is a great option but will need to be professionally installed using specialist equipment. Sheep’s wool insulation is an eco-friendly alternative, which is durable, easy to handle, and non-irritating. However, it’s more expensive and less thermally efficient than petrochemical-based options.

A key challenge with timber frame walls is thermal bridging. Heat loss occurs where the timber studs interrupt the insulation. This can be reduced by using rigid foam boards as an internal liner, creating a continuous thermal barrier over the entire frame. Provided you have at least some basic DIY skills, these liners and the necessary vapour control layers can be installed without too much trouble.

Insulating a timber roof

The type of roof insulation material used for a roof depends on whether it’s a warm roof or a cold roof.

Warm pitched roofs (common in rooms built into the roof space) are insulated over and between the rafters. Rigid foam boards are ideal because they provide excellent thermal performance while allowing ventilation gaps to be maintained. Given the height involved and skill needed to do a good job, installation is best left to the professionals.

Cold pitched roofs (usually in unheated lofts) are insulated at ceiling level, between and over the joists. Mineral wool is affordable, easy to install, and great for DIY, but a significant thickness is needed to meet regulations. Loft ventilation at the eaves is essential to prevent moisture build-up and condensation.

Avoid using spray foam insulation on cold roofs. While it expands to fit perfectly, its impermeable nature traps condensation, which can lead to structural damage over time.

Insulating the floor

Intermediate floor zones (between the ground and first floor) are often overlooked when it comes to thermal insulation. They need insulation primarily for soundproofing. Mineral wool is a good DIY solution, but it’s not thermally efficient at the floor perimeter. For better performance, use rigid foam boards like PIR to insulate floor edges, mirroring the approach used for walls.

In the end, the right insulation choice will depend on the specifics of your project, whether it’s a new self-build or a house renovation, and if you intend to DIY the installation. The perfect choice might be a hybrid of the insulation options so more of the boxes get ticked.

However, whichever option you go for, it's worth remembering that insulation is a highly technical product, and is only one part of the building system. The installation should therefore be designed and checked to make sure it's technically compliant and appropriate for the circumstances.

Knowing what is C16 timber is essential if you're embarking on a self-build project. Even if you're project managing rather than physically building the house yourself, understanding what materials have been specified, and why, is key to helping the process run more smoothly.

And of course, when it comes to timbers that are used for building walls or providing support, it's not just about expanding your knowledge - it's about making sure your house is structurally sound.

So if the names and codes used are currently sounding less than familiar, we've asked experts to explain just what is C16 timber and where can it be used.

What is C16 timber and where does it come from?

"C16 timber is a softwood, tested to a grade strength of C16, and is used for construction in the UK," explains Jay Hubbard, from English Brothers who is a member of the Structural Timber Association 

"The C stands for coniferous timber, meaning the wood comes from conifer trees, and the 16 indicates the timber has a minimum bending strength of 16 N/mm² (megapascals)."

But what are its uses and likewise it's limitations when it comes to using it in either timber frame construction or other domestic uses?

How is C16 timber graded?

Jay Hubbard explains how timber is graded to ensure it qualifies as C16 timber.

"Grading can be done either visually or by machine," says Jay. "Visual grading involves inspection by trained personnel, while machine grading uses automated systems to assess the timber's properties."

Deciding what is C16 timber is based on the following tests:

• Strength: Measured through mechanical testing or visual inspection to ensure it meets the required structural properties
• Appearance: Checks for defects like knots, splits, and warping, which can affect the timber's structural integrity
• Density and moisture content: Ensuring it meets the necessary specifications for density and has an appropriate moisture content

What is C16 timber used for?

In answer to the question what is C16 timber used for, "C16 is typically used for internal timber based projects like partition and stud walls, and is also used for wall and floor joists," explains Steve Jenkins. Homebuilding's DIY expert.

"As it's graded by strength and appearance, if you need a stronger wood, typically for larger projects, you need an alternative to C16," adds Steve.

"It's suitable for non-critical load-bearing applications," says Jay Hubbard, "where the load and stress on the timber are within the limits of C16's strength – if beyond, the next logical step is to use C24."

"If you want a more aesthetically pleasing finish with less imperfections/knots - you should also choose C24," says Steve.

Is C16 suitable for use outdoors?

C16 is not waterproof confirm our experts, "so to make it waterproof you will need to apply a specialist treatment," explains Steve Jenkins. "As with any wood, you will need to treat it if it is going to be exposed to the elements. For example, when using it to build a decking frame."

Jay Hubbard agrees, telling us, "if it needs to be used in environments where it will be exposed to moisture, it should be treated with appropriate preservatives to protect against rot and decay.

"All C16 used within timber frame construction should be treated," he adds. "It’s usually a pale-yellow colour. Any exposed cut-ends, such as soleplates, should be re-treated with a brush or spray-on preservative.

"If properly treated with preservatives to protect it from moisture, insects, and fungal decay it’s fine to use outdoors," says  Jay. "However, without treatment, it is prone to deterioration when exposed to the elements, just as any untreated softwood."

When should you not use C16 timber?

"Avoid using C16 where high strength is essential," says Jay Hubbard, "namely in high-load applications such as in large span beams or floors supporting heavy loads."

"It can be used in certain situations such as floor joists in a domestic property," adds Steve Jenkins, as long as the load does not not exceed 1.5 kN/m²."

"It's also best to avoid environments with extreme moisture or outdoor conditions without proper treatment," says Jay.

"As a DIY expert, I would use C16 mainly for building interior partition walls or stud walls and decking frames - as long as it is properly treated beforehand," confirms Steve.

What are the alternatives to C16 timber?

"The obvious answer here is C24 timber," says Steve. "This is stronger, more visually appealing, but also more expensive."

For projects where neither C16 or C24 is suitable, Jay Hubbard also suggests the following:

• Engineered wood: Such as laminated veneer lumber (LVL) or glulam, which offer higher strength and stability
• Hardwood timber: For applications requiring even greater strength and durability
• Pressure-treated timber: For outdoor use where moisture resistance is critical

For more information on the different types of timber and their uses, find out more about softwood in our guide to what is CLS timber, and consider which system may be more suitable if you're building a house in our guide to timber vs masonry.

Depeche Mode musician Alan Wilder's West Sussex home has gone up for sale for £4.5 million.

Wilder has decided to sell his 28 acre, Itchingfield home that includes its own plunge pool, eight bedrooms and a giant conservatory.

We take a look inside the  Art Deco style mansion and how Wilder has put his personal stamp on the house style with some unusual features and decor choices.

Plunge pool, sauna and steam room in leisure suite

The house includes eight bedrooms, a shower room as well as a leisure suite and gym with an associated plunge pool.

The plunge pool allows users to completely submerge themselves under water, with a sauna and steam room also included with the same white and teal coloured tiling throughout.

Traditional features intertwine with Wilder's style

The mansion has 1930s features throughout with a wood panelled drawing room,dining room, sitting room and home office.

With Art Deco style fireplaces included in most rooms and antique wooden furnishings throughout that have been left as they were since they were installed the living areas take you back in time.

The house also includes two cloakrooms and a wine cellar.

Conservatory/flower room connects to stainless steel kitchen

The stainless steel kitchen has an attached breakfast room, conservatory and utility room.

Natural light floods the kitchen and dining areas from the conservatory, which also doubles up as a flower room and wine storage area.

A pantry and larder (food storage cupboard) are also included.

A range of benefits on its 28.86 acres site

The estate includes a swimming pool, tennis court, Chauffer's Lodge and double garage on its large 28.86 acres.

The estate has a glass-enclosed courtyard with stables, a tack room and workshop providing additional benefits.

The house is for sale for £4.5 million by the house partnership.

Timber build systems are fast becoming one of the most popular methods of self build according to the National Custom and Self Build Association, who suggest that over 40% of self builders now opt to build using structural timber. 

But, despite their popularity, as a result of dated and untrue beliefs many people still remain wary of timber build systems. 

If this sounds familiar and you are someone who loves the idea of using a timber build system, such as timber frame or SIPs for your self-build or extension project, but have concerns over the cost, safety or general suitability, then it might just be time to rethink your options. 

Our construction expert, Mark Stevenson, is here to bust some of the most common myths to reassure you that timber build systems are an extremely viable option and one that could be right for you.

Timber build systems or masonry built properties?

There are so many advantages to take note of when looking at timber vs masonry construction. Yet for some reason, there are still a handful of people, including some professional builders, who just can't shake off the idea that that we should all be a little cautious when considering timber build systems. 

However, while masonry may be the more traditional method, this doesn't always mean it's the right one.  We're taking a closer look at some of the popular myths associated with timber build systems to ensure you have all the knowledge you need to make an informed decision. 

Myth 1. They’re not as strong or stable as masonry

The fact is that all building systems must comply with the same engineering standards and are approved as part of the building regulations process, so a timber home will be just as strong as the alternatives. 

The flexibility of timber systems means they are actually more suited to particularly gusty areas in exposed locations where other, less flexible construction methods, may not be able to withstand the forces of the weather, resulting in problems such as cracking.

Myth 2. Timber systems have limited design flexibility

I’ve heard it said many times before and the truth is that this is simply not correct. 

Both timber frame and SIPs are specifically designed and manufactured to suit bespoke architectural designs. Panels are manufactured to suit the dimensions required and there’s no truth in the belief that rooms are limited to panel sizes. 

In fact, due to their expectational thermal performance, timber frame and SIPs can unlock architectural freedom, enabling the creation of ‘wow’ features such as elevational glazing which many self builders crave.

Myth 3. There’s a fire risk

Yes, timber burns, but as these building systems are encased in plasterboard which provides the fire resistance for the structure, the performance of timber building systems when tested to EN1365, exceeds the requirements of the regulations. 

Interestingly, masonry builds also use the same floor joist systems as timber build systems, so their fire integrity as a building structure will be just the same.

Myth 4. A timber house will rot

All structural timbers in timber frame systems are kiln-dried to reduce moisture content, stress-graded to meet engineering standards and pressure treated with preservative to protect against dry rot and fungal attack, thereby ensuring structural stability and durability. 

Furthermore, the wood is positioned on the dry side of the structure so, provided you build correctly, maintain claddings properly and don’t ignore leaks, a timber building will last hundreds of years.

Myth 5. I won’t be able to get a mortgage or house insurance

Both types of timber build systems - timber frame and SIPs - have have a host of third party accreditations such as BBA, STA Assure, and LABC Assured. As they’ve been widely used as a structural system for many decades, mortgages and home insurance are widely available. Although it should be noted that as SIPs are classed as a specialist system, you might need to look a little bit harder.

Myth 6. Timber systems, especially SIPs, are difficult to alter and extend

For anyone that doesn’t know what they’re doing, then yes, making alterations can on the surface seem difficult. In truth, timber systems are very easy to extend and provided you consult the manufacturer and follow their guidance, it can be easy. 

Myth 7. It’s cheaper to ‘stick build’

There are two ways to build a timber frame home or extension – stick built on site or with factory manufactured panels. 

Without the factory overheads, stick built will be cheaper, but as it is a slower construction system, on-site project costs will eventually be higher. 

As the lack of panelisation does not enable adequate testing and certification, in my opinion, stick build is not a legitimate alternative to panelised timber frame or SIPs.

Still not convinced that timber build systems are the right option for you? Why not take a look at our in depth guide on how to choose a construction system in order to make sure you pick the best fit for your project. 

Weighing up timber frame vs SIPs is becoming increasingly popular for self builders to consider when selecting the best construction methods for their new home.

If you are considering the self build option you will probably be aware that there are many ways to build a new home or extension project, but the most popular is to use a timber building system. According to the National Custom and Self Build Association, over 40% of all self builders opt to build with structural timber and as we progress to a ‘low carbon future’, their popularity is set to rise.

SIPs are thought of as the next generation of timber frame, offering improved thermal performance. However, with recent technological advances, timber frames have reduced the performance gap.

In this article, expert Mark Stevenson explains everything you need to know about timber frame vs SIPs, including how each system compares when it comes to cost.

Timber frame vs SIPs means firstly understanding what is a timber building system

When thinking about how to choose a construction system it is useful to know that a timber building system forms the structural chassis for your build. It includes all the building elements – walls, floors and roof, to form a coherent engineered building structure. 

Its popularity isn’t just down to its low carbon credentials – a timber building system is affordable, fast and easy to build with, offers high levels of quality and energy efficiency and has the potential to unlock architectural freedom by exceeding regulatory standards. 

On face value, they’re the go-to building solution but, dig a little deeper, and you’ll soon find not all timber systems are the same. 

The two principal choices are timber frame or structural insulated panels – known as SIPs – and here’s the key differences you need to know when considering timber frame vs SIPs.

What is a timber frame?

Modern timber frames have been around for over 50 years and are made with timber studs that are nailed together with a sheathing of oriented strand board (OSB/3). These walls are commonly manufactured in factories to form a closed panel that includes all the insulation and vapour control layers to meet the energy efficiency requirements.

Subsequently, timber frames are high performance building systems and incorporate insulation liners and airtightness membranes to reduce thermal bridging and control air leakage.

What are Structural Insulated Panels (SIP)?

An evolution of a timber frame, SIPs are constructed from two layers of OSB which are bonded to a core of insulation to form an incredibly strong panel. This can then be used to construct walls and roofs. 

SIPs are joined together with a unique joint of either structural timber or insulated splines which improves airtightness and reduces thermal bridging. 

How do insulation and energy efficiency compare?

Both timber frame and SIPs offer high levels of thermal performance. With U values typically around 0.15 W/m2k and as low as 0.09 W/m2k, and, depending on the insulation used, both systems easily meet the latest building regulation requirements. 

SIPs must have an insulation core with structural properties to bond to the OSB skins and carry imposed loads. Typically these are polyurethane or polystyrene which have a thermal conductivity ranging from 0.024 W/mK. to 0.036 W/mK, with the latter requiring slightly thicker walls to achieve the same U-value. 

A particular advantage of SIPs insulation is the closed cell nature of the material which resists moisture penetration and is very durable in wet conditions. With the unique panel jointing system and insulation bonded to the OSB, air gaps are eliminated reducing thermal bridging and the risk of thermal bypass - an issue if insulation is fitted poorly in timber frames. 

As the insulation within timber frames is not structural, there’s a greater range of choice. This makes it possible to use higher performing materials or natural types of eco insulation which are purported to be greener, and provide a healthier internal environment. 

However, sheep’s wool or recycled newspaper doesn’t have the best thermal properties so expect energy bills to be higher. 

In my experience, one of the standout virtues for SIPs is airtightness. Whilst it’s possible to achieve low levels of air leakage with both systems, it’s much easier with SIPs due to the unique jointing methods and the fact that the system is formed with bonded OSB and insulation, removing air gaps. 

SIPs are also very robust and resilient during construction and ideal for builds that require Passivhaus performance levels.

How does the carbon footprint of timber frame vs SIPs compare?

Timber is widely considered as the most sustainable mainstream building material with the lowest embodied CO2 of any commercially available products. Compared to the masonry equivalent, the embodied carbon of sustainably sourced timber is up to 82% less. 

While the embodied carbon of SIPs and timber frame will be very similar, operational carbon (how energy efficient it will be in use) also has to be considered. 

The good news here is that both systems have the potential to offer a very low carbon footprint and, provided they’re complimented with an energy efficient design and high performance products such as different types of energy efficient windows and doors, both have the potential to exceed regulations, achieve Passivhaus standards or even meet the RIBA 2030 climate challenge. 

Do both systems meet planning consents and building regulations?

Firstly, let's dispel the notion that planning permission will dictate the build system for your home – it won’t and there isn’t an enforceable planning condition that dictates what you must build with. 

Building systems must comply with the building regulations and the underpinning standards and codes. The main ones to consider are Approved Document L, conservation of fuel and power, and Approved Document A, which deals with the structure. 

In terms of building structure, both timber frame and SIPs will deliver the required level of structural stability, but as SIPs are novel systems with their own structural performance data, expect a few more questions from building control when they check the structural calculations.

Timber frame vs SIPs - which is quicker to build with?

Timber systems are popular with self builders because of the ease and speed of build and, to be honest, there’s little difference between timber frame and SIPs. Both are manufactured off site and will be rapidly erected on site. 

Expect the build of the structure for an average house to take around 4 to 6 weeks. However, throw in a complex architectural design, a complex roof or lots of structural steel, and the build will slow up. Both systems can be manufactured in small panel formats so are suitable for those building an extension where access is tricky. 

SIPs are great for forming rooms in the roof, so if your home design includes these, you may shave a few days off the build compared with trussed rafters.

Is a timber frame cheaper than SIPs?

As with all things in life, you get what you pay for and a higher performing building system will cost more. 

When timber frame and SIPs are compared, pound for pound, SIPs will cost slightly more, but there are benefits which may be worth paying for – certainly something to consider when looking into how to build a SIPs home. 

Commoditisation and competition also plays a part so if you’re prepared to shop around and be a bit more flexible about what you buy, you’ll likely be able to find a supplier of SIPs that’s less expensive than a premium brand, advanced timber frame.

*Assuming the structure is circa 25% of the project value

When comparing building systems, the choice for the majority of people still comes down to timber vs masonry. Both are still great choices, but for those looking for a more sustainable way of building a house, timber tends to come out as the winner.

When it comes to creating a superstructure, building a house or extension is typically completed with either structural timber or masonry such as brick and block.

Structural timber is the most popular choice, with a market share of 40%, while brick and block has 30% of the market share, according to the National Custom and Self Build Association.

Masonry-based building systems are popular because of the ease with which they can be used. They are well understood by most designers and building contractors, and have proven reliable over hundreds of thousands of homes and over many decades. While they might be a relatively slow building method compared with timber systems, the materials are cheap and readily available. 

Here our expert, Mark Stevenson, compares the two different superstructure build systems: timber vs masonry, looking at the pros and cons of each.

Timber vs masonry

While there are obvious differences between concrete and timber as building materials, the principal difference as a system is in how the materials are used. 

Timber frame systems are built off-site, in quality-controlled environments and are therefore away from the critical path of the build programme. The fact that the house comes delivered on the back of a lorry and is rapidly erected on site speeds up the construction process and enables internal trades to start sooner. 

In comparison, masonry homes are built on site, literally block by block, and are exposed to the prevailing weather conditions and the skill of the trades involved. This slows down the building process and requires a greater degree of supervision to make sure there aren’t any workmanship issues and keep building inspectors happy.

Below, we compare the two systems in depth looking at the key considerations, including energy efficiency, fire safety and green credentials.

1. Energy efficiency

With the implementation of the new Part L of the Building Regulations, buildings need to have lower U values, reduced thermal bridging and improved airtightness. Self-builders are now typically looking for airtightness levels below 3 m3/(m2·h) @50 Pa. 

Whilst timber building systems incorporate membranes to achieve this, blockwork is inherently leaky and will require secondary treatments to reduce air leakage and meet the requirements of the regulations. 

If you understand what a thermal bridge is, you'll know it's all about detailing. U values are about thickness and resistance and given the poor thermal resistance of concrete, you can expect walls built from bricks and blocks to be thicker than the comparable timber frame or structural insulated panel (SIP) alternatives.

2. Fire safety

The fire resistance of building systems to prove that they resist the spread of fire and provide the necessary evacuation time is increasingly being questioned by regulators. 

Combustible materials such as timber should therefore be subjected to an EN 1365 fire resistance test for load bearing elements. In terms of blockwork, it’s deemed as non-combustible so won’t have to go through the same test. 

However, self-builders shouldn’t be lulled into a false sense of security as masonry houses commonly adopt the same joisted intermediate floors, which will need to prove their fire safety to EN1365.

3. Health and safety

Health and safety regulations and in particular CDM (Construction design and management regulations 2015) requires consideration to eliminate or manage the health and safety hazards involved in a construction project. 

While concrete blocks, as a non-combustible building material, won’t burn and will easily deal fire in construction risks, the highly repetitive and heavy work of laying blocks along with the risk of breathing in silica dust when cutting them means that there are health and safety concerns. 

On top of this, if the home takes more than 500 person days to build, you will have to notify the HSE (Health and safety executive) that your project exists. As masonry takes longer to build, you’re more likely to have to do this.

4. Embodied carbon

House building has a sustainability problem and the materials it consumes makes a significant contribution to global warming. Concrete is one of the main culprits and according to Imperial College London, every tonne of cement emits 622kg of carbon dioxide. 

In comparison, for every dry ton of manufactured timber, around 1.8 tons of CO2 is removed from the atmosphere. 

While I don’t think the choice between structural timber and concrete blocks is as simple as this stark comparison, it is clear that for the eco-conscious self-builder, timber is a more sustainable choice.

Still searching for inspiration for your self-build or extension project? Take a look at some rear extension design ideas or browse our timber frame homes gallery to see if building with timber could be right for you.

In Devon's picturesque landscape, a remarkable transformation has unfolded as this stone cottage has undergone an incredible timber-frame extension.

Despite its unassuming size, this extension "vastly improved the usability and flexibility of the existing cottage" as well as the eco-performance of the cottage with its contemporary innovation and use of interesting materials.

The 69m2 extension called "Made of Sand" (named after a historic sandpit the property sits on), provides an example of how building an extension can drastically alter your home for the better.

Adding a modern layer to history

The architects, Studio Weave, substituting a worn-down garage and workshop, in order to adopt an L-shaped wrap around extension positioned at the rear of the existing house, where a one-storey kitchen takes its place. 

The two-storey extension ascends along its gable end, featuring a ground-floor bedroom and an upper-level living room. 

Large glazed openings connect the interior to the picturesque landscape, framing views of the surrounding Blackdown Hills.

Thermal performance improved 'enormously'

The collaboration between the builder, joiner, and architect is evident in the extension's construction, which not only created a comfortable living space, but also helped improve the energy saving potential of the house. 

The heavily insulated timber frame extension, both exposed internally and externally, lends the new spaces a strong and distinctive character.

Je Ahn, founding director of Studio Weave, stated his favourite feature of the house was "warmth and craftsmanship" but also "how the new extension vastly improved the usability and flexibility of the existing cottage while increasing its thermal performance enormously".

Handmade terracotta pamment tiles and red western cedar cladding used throughout

A warm palette of materials ties the old and new structures together seamlessly.

Handmade terracotta pamment tiles (reddish-brown clay tiles) and rust-coloured clay plaster walls are found throughout the extension. Douglas fir infill panels serve a dual purpose, forming wall linings and creating built-in shelving and window seats.

Externally, red western cedar timber cladding, adorned with a playful geometric design, provides high durability as well as resistance to decay.

Weathering a silvery hue, the cottage extension now sits within the landscape, whilst blending with the existing stone cottage.

Project shows 'why you should employ an architect'

The success of "Made of Sand" lies in the collaborative approach taken by the client, local craftsmen (including a cob building specialist), and the architect.

The project won the RIBA South West Small Project of the Year Award 2023, for an extension built for under £500,000, with the House of the Year jury stating: "This project is a fantastic example of why you should employ an architect.

"The extension is not only successful in its own right, but offers huge benefit to the host cottage, massively reducing heat loss through the existing fabric. Materials and craft play a key role in anchoring Made of Sand in its setting."

The government is investing in UK timber production as part of its plans to improve the sustainability of the construction sector.

Officials claim a more robust home-grown supply of wood will reduce the UK’s reliance on imported timber – vital in a time of soaring building materials prices.

A document, 'The Timber in Construction Roadmap', claims that an increase in demand for timber can be encouraged by strong market signals from government and a conscious shift from industry to use alternative materials. 

What are Britain’s current timber supplies like?

According to a government paper outlining the new policy, the UK is the third largest net importer of timber and wood products in the world and needs to increase its production of natural building materials.

The UK currently grows only about 20% of its wood requirement. According to trade body Timber Development UK (TDUK) the quantity of all imports in 2022 totalled 9.3 million cubic metres.

The paper adds: “Ensuring that our imported timber supply continues to be sourced from sustainable forests is vital as the carbon sequestration benefits of timber construction can only be claimed in whole life carbon assessments of buildings if that timber is from sustainably managed forests.”

What are the government’s plans?

Ministers aim to implement policies to plant more trees and encourage the sustainable use of timber frame and timber cladding.

These policies include:

• Improving data on timber and whole life carbon.
• Promoting the safe, sustainable use of timber as a construction material.
• Increasing skills, capacity, and competency across the supply chain.
• Increasing the sustainable supply of timber.
• Addressing fire safety and durability concerns to safely expand the use of engineered mass timber.
• Increasing collaboration with insurers, lenders, and warranty providers.
• Promoting innovation and high-performing timber construction systems.

The government has awarded £7.6 million to develop new technologies and working practices that boost homegrown timber and its new statutory woodland cover target aims to increase tree canopy and woodland cover in England to 16.5% by 2050 will also stimulate tree planting of both hard and softwoods.

How will this help reach net zero?

Where timber has been harvested from sustainably managed forests, timber products act as a carbon store, locking away carbon for the duration of that product’s life. At the individual building level, carbon storage is approximately 50% higher in timber framed homes than in masonry homes.

However, just 9% of English new build homes were timber framed in 2019, in contrast to Scotland where this figure was 92%.  

Forestry Minister Rebecca Pow said: “Investing in timber is investing in growth and levelling up. The built environment is responsible for a huge proportion of UK carbon emissions, and using home-grown timber in construction is key to reducing emissions.

“Promoting the use of timber as a building material is a key part of the government’s Net Zero Strategy. It will innovate the economy, play a role in creating green jobs and also help meet our tree-planting targets.”

Adjacent to the scenic village of Lyonshall, Herefordshire, Webb's Meadow is a pioneering custom build development built in strategic partnership with Oakwrights. 

Phase one of this 3½-acre development offered homeowners the opportunity to purchase one of 13 plots to build an oak-framed home of their dreams. Ranging from two to five bedrooms, each property was designed to be flexibly adapted to the individual homeowner's needs. 

Webbs Meadows is the first part of a much larger project to invest in the future of the Lyonshall community and will be followed by exciting plans to renovate and revive the historic Royal George Pub at the heart of the village. 

We caught up with the people behind the project to learn more about how it might provide a blueprint for future housing developments... 

The development is home to 13 custom-build houses

Kinsey Hern’s family had worked the land in Lyonshall, Herefordshire for generations. Little wonder the farmer-landowner felt a special connection with the area. When it came to diversifying his farm, Kinsey wanted to contribute to the long-term sustainability of his local village. So he earmarked a small amount of land for development to build an attractive group of 13 custom-build houses.

Lyonshall is what is known locally as a 'black and white' village. This is because many of its houses’ oak frames are painted black in contrast to their white rendering. Because of this, it made sense for Kinsey to continue this tradition by partnering with Oakwrights, which has been building oak-frame homes for 25 years.

“Custom-built homes allow homeowners to design their house around their life, not the other way around,” says James Buchanan, head of custom build at Oakwrights, who were tasked with the design and construction of the development. “The Lyonshall site is a living embodiment of this philosophy, with plots tailored to the homeowners’ unique visions and lifestyles.”

Oakwrights took a truly flexible approach 

“Our experience and knowledge of trades in the area means we were able to put our clients in touch with local suppliers, for example,” James adds. “We worked in tandem with one main builder on the majority of the houses. Homes are future-proofed in different ways, such as having downstairs bedrooms or master suite bedrooms, so essentials are at hand, if ever needed.”

If a homeowner sought a handmade kitchen or simply wanted to be put in touch with a local kitchen provider, Oakwrights would accommodate that. Similarly, when one homeowner sought to design his dining room around a particularly large farmhouse table, the team were able to assist.

“Sometimes, this meant revising approved plans on behalf of homeowners,” explains James. “Financial institutions might question why changes are being made when the initial design is already approved. But our experience allows us to guide each homeowner through this tricky process and come out the other side with the property they envisage.”

This bespoke approach appealed to homeowners Karen and Simon Jones, who had met the Oakwrights team at the Homebuilding & Renovating Show at the NEC. “The plot we found really clinched the deal for us, along with having the flexibility to amend the existing design,” they say.

Fellow resident, Caroline Clout, echoes this sentiment: “Building your own home is no doubt a challenge. But living in a home you have designed for your own lifestyle, with the most up-to-date features, means the living environment, on a day-to-day basis, is wonderful.”

It introduces the concept of 'plot passports'

Key to the success of Webbs Meadow is the concept of individual ‘plot passports’, which are essentially guidelines of the type of permissible external materials on (at the time, unbuilt) neighbouring houses. It’s also possible to changed the size and scale of the house. Here, the oak-frame homes are a mixture of traditional, brick, timber-clad and rendered homes.

“With custom builds, if you’re buying an unbuilt plot, you might not know what your neighbour’s house will look like,” explains James. By introducing the concept of a ‘passport’, Oakwrights were able to ensure cohesion and prevent any stark design contrasts between neighbouring properties. The concept aims to moderate any extremely unconventional ideas, while providing homeowners with the flexibility to weave their own ideas into the fabric of the community. “The focus isn’t on restrictions, but rather setting the stage for creativity,” he says.

The development isn’t merely a collection of custom houses. With plans to revive the historic local pub – The Royal George – as well as introducing a café, soft play and onsite farm shop, the residents have the option to become part of a community.

Shared pathways, community gardens, and the thoughtful placement of plots mean that residents are more likely to cross paths, leading to organic conversations and strengthened neighbourly ties.

“We absolutely love our home and really enjoy life here at Webbs Meadow,” say residents Judy and Arnoud. “Our little community of self-builders is so friendly and helpful. We have a garden club, we meet for coffee and enjoy watching our neighbours complete their projects. We have integrated into the local community and life is as busy as ever with family moving closer to us, too.”

Sustainability lies at the heart 

Another critical aspect of the development is its commitment to sustainability. The houses aren’t just custom in design, but also in their approach to environmental responsibility. The very ethos of bespoke build – creating homes tailored to individual needs – means less wastage, more efficient use of materials and a long-term vision.

From native tree plantings to natural water run-offs, there is a palpable respect for the environment. There was an initial proposal to introduce natural gas but instead, air source heat pumps were installed in all 13 homes, as well as solar panels on a number of properties. Similarly, Oakwrights manufacture their thermally efficient panel systems in-house, ensuring optimal insulation and airtightness for each of their homes.

Future-proofing was catered for, too, with many homeowners requesting features designed for lifetime homes, like in-built space for home lifts or ground floor bedrooms, anticipating mobility challenges in later life.

It's a blueprint for future housing developments

Following the success of this first phase of homes at Webbs Meadow, a second phase of homes at the Lyonshall site is currently underway. Dubbed ‘Webbs Meadow 2’ this phase promises to expand on the same high quality and distinctive homes that have set the gold standard for custom developments.

With an increasingly strained UK housing market, the success of both Webbs Meadows’ Oakwrights’ projects may well serve as an inspiration for future housing developments. Custom-built housing offers a blueprint for a future where homeowners have more agency over their living spaces and where communities are built with intention and purpose.

“At the end of the day, a house is more than just bricks and mortar,” says James. “It’s a space where memories are made, families grow, and communities thrive. And at Lyonshall, we’ve laid the groundwork for all of that to happen.”

Webb's Meadow was the winner of our 'Best Custom Build Award' in The Daily Telegraph Homebuilding & Renovating Awards 2023, sitting proudly alongside other worthy winners like our Home of the Year, Spirit of Self Build, and Best Green Award.

“I was brought up on building sites, working alongside my dad during school holidays, so it seemed natural to join the family business and become a builder myself,” says Roxy Woodfield, the talented young builder who constructed her own two bedroom cottage on the land adjacent to her childhood home. 

“When my parents gained planning permission for a small development of oak-framed houses on their land, I was over the moon to be gifted one of the plots to build my own self-build home.”

Once Roxy had secured the plot, she collaborated with a dedicated team of contractors to realise her dream: constructing her very own cottage, complete with a compact, future-proof design and equipped with an air source heat pump.

Roxy had the opportunity to build her dream house next to her childhood home

Roxy’s parents appointed local oak framing specialists, Border Oak, and the company designed the houses and applied for planning consent on the couple’s Herefordshire grazing field, located on the edge of a village overlooking open countryside and allocated for development in the Neighbourhood Plan.

All nine houses on the small, award-winning development were designed to complement one another as well as the existing listed farmhouse next-door.  “We were delighted to be trusted to create something different, mixing traditional and contemporary vernacular references, providing a wide range of styles, sizes and contract options, with sustainability and biodiversity woven throughout,” says Border Oak’s creative director, Merry Albright, whose father originally started the company in 1980. “Our oak frame houses are just beautiful, because they’re made by hand, and I love walking around the workshop and seeing them being crafted.”

Roxy’s parents also gifted a large piece of ground to the village for their community green, enhancing a public footpath through the site and planting hundreds of metres of native hedges, together with trees and wildflowers. The houses themselves combine a broad palette of natural materials, including green oak, timber cladding, slate, clay tiles, bricks, and render.

She took a hands on approach to the build

During the build, Roxy continued living next-door to the self-build plot with her parents, in the traditional farmhouse where she had grown up since the age of eleven. In addition to her building work, Roxy trains every evening for triathlons and has represented Great Britain, completing long distance Ironman challenges and travelling all over the world. 

She was keen to be as involved in her own building project as possible and to undertake much of the physical work. “When we work on building sites, people still ask for the man,” she laughs. “They assume I’m not strong enough to carry heavy building materials and are often surprised to watch me climb up onto the roof to lay tiles.”

She tackled every aspect of construction

Working alongside her father, Roxy tackled pretty much everything on site, apart from the carpentry, plastering and painting. She drove the digger for the foundations, which she completed to floor level, and helped to build the brick plinth ready to take her oak frame. 

“Border Oak put up the frame, which was later cleaned using oxalic acid, and they also supplied the SIPs encapsulation system as part of their package. I then installed the masses of further insulation, which was taped for airtightness and not much fun to do!” 

Glazed units for the oak frame were manufactured by a local company, who spray painted the frames anthracite grey prior to delivery, and Roxy then helped to install doors and windows on site. She also took charge of covering the roof with membrane and Spanish slates - arguably one of her favourite jobs on the build.

Super insulated, virtually airtight and heated by an air source heat pump, the house is built from natural, minimally processed, and sustainable materials. Roxy used local suppliers and materials and ensured the house has a low energy demand and is naturally lit and warmed.

The cottage has a thoughtful layout

The front façade of the two-storey home was designed to resemble a small barn or agricultural building, clad in vertical larch boarding stained by Roxy, with the rear of the property incorporating a glazed oak-framed wing. This draws light into the house, serving as a striking vaulted living area which opens into the kitchen and dining space. 

“We avoided having a closed off hallway and chose to install the stairs leading up from my open plan living area instead,” says Roxy. Upstairs, the roofline is 1.5 metres above floor level, with rooflights bringing in additional light. 

“It’s such a bright house, and the oak frame makes it very special inside, with the vaulted spaces and exposed timbers. I’ve been so lucky to have the chance to build my own home, thanks to my parents, who gifted me the plot and paid for my oak frame,” says Roxy. “It’s been a fantastic experience working on site with my dad, and I couldn’t be happier with the the end result.”

The tiles were Roxy's best decision 

As a tiler by profession, Roxy was keen that every aspect of the tiling should be of the highest quality throughout the house. She undertook all tiling work herself, including laying the natural roof slates, tiling bathroom floors and walls, and precisely laying the oversized limestone flagstones over underfloor heating downstairs. 

“I worked with a labourer, who was mixing muck and cutting slabs for me to lay,” she explains. “The limestone tiles are about an inch thick and were particularly heavy. I really enjoyed tiling the interior floors, kitchen, and bathrooms to my own design, and then - because I don't think I'll ever be a gardener - I laid a large patio with Indian flagstones. Tiles are such an important element of a home which can often be overlooked, and although people won’t notice when they’re laid well, you can be sure they’ll spot a poor finish, which can spoil an entire room.”

The floor plan maximises space

The compact house has been designed to maximise the sense of space, with an open plan kitchen/dining/living area on the ground floor, a separate office, utility, wet room, and lobby. 

Stairs lead up from the living area to two bedrooms, a bathroom and storage cupboard. The ground floor has no thresholds or steps and has minimal doors and walls, making it easily navigated by wheelchair, and the office could be used as an accessible bedroom beside the wet room if required

Roxy's home won the award for the Spirit of Self Build in The Daily Telegraph Homebuilding & Renovating Awards 2023. 

Pearl Lowe, the indie singer and famed interior designer, has put her Winchelsea beach house up for sale for £1.995 million.

The self build Shell House was constructed in the 1940s by a soldier for his artist wife after he returned from World War II.  The house was named after the shell decorations that adorn it from the beach where the house is based.

The East Sussex home retains many of its original features with some new additions such as a secret cabin at the bottom of the garden as well as an updated heating system.

Victorian feel throughout the period home

The main entrance to the 165m2 four-bedroom property is through a pink front door and into a large Victorian-tiled boot and utility room. This then leads through to a spiral staircase.

The internal timber cladding and wooden floors are painted white, giving the home a  country cottage feel.

There are the two ground floor bedrooms, one of which is en suite and in both of the home's bathrooms there are Victorian-styled baths, one of which is blue with blue Victorian tiles also featuring again.

Large kitchen space with plenty of natural light

The kitchen-diner and rear reception area form an expansive open plan space that  is flooded with natural light from various sources, including a skylight in the high-pitched vaulted ceiling. 

The shaker kitchen, by Devol, is centred around a kitchen island with a copper work top, with the kitchen also featuring brass hardware and a ceramic butler sink.

"The Shell House has in recent years, been resurrected throughout, both beneath the surface and in the ‘faded glamour’ of designer Pearl Lowe’s aesthetic vision," the listing explains. 

"As part of the renovation, the heating system and plumbing has been completely updated and vintage cast iron radiators added as a contrast to the gentle wood aesthetics."

Hidden cabin in garden that features decked pool area

A swimming pool sits in a decked area in the garden that Lowe had installed as part of the few renovations she made to the property.

The garden also has a sitting area with more Victorian tiles and a timber enclosed structure that is ideal for private dining.

The property also features a hidden 50m2 timber cabin at the bottom of the garden houses with two further bedrooms as well as a log-burner heated living room.

The cabin is decorated with silver birch logs and also has a bathroom and open-plan kitchen.

The Shell House is for sale on the estate agents Inigo for £1.995 million.

A Lincolnshire self build on the site of an old quarry has gone onto the market for £1million.

The 'Glasshouse' is a four-bedroom home in Upgate, Louth, which uses a Mechanical Ventilation and Heat Recovery system (MVHR) as well as other eco-friendly features to provide an example of a contemporary self-build home.

The home was built by housing developer Alex Holdsworth, 40 – who has lived at the property for the last two years and who described the house as "like being at Center Parcs". Take a tour through the house and its features with us.

A 'perfect contemporary family' home

The Glasshouse combines construction materials like Siberian larch timber cladding, buff brickwork, and floor-to-ceiling windows and doors. 

It uses features such as a cantilevered first floor with outdoor seating and entertainment space, as well as a second floor with 360-degree glass walls and a balcony, from which the home gets its name.

Alex Holdsworth stated: "The setting and views are stunning, you can see so much and look out onto everything in the area.

"Louth is a very nice place with good schools and plenty to do, it's a very good town and the surrounding beauty makes it perfect for a contemporary family."

MVHR and solar panels help the home gain a 'B' EPC rating

An 'Airflow' MVHR system provides fresh air throughout the house by using bathroom and kitchen extractors.

It also recovers heat from the home to warm incoming air, contributing to the home's 'B' EPC rating, along with the assistance of photovoltaic solar panels and underfloor heating reducing energy bills.

White theme running throughout the home's features

The home's four bedrooms includes two en suites, with the master bedroom also including a dressing room.

The kitchen-diner includes a white marble kitchen island and leads onto the balcony area. The bathroom continues the white marble theme with white marbled walls and flooring.

Block-paved drive and triple garage with inbuilt gym

The property features gardens that blend into the hillside of the former quarry, offering an example of how to build on a sloping site.

Large trees at the back overhang the rear of the house, whilst a wide, block-paved driveway leads to the triple garage, which includes a gym, and the drive is bordered by raised gardens, enclosed with gabion walls.

The home has been listed at a guide price of £1million by estate agents Robert Bell & Company.

A unique home inspired by a Fibonacci Spiral has been put on sale for £1.95 million.

The home structure is based on an ammonite fossil that was discovered on the site in Blackdown Hills, Devon. The home also featured on Grand Designs in 2017 and was described as, “One of the most ambitious homes ever seen on the show”.

This eco-friendly, self build uses locally sourced material and offers a variety of ideas to those looking to start their own project. 

Design inspired by ammonite fossil found on site

The distinctive design for the home was inspired an ammonite fossil found on the seven acre site.

Architect Sadler Brown stated: “The design takes its cue from nature’s golden ratio and the spiral pattern of a fossil found on site.”

Nature’s "golden ratio" is based on the sequence of numbers in the Fibonacci sequence where each number is the sum of the two numbers, for example: 0, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21 etc

The curved Felix fossil shell is nestled on slanted grounds within the Blackdown Hills, which became a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1991.

Structure made from chert and local materials

The five-bedroom home was constructed using chert, a locally sourced stone that is known as a dark, opaque rock.

The roof is crafted from various timber species, which were chosen to blend with the surrounding meadowland landscape.

Curved ceilings and wooden-framed windows were also used as per planning conditions for the home, which was granted planning permission under Paragraph 80. This means the property was allowed due to it being of exceptional architectural quality and being in-keeping with the area.

Sunroom which doubles as a solar and heat collector

The homeowners, an engineer and horticulturalist, wanted to create an "off-grid" house, and they've certainly delivered on that promise. 

Not only does the house's fossil-inspired curvature catch the eye, but it also boasts a range of eco-friendly features. 

Custom-made curved solar panels have been strategically positioned to face west and south, to optimise sunlight absorption and the house's water heating system uses solar thermal technology, and its underfloor heating is powered by a ground source heat pump.

Additionally, the sunroom connected to the home functions as both a solar and heat collector.

The 4,470 square foot home is listed for sale for £1.95 million.

A problem shared really was a problem halved for LB Mills and her partner Craig Holden when they built an oak frame cottage on a plot split with another couple. 

Working side-by-side on their builds, they were able to make economies of scale, pooling resources on labour and navigating the planning process together. 

The decision to self build is an unusual one for first-time buyers. “Every home we’d looked at in our budget either needed renovating, or was a characterless newly built box,” explains LB. “I’d assumed that you only built your own house if you were wealthy with a huge budget. But Craig knew how to build an oak frame home from his experience working for Oakwrights, and he felt it would be achievable for us.”

Sharing a self-build plot put money back in the pot 

A series of lucky breaks set them on their way. A custom-build plot of land came up for sale near Craig’s Herefordshire workplace, with outline planning for two houses. Next came some number crunching with a self-build mortgage provider, and then, in an unexpected twist, the family stepped in. “My brother Charlie and his future wife Helen joined us on the self-build journey,” says LB, “so we shared the plot and took it on.” 

Sharing the site made a big difference to the project’s feasibility. By putting around £130,000 back into the pot it allowed the couple to create an oak frame built on a budget, and there were practical benefits too. “When we first viewed the site it was so overgrown you could barely get onto it and I wondered how we’d ever fit two houses in,” recalls LB. “Having three families pitching in to clear it and demolish the derelict cottage meant progress was quick. Plus, we split the cost of any equipment we hired.”

Planning permission and restrictive covenants

The two couples jointly tackled a restrictive planning condition due to a disused landfill site in the vicinity. They had to do a technical gas and soil investigation and seal the foundations with a methane membrane to meet building regulations. “Discharging that condition added another five months to the planning process, and was frustrating as it had to be done before we could start the build,” says Craig.

When the site was eventually signed off and cleared, the two couples divided it up and got on with their own builds. 

Finalising oak frame designs and making a last-minute change of plan

The original plans for LB and Craig's house were based on Oakwrights’ Manuka Cottage, from the company’s cottage range. After considering a number of oak frame ideas they settled on the Manuka design because it was a post and beam structure rather than an aisle frame. "The frame is to the external walls, rather than being prominent in the centre of the building,” explains Julian Pilkington, senior frame designer at Oakwrights. This suited the style and size of the house better, as the couple felt that a central aisle frame would have taken up more space than they were prepared to lose. 

The pair also decided to make an impromptu last minute change to the plans. “We already had the oak frame up when we realised we’d be wasting space with a stairwell and could add a study instead,” explains Craig. "We’re pleased we made this change to the layout, as the downstairs study now doubles as a fourth bedroom.” 

Keen to maximise the space in their oak frame interiors the couple also changed the positions of some of the walls upstairs, reducing one bedroom in order to accommodate a feature bath.

The oak frame goes up

The day the oak frame arrived was memorable for LB. “Going through planning and clearing the site felt like just ticking boxes,” she says. “But when the oak frame went up, I felt a sense of disbelief. I understood at that moment why people get addicted to self builds. We’d worked so hard up to that point with nothing to show for it but with the frame up and the encapsulation in, it went from zero to looking like a full house within a matter of days. It was incredible.”

Craig has more painful memories of that day. “Within five minutes of the frame arriving, I jumped off the back of a trailer onto a tarpaulin, not realising there was a brick underneath, and broke my ankle,” he says. A true DIY self-builder, he continued on site until 8pm before heading to A&E. Craig had planned to tile the roof himself but using a local roofer freed him up to get going with the first-fix carpentry, hobbling round the site in a support boot.

An eco-friendly oak frame home 

Though it isn't technically an oak frame passivhaus, the couple's finished home is an eco house. "Even though we run natural gas for the boiler, we achieved an air tightness of 1.95phrs," says Craig. "This was well below building control at the time, which required 5phrs to be achieved.”

The stats speak for themselves, but this cosy and beautifully constructed home is about so much more than fact, figures and careful measurements. “I still have to pinch myself about living here,” says LB. “It’s amazing to think how far we’ve come from when we first got onto the site. It just feels so homely, and it’s nice to share it when friends come over. I think we both feel very lucky to be here.”

A home featured on Grand Designs that used ancient steam bending technique to curve wood has been placed for sale for £1.65 million.

Tom and Danielle Raffield bought the gamekeeper's lodge in 2011 in Sithney, Cornwall, but with the home being just 44m2 they decided they needed to extend the Grade II property.

The couple got to work in 2014 and transformed the home using wood from the surrounding woodland to the home a unique curved exterior, giving plenty of ideas for those renovating a house.

Wood used from surrounding forest

Tom and Danielle Raffield embarked on their Grand Design project determined to keep costs low by taking on as much of the work themselves rather than hiring external help. 

The house, which has been built using timber from the local woodland and rocks from the original excavation site, reflects the work of skilled Cornish craftspeople who complemented their efforts. 

From the eco concrete power-floated floors equipped with ground source underfloor heating to the arrangement of diverse wood strips on the walls.

Their vision for their dream home was to create a structure that blended with the natural contours of the land. They enlisted a company to construct the timber frame, but took on the more enjoyable aspects of the project themselves, including 'steam bending'. The couple used this ancient technique to shape the wood. It involves exposing wood fibres to steam to heat them up and soften it to make it more pliable. When it cools, the wood then takes the shape it has been moulded into.

Now, seven years after their Grand Design episode, the couple have decided to sell the house that was crafted with their own hands.

A gamekeeper's lodge that was just 44m2

The stone Grade II listed property was built in 1882 and had just a 44m2 living space that was "cramped and mouldy," according to the couple , who lived in it prior to extending.

The toilet and bathroom was across a courtyard from the main home, which Danielle admitted was difficult to live with in the winter with two small children.

The new extension, however, which featured on Grand Designs in 2016, has more than quadrupled their living space and the old Victorian lodge is connected to the new extension by a wood and glass corridor, with the original house now serving as a living room and dining room.

During their appearance on the show, Tom and Danielle, expecting their third child at the time, faced scepticism from presenter Kevin McCloud regarding their ability to realise their dream home within their limited budget. 

McCloud doubted that such daring craftsmanship could be achieved on a budget, suggesting it was more suited to multi-million pound properties. 

Despite exceeding their initial budget of £100,000 by 60%, Tom and Danielle, who have since separated, successfully created their ideal home.

Hot tub overlooks 3,400sqft grounds

The house now offers 3,400sqft of living space with an array of new features. 

The new extension has a kitchen-diner, a master bedroom with an en suite bathroom, as well as a smaller bedroom and shower room, with four additional bedrooms upstairs.

The extension also has a wrap-around balcony, offering views of the 4.6 acre gardens. On the deck is also a hot tub.

The property also boasts several outbuildings, including a yoga studio crafted from steamed wood and glass, which was created for and shown at the Chelsea Flower Show.

Guy Morse from Lillicrap Chilcott, where the house is listed for sale, said: "This property is unusual in that it is a piece of art as much as it is built to really live in. The thought process that went into creating this house is unlike anything you would ever find with a normal build.

"They are artists and craftsmen and that artistry absolutely shows throughout the whole property. It works so beautifully having the old historic cottage flowing into something that is much more contemporary but in no way stark.

"It is totally in keeping with its environment in this beautiful light-filled glade surrounded by woodland. As a business we are lucky enough to deal with the finest houses in Cornwall but this is something you never find and a property that makes us all get excited."

The home is currently for sale for £1.65million with Lillicrap Chilcott.

Nestled on the edge of a Hampshire village sits Hill Top House, a red-brick, part oak frame and flint-clad sustainable family home that reflects the agricultural heritage of the site in which it sits. But, what you can’t tell from the exterior is the rather arduous planning journey homeowners Jamie and Madeline had to navigate before they could even begin building the house. 

Back in 2003, Jamie and Madeline, who lived in London at the time, bought a plot of land for £3,000 (without planning permission) on the edge of the Hampshire village that Madeline had grown up in. The idea was to build a home near Madeline's elderly parents, to look after them. 

“Madeline’s family had lived in the village, with three generations of farmers working the land,” explains Jamie. “She has roots here, and knows many of the neighbouring families. The idea was to buy the land and get planning for a sustainable home.”

The difficult planning journey begins

So, in December 2003, the couple put in a planning application for a four-bed green oak-framed family home, having employed Roderick James Architects to draw up the plans. But they received vocal opposition from a local minority, including the Parish Council. 

Planning permission was refused on the grounds that the site was outside the Dummer Settlement Policy Boundary (SPB). The site also happens to be on a Greenfield site and in a conservation area. Jamie and Madeline appealed but sadly it was dismissed in February 2005. 

Disheartened by the whole process, Jamie and Madeline put the project on hold. “After our appeal failed, we were exhausted so we carried on living our lives in London, raising our family, and left it,” recalls Jamie. 

Engaging with neighbours early in the planning process

Fast-forward to 2016 and sadly Madeline’s parents had both passed away. “We came to the next phase in 2016 with a new motivation as our original reasons for building a home had gone,” explains Jamie. “Things were different and we wanted to try again; to build something more as a weekend house, but for the future, somewhere we would retire to. It would certainly have been our main house, if it hadn’t taken so long.”

Jamie and Madeline still wanted to build an energy efficient home and took on Noel Wright as the architect, “Who has a track record of dealing with sensitive sites, as well as oak frame,” says Jamie. “We needed to change our approach, be a little smarter with the design and engage with our neighbours much earlier on this time”.

Armed with pre-application advice and full of positivity, Jamie took the first rough draft drawings to neighbours so that they could have a view from the start. “There were a lot of misconceptions about the project and the neighbours kept coming back to the dominance of the house in relation to the other surrounding houses,” explains Jamie. 

The neighbours concerns were taken onboard and the early engagement paid dividends. With the knowledge of how to win over the parish council, in April 2016, a planning application was submitted and unanimously passed. 

Overcoming the final planning hurdles

Once planning had been approved, the couple, who were once again fatigued by the intense process, forgot about it for two and a half years. “Finally, as the three years were due to expire we came back to it!” says Jamie. “We had a few weeks to go before it would expire but I had writer's block and wasn’t sure how to start the project so I took on a project manager I’d met at a Homebuilding & Renovating show. He was great at putting all the steps in place.”

In August 2019, the groundworks had begun but the trials and tribulations of their self-build journey weren’t quite over! A miscalibrated error with the topographical survey was spotted by the builder which meant the house would have been built 766mm above sea level. 

“Our construction architect managed to ‘absorb’ 566mm of this in non-material design amendments; slightly lower roof pitch and setting the building deeper into the ground using the foundations already laid,” says Jamie. But they had to seek new planning permission in October 2019. It was finally approved on Christmas Eve, 2019. But, in March 2020, just as work was about to commence, lockdown hit. It postponed the project until May 2020, when the contractors came back on site. 

Building work finally begins 

“Right from the start, our main aim was to build a low impact, energy efficient home,” says Jamie. “That doesn’t just mean adding an air source heat pump and rainwater goods. It’s also about what you put in the house and the garden, too.”

The house exceeds building control standards thanks to the depth of insulation and airtightness levels. The air source heat pump provides the heating (all underfloor) and hot water to the property. “Even the water consumption is very efficient,” says Jamie with usage around 110L per day, as required by Basingstoke & Deane Borough Council (Building Regs require 125L per day). 

Take a look inside the finished home

“We built a sustainable home and so it was important to us not to fill it with new things, so we’ve filled the house with furniture found on ebay and at vintage and antique fairs. Every light is LED and we have a ban on single-use plastics, too.”

And there was minimal waste on site. Offcuts and surplus materials like timber and tiles were recycled to make the shed while masonry waste generated on site, such as broken bricks and tiles were recycled to back-fill the gabion walls. 

“We’ve built a wonderful, sustainable home for our family that will see us into retirement but for now is a great retreat and entertainment house that we can enjoy with our friends and family.”

And for all their hard work over the last 20 years, the final finished build value is currently estimated at £1,250,000. An impressive return, albeit not without its difficulties, on buying the plot for only £3,000 two decades ago.

Having lived for over 40 years in the oldest house in the village, John and Patsy Greene now live in the newest. “Our first house in 1970 was pretty much a self-build,” says John. “It was a two bay Medieval cottage that was falling down — I think we had crushed cardboard boxes around the walls to keep the damp away when we first moved in.” 

Following this restoration effort and inspired by his love of carpentry and architecture, John founded oak frame design and build company Border Oak in 1980, hiring local craftspeople to create beautiful bespoke homes.

“We were always going to build our retirement house. Circumstances made the decision as I had a cardiac arrest in 2019. When I was laying in the hospital bed recovering, I designed the house — I expect some of the quirkier bits are a result of the medication,” John laughs. 

Selecting the plot for a dream retirement home 

Their daughter, Merry, who acts as creative director at Border Oak, found the plot — an old orchard which was beginning to decline across the road from her own home within the same village. The plot was owned by a couple who were moving away but first wanted to get planning permission. 

“It’s quite hard to get planning permission here, so they asked me to give it a go because I have achieved it elsewhere in the village and self built my house just over the road,” explains Merry. “I asked if they would mind if mum and dad took a look. In the end they said to design the initial drawings with my parents in mind rather than to get speculative development.” 

While still in hospital recovering, John got to work planning a home for himself and Patsy, sending his oak frame ideas to Border Oak’s architectural team. “There was an incredible team of chaps building a house for us,” says Patsy. “They went above and beyond.” 

Merry continues: “The project manager, Mark Benbow, has worked for Dad since he was in his mid 20s and the man who built the oak frame gave him CPR during his cardiac arrest. They all take real pride in what they do.” 

Open plan interiors allow for greater accessibility 

“We knew we only needed three bedrooms and wanted to be able to live in the whole of the house,” says Patsy. “Our old one had two wings and we spent most of the time in the kitchen and a little in the living room. We wanted to live in all of it and to be able to walk around without it feeling like a trek”.

“The open plan layout works really well for us,” John agrees. The utility, panty and wc are situated to the side of the open plan living, kitchen and dining space, along a corridor finished with a striking stained glass window (pictured below). As the family were cleaning out their old garage, they found a box of old windows John’s father had given to him in the hope he would one day use it in his as-of-then future build company. “We thought it would be bad luck not to use them so we had them restored and protected with a double-glazed panel,” Merry admits. 

“It doesn’t look like it but the house is also designed for accessibility. We put level thresholds all the way through and while there isn’t a ground floor bedroom there’s space for one in the future. We also have permission for a private medical room in the outbuilding if we need to. It’s got big bifold doors so Dad can be having his dialysis and still see outside.” 

Craftsmanship in every detail

Delicate details overseen by John also ensure the accessibility devices don’t resemble traditional medical design, such as the cast iron handrails at the front door. Authenticity, detail and craftsmanship reign supreme throughout the house, with handcrafted elements at every turn. John designed the oak frame interior, covering everything from the staircase, to the window handles and gutter brackets. 

“Over the large windows he designed a brise de soleil so the sun and weather stays off the windows. Those are the things he would spend hours and hours designing,” says Patsy.  “It’s like we’ve never been anywhere else,” says Patsy. “We had 40 years in the old house, but now this is home.” 

You can read more about how to build an oak frame home in our guide.

For first-time renovators Kath and Marco Walker, the opportunity to buy and learn how to convert a barn a few metres from the business they run from a Herefordshire farmhouse was too good to miss.

In fact, the plot included two barns in varying conditions. One, a timber barn – which had originally housed cattle and sheep downstairs and human inhabitants in the hay loft upstairs – was so derelict that it was days away from collapse. The other barn was a single-storey timber and brick structure previously used to store grain. That had fared better but still needed extensive works to convert it into a home fit for 21st-century family living.

Both barns were Grade-II listed, so original features such as doors and openings had to be retained. And in theory, their listed status meant that neither could be demolished. But the older timber barn was so structurally unsound that the conservation officer gave almost unheard-of approval for it to be dismantled, provided as much as possible of the original oak frame was salvaged and reused in the building.

The couple turned to oak frame specialist Border Oak to carry out the delicate task of dismantling and rebuilding the timber barn to create a new open plan living/dining/kitchen space on the ground floor and bedrooms above. 

Working solidly on the project for two months in the company’s workshop, the carpenters managed to salvage around one third of the original beams. “The team was amazing,” remembers Kath. “Each piece had to be taken apart like a Jenga game.”

With works to the derelict timber barn well underway, the couple could turn their attention to the second, attached, brick barn. This barn was in better shape, but needed new steel strengthening rods and timber supports to ensure its structural stability. The roof also needed completely re-tiling (the Walkers chose a mix of new and reclaimed tiles).

Downstairs, the brick barn houses the entrance hall, utility and one of the home’s five bedrooms. Upstairs, a bridge landing leads to two bedrooms for the couple’s young daughters. “The upstairs is practical and has a playful vibe with the bridge running from one girl’s bedroom to the other — it’s a brilliant idea,” says Kath.

Working with a depleted budget for their barn conversion costs during the last few months of the project was stressful but did have its upsides, as it encouraged the couple to come up with some novel solutions. 

For instance, rather than installing a glass balustrade for the landing bridge, which they had wanted but simply could not afford, the couple’s builder and family friend Rob Murfin suggested installing a simple painted MDF structure. 

He also came up with the idea of cutting some circle and star shapes out of the timber. “He saved the day,” she says. “At night, light through the stars creates star-shaped patterns on the wall, making it the children’s favourite feature in the whole house.”

For the adults, open-plan family living is a clear winner. “We lived in a Victorian terrace before, which meant that we had separate living, dining and kitchen rooms,” explains Kath. “Marco and I spend a lot of time in the kitchen and even if the girls are watching the TV and we’re cooking, we’re almost always together as a family. I love the fact that we are all together.”

Heather Turner had lived in a rural cottage in Shropshire for almost six decades. Sadly, after he husband passed away in 2015, Heather gave herself a year to adjust to her new circumstances. “When 2016 came around, I knew it was time to move. I was rattling around in a big house. But it was home and I couldn’t bear to leave.” 

One day, Heather considered utilising the land she already owned. “I thought if I built a place in the garden I could stay, but live somewhere more suited to my needs,” she says. Heather soon identified a plot for her self build— in a quiet corner of the garden, set back from a country lane.

1. Find the right designers to work with a budget

After making the decision to self build, Heather subscribed to Homebuilding & Renovating to gather ideas: “I cut out images of properties I liked and created a mood board.” 

After she’d finished, Heather realised her collage was filled with Border Oak projects, so during a visit to the Homebuilding & Renovating Show at the NEC, Birmingham, she found herself drawn to their stand. “I loved their designs, but I didn’t think I could afford one of my own,” she explains. Noticing Heather looking unsure, the company’s director, Merry Albright, approached her and offered to help.

Heather explained that she was just browsing because she couldn’t afford to build in oak frame. “We sat down and she suggested we work backwards. She asked me what I could afford and showed me what I could have for that amount.” After this initial meeting, Heather visited the Border Oak show home in Herefordshire and saw the carpenters crafting the oak frames by hand. 

As a general rule, bespoke oak frame homes come with considerable price tags, not least because of the expert craftsmanship that goes into shaping the home’s structural beams. But by working closely with Border Oak throughout the process, Heather created her dream home on a shoestring budget of £188,000, spending just £75 more than planned.

 A member of the Border Oak design team visited Heather’s garden plot to see what would be feasible. “They brought drawings of a lovely style of barn house that was absolutely perfect,” Heather says. “It had an Arts and Crafts look, which I loved, and offered a wet room on the ground floor, that I could use in the future if I needed to.”

2. Look for planning policies to help with affordable homes

Before going ahead there was one hurdle that Heather needed to overcome, and that was planning permission. Tight local policies meant limited new homes could be built in the area, but Heather soon found an opportunity in the form of Shropshire Council’s single plot exception site policy.

The local authority policy enables long-term residents of the area to build a home, creating affordable rural housing.

The only caveat is that when the house is sold on, it must go to another local for a price fixed permanently under open market value.

Consequently, Border Oak was tasked with designing a home that not only suited Heather’s tight budget, but one that fitted the size constraints and affordability measures of this self build workaround.

3. Examine the structure for potential savings

In order to cut costs, the team at Border Oak made a few small tweaks to the floorplan. This helped to reduce Heather’s expenditure, without impacting the overall quality or finish of the property. One of the main ways the team did this was to blend oak frame with structural insulated panels (SIPs) — a high-performance building system that is cheaper to erect. 

Constructed using an encapsulated ground floor oak frame, Border Oak opted to blend SIPs panels, engineered attic trusses and natural redwood weatherboarding over a handmade brick plinth, reducing the amount of structural oak required to cut costs.

“Another way we reduced spending was by limiting the amount of exposed oak in the house,” says Border Oak’s Merry Albright. “Downstairs, the design incorporates three exposed beams, while upstairs there are none. To tie the two floors together, Heather laid natural oak flooring.” 

Downstairs, Heather chose ceramic porcelain floor tiles — far cheaper than natural stone. Likewise, in the wet room, Multipanel waterproof wall panels were installed. These highly textured boards give the appearance of real slabs of stone for a fraction of the price and are 100% recyclable.

For the kitchen, Heather selected a small and cheap kitchen model from Ikea, with simple white units and a composite wood worktop. “I had solid oak worktops in my old house, but I opted for something easier to maintain and which was far more affordable.” In total, the kitchen, utility room, white goods and taps cost Heather just £2,000.

4. Live on site during the build

Once planning permission was granted, Heather was able to sell her lifelong home in order to finance her scheme. There’s a small outbuilding located close to the building site, where Heather used to do her pottery. She installed a bathroom and lived there throughout the build. “It became known as The Shed and I lived there comfortably,” she explains.

Border Oak took control of the design, build and project management, while Heather organised the flooring, electrics, plumbing, bathrooms and kitchen, hiring local trades. 

“I chose people I could trust and learnt everything as I went along,” she explains. As for financing the scheme, Border Oak sent monthly invoices, allowing Heather to pay in manageable instalments. “The whole team was so kind and accommodating.”

5. Think about both needs now and in the future 

The home also needed to be suitable both now, and in the years to come, with a ground floor wetroom and scope to convert the sunroom into a bedroom.

The house is highly insulated but an air source heat pump, underfloor heating and a woodburning stove are on hand if needed. “I moved from an old, draughty house to this. I can’t believe what it’s like to live in a house with such good insulation,” Heather says.

“Self building was a very big thing to do,” she says. “Often, self building seems out of reach for people, but after talking to me, many realise they could achieve something similar. This house is attainable. If I can do it, anyone can!”

After years of living in Newbury town centre, Helen and Dan Brown were determined to recapture the character of a period property or barn conversion in their countryside self build. Their new home expertly combines a traditional manor house exterior with bright interiors and flexible living spaces bespoke to their young family’s life.

"We used to live in Australia and when we came home we couldn’t find a home that we really wanted. In the end, we bought a house to renovate at auction and it gave us the buzz for creating something from nothing and achieving a home we loved," begins Helen. "Dan was looking online one day and found a plot of land. When we came to visit on a freezing cold January day we knew it could be amazing." 

Here, they explain the process of creating their traditional-looking home, perfectly designed to suit their family.

1. The design

"We went to a Homebuilding & Renovating Show at the NEC, Birmingham, and met a few suppliers, but when we spoke to Border Oak we loved their approach, particularly the design and build parts to their business as it helped us estimate initial costs much easier than with individual suppliers," explains Helen.

"It was really important to build something that didn’t look out of place as we’re on an old farm with converted stables and barns around us. This building actually replaces the old farmhouse – unbeknownst to us with the same H-shaped footprint, which pleased the planners – so we didn’t want a new build sticking out like a sore thumb.

"The type of self build plot had a complicated planning history with previous applications for more modern-looking houses rejected, so we knew what the local planning authority didn’t want and worked with that. 

"Border Oak helped us with the planning application and it went through with no issues at all."

2. The layout

"When we first bought the plot we didn’t have kids but we knew it was going to be a family home and our designer Ed Thomas was brilliant at working with us on details like positioning the playroom by the kitchen so we could keep an eye on the children," she continues.

"By the time we had finished the house we had welcomed Oscar and Summer and the layout works brilliantly for us all. That was the joy of designing the house — you don’t have to fit to enjoy the house, the house is built around the way we want to live."

3. The sunroom and dining hall

"Sunroom ideas weren't initially on the wish-list, but Border Oak included it in their first design and I can honestly say that it is my favourite room in the house," Helen comments. "Every time we have people over it is the place we socialise because you’re so surrounded by glass and greenery, yet it is really cosy to sit in.

The couple knew they wanted a big entrance hall from the beginning of the project. “My aunt’s house has a similar grand hall and it has always stuck with us,” she explains. “For us, it’s all about the ‘wow’ moment when you come in or pass from one side of the house to the other. It’s right at the centre of it all and we use it for special occasions like Christmas and birthdays — we’ve had some great disco parties for the kids!”

As is so frequent in self builds, Helen’s lighting design budget came at the end of the project and although she knew something special was required for the area, she was reluctant to blow it all on a chandelier. “I got in contact with the local supplier of Border Oak’s showrooms and they provided me with the glassware,” she continues. “I then discussed with our electrician to source the right colour cables and he got up on the ladder and worked with my ideas.”

A decision was made on site to reduce the size of one of the bedrooms so the full curvature of the oak frame could be appreciated inside the hall. While the couple admit they could have crammed in more rooms, they don’t need any more and the hallway is like a piece of art to them.

“Although we don’t use it all the time, we are constantly passing through. Walking from the kitchen or coming down from the bedrooms through the vaulted space gives a wonderful feeling,” agrees Dan.

4. Interior materials

I loved designing the interiors — it was such a pleasure. When we were visiting Border Oak they had samples of everything and immediately I knew the right colour for the windows and it set the tone for everything else. Because you’re doing the house in one go, it’s much more straightforward to get a flow between the spaces. 

I wanted quality materials that would last for years so we chose limestone flooring and a granite worktop in the kitchen but countered that with more inexpensive materials elsewhere. I also went on the most mega trip to Ikea, but that’s the lovely thing about building a quality framework around you, when it comes to interiors you can mix and match with more cost-effective pieces.

5. Eco credentials

We came from a really draughty Victorian house with a 3 x 3m garden so living in a house with good levels of insulation has been wonderful. Dan has since launched a business in low-carbon materials so including the ground source heat pump to enable the house the be heated without emitting C02 was really important. 

On a practical level, it’s amazing how it is never too hot or too cold — it’s one of the best things about living here. I think the job for us is to make sure the kids know how lucky they are growing up here.

A community self build group is tackling the housing crisis in a rather unique way — by releasing blueprints to build tiny eco homes made from cannabis plants.

The idea is that with the blueprints, anyone will be able to build one of the homes, for the price of the materials. The total cost is estimated to come in at under £50,000
— around £30,000 for the shell, £10,000 for the interior fit out.

It's all part of a not-for-profit scheme by Common Knowledge designed to teach people "the lost art of building a house". The first blueprint drop, released at the end of this article, gives the blueprint of the structural design of the tiny homes, with the full blueprints and DIY guide to follow in the next few weeks (watch this space).

The design of the homes is deliberately simple and made from renewable and sustainable materials. Those who are still a little unsure have the added option of attending community build workshops that teach families the skills they might need, such as bricklaying, carpentry and welding. 

The hope is that these skills can be 'transferred' down the generations to help future self builders too.

1. They can be moved in minutes

Fionn Kidney, co-founder of Common Knowledge, explains that the home is entirely mobile, and while it does have legs for standing in situ, it can be made ready to move in 10 minutes.

The tiny homes are not a permanent structure so, in theory, there may be no need for planning permission in some areas, or a plot of land, aside from organising where you plan to keep your home. This does of course vary in places, so it's best to double check with your local planning authority.

The tiny self build homes also meet EU building standards.

2. Built sustainably with locally-grown hemp 

Hemp as a building material is officially a thing — and apparently an incredibly environmentally-friendly material, with a little celebrity sparkle too.

Film Director Steve Barron grows the hemp used in these tiny homes at one of only 20 legal cannabis hemp farms in the UK, at Margent Farm in Cambridgeshire. The farm is totally organic, with his farmhouse, designed by architect Paloma Gormley (daughter of Angel of the North sculptor Antony Gormley), naturally made from hemp too.

The hemp used in the tiny homes is a corrugated hemp-fibre cladding panel found on the exterior of the house. These natural panels are not only lightweight but they are also said to be fantastic insulators for both sound and heat. It is waterproof and can be used inside and outside.

Cannabis plants have a high cellulose content (60%-70%), making the hemp panels flexible and strong. The panels are bound together with a sugar-based resin made from agricultural waste like corn cob, oat hulls and bagasse. The hemp fibre panels lighten in colour like timber over time if exposed to UV.

Hemp is considered environmentally friendly due to its sequestered carbon, i.e. the cannabis plant captures carbon as it grows. This is environmentally friendly because it makes the embodied carbon (how much carbon is used) of a build far lower.

Margent Farm claims making their hemp panels generates 5.1 times less energy than aluminium panels, 2.6 times less energy than bitumen plastic panels and 1.5 times less energy than galvanised steel panels.

Other hemp building products include 'hempcrete', which is made from hemp mixed with lime.

3. Clever design to make use of 20m2 of space

The tiny eco houses make clever use of a fairly compact amount of space. Despite there being only 20m2 (6 metres long by 3 metres wide and 4.5 metres high) it still manages to have a living room area, kitchen, storage, private shower room and toilet as well as a bedroom tucked away in the loft upstairs. 

Common Knowledge has designed the tiny homes to be an affordable solution for individuals "caught in a rent trap" and giving those on a low income the ability to own their own home. They are also great for living in on site while building a larger home.

4. Marine ply kitchen units with an Iroko worktop

All the materials used to build the tiny homes are environmentally friendly, right down to the marine ply kitchen units and sustainably-sourced Iroko hardwood worktop. Fionn Kidney says throughout the project they struck a balance between "sustainability, affordability and conscious design".

And this Iroko worktop really does add a touch of luxury to the kitchen  with its dark hues and golden tones.

The flooring is natural linoleum, which is highly durable as well as practical for the multi-purpose space. There's no fridge in the kitchen due to being energy intensive, although there is space for one. Instead, Fionn Kidney explains that the tiny home is set up to use cold storage instead in the great outdoors.

The wiring in the tiny home is also dual purpose, being suitable for both off-grid living as well as mains connectivity. Off-grid, tiny home owners have the option of adding solar panels and solar batteries (to the roof or ground) or simply not using electric at all.

Everything is powered by a gas canister as it was the most flexible option for being off-grid, the same sort of one you get for your BBQ. 

5. Timber frame with raw cork insulation

The timber frame on the four existing tiny homes was built by Common Knowledge's community build team in Dublin, Ireland, overseen by experts. Each frame is made of planed pine and took around two days to construct, on top of a galvanised steel chassis (unfortunately there wasn't a more sustainable substitute for this due to safety), before being panelled out with plywood and handed over to professionals to complete the interior.

"Within two days of build school, the community builders saw the structure go up after cutting the wood and fixing it all together. It was really special and gave a sense of empowerment," explains Fionn Kidney.

The 50mm-thick raw cork was sourced as an alternative to man-made insulation and by leaving it exposed on the interior, it made the tiny home feel larger as well as providing surprisingly good acoustic absorption.

"One potential owner asked to bring her harp to test the acoustics. She did and said the acoustics were incredible as the cork absorbs the sound. Even if you are not playing a harp, it has a lovely feeling of peacefulness as there is no echo."

The cork is sustainable too and taken from trees without cutting them down. It was a little more expensive to include but the Common Knowledge team felt on balance it was worth the extra expense.

6. Large windows for solar gain and warmth

The windows in the tiny homes are double-glazed aluminium framed to allow plenty of light — but also solar warmth into the space. The natural cork insulation as well as the hemp panels and EPDM rubber roofing keeps this heat inside to provide warmth in the colder months.

"In terms of heating, we decided not to put a stove in and leave that for people to make their own decisions," said Fionn Kidney. "But due to the insulation the homes are pretty warm without it anyway."

The bedroom is situated up a ladder in the loft of the tiny home, with enough space for a kingsize bed and double side tables and shelving. 

There's also, surprisingly, a guest bed too as the sofa pulls out into a double bed with 100mm firm foam mattress.

7. Composting toilet for super eco living

Inside the tiny home's bathroom is a composting toilet, which was added as a great solution for something that is mobile, on land where there may not be infrastructure for drainage. It doesn't need any plumbing in, nor does it use electricity.

The toilet system, by German company Trobolo, cleverly separates the liquids from the solids with sawdust to be sprinkled on after use. 

The shower meanwhile is powered from the same gas canister used for the kitchen.

8. And free blueprints to build it yourself

The tiny home can be bought ready made for around £50,000 but there are only a few available. 

The maker of the tiny homes, Common Knowledge, has decided to also release the blueprints so that anyone can make the houses themselves for the price of the materials. They hope by making the blueprints "opensource" for these relatively affordable homes, more people will be able to escape the rent trap.

The first release includes the structural drawings, but a fuller blueprint release in the next few weeks (watch this space) will include a list of materials, recommended suppliers and a DIY guide.

Those who aren't comfortable with their building skills can also sign up to one of Common Knowledge's build schools in Ireland, which start again next year, although there is a waiting list.

Having built one oak framed home using Border Oak for the design and construction of the frame, Wendy and Steve decided it was time to move on to the next. “We had recovered from our last self build and got the ‘itch’ again,” explains Wendy. “I was pregnant with our second child and we had outgrown the house.

“We began to put out the feelers for land and the stars just seemed to align. We came across this site and I remember looking at it and saying ‘this is too good to be true’ — it was like a ready-made plot.”

1. Buy a Plot with Planning and a House Design

Before it was purchased by Border Oak, the plot was part of the land behind the original landowner’s cottage, and was overgrown and full of trees.

“Buying it from Border Oak saved on the stress of planning permission as a design for a barn-style house on the plot had already been approved when we bought it,” explains self builder Wendy. “The design ticked all the boxes — we did move the position of a few doors and walls internally, but externally everything has stayed the same.”

Wendy and Steve knew that they would benefit from an open-plan layout, so several of the amendments that they made to the original plans involved moving walls and repositioning rooms in order to create an easy flow for their family life.

2. Take on DIY Jobs to Cut Costs

“We liked that Border Oak let you take on as much or as little of the work as you want,” says Wendy. “They constructed the watertight shell, including oak frame, SIPs, weatherboarding, roofing, most of the carpentry, doors, windows, and driveway. 

"We did some of the groundworks, all the baseworks, brickwork, drainage, part of the first fix carpentry, and the landscaping. Thankfully Steve is no stranger to a building site and his Dad worked in the trade for over 40 years.”

“We also took on the internal fit out DIY, except the electrics, plumbing and drylining which were carried out by Border Oak approved contractors. Steve would finish work and go to the house to carry on into the night. At weekends we went as a family — taking fish and chips to Steve in the evenings.”

“We are a family who is not afraid to get stuck in,” says Wendy, who found herself in the dead of winter with no heating, helping paint the interior walls of the house day after day. 

3. Mix and Match Off-the-Shelf and Bespoke Elements

“We always have a conservative budget when it comes to interiors,” says Wendy. “I never forgo quality pieces that get a lot of use, but I make small compromises elsewhere to even out the finances.

“It’s so satisfying knowing that not only does your hard work and considered choices allow you to live in a bespoke home that you love, but also one that has allowed you to build equity in from the start.

“This is our second deVOL kitchen — we love how flexible the Shaker range is with its modular pieces,” says Wendy. “You can have quality interiors and stick within your budget.” The pendant lights are from Baileys and the bar stools are from B&Q.

4. Gain Long-Term Savings with an Efficient Home

Among the many things the family love about their new home is how energy efficient it is. While they have underfloor heating throughout the ground floor, there are no radiators at all upstairs. 

“The house is so thermally efficient,” says Wendy. “We never touch the thermostat — the house is always at an even, comfortable temperature.”

The entire build, including land and landscaping, came in at £400k — a hugely impressive achievement and one that shows what can be accomplished through a combination of thorough research and canny decision making, as well as a considerable amount of elbow grease.

Content Supplied by Baufritz

Building a turnkey house enables those who are short on time or who need a good amount of risk assurance to design and construct a home tailor-made to their requirements without the stress of project managing that a traditional self build often requires.

The homeowners below chose the turnkey build route for different reasons — find out how it led them to building their dream homes.

1. Go to a One-Stop-Shop for Design and Build Services

Just like self building in the more conventional sense, plans for turnkey homes can be created bespoke to individual lifestyles while the headache of hiring and managing contractors is limited as one company takes on all of these elements.

One such project is this stunning modern self build. The homeowner initially began her project using a separate architect and builder, but found that designing and building the home using one company could maximise the potential of her London plot.

2. Achieve More Using a Prefabricated Timber Frame System

Prefabricated homes, by their very nature are less wasteful than traditional self build projects and, thanks to the timber frame construction, the end result is far more efficient than brick and block homes.

What’s more, turnkey design and build companies are frequently on the cutting-edge of the latest green technologies. From solar panels and heat pumps to thermally-efficient insulation, every step of the way there are options to create a more sustainable home for the future.

For this homeowner, opting for a turnkey home using a timber frame manufacturer to deliver his bespoke home design ensured the risk factors of traditional self build were mitigated. Due to tricky engineering – namely a pocket wall to accommodate two 5.8m x 3x sliding patio doors – many builders were unable to take on such a project but Baufritz were able to deliver the custom architectural elements he desired.

3. Get Expert Support Through the Planning Stages for an Accessible Home

Work with a turnkey company for guidance through all stages of the self build process, including obtaining planning permission, detailed drawings and building regulations.

This home was built on the plot of the homeowners’, the Crowleys, former home, despite a tricky planning covenant which restricted future development. After a battle and court case with the support of Baufritz, the Crowleys were able to design their perfect home, designed to assist them through retirement and later in life.

Essential aspects of the lifetime home included moving the living areas to the first floor and a ground floor bedroom and shower room which can become a self-contained single-level dwelling if the need arises.

4. Get involved with the Perfect Finishes

While off-the-shelf kit homes and custom builds are tempting in the sense that the project is entirely hands off, choosing a turnkey home enables homeowners to be in control of the internal and external finishes, as well as the layout and design.

Andrew and Madeleine Lloyd Webber had visited five architects before finally finding Baufritz. Their in-house designers listened to their tastes and requirements — resulting in a stunning contemporary country-style home.

“Baufritz absolutely nailed it straight away,” remarks Madeleine. “The country house's design is unique, a combination of locally prevalent traditional materials and sustainable modern construction methods which creates an attractive and sustainable dwelling. I went to the Baufritz design centre to choose all the fixtures and fittings and it was very very efficiently done.”

Sometimes, the real potential of a plot is only revealed once you’ve lived in a property for a while. That was the case for Claire and Phil Baker, who back in 2011 bought a 1960s bungalow in the Cotswolds countryside then set to work on a shoestring budget to completely refurbish the property, drawing on the skills of a local carpenter, putting in hundreds of hours of their own time and calling on the support of local friends.

Only when they’d moved in and started living in the three bedroomed property did they realise just how amazing the hillside views were from the house. Luckily, the house sat on a generous third of an acre, and the couple had the budget to set out building an extension. 

Here, the couple explain the project and how a bungalow extension completely transformed their lifestyle. 

Why Did You Choose to Use Oak Frame?

Phil: We both love oak and we’d used it in the main house, mainly for aesthetic reasons. We came up with our own oak frame extension design, which included a large expanse of glazing to make the most of the views and exposed oak rafters in the roof. We then took the designs to Oakwrights for them to create a buildable design. 

The Extension Looks Like it’s Always Been Part of the House. How Did You Achieve That? 

Claire: We were keen to have a seamless extension so that it looked like it had always been there alongside the bungalow renovation. We matched the stones from the same local quarry and our original house already had some oak features. 

Inside we used the same tumbled limestone floor tiles throughout so there is a really nice flow. On the roof we chose the same slates; right now you can see the difference between them but the new slates will soon weather in.

Can You Tell Us About the Double-Height Glazing?

Claire: We liked the idea of a double-height space and we knew we wanted the extension to have a strong glazed element in the bungalow interior design. We have a great connection to the garden from the living/dining space and we enjoy loads of natural light in the morning in our bedroom above, which has lovely views. You can really see the weather change over the valley.

You Project Managed the Extension: How Did you Find the Experience?

Paul: Project managing wasn't too daunting! Oakwrights provided the frame and we took over for four or five months. We found a very good local builder to do the groundworks, stonework and internal fittings, and we also employed a plumber, electrician and kitchen installer. Oakwrights came back towards the end of the project to fit the glazing and do the face boarding. 

We were really pleased with the oak cleaning process; we used a company recommended by Oakwrights that used a solvent to clean the oak and it came up really well.

We had our ups and downs but overall it went quite smoothly. Now that we’ve finished, we are so pleased with it. It would feel strange not having it as part of our home. 

Taking the DIY route to self build isn’t for everyone, but for first timers Charlie and Helen Mills it was the best way to create exactly what they wanted, while on a strict budget. 

It helped that a plot with planning permission almost fell into their laps. Charlie, who’d just bought a flat and had only just met his future wife Helen, was presented the chance to buy a plot with planning permission for two houses through oak frame specialists, Oakwrights in Herefordshire, where he worked. 

So, with Charlie’s friend Craig and his partner, LB, happy to take on the second oak framed self build, the project was on.

1. Balance High Quality Design with DIY Endeavours

Typically, oak frame construction adds five to 10% onto building costs, explains Charlie. “We wanted to build with an oak frame; but if the numbers didn’t stack up, we wouldn’t have been able to do that.”  

Thankfully, with copious amounts of DIY, careful planning and savvy budgeting, the couple were able to stay on budget without sacrificing their initial vision.

Charlie and Helen demolished the old cottage already on site over evenings and weekends while they waited for the legals on the plot to be finalised, saving £20,000. 

The couple also lay a specialist gas membrane over the beam and block foundations (a planning requirement) and erected the oak frame and encapsulated it with Oakwrights’ WrightWall insulated wall system. The latter job was completed with the help of colleagues, family and friends — with both houses going up in the just 11 days. 

Other DIY tasks including cleaning the oak frame, which saved around £2,000, and painting the interiors themselves.

“We also did as much of the donkey work as possible ourselves, so that we weren’t paying trades to do simple work,” say the couple.

2. Choose Exterior Materials Carefully

Charlie and Helen tweaked the original designs attached to the plot, reorientating the oak framed cottage to create a rectangular south-facing garden, with French patio doors out onto the garden and the kitchen repositioned to the front of the house.

Visually, their new oak framed home has a modern rural aesthetic. The cottage is clad in three coats of render, including the final colour ‘chalk’, and larch timber cladding on the main house which complements the weathered bricks (laid in a decorative Finish bond) on the utility room, designed to suggest a later brick extension. 

Choosing a small palette of quality materials, such as the natural clay roof tiles, means this home will stand the test of time, despite being built to a tight budget. 

3. Go Open Plan with an Exposed Oak Frame 

Separate downstairs rooms of the original plans were replaced with one generous open-plan kitchen, dining and living space. “We stayed in a barn conversion in the Lake District that was the same space as ours downstairs, and that was open plan, so we thought: let’s just do it!” says Charlie.

Internally, stand-out features include the double-height glazed gable at the rear of the cottage which brings in masses of light and the bespoke staircase, which appears to hover and allows light to come through the treads. A log burning stove creates a cosy focal point in the open-plan space. 

“We’ve been here 18 months now, and we love stepping through the front door and into the house — it’s so just so light and airy,” says Charlie. “And having the kitchen, living room and dining room in one space makes a great space for entertaining. We absolutely love it.”

4. Pay Attention to Interior Materials

Limestone flooring, chosen to complement the oak frame, has been laid throughout the ground floor. In keeping with the modern cottage aesthetic, Charlie and Helen chose a Shaker-style kitchen. 

"We knew we wanted a Shaker-style kitchen, but we needed to balance the right level of quality against the costs involved," says Charlie. 

"We eventually chose Handmade Kitchens of Christchurch, who ticked all our boxes. Our kitchen arrived unpainted, which gave us the opportunity to pick the exact colours we wanted and achieve a hand-painted finish. We opted for a dark navy island and painted the rest in an off-white."

With no space for a full larder cupboard, the couple opted for two top larders in the corners. "The larder tops have got to be the heroes of our set up. They give us the flexibility to hide away so many things – our coffee machine, for instance – which is amazing," explains Charlie.

5. Showcase Stand-out Features

Charlie and Helen chose to leave much of the oak frame exposed in the master suite, giving the spaces character and visual warmth. 

Lighting oak frame interiors can be a tricky task, but Charlie and Helen have utilised a variety of techniques and light sources to showcase the beautiful exposed oak. 

In the larger ground floor spaces, recessed dimmable downlight are a fantastic option, while in the bedrooms, lighting ideas for vaulted ceilings include delicately directed spotlights throughout the house.

There are a number of different ways of building a timber frame construction, each with their own set of pros and cons. From the speed at which they can be constructed, to the eco-attributes of timber, there are many positives that appeal to anyone looking to embark on a self build.

But, as with every type of construction method, there are some downsides and considerations you need to be aware of, before you make your final decision about how you will build your dream home.

In this in-depth guide, home building experts, Mike Cruikshank and Mark Stevenson, explain more about the types of systems used in timber frame construction, and how to determine if it's the right method for you.

What is a timber frame construction?

In simple terms, if you're looking at timber vs masonry, a timber frame construction uses timber studs within the external structural wall to carry the loads imposed before transmitting them to the foundations. Timber build systems include the walls, floors and roofs, which are designed as one coherent engineered structure. Timber frame incorporates a number of different elements as part of its overall wall system.

From outside in, these include;

• External cladding and cavity (brick, render, composite or timber boarding etc) to provide weather resistance
• Breather membrane to provide weather protection during the build and ensure the frame breathes and resists moisture penetration during its life
• OSB (oriented strand board) or plywood lining fitted to the frame to provide strength and rigidity
• Wall insulation fitted between the structural studs to enhance thermal performance and lower energy bills
• Vapour control layer (VCL) to prevent interstitial condensation and limit air leakage
• Service zone to distribute electrical and mechanical systems.

Types of timber frame construction

Timber frame constructions are generally made in one of two ways. The traditional method of using a stick built construction, or building with pre-manufactured timber frames, and it is important to understand the differences between them.

Stick built timber frames

A stick built timber frame is literally built a stick at a time directly on the building site. In theory, a stick built frame should include all the elements described above and therefore should perform as any other timber frame.

The problem with stick built timber frame building is that because they’re built on site, mostly just following custom and practice principles rather than engineered design, the structures are inefficient and slow to build.

As the construction process doesn’t allow for testing, the performance of stick built frames from an energy efficiency, structural stability and fire resistance point of view also tends to be unproven. This is why most self build warranty providers and lenders frown upon this method of timber framing.

Pre-manufactured timber frames

Modern timber frame structures, such as those you will come across when looking at how to build an oak-frame home, are instead built using precision engineered off-site manufactured panels. These mostly include all the insulation and membranes necessary to achieve the desired level of performance.

The wall panels are manufactured to form part of the overall building structure and come in all sorts of shapes and sizes to suit the project. Most manufacturers look to make large elevational panels which are more efficient and speed up the construction process.

The factory based offsite process provides optimal manufacturing conditions where quality is closely controlled. Because the panels are pre-manufactured to pre-determined repeatable designs, they can be tested to make sure they provide the performance that’s promised.

For example, reputable manufacturers carry out load-bearing fire resistance tests to provide assurance that the timber frame will remain stable, and provide a safe means of escape in the event of a fire. The test results therefore prove that the wall system will meet or exceed the building regulation requirements.

Open vs closed panel timber frame systems

The timber frame panels may be delivered to site ‘open’ or ‘closed’, but what does this mean?

Open panels are manufactured ready for external joinery (doors and windows) to be placed, and are delivered to site together with flooring elements and roof trusses. Once the frame erectors have finished, work can commence both inside and outside the house.

Closed panels are delivered to site with insulation already factory fitted. The external cladding, windows and doors may be fixed, as may electrics and plumbing. Alternatively, a service void may be added for self builders undecided on their electrical and plumbing scheme.

Are SIPs a timber frame construction method?

Structural insulated panels (SIP) are sometimes referred to as timber frames without the timber. The strength of the panels derives from bonding insulation within an inner and outer skin of board, to make a very rigid, highly insulated shell.

The factory produces these panels, leaving holes where the doors and windows will be placed later, and then ships them off to site where, together with flooring elements and roof trusses, the superstructure of the house is erected in a few days.

The roof is left with a waterproof covering and, once the frame erectors have finished, work can commence both inside and outside of the house.

In terms of timber frames vs SIPs, it's very much down to the style of house you want, the plot you are building on and your build preferences. SIPs are very speedy and you can also work in the wet. Closed panels are often offered by German turnkey home suppliers for example, and can result in a very fast build. However, due to the weight of the panels, a crane is essential to the assembly.

Pros and cons of timber frame systems

When it comes to how to choose a construction system, there will always be pros and cons to consider – and timber frame is no different.

Advantages of using a timber frame construction

• Responsibly sourced timber is an eco-friendly building material and there's less material wastage with this kind of build
• It's, on average, 30% quicker to build with timber frame than block and brick
• Timber frames are light, often meaning simpler (and less expensive) types of foundations are required
• A timber frame build can be easily erected during adverse weather, where block builds may be delayed
• Timber frames are manufactured precisely, leaving less margins of error for on-site trades, while also ensuring that rooms are true (perfectly level and square)
• Less requirement of wet trades, who are often in short supply, and create a lot of mess on a building site

Disadvantages of timber frame construction

• As the timber frame is precision-made, there is a low-level of tolerance for any deviations in the groundworks, potentially causing issues that are difficult to rectify
• Some timber frame panels are heavier than others, and may require craning into place, which adds requirements for site access
• Timber frame, by its nature, is more prone to heat fluctuations as it has less mass than a block built home. This means timber frame homes need to be well-insulated, and these elements need to be considered in the budget. Thankfully, timber frame construction lends itself well to this
• Timber frame will cost more per sqm of build than block and brick, but do take into account savings made from the quicker construction process which may bring this cost down
• Timber frame companies often take large deposits (potentially even the whole amount) before construction begins, which may mean cashflow is an issue for some self builders

How much does timber frame construction cost?

As with any calculations regarding the cost to build a house, there isn't a set figure you can quote for building a timber frame construction.

The cost will be influenced by the complexity of the project involved. Complicated roofscapes, vaulted ceilings, open plan layouts and architectural glazing all add expense. And that's before you start to think about site access, ratio of floor to wall area and the specification of the system being used.

There are timber frame houses that have been built for a price tag upwards of £850,000 - think striking two-storey home set on a sprawling plot - as well as single storey timber homes built for a modest budget of less than £80,000.

The superstructure of your self build will be the largest area of cost and will typically consume 25% to 30% of the total build budget. In comparison, to building with masonry, the upfront cost of an open panel frame will be around the same, but closed panel systems will be more expensive depending upon the performance and extra features they include.

Choosing a timber frame construction system and supplier

From a self build point of view, provided you’re not trying to build with timber below ground, timber frame is almost always an appropriate build method. The unsuitability of timber frame is mostly to do with the scale of buildings. For example, a timber frame building over five storeys high or 18m is a big no-no.

Sometimes people say a timber frame building isn’t flexible or strong enough to deal with challenging architectural designs but modern timber frames are highly engineered and integrate structural steelwork where needed to deal with the most challenging engineering situations.

"If it can be drawn it can be built, whether it is open plan or a very traditional layout, or fully vaulted ceilings with floor to ceiling glazing," says Simon Orrells, director of Frame Technologies. "But it is key to get us involved at the early stages so we can design in the structural elements needed to support these elements."

Whilst it’s possible to build a great home with either a stick or panel timber frame construction system, in reality pre-manufactured panels, such as those used in oak-frame homes, which have been subjected to testing, will more easily offer the certification necessary to assure building regulations compliance and keep your warranty provider happy.

How do I choose a timber frame supplier?

There are a good number of companies working in timber frame construction for the UK self build market.

The most common way to work is for the company to design, build and erect the superstructure but there are variations on how much of the superstructure is supplied. The service provided by timber frame companies can vary from the supply only of the superstructure to the complete package. This makes for difficulties when making comparisons between companies.

Manufacturers who work in the self build industry have evolved their services greatly over the years and many present themselves as ‘package suppliers’. As well as satisfying yourself that they will be a capable manufacturer, you’ll also need to make sure they’ll offer the services you need and want to pay for. Read quotations carefully and pay particular attention to the small print to work out what is and isn’t included.

Many package companies will not manage the groundworks, drainage and landscaping, so you should look carefully at the specification offered by each company and check that you are comparing like with like.

A basic package may typically consist of the following items:

• Soleplates, damp-proof courses and clips
• Structural external/internal wall panels and waterproof membrane
• Floor joists and floor covers (not finishes)
• All roof elements, usually supplied as prefabricated trusses

Items that are unlikely to be included, unless the whole housebuilding contract is let to the timber frame company:

• External claddings
• Roofing materials: felt, batten, roof tiles, etc
• Insulation
• Floor screeds
• Chimney flues
• Glazing (though joinery is increasingly being supplied pre-glazed)
• Heating, plumbing and electrics
• Plaster finishes
• Kitchen units, fitted bedroom furniture and sanitaryware
• Decorating, wall and floor tiling and finishes
• Garage doors

Additional tips for choosing a supplier

• Choose a member of the Structural Timber Association
• Ask three or four companies to provide a quote for your project. They will need your drawings (ideally plans/sections/elevations to a scale of no less than 1:100), along with as detailed a specification as you can
• When you are comparing manufacturers’ quotes, make sure that the two quotes have a comparable specification. Some manufacturers offer a free quote comparison service; if they do, it’s worth using it. Don’t automatically reject the most expensive quotation – the company may have quoted for a higher specification, or for more elements of the build
• Once you have narrowed your choice to two manufacturers, arrange to meet them at their factory, where you can go through their quote in detail
• Ask if they have any suggestions for saving costs, as fairly small changes to the plans can often mean large cost savings
• While you are at the factory, request a tour and see, touch and feel the various materials they plan to use. Ask about lead times, too so you can understand your build schedule

FAQs

Is it hard to get a mortgage on a timber frame house?

No, this is not usually the case and it's certainly possible to get a self build mortgage on a timber frame building, but you may need to look for mainstream providers who work with this type of off-site build system.

How do I ensure my timber frame self build is a success?

With timber frame construction being a lightweight structure, there are elements to consider when agreeing the specification with your architect to make sure you are as satisfied as you can be when living in the finished property.

Key considerations include the fact you may wish to surpass the minimum soundproofing requirements set out in the building requirements, when building with timber to minimise the risk of noise.

Timber frame designs also lend themselves to large amounts of glazing which can increase solar gain, but lead to overheating. Timber frame will offer less in the way of thermal mass so your designer will need to consider how to prevent overheating. Installing a brise soleil, shutters or retractable awning can be useful design choices to keep your timber frame home comfortable all year round.

To avoid squeaky floors, floor joists should be designed with a serviceability index (a measure of the joist’s performance) of at least 1.2. This results in a more rigid floor that bends or sags less that a floor designed to an SI of 1.0. For a squeak-free floor, glue onto the joist/noggings with a 6mm bead of D4 glue, glue the tongue and grooves, use screws (typically 2.5 times the floor boarding thickness in length), brush D4 glue onto the exposed edges of the flooring to seal it and leave a 10mm expansion gap at the floor perimeter.

Ensure adequate home ventilation as timber frame construction, by its very nature, provides very good levels of airtightness. The expression ‘build tight and ventilate right’ is exactly what you should be looking to achieve here. Incorporating a mechanical heat recovery and ventilation (MVHR) system is a good idea.

And finally, think ahead to your fixtures and finishes. Timber frame stud walls are normally at 600mm centres, which can sometimes make fixing heavier items to the wall a challenge as there are limitations as to the weight the plasterboard can support. Ask the joiner/builder to fit noggins in appropriate positions before the plasterboard is fitted to ensure a good solid fix.

For more inspiration regarding timber frame construction, take a look at this oak-frame self build with wonderful countryside views that overcame big survey issues, and if oak is your preferred timber of choice, we drill down into oak frame house costs in a little more detail, to help you know how much you might need to budget.

Timber frame houses are a lasting favourite among self builders in the UK, and it's not hard to see why. Not just a speedy method of construction, the flexibility of the build method can suit both traditional and contemporary aesthetics. 

Plus, the inherent energy-efficiency of timber frame means it is a great option for those building with Passivhaus principles in mind. 

The cost of timber frame houses can vary depending on the difficulty of design, so we have included selected prices where possible, as well as the benefits timber frame brought to the project, so you can get to grips with the pros and cons on this system.

Are Timber Frame Houses Any Good? 

"One of the most popular building system options is timber frame with around two-thirds of all self builds opting for some form of timber constriction," says self build expert and chair of the Structural Timber Association, Mark Stevenson. "The popularity is driven by the systems speed, flexibility and energy efficiency.

1. Assured system performance providing reassurance systems deliver what they promise
2. Engineered to the highest level of accuracy offering consistent levels of quality
3. Whole house engineering uses hybrid technologies to unlock architectural freedom
4. Exceptionally thermally efficient - lowering running costs
5. Sustainable building solution - considerably less impact on the environment
6. Greater integration and control to the construction process;

• Faster reliable build schedules
• Less labour and on-site supervision needed
• Improved on site safety
• Assured quality standards."

1. Create a Modern Home with Architectural Interest

After spending time abroad, Andrew and Chris Tindsley replaced a tired bungalow with a contemporary self build to suit their idyllic plot. 

A cantilevered overhang has been clad in a contemporary zinc and lined with Iroko timber (treated to fade evenly to a soft grey) to provide a striking contrast with the tumbled Great Tew ironstone-clad walls below. 

• Build cost: Approx. £750,000
• Location: Oxfordshire

2. Create a Charming Home for Life 

Sheila Krasno built her new characterful oak frame home in the garden of her previous period property. 

The one-and-a-half storey home — with two bedrooms in the eaves spaces — has been built in oak frame and SIPs and is clad in cedar. 

• Build cost: £449,000
• Location: Hampshire

3. Transform a Bungalow Using Steel and Timber Frame Extensions

Once a run-down bungalow, this contemporary home was born through a steel and timber frame extension that makes the most of the historic and exposed waterfront site. Local stone and slate sit beside modern materials like zinc and crisp render while the sloping plot has been landscaped to create pockets of purposeful spaces. 

• Build cost: £350,000 plus £50,000 on landscaping
• Location: West Cornwall

4. Do it DIY for a New Home on a Budget

Philip Handley (of Studio Bloc) designed two small extensions to a derelict blacksmith's forge in Shropshire and took on much of the project DIY with his wide Elly. The result is a charming, characterful home on a reasonable budget. 

• Build cost: £85,000
• Location: Shropshire

5. Design a Unique and Contemporary Self Build

Jame and Tim Meggit used Passivhaus principals when designing their contemporary dream home with a close panel timber frame. 

Triple glazing, high levels of airtightness, sheep's wool wall insulation and 400mm-think floor insulation form the fabric first approach while a natural swimming pool, replenished by rainwater harvesting completes the idyllic landscape. 

• Build cost: £900,000
• Location: West Sussex

6. Use Timber Frame to Build on a Tiny Site

Elizabeth Sharp used SIPs to construct her energy-efficient home on the site of her former garage.

• Build cost: £245,000
• Location: London

7. Add a Modern Cottage in the Country

Architect James Risebero and his wide Kate Rudman chose cross-laminated timber (CLT) to build their contemporary cottage in Devon for their family. The design is based on a rural barn style with some additions, including an L-shape form to protect the seating area from easterly wind. 

• Build cost: Unknown
• Location: Devon

8. Build a New, Sustainable Home 

Jake Edgley (of Edgley Design) constructed this large timber frame house on the plot where his grandparent's house once stood. An important aspect of the build was to ensure the house was designed sustainably and flexibly so it can be used and adapted for decades to come. 

Working with a fabric first approach, the house features high levels of airtightness and thermal efficiency — using a timber frame structure which was prefabricated off-site. 

• Build cost: £900,000
• Location: Maidenhead

9. Think Small with a Tiny Timber Frame Home

While renovating a larger property to use as a holiday let income, George Bannister built a one-bed timber frame house to kickstart his design and build company BlackOak. 

The trick to making the new structure feel like it has stood for decades was in the reclaimed and 'rustic' materials used throughout — such as a brick floor and copper pipe work. 

• Build cost: approx. £72,000
• Location: Taunton

10. Design a Multi-Generational Forever-home

Dawn and Kevin Truscott chose Welsh Oak Frame's pre-designed barn-style home to adapt to suit their family. 

The exterior of the building was left in the majority the same as the original plan (aside from a small tweak to the front door angle) while the interior layout was reconfigured to make it more accessible and future-proofed for their disabled daughter. 

• Build cost: £400,000
• Location: Essex

11. Build a Timber Frame Kit Home

This stunning kit home was designed the high sustainability standards and finished in high quality materials. The homeowners chose a turnkey package route for a hands-off self-build, leaving Baufritz to construct the Bauhaus-inspired home. 

• Build cost: Unknown
• Location: Berkshire

12. Keep to a Budget with an Oak Frame Starter Home for Under £270K

First-time self builders Lucy Newton and Sam Hopkins chose an oak frame with  SIPs encapsulation for their first home. 

Keen to build an energy-efficient house, they designed the plans themselves to cut costs (detailed drawings by a family friend) and installed an air source heat pump to provide hot water and underfloor heating. 

• Build cost: £267,000
• Location: York

13. Use Timber Frame to Build on a Challenging Site

Frame Technologies closed panel Tech Vantage E timber frame system was used to construct this energy-efficient self build on a sloping site. 

The timber frame upper level features timber shingles; the lower floor, built into the sloping site, features a solid masonry plinth.

• Build cost: Unknown
• Location: Sheffield

14. Extend a Barn with Timber Frame

Wilma Geddes converted and extended a once-derelict mill. Timber frame was chosen to sit atop the barn for the main living areas while highly efficient Scandinavian windows were specified to combat the open Scottish countryside. 

• Build cost: £310,000
• Location: Aberdeenshire

15. Go Timeless with a Self-build Cottage

An energy-efficient timber frame panel system was used alongside a green oak frame to create this timeless home. 

Delicate dormers and a veranda create a quintessential cottage charm, while the home boasts U values of just 0.14. 

• Build cost: Unknown
• Location: Surrey

16. Create a Barn-style Kit Home

After visiting Potton's showhome, Brian and Loveday Ellis fell in love with timber frame and the quick construction it offered — as well as Potton's opportunities for a customisation of a pre-designed home. 

The couple chose to reflect the local traditional of a flint and brick cladding. They also specified an air source heat pump, underfloor heating and solar PV panels. 

• Build cost: £759,000 (built to extremely high spec)
• Location: Hampshire

17. Choose a Package Build Route

Jim and Mary knocked down a dated bungalow an in its place constructed a sustainable prefabricated kit home, made from Facit Homes' Chassis™ system, and designed precisely for their lifestyle.

• Build cost: Unknown
• Location: London

18. Build a Passivhaus on a Budget 

First-time self-builder Paula Harte built her Passivhaus-certified kit home using the Type C plans by Caber House, pre-designed by Colin Potter of Architeco. 

After the weathertight shell was erected by Caber House, Paula assumed the responsibilities of project manager to keep to her fixed total budget (including plot) under £280,000.

• Build cost: £220,000
• Location: Elgin, Scotland

19. Construct a Modern Family Home

After purchasing a plot with plan for a Border Oak oak-framed home, Wendy and Steve Hunter proved that a beautiful four-bedroomed home can be constructed with a budget of less than £1,500/m². 

• Build cost: £265,000
• Location: Herefordshire

20. Add a Single-storey Self Build on the Coast

A combination of steel and timber frame was used to combat this challenging coastal site. 

Homeowner and retired architect Nick Purchase designed the house in timber frame in order to achieve vaulted ceilings throughout. 

• Build cost: £350,000
• Location: West Cornwall

21. Fit into Suburban Areas with an Oak and Timber Home

Penny and Michael Young self-built their new home on a suburban infill plot, combining a traditional frontage with a contemporary interior rear elevation. 

The oak frame and timber encapsulation system was supplied by Oakwrights.

• Build cost: £500,000
• Location: Coventry

22. Think Contemporary and Future-proofed with Timber Frame Houses

Accessibility and energy efficiency were high on the list for Kenneth and Marion MacLean when they designed their lifetime home. 

With the help of Allan Corfield Architects, SIPs were chosen to construct the house thanks to their high levels of thermal efficiency and were paired with a 'fabric first' approach to self build. 

• Build cost: £850,000
• Location: Edinburgh

23. Fill a New Build With Design Innovation

Adrian and Sandra Girling were keen to build their traditional style home with timber frame and opted for a stick-build self build route over SIPs so that they would have the option to change things on site (which would not have been possible had they chosen SIPs).

• Build cost: £260,000
• Location: Essex

24. Create a Striking Modern Build

Homeowners Melvin and Sandy built their striking home in under a year thanks to the speed benefits of building with timber frame.

• Build cost: £600,000
• Location: Surrey

25. Go for Glazing in a Contemporary Home with a Coastal View

This self build timber frame house embraces upside down living to make the most of the surrounding views. 

By constructing in timber frame, a dramatic glazed gable was featured alongside the expansive aluminium windows in the design, meaning this villa-style home is filled with natural light.

• Build cost: £470,000
• Location: Fife coast, Edinburgh

26. Use Timber Frame in a Conservation Area

Andrew and Toni Leese worked with Potton to build their stunning timber frame house, located in a conservation area in Wiltshire.

Their new home had to adhere to certain planning permission requirements — including being clad in Cotswold stone, having a pitched gabled roof of a 45º pitch and four-bar sash windows. Behind the stone cladding lies a timber frame structure, packed with 400mm-thick Celotex insulation. 

• Build cost: £316,000
• Location: Wiltshire

27. Hide Away in the Woods with a Timber-clad Home 

Architect Liam Denny, and his partner Mark Camillin (also an architect) spent seven months building their cedar-clad, timber frame home in a fir tree forest in Devon.

Even though they had to demolish the original bungalow that occupied the plot, Liam and Mark benefited from the existing electricity supply and were able to save money by using the existing concrete foundations and septic tank.

• Build cost: £237,000
• Location: Devon

28. Merge into a Traditional Style with Timber Frame

Mike and Gill Tate chose a timber frame construction for their Lake District self build to echo the traditional design of other homes in the area.  They chose Rob Roy as their suppliers.

• Build Cost: £565,000 (incl. £35,000 for the garage and £40,000 for landscaping)
• Location: Lake District

Are Timber Frame Houses Cheaper to Build?

"Timber frame is not more expensive than any other self build system," Mark Stevenson comments. "Building to the same thermal performance and building to current Building Regs is far easier in timber frame as it's naturally airtight and timber is an insulator to a point."

Property developer and industry expert, Mike Cruickshank says: "For new builds, factory prefabrication is by far the most popular route chosen by self-builders, as manufacturers have to work to strict quality control methods, ensuring the correct specification of materials are used and a high degree of dimensional accuracy is achieved. 

"Some manufacturers only supply open panel systems, where the insulation is fitted on site. Other manufacturers can also supply closed panel systems, where the insulation material is factory fitted. SIPs (structural insulated panels) is one example of a closed panel system."

If you’re planning a self build or extension project and researching build options, there’s a good chance you’ve come across structural insulated panels, also known as SIPs.

This build method has become popular with self-builders, especially those who want a home that’s quick to build, energy-efficient and strong enough to last a lifetime. But what exactly are SIPs, and how do they compare with the more traditional timber frame systems?

Whether you’re still weighing up your options or leaning towards SIPs but need that final reassurance, this article from self build expert, Mark Stevenson and architect, Allan Corfield, will help to inform your decision by explaining how SIPs work, their benefits and costs, and how they stack up against other timber systems.

What are SIPs?

SIPs are essentially a sandwich – two layers of oriented strand board (OSB3) with a solid insulation core in between. Once bonded together, the panel becomes extremely rigid and strong, giving it both structural and thermal qualities.

These blank panels start their life in a 1.2m-wide format and come in various standardised heights from 2.4m to 7.45m.

The panels are then cut to size, timber edge pieces added and any openings formed. The same type of structural insulated panel is used for building the external walls, any internal loadbearing walls and the roof panels.

And, thanks to their precision manufacturing and robust jointing methods, they create a super airtight building envelope.

What sets SIPs apart from traditional timber frame construction is that they’re not just a frame filled with insulation – the insulation is structural. That means fewer air gaps, less thermal bridges, fewer weak points, and a structure that goes up fast and stays warm with a low energy input.

Types of SIP

There are two types of SIPs panels. Both use two OSB boards, but one sandwiches polystyrene board between them while the other has urethane pumped inside.

Both are wrapped in timber for strength, with depths of panels between 195mm and 250mm. The urethane method tends to make slimmer panels with slightly better thermal performance.

EPS panels range from 95 to 195mm (but can go much deeper, if required). The injected urethane core has a slightly better thermal performance, and therefore these panels tend to be smaller – with the larger panels being 172mm. Always go for the deeper panel if you are trying to create a low-energy home, with achievable U values going down as low as 0.13W/m2K.

All of the blank panels are surrounded by solid structural grade timber, giving the panels great stability and strength.

Joining SIP panels together

Most manufacturers use a ‘male to female’ timber stud to connect the panels to each other, and in most SIPs projects, two types of jointing are required.

For structural joints, such as where there is a structural steel, a lintel, or a spot load from a glulam beam, c24 timber is used to join the panels. Elsewhere, spline joints are used.

However, some manufacturers use a unique jointing system, which is made up from a mini panel. This can help with lowering the overall wall U value and minimise air leakage at the connection joints.

There are two main products:

• The first is a timber I-joist – these have a vertical web made from OSB and a top and bottom flange of solid timber
• The second is a posi-joist. This has the same solid top and bottom flange but with a metal vertical web.

Both products range from 200mm to 400mm deep (depending on the span) and are topped with a structural floor deck, giving rigid squeak-free floors up to 5m in width (without extra support).

SIPs vs timber frame construction

Most people are familiar with timber frame construction. It’s been used in the UK for decades, with modern versions including the insulation and membranes needed to offer a high-performance wall. Timber frame panels are usually assembled in a factory and delivered to site as closed panels – which means the insulation and vapour control layers are already in place, speeding up the build.

SIPs are, in many ways, an evolution of that idea. Rather than building a frame and then adding insulation into it, SIPs combine the structure and the insulation in one solid panel. This makes for a stiff, strong wall, with less structural timber and reduced risk of poor insulation installation as the insulation is fully bonded in the manufacturing process

One of the clearest advantages of SIPs is their airtightness. With traditional timber frames, it’s entirely possible to achieve a good airtightness result, but it requires a host of membranes, tapes and sealants and meticulous attention to detail. SIPs, on the other hand, are almost designed to be airtight by default, thanks to their bonded construction method and jointing systems that lock together tightly without leaving gaps.

Advantages of building with SIPs

One of the key benefits over traditional timber frame or modern closed timber frame systems is the spacing of the vertical timber studs within the walls. In a timber frame building these are at 600mm centres, while in a SIPs wall they are at 1200mm centres. Therefore the amount of poorly performing timber in the wall is halved. This dramatically reduces repeated cold-bridging in the building.

Factory-made SIPs panels will be more accurate than on-site cut timber frames, and this helps to limit gaps in construction. This, along with the inherent airtightness of oriented strand boards (OSB) and a rigid insulation core, helps to limit air leakage in the building, making SIPs a great fit for Passivhaus projects.

As the roof panels are structural there is also no need for traditional roof trusses – the panels can easily span 4.8m from eaves to ridge and sit on a boxed-in steel beam or a feature glulam timber beam. This can transform the top floor from a standard 2.4m floor-to-ceiling height, up to a double height of 3.6m.

Insulation and energy performance

If you’re building to meet – or beat – the latest Building Regulations, SIPs can make it easier. SIPs typically use polyurethane or polystyrene insulation cores with thermal conductivity as low as 0.024 W/mK. This means thinner walls can deliver impressive U-values – often around 0.15 W/m²K or lower and consistent across the whole structure.

If you’re aiming for Passivhaus or extremely low operational carbon targets, SIPs are very hard to beat. Their ability to prevent thermal bridging and achieve airtightness makes them ideal for anyone who wants a home that ‘sips’ rather than ‘gulps’, energy.

Carbon footprint

If sustainability is one of your key concerns – and for many self-builders, it is – SIPs are inherently low-carbon building systems. Timber is widely acknowledged as the most sustainable mainstream building material and compared to brick-and-block construction, its embodied carbon can be up to 82% lower. That’s a huge saving before you even switch on the lights.

In terms of operational carbon – the energy used to heat and run your home – SIPs offer a slight edge simply because of their performance. A SIPs home designed well, with high-performance windows and doors and mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR), has every chance of reaching ultra-low energy standards.

Are there any disadvantages to SIPs?

The main issue with SIPs is when they're exposed to moisture, and therefore there are some sites that don't suit a SIPs build. It's not recommended to use structural insulated panels on plots in flood zones or below ground, so here a masonry build would prevail.

However, there is nothing stopping you creating a hybrid build, with a masonry ground floor and SIPs for the upper storeys.

While the airtightness factor is a quality of SIPs, it also means you'll need to have adequate ventilation to avoid condensation building up and air becoming stale in the home.

You may also find that as SIPs are a specialist build system, you might find it harder to find builders who are experienced in using them.

How to design using SIPs

A SIPs designer will be armed with the right info about how to build a SIPs home and be able to design to the capabilities of the product, making sure you get the most for your money. Using an architect who has previous experience of designing with SIPs in mind will help make the process easier too.

Most construction products come in standardised sizes, so it makes sense to set out your design based around these. As the most common structural insulated panels come as 1.2m x 2.7m sheets, it also makes sense to utilise a 1.2m floorplan grid. That way you can lay out your walls along a grid, which will minimise the amount of cut panels. Every time the fabricator has to cut a section of a panel you will be charged for the labour time and for the disposal of the excess material.

The most common ground floor ceiling height is 2.4m, which can be created by using a 2.7m high panel with a 300mm floor joist hung from the top – giving 2.4m, which is also the size of a piece of plasterboard.

As you are creating an airtight fabric (aim for an air test value as low as 1.0m3/hour/m2), you need a ventilation strategy, such as an mVHR whole house system. The design and pipework integration has to be carefully considered with the floor joist layout.

Features such as glazed gables can also be added and the large opening is usually created by a steel frame that is fitted within the SIPs frame around the opening, then standard double or triple-glazed units are linked and stacked on top of each other. Ensure that your design team work closely with your frame and window supplier.

If large open plan, flexible spaces appeal, these are easy to accommodate within a SIPs home as well, due to the long spans of the floor joists and roof panels. The I-joist floor system can efficiently span 5m (300mm deep joists at 600mm centres). If you want a wider span, the most cost-effective solution is to integrate a steel beam, hidden in the floor build-up.

Building regulations and planning with SIPs

There’s often a misconception that planning permission can restrict what kind of building system you use – it can’t. As long as you meet the planning authority’s energy performance requirements and design criteria – usually related to appearance and scale – you’re free to choose the build system you like.

What you do need to ensure is compliance with Building Regulations. That means meeting structural requirements (Approved Document A) and energy efficiency standards (Approved Document L), among others.

SIPs are slightly more ‘novel’ in the sense that they have their own structural characteristics and performance data, so expect building control to ask a few more questions and request the proper calculations. Reputable SIPs providers will be used to this and can provide all the necessary documentation.

How long do SIP homes take to build?

One of the biggest appeals of building with SIPs is speed. Like timber frame, SIPs are factory-manufactured and delivered to site in panelised form. That means less time building on site, fewer delays due to weather, and a more predictable build schedule. For an average-sized house, the structural shell can usually be up and weather-tight within four to six weeks.

If you’re building in a location with poor access or limited space, SIPs can be delivered in smaller panel formats to suit. And for homes with rooms in the roof – rather than traditional trussed rafters – SIPs can make that process a lot simpler and quicker.

A typical two-storey 200m2 house could take just 12 days to factory fabricate and then 12 days to erect on site.

Compare this to a traditional timber frame construction which will take at least 3-4 weeks to get the frame erected. On average, building with SIPs is 55% quicker than a timber frame build.

This means savings on costs like scaffolding, plant hire and site insurance, bringing overall project costs in line with other build systems

Are SIPs expensive?

Comparing wall system costs, pound for pound, SIPs generally cost more than basic timber frame systems. But the gap isn’t massive – and when you factor in the performance benefits, reduced heating bills and speed of build, that extra investment may well be worth it.

Looking at project costs, a basic timber frame with brick cladding is treated as the 100% benchmark. A high-performance timber frame might be 107%, while a SIPs build with brick could come in around 116%.

Sounds expensive, but because the structure typically represents about 25% of the overall build budget, that difference only translates to about 3% extra on your whole project. For many self-builders aiming for long-term savings and better performance, it’s a price worth paying.

Myths and misconceptions

There’s still a bit of suspicion about timber systems, especially from those more familiar with masonry. But many of these doubts don’t hold up to scrutiny. For starters, all modern build systems – timber, SIPs, or otherwise – must comply with the same engineering standards. Timber homes are just as strong and arguably more resilient in high-wind areas thanks to their inherent flexibility.

As for fire safety, yes, timber burns – but so do many parts of masonry builds, including the floor joists and roof trusses. What matters is how the structure is protected, and both timber frame and SIPs homes are usually encased in plasterboard, stipulated by a fire test to prove the fire resistance and compliance with Building Regulations.

Concerns around rot are also overblown. Structural timbers are kiln-dried, treated, and kept on the dry side of the wall. As long as you build properly and maintain your home – especially cladding and roofing – timber buildings are very durable and will easily last a century or more.

There’s also a myth that SIPs homes are difficult to modify or extend. That’s only true if you don’t know what you’re doing. With proper guidance from the original manufacturer or a structural engineer, adapting a SIPs structure is completely manageable.

And for anyone worried about mortgages or insurance, these systems have been around long enough and are backed by certifications like BBA, LABC Assured, and STA Assure. You might have to dig a little deeper to find a lender who understands SIPs, but they’re out there – and if you’re working with a reputable manufacturer, they can often point you in the right direction.

Are SIPs right for you?

Choosing between SIPs and timber frame comes down to what you want from your build. If you’re looking for exceptional thermal performance, robust airtightness, and a system that gets you to Passivhaus standards, then SIPs are likely to be the better fit. They’re not always the cheapest, but they deliver long-term savings, comfort and sustainability that are hard to match.

For those focused on natural materials or looking to incorporate specific insulation types, a timber frame might offer more flexibility. But either way, you’re choosing a modern, sustainable system with a low carbon footprint and high-performance credentials.

FAQs

Are SIPs load-bearing?

Yes, structural insulated panels have two applications. First and foremost, they can be used as a full structural system for a build. Secondly, SIPs are also used for infill walling for steel, concrete, oak or glulam timber frame structures.

Can I use SIPs to build my extension?

SIPs can be used to quickly erect certain types of extension, however, when it comes to the cost implications, the savings made in time spent on site and being able to build in any weather are more substantial on a scaled up build, so when it comes to cost savings, traditional build methods are often still more affordable for smaller projects.

What external finishes can I use with SIPs?

As the panels provide the insulation and structure, there is no need for the external finish to provide any structural support, other than to support itself. This means that you can use modern, lightweight cladding systems, including timber, render board, rainscreen cladding systems or even stone/brick slips.

The chosen façade treatment is fitted via 50mm timber battens (required for ventilation) fixed to the outside of the kit, which will have been left with a breathable membrane. If you are going for a simple horizontal timber boarding, a competent DIYer could fit it themselves.

Heavier cladding options such as external skin of brick or stone will need to be built off their own foundations.

Services go in a service void, created with a 25mm x 50mm timber batten. This service void is wide enough to house your heating and electrical services, with larger pipes (such as MVHR or soil waste) located in internal timber stud walls.

How long will a SIPs home last?

Structural insulated panels have an estimated lifespan of 60+ years, while some of the first instances of SIPs builds are now 90 years old, they've only been in more common usage for the last three decades.

The final advice for building with SIPs? Make sure you get the right build team on board from the start. Interview various SIPs companies, choosing the company that gives a balance of value for money, quality product and assistance throughout the project. Try to work with a company that provides a total package: design, fabrication and site erection.

Work with design professionals who are used to working with SIPs and can maximise the benefits and help reduce the costs, and design efficiently, by working with standard panel widths and heights. This will give you the maximum building for your money.

And, before the breathable building paper is fitted to the outside of the kit, get your architect to ‘snag’ the building prior to releasing the final payment. This way any issues with the fabric can be identified and then corrected before your cladding ideas are applied.

A zero carbon home is being showcased in Glasgow to demonstrate how modern homes can be built to have only a minimal impact on the environment. 

The development of more eco homes will be pivotal in the push towards net zero, and the COP26 House is evidence of how beautiful, affordable homes can meet the UK’s climate change ambitions. 

COP26 House was built for the UN climate summit, and will be open to the public for the duration of COP26 (which finishes on 12 November). 

How Was COP26 House Built?

COP26 House is a zero carbon timber frame building which was developed by Beyond Zero Homes, a collaborative group of 20 organisations from across the homebuilding sector. The house was designed by Peter Smith of Roderick James Architects and it was built by regeneration specialists Urban Union.

The one-bedroom house with a mezzanine studio has a reduced reliance on concrete and steel, and was built mainly using locally-sourced timber and natural materials. 

Its highly efficient levels of insulation means it will only require heating in the coldest times of the year. This will be provided by infrared heating, a low-cost, energy-efficient electric heating system. 

The estimated guide price to self build a home like this is between £1,800 per square metre, and up to £2,500 per square metre.

Peter Smith said: “It is vital that the houses we are building now are truly sustainable, being low carbon in construction and use. But with the COP26 house, I wanted to demonstrate that truly sustainable, ecologically responsible buildings can also be beautiful, comfortable to live in and low cost to build using locally-sourced materials.”

It Will Soon be Deconstructed

Another impressive aspect of the COP26 House is that it was designed so it could be completely dismantled and recycled, and that’s exactly what will happen. 

Following COP26 the house will be deconstructed and rebuilt as part of a development of affordable homes.

This key design element contrasts with materials used in many homes today which are either incinerated or sent to landfill at the end of their life.  

COP26 House is located on the Broomielaw and will be open to the public at various points until 12 November. More information can be found on the Sustainable Glasgow Landing website. 

Oak frame homes, with their unparalleled charm and unique characteristics, come in all shapes, sizes and budgets.

Building an oak frame home is the dream for many self-builders. It offers instant personality and is suited to both traditional and contemporary designs, and the frame can be exposed both internally and externally depending on the aesthetic you are aiming for.

Not to mention there is the option to future-proof your build and use sustainable materials, making it a favourable "eco" choice for homebuilding.

26 oak frame home ideas to narrow your inspiration

"Though building oak frame houses has been happening for centuries, modern construction techniques have given this traditional system a 21st-century overhaul," begins homes journalist Rebecca Foster.

"High-quality precision engineering means the design possibilities are endless, from barn and country-style homes that sit harmoniously within rural settings, to more contemporary designs that incorporate statement focal features."

This broad spectrum of options may be daunting, however. This range of completed projects should help inform you on what to know before building an oak frame home and ensure you set out to create something that's perfect for you.

1. Start off with the right supplier

Choosing the right oak frame company is an important aspect to get right. The decision should depend on the products and services a supplier offers, as well as if their previous designs align with your own desires.

"Check with what's included in the design package," advises Rebecca Foster. "You'll need a full set of planning drawings, including elevations, floorplans and site plans. Many companies offer additional services too, such as project management."

"I'd always wanted a green oak barn," says Dawn Truscott, who owns this stunning modern oak home self-build. "Welsh Oak Frame gave us the option of a completely bespoke design, but we chose an off-the-shelf barn (WOF 20) and reconfigured the internal layout to suit us and the plot."

2. Go contemporary with a sleek oak frame home design

To establish a contemporary oak frame home appearance, carefully consider the finishing materials. "Clients preferring a more modern finish tend to go for a more minimalist design with lots of glazing," says David Handley from Prime Oak.

When designing their forever home in oak (designed and supplied by Oakwrights), Micheal and Penny Young chose a through-coloured, flexible, silicone render and aluminium rainwater goods to create a modern finish.

All of the finishes require as little maintenance as possible (the oak frame has been left to weather untouched). The balcony leads off the master bedroom while the face-glazed, double-height gable allows views out over their new garden from within.

3. Build a small and affordable oak frame home

The cost to build an oak frame home on average is more expensive per square metre than say brick and block (sitting at around £2,000/m2). However, there are ways to reduce build costs to ensure the material is a more affordable option, including taking on DIY tasks and swapping oak for softwood in particular areas.

"It's also possible that you can save a few pennies by choosing a pre-set design rather than going down a bespoke route, but that isn't always necessarily the case," explains Rebecca Foster.

Small, delicate and endlessly charming, this oak frame home by Border Oak was designed to be an affordable solution for the homeowner (the build cost for the project was around £250,000).

4. Consider designing for future living

In this example designed by Border Oak, there were a few considerations given to how this home would be used in the future.

This is key when building a new home - don't get caught up in thinking about the now and forget what your future needs might be. For instance, a self-contained annexe was added to this design to allow for inter-generational living.

Then there were the efficiency factors: "The green oak frame is encapsulated with a super-performance thermal and airtight panel with underfloor heating, photovoltaic panels and air source heat pumps," explains designer Merry Albright.

5. Turn design challenges into opportunities

Built on a sloping site, the design of Old Quarry House masterfully turns plot challenges into architectural enhancements.

The upside-down layout doesn’t just take advantage of the incredible views across the countryside but enables the homeowners to move from the driveway and into the main living areas without having to lug shopping and baggage up or down stairs.

Exposed oak trusses (the frame was created by Westwind Oak) create drama in the double-height spaces but it’s the show-stopping balcony which makes this house shine.

6. Knock down and replace an existing dwelling

When Richard and Julie Attridge first approached Welsh Oak Frame, they already had planning permission in place to extend their cottage, but after careful consideration, they ultimately decided to knock it down and replace it with a completely bespoke oak frame home.

The oak frame interiors beautifully blend the charming detailing of the oak frame with modern lifestyles and tastes.

While traditional from the street-facing front elevation, the rear of the house features full-height glazing, enabling the open-plan kitchen and living spaces to benefit from views across the garden.

7. Choose a turnkey package for a stress free build

With a long-held ambition of creating their dream home using oak frame, but with busy lives and a young family, the homeowners chose a full turn-key self build package service for their project.

Complete Oak Home helped them through a rigorous value-engineering process, so the homeowners were able to design a bespoke home within their budget.

The show-stopping kitchen diner features a vaulted ceiling which blends the character of a period building with modern efficiency.

Many reputable oak frame suppliers offer a turnkey service, however, it's important to note that this will be the most expensive self-build route for an oak frame home but arguably the most stress-free option.

8. Expand an existing home with an oak frame extension

Adding two oak frame extensions transformed Sarah and Guy Bowden's once uninspiring cottage into a charming home with tonnes of personality.

"Extending in oak is really no different to extending in any other way," say Emyr David, design director at Welsh Oak Frame and designer of the project. "It works well with any type of property when the design is carefully considered to work with the aesthetic of the existing property.

"Replacing the roof with exposed oak and adding an oak frame porch has added character to the house and ties everything in beautifully."

9. Combine a traditional aesthetic with modern features

Oak frames are built off-site and delivered to site where they are assembled relatively quickly. Combined with structural insulated panels (SIPs) or infill panels, oak frame homes can also offer impressive airtightness.

After years of looking for a home with history and charm, Helen and Dan Brown were determined to recapture the character of a period property in their countryside self-build, while creating an efficient home for their family.

Their new Border Oak home expertly combines a traditional-style home exterior with bright interiors and flexible living spaces bespoke to their young family's life.

Inside, an open plan dining, kitchen and play area leas into the oak frame conservatory/sunroom at the rear of the house. The solar coating of the glass (to prevent overheating) makes the light-filled room functional all year round.

10. Have control of your budget with an oak frame home kit

This Barn Loft House oak frame home was designed by Roderick James Architects to be an affordable, yet beautiful self-build solution (with a completely managed build option from £200,000).

The open-plan oak frame kit homes can be easily adapted, so this 108m2 home features a large, country-style kitchen below the mezzanine level which houses one of the three bedrooms.

The result is indisputably welcoming and practical and enables the homeowners to achieve an oak frame home without breaking the bank.

11. Create an open-plan layout

Keen to ensure their barn conversion mixed old and new styles, Kath and Marco Walker finished their oak frame kitchen extension ideas with a contemporary grey design and open-plan layout.

"The very nature of oak frame lends itself extremely well to open-plan homes, with the frame itself acting as both a visual and, where required, physical divide," explains Associate Editor Natasha Brinsmead.

"Right at the design stage, have a conversation with your architect about how the frame could be used to ensure each space can have its own separate feel even when open to another."

12. Turn your oak frame build into a Passivhaus design

Andrew and Linda Burnett had always dreamt of running a Bed and Breakfast, but after visiting a few uninspiring properties, they approached Oakwrights to build one from scratch in Malvern, Worcestershire.

The first certified oak frame Passivhaus BnB in the UK, the Burnett’s new home features two south-facing gable ends, fitted with triple glazing, which means the upside-down layout takes advantage of the stunning countryside views.

The couple approached the build costs associated with Passivhaus design as an investment for their retirement, as their energy bills are now dramatically lower thanks to a ground source heat pump, MVHR system and highly insulated frame (Oakwrights’ own WrightWall and WrightRoof Natural encapsulation system).

13. Visit show homes for real-life inspiration

Whether it's a period building full of inglenook inspiration and old-world charm, or a charming new build, try to visit other oak homes to spark house design ideas and decisions.

"If you are considering building an oak frame home, we would suggest visiting one, such as the Oakwrights show house called the Woodhouse, or visit us on an open day for the opportunity to experience an oak frame home," advises Charlie Mills.

Sue and Dick Maaz, the self-builders of this stunning contemporary home visited the Woodhouse before they started. "We're quite traditional and were originally of the mind to have a layout with separate rooms but after spending time in the Woodhouse's broken plan layout( a type of open plan living) we thought 'why would you not want to live like this," says Sue.

14. Consider your accessibility requirements

Judy Bishop wanted a light-filled oak-framed home for her retirement so built her stunning new home in the grounds of her old family house.

The accessible design includes extra-wide doors, raised sockets and level thresholds throughout. There is also space for a lift, should the need arise in the future.

An air source heat pump, rainwater harvesting tank and a three-phase electrical systems are (useful for meeting future demands such as high-speed charging points for electric vehicles) ensure the home will remain sustainable well into the future.

15. Appreciate the eco-credentials of oak frames

“As a building material oak is unique – beautiful, strong and perfectly suited to providing the primary structure of a home as well as working as surface (external and internal) coverings, joinery, flooring and more. It doesn’t require treatment or energy-intensive conversion processes, doesn’t need supplementary materials (such as steel or cement) and is lovely to work with, so it supports craftsmanship, heritage and design," says Merry Albright of Border Oak.

"While growing, oak provides a home for more than 2,300 wildlife species, many of which are only found on oak, and it continuously absorbs and stores carbon while producing oxygen. Its long growing time establishes a strong eco system, and if harvested ethically it can be part of a long-term biodiverse forestry strategy, but choosing a supplier and maker that is FSC and PEFC certified is important."

16. Consider areas of cost-saving

By taking on big DIY tasks, first-time homeowners Charlie and Helen Mills worked with Oakwrights to self build a stunning home to a reasonable budget of £220,000.

Budget-savvy ideas, such as taking on as much of the "donkey work" in Charlie's words, themselves, make their oak frame build story one to emulate if building with tight finances.

Simple tasks like cleaning the oak frame on a DIY basis saved the couple around £2,000.

17. Recreate a bucolic cottage

While modern oak frame constructions can look like anything from grand manor houses to contemporary mansions, there is definitely something to be said of a more modest, cottage-style build that can fit to a smaller budget.

Border Oak's predesigned Pearmain Cottage was chosen by Ian and Mary Cartwright was adapted to their desire for a modern and open-plan interior, while still offering a quintessentially classic oak look to the outside.

They also chose to add a matching oak framed garage alongside their property (left of shot).

18. Consider your exterior in your planning application

There are various things to know before building an oak frame home, one of which is that decisions on the exterior aesthetics might be dictated by local planning preferences.

When building their oak self-build, Anthony and Liz Lewis were guided by planning permission towards certain materials for the exterior design, leading to a graceful solution.

The front of the house provides a traditional brick farmhouse appearance, while the rear includes large expanses of bi-fold doors leading to a contemporary kitchen.

19. Buy a plot with pre-approved planning permission

Wendy and Steve Hunter bought a plot which already had planning permission for a Border Oak-designed dwelling from the company themselves.

The couple made a couple of alternations to the original plans. These included moving the pitched-roofed dining space, seen here with French Doors leading out into the garden, in order that it could become part of the open plan kitchen.

Ways to save on build costs included Wendy and Steve taking on much of the second fix work themselves and mixing high-quality materials with off-the-shelf fixtures.

20. Opt for a single-storey oak frame home

Homeowners Sheila and Geoff McGaughey never expected to build a single storey home, but working closely with Border Oak, came up with a great oak frame bungalow design that they can enjoy in their retirement.

A layout was devised where a central living room serves to connect the distinct living and bedroom wings, with vaulted ceilings making the space seem far larger than 150m2.

The H-shaped cottage is clad externally in painted weatherboarding, with some feature oak framing and a traditional entrance porch.

21. Insulate your frame for efficiency

This high-spec eco home was the first oak frame Passivhaus-certified property in the UK. Located in Yorkshire, this 200m² home was built for £450,000.

The architect of the project Andrew Yeats of Eco Arc says: “This house demonstrates that green homes do not need to be grand designs using expensive hi-tech building design and construction technology. Much of our conventional traditional housing in the UK is poorly designed in terms of energy conservation and ecological awareness.

Most houses are poorly insulated and consume unnecessarily high levels of energy (usually from non-renewable sources) and at the same time produce high levels of waste and pollution. The Garnett’s home is a low carbon, eco-dwelling – a low embodied energy, super-insulated, Passivhaus.

Most of the space heating will be from passive solar gain, generated by the occupants and domestic electrical appliances, and heat recovered from the mechanical ventilation system.”

22. Timber clad an oak frame design

The exposed frame of this self-build, designed by Pete Tonks and built by Oakwrights, sits alongside playful contemporary touches such as zoned open-plan living, an open tread staircase and a glass floor.

The home was built on a green belt in conversation area and the project would involve demolishing the derelict cottage on their existing land, and the planners were very particular about the requirements.

The design had to be sympathetic to the surrounding village in order to appease planners. The finished product combines contemporary features with a rustic oak frame.

23. Keep costs down by getting involved

Built for only £200,000 with a frame from Border Oak, this cottage-style oak frame property was designed to fit in with the surrounding traditional village.

The young couple building it stepped in to do some work themselves. The oak framers supplied the watertight shell at which point the couple stepped in.

This is the option which some people take but it is a huge commitment. They owner here took 6 months off work to finish the house.

24. Reuse materials where possible to keep waste down

Modern methods of construction and energy efficiency have been combined with traditional green oak framing (from Welsh Oak Frame) and materials to create this new rural home.

The couple purchased a run-down cottage they had lived next door to for over 16 years. The finished house uses bricks from the original cottage, some of which date back to the late 17th century.

The family were very proud that they managed to demolish and replace a house without using a single skip.

25. Replace a run-down building

Replacing a fire-damaged cottage, this sympathetic new build is clad in a blend of reclaimed stone (with the front elevation, overleaf, clad entirely in stone), recovered from the demolished cottage, and render.

Architect of the project Jason Jackson, who specialises in oak frame projects comments: "One of our first jobs is to explain to clients that a true frame dictates the plans — not the other way round."

This means that if you want to incorporate an oak frame, it needs to be part of the existing plans, otherwise they will need to be redrawn.

26. Go daring with a curved design

This modern property was designed by George Batterham of Batterham Matthews Architects, combining a timber frame with glazing and dry stone-effect walls.

The oak skeleton, designed and built by Carpenter Oak features nine oak columns, traditional pegged joints, and an open-plan ‘curved’ frame.

"This home blends a unique approach to timber framing with contemporary design," says Carpenter Oak.

FAQs

How long do oak frame houses last? 

"We would expect any house that we build to stand for at least three or four hundred years with good foundations and a sound roof," says Charlie Mills MD at Oakwrights. "Part of the attraction and personality of an oak frame home is the added character that comes with its age."

How do your build an oak framed house?

"Oak frame homes follow a similar build process to a standard home," Charlie Mills advises. "The main difference is that the oak frame structure goes up first and it is encased with insulated wall panels which allow for high level of airtightness, and that is how Oakwrights have built certified two Passivhaus. The insulated roof panels are added to give you a dry shell in a relatively short time scale."

With an oak frame home, you can bridge the gap between contemporary and traditional design. If you favour a country-style home then our guide to barn houses will help provide further inspiration.

Content supplied by Oakwrights

Many people dream of building an oak frame home — it is the ideal way to create a new home that is full of character and tailored to your exact needs.

Prospective self builders can, however, feel intimidated by the process. As with any construction method, oak frame brings with it a multitude of decisions that will need careful and informed consideration if the end result is to be the house you were wishing for when you set out. 

Amongst the many advantages of oak framed houses is the fact that they can be designed in any style required — not just as traditional style homes. From contemporary properties to eco-friendly homes, the design possibilities are far reaching.

The breadth of choice makes expert input all the more valuable and this is certainly not a project you should stumble into blindly. Which is exactly where Oakwrights can help. 

Building an Oak Framed Home: Where to Begin?

If you decide to build an oak framed home it is crucial to seek out the best expert advice you can. This should include speaking to well-known oak frame companies as well as to homeowners who have already built their own homes using this construction method.  

In addition to speaking to the experts in the field you should also visit show homes and, if possible, attend open days, as well as completed oak framed projects. 

Oak frame specialists Oakwrights have a number of open days coming up, specifically aimed at those considering taking the leap  — if you are serious about starting your oak frame self build journey events such as these should be top of your list.   

What Happens at The Open Days?

Oakwrights have designed their open days to provide as much information, inspiration and support as possible for anyone interested in building using oak frame. 

Both the upcoming open days being held this September will be hosted by the homeowners themselves at their new homes. You will be greeted by the homeowners and members of the Oakwrights team before embarking on a guided tour of the property. 

This allows you to experience the look and feel of an oak frame home first-hand, including all the fixtures and finishes.

In addition to this, you will have the chance to show and talk through your ideas with an Architect or Designer from their Architectural Design team.

When and Where Can I Visit an Open Day?

Oakwrights have upcoming open days this September. The events will run on 17th and 18th September in both Suffolk and Scotland. They will also be running open days in Herefordshire on the 1st and 2nd October. To book a free appointment or for more information call 01432 353 353 or email events@oakwrights.co.uk

Oak framing – a building technique whereby oak is used to form the primary load-bearing structural skeleton of a house – has been around for centuries. Thanks to the material’s innate strength and the versatility of oak systems, this construction technique remains a firm favourite with the UK’s self-builders.

The option to leave parts of the frame exposed, whether on the interior or exterior of your house, means your oak frame can double up as an architectural feature, too – few construction materials can deliver the array of warm, honey-coloured hues or distinctive splits and shakes that oak can.

Oak is also versatile, and can be woven into projects of all scopes, from new builds and extensions to conversions and restoration projects where a new structural skeleton is required to support the existing building. Here, we take a closer look at the many advantages of oak frame as a building system, exploring how it stacks up against other options when it comes to meeting 21^st century living requirements.

Types of oak frame

You have several options for your oak frame, which can contribute to either a modern or traditional finish. This is largely led by your choice of hidden or exposed frame.

The principal characteristic of an exposed oak frame is that the oak is (usually) exposed both internally and externally. Internally, the principal walls, floor joists, trusses and roof members can all be visible. Between the exposed oak timbers are the render panels. These consist of extremely thermally-efficient foam panels fixed to board and set within the panel timbers.

Hidden oak frame houses are usually based on a heavy oak frame, although it could be Douglas fir, and they invariably have a more open feel to the structure. They are a perfect match for large glazed areas.

External finishes can be a combination of infill panel insulation, external cladding and large scale glazing. Fully vaulted roofs are a feature of this design creating a spacious feel. A major attraction of this style is the flexibility it allows in design and usage.

14 things to know about oak frame homes

1. Oak frames offer design flexibility

In many ways, oak delivers the best of both worlds: a robust and practical structural system that will stand the test of time, as well as a premium building material that oozes endless character and style.

"It supports long spans, open plans, double-height spaces and feature ceilings," says Daniel Wilson, design and project consultant at Carpenter Oak. "Exposed pegged mortice and tenon joints and large timber elements lend an unmistakable sense of craft and authenticity that many self-builders value."

2. Rural locations work well, but suburban settings can work too

Thanks to the handcrafted look and feel of oak, houses and extensions with an oak frame sit beautifully in rural settings.

"Oak frame homes work well in rural and edge-of-town/village locations, where natural materials sit comfortably within the landscape, and planning authorities often welcome traditional construction methods with contemporary interpretation," says Daniel Wilson.

Having said that, contemporary oak frame properties sit well in suburban settings, too, when designed with modern architectural glazing and finished in materials that complement the local vernacular.

3. Traditional and contemporary builds are possible

The concept that a structural oak frame only suits houses finished in a traditional style is probably one of the biggest self-build myths out there. Numerous aesthetics are achievable, depending on the house’s location and the look you want to create, whether that’s a traditional barn-style dwelling or a modern house with broad spans of glazing.

Timber cladding, render and brick outer skins all pair well with the oak structural skeleton, which means you can curate pretty much any look you like.

"The style of home or oak frame extension you’re looking to achieve will largely dictate how much oak is required. Traditional styles generally require the most amount of oak, usually exposed both internally and externally," says Gareth Edmunds, director at Welsh Oak Frame. "Post and beam layouts work on a simple grid system and require even less oak. This style perfectly suits modern home designs and open-plan spaces."

4. The design flexibility is vast

The list of design possibilities when building with an oak frame is almost endless – one of the reasons this method remains so popular with self-builders. "An oak frame isn’t limited to any particular form; it can support classic proportions or bold modern geometries," says Daniel Wilson.

The beams are typically connected via traditional mortise and tenon joints, with pegs that hold everything together. A wide range of layouts is possible thanks to the generous size of the timber beams, allowing for open-plan living with wide spans and minimal internal supports.

"Oak can achieve vaulted ceilings, mezzanines and dramatic roofscapes, as well as large, glazed facades," says Daniel. Plus, as the timber can be left exposed internally, oak offers a golden opportunity to create a characterful design focal point, which can be finished and treated according to the homeowner’s taste.

5. But, design constraints need to be considered from the start

The beams, trusses and posts that form the oak skeleton are an inherent part of your house’s structure. Therefore, oak frame homes work best when the structural bays and trusses are factored into the design from the outset.

"How rooms are divided needs to be considered early on as part of the design process so they don’t clash with the structural grid," says Daniel Wilson. Long, unsupported spans of greater than 5m are possible, but may require the use of additional posts or steel supports, as well as additional detailing – both of which can add to costs.

Thermal and moisture integration present further factors to consider during the design phase. "Exposed timber needs careful detailing at interfaces – windows, roofs, floors – to ensure airtightness and avoid thermal bridges,’ says Daniel.

6. Oak frames will change over time

Many oak frame homes in the UK are built using newly felled timber, known as green oak. This wood comes with a higher moisture content that makes it easier to work with and means the oak will naturally dry out and shrink over time.

Yet, this natural process doesn’t weaken the structure. "In fact, the opposite happens," says Gareth Edmunds. "As the oak shrinks and splits over time, the joints get stronger making your house sturdy and full of character."

What’s important is to choose a supplier who understands how the material contracts over the years and can factor this into the detailed design.

There is debate regarding whether it’s better to use green oak for building an oak frame home, or seasoned oak that’s been pre-dried. According to Gareth, it’s a myth that the latter is better for building. "It’s better to use green oak when constructing oak frame buildings," he says. “The moisture content tends to be a lot higher than air-dried oak. Therefore, it makes it softer and easier to cut and shape into exact sizes."

7. Insulation and energy performance needs to be considered

Historically, an oak skeleton would have been wrapped in wattle and daub or brick to create the structural envelope. Today, high-quality infill panels or encapsulation systems are used to fill in/wrap the oak frame and ensure top-notch thermal performance.

For many self-builders, structural insulated panels (SIPs) are a popular choice of encapsulation system. Each panel comprises two layers of OSB, sandwiching an inner layer of rigid insulation. Like the oak frame, SIPs are manufactured off-site, guaranteeing a highly efficient, pre-determined level of thermal performance once erected on site.

Some suppliers, such as Oakwrights, offer their own line of wraparound panels, providing equally impressive thermal performance. "Our ultimate panel is the WrightWall & WrightRoof Natural panel, which is filled with the highly respected Steico-Zell wood fibre insulation," says Sam Grew, an architectural technician and Passive House consultant at Oakwrights.

This option is available in varying thicknesses depending on the desired performance levels and structural requirements. "Alternatively, our high-performance panel WrightWall and WrightRoof pre-insulated panel system uses rockwool insulation, lined with thick rigid insulation to mitigate cold bridging," says Sam. "These panels easily attain exceptional levels of thermal efficiency and airtightness."

8. Passivhaus certification can be achieved with an oak frame

Passivhaus certification is possible with an oak frame, providing this goal is factored into your plans from the start of the process, so your architect and oak frame supplier can map out a design that meets the rigorous standards Passivhaus certification requires.

"Whilst designing a certified Passivhaus, we produce a PHPP model (Passivhaus Planning Package) detailing the performance of the materials, heating specification, window details and much more, all to calculate whether it meets the strict conditions," says Sam Grew.

For instance, on a Passivhaus-certified Oakwrights home in Worcestershire, the company’s WrightWall and WrightRoof Natural panel system were used to establish the thermal shell of the dwelling. "Infilled vaulted ceilings, shading or cladding using the balconies and shades, triple glazing and ground source heat pump and MVHR all work with the thermally efficient and airtight building envelope to meet certification requirements," explains Sam.

9. Using a specialist designer will give the best results

You don't always have to work with an oak frame designer, but working with a specialist typically yields the best results. That said, the main routes to designing an oak frame home are:

• Have an independent architect create a set of plans. These can be taken to your oak frame supplier, who will adapt them into specialist technical drawings.
• The second route is to work with your supplier’s in-house design team on a bespoke plan.
• Choose a design from your supplier’s portfolio of off-the-shelf houses and adapt it to your taste.

"Timber framing has nuances that benefit from specialist input: structural joinery logic, engineered connections, optimal bay planning, integration with insulation and fabric performance and on-site erection sequencing," says Daniel Wilson.

"When a specialist oak frame designer works alongside an architect from the concept stage, the entire design becomes holistic – structure, space and performance are considered together, reducing surprises later in detailing, cost planning and construction."

10. Self-build mortgages are possible for oak frame homes

Another myth that’s perpetuated in the self-build world is the idea that it’s harder to get a mortgage for a self-built, oak frame home.

"The myth that timber build systems aren’t mortgageable has come about because of self-builders not following lenders’ rules regarding features like cladding," says Gareth Edmunds. "Lenders will set out a range of criteria informing things such as cladding choice and roof type, which must be adhered to if you are to successfully obtain a self-build mortgage from them."

According to Gareth, these rules apply to all building systems – not just those that are timber based. "All lenders have different criteria and some are stricter than others, so it’s worth doing your research."

11. The build process is different to other systems

Once the technical drawings for your oak frame are finalised, they’ll be sent to your supplier so they can fabricate the structural components in their workshop. During this time, you can appoint your own builder to carry out preparatory groundworks on site.

Once the frame is complete, it is delivered to your site and typically erected by your oak frame supplier’s in-house team. Then, with the frame up, the encapsulation system can be installed, leaving you with a weathertight shell. This allows trades to begin work internally, while finishing materials are added to the outside of the house simultaneously.

Depending on the size and design of the house, the whole process can take between 18 and 50 weeks.

12. You may still need to bring in other trades

Outside of your oak frame supplier, you’ll need to engage a builder/groundworks team to install the foundations prior to the arrival of your oak frame. Accuracy at this phase of the project is crucial, so the pre-manufactured frame sits perfectly on top of the base, right down to the last millimetre.

Once you reach wind and watertight stage (ie the oak superstructure assembled on site and the encapsulation system/infill panels installed) you can either appoint a general builder to complete the project, or engage individual trades to take care of the roofing, external façade, doors windows, services and interior fixtures and fittings.

13. Oak frame costs may be more, but can be manageable

Oak is widely considered to be a premium building material – but that doesn’t mean you need a bottomless budget to create an oak frame abode.

For instance, choosing rectangular bay floorplans and modest glazing can help minimise oak frame costs. "The higher the volume of oak, the higher the price will be," says Gareth Edmunds. "However, if you were to go for a more simple, post and beam style oak frame, where elements such as rafters are made of softwood and hidden behind the walls, then it’ll be less expensive," he notes. You can also claw back cash by taking on certain tasks, such as project management and sourcing follow-on trades, yourself (rather than using your oak frame supplier).

14. Oak framing can be sustainable

Providing you choose a supplier that can prove their oak is sourced from a responsibly managed forest with a robust replanting scheme in place, there’s no reason why your oak frame project can’t be sustainable.

"As a structural material, oak aligns with the growing demand for sustainable and durable building solutions," says Charlie Mills, managing director at Oakwrights. "Clients are pleased to be reducing their reliance on steel and concrete, choosing instead a natural, long-lasting material with a significantly lower environmental impact."

Oakwrights, for instance, has sourced its oak from family-run forests for the last 25 years. "Primarily in France, these forests adhere to strict environmental, social and ecological standards to protect biodiversity," says Charlie.

Reputable oak framers employ highly accurate, computer-controlled processes to engineer each building component, so each piece of your oak frame is manufactured to the nearest millimetre, minimising any waste.

"At Oakwrights, we purposefully use the heartwood of the tree – the hardiest section of the trunk – to create our frames," says Charlie. "Unlike other materials that may gradually deteriorate, green oak’s versatility allows frames to be crafted to exact requirements, and it continues to strengthen with minimal maintenance once erected."

FAQs

What are the pros and cons of oak frame homes?

Pros:

• Oak is naturally resistant to insect and fungal attack
• Impervious to weather
• Virtually maintenance free
• Increases in beauty and strength with age
• Can be sustainably sourced
• Work well on sloping sites

Cons:

• Requirement to design around beams
• Limit to room's open depth without encountering a post of around 4.5m

Can you build an oak frame on a budget?

Post and beam homes in other countries rarely use oak. In North America, they usually use Douglas fir or some other softwood species, and there is no reason why you can’t use something cheaper than oak.

Where oak really comes into its own is in large open plan spaces, especially ones with vaulted ceilings. There is nothing to stop you going for a conventionally built home and adding an oak framed extension, enabling you to get the ‘wow factor’ for less.

Can I add other eco-elements to an oak frame?

Yes, you can add other elements such as renewable energy to an oak frame. You could integrate solar panels to produce hot water and/or electricity, or consider installing a heat pump which operates well with low-heat-demand heating systems such as underfloor heating.

Does oak frame shrink?

Yes, during its first few years, oak shrinks by as much as 5% radially (that is across the grain), but the length of each piece remains the same. If you work with a good designer, they will this into consideration when putting frames together, so it's no cause for concern.

However, when detailing the joints connecting the posts and beams, the shrinkage factor is used to make the joints tight. The pegs used to fix the joints are always tapered and the holes between the timber are normally offset, allowing the shrinkage to gradually draw them into a strong alignment over time.

Another area where shrinkage is a factor is glazing and joinery. Oak builders have become adept at designing weatherproofing details which can cope with a backing frame which is set to shrink.

Does it have a greater fire risk?

No. Structural timber is, in fact, not quick to burn. Research shows that fire fighters would rather enter a timber frame building on fire as timber has a known and predictable burn and char rate. Plus, it is not explosive.

All timber frames commercially available have to be manufactured and erected in accordance with all regulations and warranties. Lenders and insurance companies do not differentiate between timber frame and masonry construction.

How do I choose a supplier?

All oak framed housebuilders offer a bespoke service. Some are very small, little more than one-man bands, whilst others are now well established as design and build businesses, catering mostly to the self build market.

If you have decided that an oak frame house is for you, what should you be looking for when it comes to choosing a supplier?

• Look for a company that can produce the type of home you want, by looking at their brochures and website
• Try and visit their finished houses in person
• Check the company is reputable with a solid trading history
• Find out what the payment terms are. How much will you need to pay as an upfront deposit? How will your money be held? 
• Choose a company with plenty of experience of building timber frame post and beam and working with self builders
• It is essential that you get on well with them and they have an understanding of your project

For more inspiration on building with an oak frame, check out these oak frame conservatory ideas and find out how this homeowner created a future-proof oak frame home.

Considering an oak frame garage for your home? Oak frame garages can be the perfect addition for the right property, providing you with space to park your car and create additional storage, while not compromising its kerb appeal. 

The best uses of oak frame garages are to match an existing or new oak frame home, or a property with similar design characteristics. Oak frame garages also offer the opportunity to add extra facilities to your grounds, with the potential to add extra accommodation, depending on local planning rules. 

(MORE: Get a quote for your oak frame garage) 

If you like the idea of an oak frame garage, but want to learn more, read on for our ultimate guide to these beautiful outbuildings and discover everything you need to know, from planning and building regs to commissioning your build.

What are Oak Frame Garages Made From?

While an oak frame garage will, undoubtedly, include an oak frame, it's likely the entirety of the structure won't be oak. This is because oak is an expensive material, so it's only used where it's needed — both in terms of structure and what's on show.

“Depending on the supplier, you may get a full oak frame or just an oak frontage with the rest in softwood, so it’s always worth checking the specification when comparing quotes,” says Imogen Cox, director at Made In Oak. 

The key structural components of an oak frame garage are: 

• an oak skeleton with softwood rafters
• softwood studwork 
• and some form of external cladding (usually timber weatherboarding).

Further to this, you can specify your own choice of roof covering. Windows/doors can also be fitted depending on your design, however, many oak frame garages are kept as car ports. 

Will I Need Planning Permission for an Oak Frame Garage?

You won't always need planning permission for an oak frame garage as many garages fall within the remit of Permitted Development (PD) rights. 

“Check with your local planning office, but generally PD covers structures with a footprint under 30m2, 4m ridge height and 2m away from the site boundary,” says James Harringman, director at Trade Oak Building Kits. The full list of PD criteria can be found on the government’s planning portal.

It’s important to check the conditions carefully. “Some conditions remove PD rights for certain things — including outbuildings — so even if you meet all the criteria, you could still need permission,” says Imogen from Made in Oak. 

However, you must remember that if your home is in a designated area, including a conservation area, Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty or on Green Belt land, you may need to apply for planning permission. 

(MORE: Annexes and Outbuildings: A Planning Permission Guide)

How Much Does an Oak Frame Garage Cost?

“A single bay garage self-assembly kit typically starts from £6,000, with the labour element around the £2,000 mark,” says Paul Grubb from Border Oak. For a two-bay structure, you’ll probably want to budget between £7,000 and £8,000. Bear in mind, the labour costs will vary depending on the location of the house, the site conditions and the size of the garage. 

“A fully assembled structure (including the roof) would cost around £15,000,” says Stephanie Larkinson, an outbuildings and GreenRooms regional design consultant at Oakwrights. “This figure includes the structural oak frame, softwood and roof rafters, softwood studwork walls, softwood weatherboarding, tiles, felt and batten roof. Base work could cost anywhere between £180 and £200 per m2, depending on site conditions and the type of foundations.”

Most suppliers have a portfolio of off the shelf kit designs to choose from. “This means they can carry stock sizes and lengths of timber and they don’t have to pay for someone to re-design the building,” says Imogen from Made in Oak. “If you can choose an off the shelf design at planning stage this will help keep costs down.” 

Some suppliers also offer a bespoke design service for an oak frame garage, tailored to your exact specifications. 

Complex or bespoke designs featuring multiple bays and storeys are likely to cost £15,000 and above.

What Types of Oak Frame Garage are Available?

Depending on your budget and design aspirations, there’s a multitude of options. 

At one end of the spectrum, an oak frame carport that is open across at least one wall of the structure will offer sheltered parking for your car. “Within your garage you could have open/closed bays that can also function as a storage area or workshop,” says Zoe Grey, an outbuildings and GreenRooms regional design consultant at Oakwrights. 

At the other end of the scale, you might choose to build a two-storey oak frame garage with annexe-style accommodation for guests on the upper level. 

With a growing number of people now working from home, another possibility is to have a home office in the room above your garage. “Typically, annexes have a mix of dormer windows and Veluxes. In the room above you can have more fun with the oak frame features, too, using different trusses to naturally break up the space,” says Zoe. 

When it comes to aesthetics, try to select a design that complements the architecture of the main house. This will provide a cohesive flow across the whole property, rather than creating a setup that appears disjointed.

How Big Should my Oak Frame Garage be?

Dedicate plenty of time to planning how the garage design will complement the main house. Even if you have plenty of space on the plot, you don’t want to overwhelm the residential part of the property by constructing something that’s too large.  

Oak frame garages are typically specified by the number of bays they feature.  A typical bay measures 2.9m wide and 6m deep, providing plenty of space to park the car and open the doors with ease.

It often helps to factor in the size of your car, as some modern 4x4s might end up feeling a little cramped. 

“For instance, a 5.5m x 3m footprint would be fine for a small car like a BMWi3,” says Imogen from Made in Oak. “On the other hand, for a large vehicle like a Tesla, you’d want a space 3.2m wide and 6m deep so you can get around the back to charge it.”

(MORE: Charging an Electric Car at Home)

Aside from budget and available space, there’s no restriction on the number of bays you can have. “More bays can be added if required and you can also incorporate different shapes — L-shaped and U-shaped, for instance,” says Gareth Edmunds, director at Welsh Oak Frame. “The modular structure allows as many as required and some bays could be incorporated as stables, workshops, etc.”

There are options when it comes to determining the height of your garage, too — though this is likely to be dictated somewhat by planning restrictions and, of course, budget. 

For example, a one and a half storey garage could incorporate storage space in the roof. Gables and dormer windows can be incorporated to boost head height if you plan on using the upper level as a home office or gym. If you have the budget (and planning allows), you might even prefer to build a double storey structure with a guest annexe on the upper storey.

How Much Space Do I Need for an Oak Frame Garage?

While oak frame garages may suit large plots beautifully, you don't need too much room to be able to build one, as most suppliers have design solutions for those looking to fit a garage into a compact space.  

“The smaller single bay garages are around 3m by 5m, so as long as you have this sort of space it will be fine,” says Paul Grubb, outbuildings sales manager at Border Oak.  

How is an Oak Frame Garage Built?

Preparation of the foundations is the first step. The type of footings required depends on the plot’s ground conditions and nearby features such as trees or walls. “Typically, we recommend a conventional trench fill setup, but we can also engineer for raft foundations or beam and block,” says Paul.

There are various levels of supply and service available, too. Many suppliers offer a suite of options, from supply only to full supply and fit packages, where the manufacturer’s specialist team will come and erect the oak frame garage for you.

(MORE: Foundation Systems and Soil Types)

Other companies simply provide an oak frame kit that you or your builder can erect and finish on site. “Smaller frames can be erected by a competent self builder, but they will need to consider the weight of the beams and ensure they have the right lifting equipment,” says James from Trade Oak Building Kits. “For larger garages and those with first floors, we advise employing a contractor.”

Remember, if you’re using with a contractor rather than the manufacturer’s specialist team, check they have previous experience working with oak frame structures. Usually, they will be able to finish the walls and roof, too.

Building Regulations for Oak Frame Garages

Providing the garage does not include accommodation facilities, it’s generally considered to be exempt from Building Regulations. “The regs are there to ensure a building is made to achieve an adequate minimum standard of health and safety for those using it,” says James Underwood, an outbuildings and GreenRooms regional design consultant at Oakwrights. “The main crux is whether the internal footprint of the garage is above 30m2. If it is, Building Regulations are required.” 

To fall outside the regs, the structure will also need to be single storey, no less than 1m from the boundary of the property and built of non-combustible materials. However, the electric installations will still need to adhere to the guidelines laid out in Part P of the Regulations.

Some suppliers, including Oakwrights, offer off-the-shelf designs at sizes that are exempt from Building Regulations. The company’s Kenchester and Highgrove garages, for instance, have been designed so that they don’t require Building Regs approval. “Any design with a room over the top, however, will always need Building Regulations — whatever the intended ground footprint,” says James.

What's Included in an Oak Frame Garage Kit?

It's important to bear in mind what's included in your oak frame garage quote and what's not, as this may differ from company to company. 

Generally, your kit will include:

• structural skeleton
• fixing for securing the rafters
• saddles stones for the base of the posts

Most suppliers do not include windows and doors (including garage doors), tiles or cladding.  

(MORE: Best Garage Doors)

How Long Does an Oak Frame Garage Last?

“The oak doesn’t need to be treated — it will last for hundreds of years as it is,” says Paul from Border Oak. “The weatherboarding on the exterior is typically pressure treated but you can paint it if you don’t want it to silver naturally.”

However, if you’d prefer to retain the original honey-coloured hue of the wood rather than letting it weather to a natural shade of silver, you can apply UV protection oils. This treatment would need to be re-applied every 12 to 18 months, depending on the garage’s exposure to the elements.

Cladding an Oak Frame Garage

Typically, the kit for your garage will not include the roof covering or cladding, so this is something you will likely need to factor into your budget at the start of the project. For a clean aesthetic, you might choose roof tiles to match those used on the main house to establish a cohesive look. 

An oak frame garage is generally be clad in timber weatherboarding or shingles. “Larch, cedar and oak are great cladding materials as they are very durable and don’t require treatment,” says Gareth from Welsh Oak Frame. “If left untreated the cladding will weather consistently with the oak structure (providing this is also left untreated) and match it nicely.” 

If you’re keen to retain the original hue of the timber cladding you’ll need to apply a UV protection treatment every 18 months or so.

Do I Need to Insulate an Oak Frame Garage?

If the structure is only being used for car parking and basic storage, it doesn’t need to be insulated. If the idea of converting part of your garage building into living space in the future appeals, it’s worth making the provisions for insulation during the initial construction. This will make any alterations further down the line a lot more straightforward.

Rigid board type insulation or insulated plasterboard can be installed in the floors, walls and ceilings. As an alternative, you could also use wool insulation in the floor structure. 

“Even with a single storey garage you may want to install insulation if some of the space is to be used as a workshop, for example, and you will be spending a lot of time in there,” says Gareth Edmunds, director of Welsh Oak Frame. “Some people may also want to consider insulated garage doors.”

How to Add Electricity to an Oak Frame Garage

Don’t forget to make provisions for your garage’s electricity supply. Typically, you can run a cable underground to connect the consumer unit in your garage to the consumer unit in the main house. For expert advice, speak to a local electrician. 

Upgrading Your Oak Frame Garage

Building an oak frame garage provides a golden opportunity to develop a tailored setup that caters to your property’s unique needs. There’s enormous potential for additional elements that can be incorporated, from log stores and plant rooms, to home offices and entertainment suites.

“Our room-over options significantly increase the usable area of the building without increasing the footprint,” says Anthony Williams, an outbuildings and GreenRooms regional design consultant at Oakwrights. 

“These options offer tremendous scope for home offices, living accommodation and leisure areas. Dormer and roof windows are worthwhile additions to enhance the usable space, too. In addition, glazed gables and balconies can dramatically transform outbuildings.” Bear in mind though, extras like this will drive up the overall cost of your project.

How Can I Heat a Room Above an Oak Frame Garage?

 If the room above/adjoining the garage is to provide accommodation, keeping the space warm is an essential consideration. “Electric convection heaters or radiators are efficient and good value for money,” says Gareth from Welsh Oak Frame. “They come with timers so can be effective if used regularly, such as for an office, and can be set to warm the space before you go in.”

If the space is to be used as an annexe or permanent accommodation, you may consider putting in a boiler so the space benefits from its own central heating setup. “Strategically placed windows can also help make the most of natural solar gain, along with good quality insulation, glazing and draft proofing on doors and windows,” says Gareth.

Ever since Phil and Yvonne had built a house of their own nearly 30 years ago, they had harboured dreams of building another. They were particularly keen to create a high-spec eco-house — however the 1930s dormer bungalow with sea views they inherited from Yvonne’s parents was anything but.

The Garnetts came across architectural practice Eco Arc online and spoke to architect Andrew Yeats, who quickly got on board with the philosophy to build a modern eco home and plans behind the build and agreed to design a Passivhaus — the first in the district. “We didn’t realise at the time that this would be the first oak frame Passivhaus in the UK,” adds Phil.

Andrew presented such a comprehensive and persuasive proposal that planning permission was approved without question by Scarborough Council. Yvonne and Phil then chose Oakwrights to supply the green oak frame. Not only was it able to supply a beautiful oak frame, but also its own bespoke, highly insulated encapsulation system.

With the supplier of the main structure taken care of, work could begin on the demolition of the old bungalow, which saw 30 lorry loads of rubble carried off site.

A geological survey was undertaken before the foundations were created and a raft system of insulated, interlocking slabs overlaid with reinforced concrete was specified, which would take the weight of the oak frame and timber frame walls. “The foundations had to be as flat as a pancake, with just a 5mm tolerance,” says Phil, who was on site most days to monitor progress.

(MORE: Foundation Systems and Soil Types)

The frame went up within a week but the roof, with its complex design of pitches and valleys, took almost two months to complete. “We considered having slate tiles but heard that they could come loose in strong winds and we are on a very open site at the back — right on the coast,” says Phil.

“We decided to use natural, handmade clay pantiles rather than concrete, and when we couldn’t decide on a colour we chose a mix of three. Unfortunately the first roofer who came had very little experience of anything other than a standard roof, so we had to let him go and asked another roofer to take over. He had to strip the roof clear and start again, so that cost more than we had bargained for.”

Throughout the build, Yvonne and Phil aimed for the best quality they could afford, and even then only went 10% over budget. The result of their careful research, planning and appreciation of quality is a Passivhaus home that has achieved more than they could have dreamed of — but there was just one last-minute hitch.

“When it came to the day of the final tests to secure the coveted Passivhaus status everyone on site held their breath,” recalls Phil. 

“A window was removed and replaced with a sealed fan to measure the negative pressure in the building. Any leaks of air are detected with a feather. We were expecting to pass the test and couldn’t believe it when the figures were way off the mark. Then we realised that someone had left a window open! We all breathed a collective sigh of relief when the window was closed and the tests confirmed its Passivhaus status.”

(MORE: Airtightness)

When a turn of events meant Samantha Parr had to move out of and sell her family home in a beautiful South Staffordshire village, she wanted to find a way to stay on the high street she’d grown to love over the past 20 years. 

Never one to shirk a challenge, Samantha had the idea of turning a redundant garage she owned at the back of the high street into a home on a plot no bigger than 140m2. “Most people I told said I’d never get planning permission to build on the site but I’m one of these people who see an opportunity and thinks ‘let’s go for it!’ So I blindly went ahead and put plans in anyway,” recalls Samantha.

She was right to go ahead. The planning process was pretty straightforward. Conditions were placed only on the fabric and materials used for the building (the cladding, bricks and roof tiles) because the plot resides in a Conservation Area.

“Because I had a strong idea of what I wanted, coupled with a really supportive planning officer who understood what I was trying to do, the plans were passed,” says Samantha.

Once plans were passed, Samantha had a short timescale to build as she needed somewhere to live, so it was all systems go.

Building a Micro Oak Frame Home 

“I knew I wanted a Swiss-style chalet so I put all of my ideas together on a moodboard. I then visited Prime Oak – who normally build orangeries bigger than the size of my plot! – and they were really positive and thought it would be fine to crane in so were happy to proceed.”

The result is a beautifully formed oak frame home. It’s an upside-down house with two bedrooms and bathrooms located on the ground floor and a first floor that boasts a wonderful openplan kitchen and living area with a glazed gable and small balcony. 

The floorplan is small on paper but I just use all the space. It’s quiet, private, safe and peaceful. And the location is just great — on a beautiful high street, with views out that change with the seasons. I can’t see myself moving anytime soon.”

Perhaps surprisingly, the build only cost Sam around £175,000 altogether, although she already owned the land. At the time of completion, the home was valued at around £425,000. 

A Tight Squeeze: How Access Became an Issue for the Build

Although planning was pretty straightforward, the location threw up some issues for the build. The plot was nestled down the back of a narrow, quaint cobbled alleyway, which was flanked on either side by independent cafés and shops. 

To further complicate matters, the entrance arch leading into this alleyway had a 2m-height restriction. When the oak frame company saw all of this for the first time, they quickly realised they wouldn’t be able to crane the frame in, so they had to drag the oak through on a hand-held roller! “It was definitely back to basics, literally moving the frame piece by piece,” says Samantha.

(MORE: Does Your Site Have Access Issues?)

And this restrictive access also affected all the trades on site. The builder who did the groundworks had to excavate 50 tonnes of soil from the plot; the services – gas, water and electricity – all had to come in off the high street, which had to be dug up three times. 

“Getting the gas connected was a massive job. I tried to get shared access [for the services] but I couldn’t, so the street and alleyway were dug up.” The lay of the land also meant that a pump had to be installed to get water up to the property. “It was a real challenge,” recalls Samantha.

How to be a Good Neighbour When Self Building 

Having neighbours en route to the building site was another huge consideration for Samantha and her team. “The shops are shut on a Monday, so we’d take full advantage of that. The first load of any materials would arrive at around 5.30am to make sure we were there outside of the shops’ usual opening hours. 

One Saturday morning my daughter and I moved all the blocks together by hand before the shops opened. I supplied the shop owners with cake and offered to clean their windows to apologise for all the inconvenience,” says Samantha.

On such a small plot tensions did undoubtedly rise. “Towards the end there were around 20 people on site so it got a bit tense. But I’d use some positive energy and herd them all back together,” laughs Samantha, who took on the role of project manager.

A Speedy Build Team

Samantha’s team consisted of local skilled trades, including an 80-year-old local bricky, called Dickie, who Samantha brought out of retirement having met him in a chance encounter while walking her dogs. “The only digger small enough to get through the alleyway was a digger used for digging graves that Dickie drove. He brought years and years of experience to site. The guys loved him, and all of his stories!” 

The rest of the subcontractors included oak framers, roofers, electricians, gas fitters and plumbers. Making a small home feel bigger, Samantha and her team of skilled trades built the house in just 15 weeks — quite an extraordinary feat given the plot restrictions and having never self-built before.

Whether you're extending a period property or overhauling a semi-detached house, the addition of an oak frame extension can add character, craftsmanship and elegance to your home.

Add to this the fact that oak frame extension ideas are also inherently sustainable and you're practically guaranteed a recipe for success when it comes to the look, feel and finish of your extension project.

And, with no real limits on the uses of your oak frame extension, we've rounded up a selection of 16 oak frame extension ideas from real-life projects to help inspire you with yours. From double height soaring spaces to cosy living rooms, be prepared to fall in love with the idea of extending in oak.

Why choose oak frame extension ideas?

Although the extension costs for any type of build can vary depending on the type of materials and finishes you choose, one of the main benefits of oak frame extension ideas is the speed at which they can be constructed.

With much of the work taking place off site, the frame is delivered in a semi-built state, meaning the construction phase on site is generally much shorter than a more traditional brick extension idea, for example.

"The total process of building an oak frame extension will take around 6 months upwards," says George Allen, regional design consultant for Oakwrights.

"Our free design consultation site visit and the design concept often takes as little as two to three weeks. There are generally very few changes to the design once the contract is designed so the drawings are quickly submitted to planning. Planning permission will take a minimum of 8 weeks," explains George.

"You will need a builder to excavate foundations and build the floor slab ready for the arrival of our team," says George, "but the oak frame will arrive pre-made and is installed very quickly. "Our team will be on site for around 4 weeks for oak frame assembling if we are also installing the roof and weatherboard. The face glazing is done last of all to minimise the risk of damaging the glazing."

Oak frame extension ideas

1. Totally transform a detached property

As part of this stunning project from Welsh Oak Frame, this detached property received a major overhaul including a single storey oak frame extension idea.

Transforming the tired rear exterior into a stylish, light and functional space, the extension provided the owners with an open plan kitchen, living and dining area with views and easy access to the garden.

Large black aluminium bi-fold doors provide a contrast to the oak frame, and tie in with the detailing of the loft dormer windows, while the pitched roof achieves a similar cohesive result.

2. Scale up with a double storey oak extension

While oak extension ideas are often found to the rear or side of a property, the double storey extension to the front of this home adds an immediate wow factor and elevates it to new heights with the double height second level.

The addition of an oak porch extension helps to create unity between the old and new, while the darker timber cladding and white render on the remainder of the property provide contrast and a simple modern touch that complements the more rustic pitched perspective of the oak extension.

3. Create the feel of a contemporary log cabin

If you prefer your oak frame extension ideas to feel more compact and cosy, take inspiration from this project created by Oakwrights and designed by Fife Architects. Compact and cosy but perfectly formed, the living room extension has the exterior feel of a log cabin but with a contemporary twist, thanks to the addition of patio doors and large glazed panels on three of the walls.

Sized smaller than the depth of the house, there is also the perfect decked area outside for using during the warmer months. A sleek and shiny chrome flue adds a final modern flourish to the overall exterior design.

4. Match materials on a cottage extension idea

Choosing an oak frame extension to extend the size of this 17th Century limestone cottage, has resulted in a sympathetic addition that feels like it's always been part of the property.

Home to a large kitchen and dining area as well as a snug, the large arched window offers views across the surrounding landscape, while the use of natural materials ensures the new extension blends in with the older property, all while benefiting from modern construction methods.

Almost barn-like in its appearance, it's the perfect way of adding a practical and beneficial cottage extension without detracting from the beauty of the original home and grounds.

Being able to encapsulate the structure is one of the benefits of oak frame extension ideas says Paul Edmunds, founder of Welsh Oak Frame.

"Softwood stud, structural insulated panels (SIPS), weatherboarding, brickwork, masonry, render, block or stone are all options with oak frame extension ideas," he says. "The external appearance can be what it needs to be to fit both your own personal taste and vernacular local styles to help satisfy local planning regulations."

5. Mix and match wood finishes in your oak frame extension idea

Although it can be easy to assume you should only use oak as your choice of wood in your new extension, as this oak frame kitchen extension proves, it's perfectly fine to mix and match when you pick the right type of wood and complementary fixtures and fittings.

The exposed oak beams bring out the lighter tones of the walnut kitchen island, while the black kitchen units compliment the darker ones. An oak dining countertop set into the black island worktop carries on the theme, while copper pendant lighting adds an additional modern twist and emphasises the height of the stunning vaulted ceiling too.

6. Add an oak frame extension to your garage

If you need a work from home solution but don't want to add an extension to your home, why not consider a garage extension idea instead?

The owner of this property turned to Carpenter Oak to help her with a permanent solution to her needs.

Using the footprint of an existing shed and greenhouse that were attached to her garage, the company designed a multifunctional space which included a studio for the client's upholstery hobby, as well as an entertaining space that she could use year round. Bi-fold doors open out onto the patio and garden in the summer, or the owner can keep them closed and have the log burner on in the colder months.

7. Create interest with a curved oak garden room extension

Although building an extension often relies upon following angular lines, it doesn't always have to be this way, as this oak garden room idea demonstrates well.

Adding the perfect punctuation to the side of this cottage, the faceted oak framed windows provide 360° views onto the garden and the roundel design which features bespoke oak braces inside, matches the existing oak in the main property.

Using a brick base helps tie the old and new together creating a quirky and characterful addition to this countryside home.

8. Extend a bungalow with an oak frame extension

If you stumble across a bungalow on Plotfinder, it can often provide a great opportunity for a home renovation or bungalow extension idea. Often smaller in stature, extending both outwards and upwards is often available as an option, as the owners of this bunglow in Guernsey realised.

Transforming what was once a 1990s chalet style bungalow, the whole project involved a major refurbishment, layout changes and the addition of a clever oak extension to create a beautiful open plan living area on the ground floor and master with ensuite on the 1st floor.

Leaving the oak exposed also added to the charm and is essentially one of the best features of oak frame extension ideas, says Dan Wilson, project consultant at Carpenter Oak.

"Whatever your chosen extension style, ultimately, it's the timber that brings the wow factor. Every post and beam will have its own characteristics and they will only improve with age," says Dan. "Having a unique, handcrafted oak frame with beautifully integrated glazing is always going to look exceptional."

9. Showcase an exposed oak beam vaulted ceiling

Sometimes the less is more approach simply isn't enough, and when it comes to oak frame extension ideas, it's often the case as this vaulted ceiling demonstrates well.

Leaving the oak beams and braces exposed shines a light on the intricate detailing that can be achieved with oak frames. The creation of a stunning vaulted ceiling, that's almost ecclesiastical in design, adds a breathtaking element to this home, which combined with the oak staircase and large picture windows is the perfect example of when more is a must.

10. Clad your current home with oak to match your new extension

If you're keen for your new oak frame extension ideas to feel like they've always been part of your home, give the exterior of your home an overhaul at the same time as adding the extension.

In this property, simple oak boards have been used to clad the top half of the house, marrying up perfectly with the oak frame of the new extension. Matching roof tiles and window/patio door frames help turn this extension into what feels like a new home project, rather than an extension.

11. Use your oak beams to define zones in your open plan extension

Although there is the growing feeling in home extension trends that when it comes to open plan vs broken plan, the latter is on the rise, it's easy to create definition in an oak frame extension idea.

Instead of adding walls, the structural ceiling beams become a subtle way of breaking up the different zones in an open plan scheme. Creating invisible boxes, the kitchen, dining and living room areas of this extension are clearly separate but equally together. Using the same extension flooring throughout creates a light and airy backdrop against which each room setting sits comfortably.

12. Pick a palette of natural materials

For a rustic country feel on the inside of your oak frame extension ideas, follow the lead of this light and airy living room which uses a simple palette of pale stone, brick, oak and light wood to create a calm and soothing interior.

For warmth, install underfloor heating which will also ensure no pipework or radiators need to be installed on the exposed brick walls. Simple downlights in the ceiling add sufficient illumination, while the large bi-fold patio doors provide easy access to the outdoors.

13. Log burners are an effective heating option in oak frame extensions

If you're looking for ideas on how to heat your extension, log burner ideas are one of the best ways of not just bringing warmth to your space, but also adding a focal point to enhance your design.

This contemporary white log burner turns the brick wall into something more stylish and works well with the otherwise simple grey, yellow and white colour palette of this oak frame extension idea. An external flue ensures the log burner meets with building regulations and a round glass hearth doesn't detract attention away from the log burner itself.

14. Design a sympathetic extension to a period property

Oak frame structures are often chosen to match existing period homes, timelessly adding to their existing charm, but attention to detail is absolutely key to getting it right. Take time to match materials, architectural forms and historic quirks.

By choosing an oak frame structure, the homeowners of this Grade I listed 16th century cottage were able to double the size of their property in a sustainable and natural way.

Thirty one tonnes of oak supplied by Living Oak were used, while efforts to tie in the new addition with the existing house – by using a similar roof tile and brick stain – make this project undoubtedly special.

14. Connect to an existing house with a glazed link

If you don't want to attach your oak frame extension directly to your home and prefer the concept of a separate garden room, but are keen to make access to your new space easy (regardless of what the UK weather brings) a glass link extension could be a clever addition to your scheme.

This Border Oak garden room has been connected to the main house via a glazed link, that in turn adds additional room to the overall floor plan. While the contemporary finish increases the extra natural light, it creates the illusion that the extension and home are individual spaces in their own right.

15. Extend in oak for a barn conversion project

If you're embarking on a barn conversion project, an oak frame extension could be the perfect addition to your scheme.

In this barn conversion completed by Border Oak, the task involved restoring two timber-framed barns, one of which had to be demolished over many weeks with each piece of timer logged and transported to Border Oak’s workshop.

Some of the original timbers were salvageable and could be incorporated into the new frame which was then linked to the other using a glazed break.

Contemporary styling inside also beautifully highlights the character and charm of both buildings.

16. Create a three-storey oak extension

As the 18th-century 'wing' to this Grade II-listed property had become structurally unsound, the owners had to demolish it but still needed to add back the space they lost in the process.

Rather than replicating what was there, Oakwrights designed and built this magnificent three-storey extension with large glazed panels and outdoor seating areas with glazed balustrades on all levels to maximise on the views across the rolling countryside.

Of course, while extending in oak is an option, oak frame homes are also a popular option for a self-build project. Find inspiration in our gallery of oak frame homes and if you're looking for an even more sustainable approach to house building, find out how the UK's first oak frame Passivhaus was bought to life.

When considering a house extension there are a number of different construction methods available to you, including timber frame extensions.

This type of extension is often quicker and easier to build than blockwork, and in its most basic stick built form, can be a great option if you're building on a budget.

However, with sub-categories falling under the general timber frame umbrella, there's plenty to consider, not least of all which type you choose and how it will look when finished. Self-build experts, Mike Cruickshank and Mark Stevenson, explain what you need to think about when choosing a timber frame extension.

What are the different types of timber frame extensions?

"Timber build systems for extensions tend to fall into three main categories: open panel, closed panel, and structural insulated panels (SIPs)," explains build expert, Mark Stevenson.

"Open panel systems tend to be assembled on site as 'stick built' and offer flexibility. Closed panel systems are usually manufactured in factories to predetermined designs and are pre-insulated with services zones, which speeds up the build programme," he explains.

Oak frame extensions are of course also included under the umbrella of a timber frame extension, and often come in at the top end of cost and design.

"SIPs take things a step further too," says Mark, "combining structure and insulation in a single component. SIPs also provide reduced thermal bridging with specialist jointing systems, making them particularly attractive where airtightness and thermal performance are essential," he notes.

If you are using a stick build process however, you will need a structural engineer to design the timber frame and prepare a specification of the size/grade of timbers to be used for the frame/lintels/cripple studs and so on, together with a nailing schedule.

A joiner will then take delivery of all the timbers required, and as they are loose, they have the advantage of being easily transportable through restricted access areas – a common occurrence when extending a terrace house for example.

The timber frame panels are then made on site following the structural engineer’s specifications, and because the existing structure will be be opened up/exposed at this point, it allows him to take accurate dimensions and manufacture the panels to suit.

If your chosen design features large expanses of architectural glazing, then a steel or glulam portal frame/goal post arrangement may also be required. This can be fabricated off-site, delivered in sections and bolted together on site.

What are the pros and cons of timber frame extensions?

There are many benefits to building a timber frame extension, and not just the extra space and added value that it gives to your home.

With a timber frame extension, you can achieve the weathertight stage in days rather than weeks, which not only means less time spent on site, but also less dependence on good weather conditions and reduced levels of disruption.

Once built, a timber frame extension can also offer good levels of thermal performance and airtightness, making it suitable for projects with sustainability at their core.

"The biggest advantage of a timber frame construction is speed and predictability," agrees Mark Stevenson. "Once the frame is manufactured, it can be erected in a matter of days, which dramatically reduces construction time on site and exposure to weather.

"On the downside," he notes, "it requires a higher level of upfront design coordination – everything from window openings to service runs needs to be resolved early. This often means that prefabricated timber frames and SIPs have longer lead in times. There’s also less tolerance for last-minute changes compared to traditional masonry."

"Timber frame really comes into its own on projects where speed, disruption and buildability are key considerations," he continues. "For example, tight sites, where neighbours are close by, will benefit from the reduced construction times, with less disruption from noise and dust.

"That said, it’s not always the best option where fire is a concern and fire mitigations are needed to prevent fire spread during construction," he warns. "Sites with extremely restricted access for delivery or lifting equipment can also make closed panel timber building systems impractical."

It's also important to note that any part of the extension that is below finished ground level means a timber frame construction would not be suitable for that element of the build, meaning basement conversions are not suitable for timber frames.

Are there any timber frame extension rules and regulations you must follow?

In much the same way as other types of extensions, timber frame extensions fall within the general guidance around planning permission for extensions.

If your proposed extension meets certain criteria in terms of size and position, then you may be able to extend under Permitted Development Rights (PD). But, if you want to build something outside of the scope of PD, then you will need planning permission.

Always double check with your local authority before starting work, especially if your property is listed or located in a conservation area or National Landscape (formerly known as Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty).

Your timber frame extension will also need to adhere to the current building regulations and the relevant approved documents.

How much should I budget for building a timber frame extension?

In terms of costs for a timber frame extension, as with other extension costs, there are a number of factors at play. Size, access, finishes and how it will connect to your existing home will all play a part, as will the type of timber frame you choose as your construction method.

Homebuilding & Renovating's content director, Michael Holmes recommends budgeting the following amounts if you are considering a timber frame extension:

• Stick built: £1,900 - £2,400 per sqm
• Factory manufactured: £2,200 - £2,800 per sqm
• SIPs: £2,400 - £3,000
• Oak frame: £3,500 - £4,500

Also, as with any home improvement or extension project, remember to weigh up whether it will add more value to your house than it costs to undertake the work.

What type of exterior finishes can I use on timber frame extensions?

While the interior of your timber frame extension can be finished much like any other extension, you will also need to think about external cladding and how you want the exterior of your timber frame extension to look.

While oak frame extension ideas often continue the oak theme, SIPs or stick and build systems can be finished with any of the following cladding ideas:

• Facing brick
• Rendered brickwork/blockwork
• Natural stone
• Reconstituted stone
• Brick slips
• Timber cladding
• Fibre cement cladding
• Metal cladding
• Render board system

Worth noting is that if your timber frame extension is being built on a boundary then the external finish has to be non-combustible and provide a minimum one hour’s fire resistance to satisfy building regulations.

What is the best advice for building a timber frame extension?

Where any extension (irrespective of the construction method used) is attached to the existing building it is very important to ensure a movement gap is formed to accommodate shrinkage, thermal and moisture movement.

It's usually the case that a timber frame extension uses a different construction method to that of the existing building, and as such will expand/contract at a different rate to the existing building, hence the requirement for a movement joint.

Movement joints are typically formed by using a stainless-steel channel tie system which provides lateral restraint but allows for both horizontal and vertical movement. The gap formed between the two structures is filled with a flexible sealant (different colours are available) to make it weathertight.

In addition, make sure you bear the following in mind when opting for a timber frame extension:

• Choose a designer with experience in designing timber frame extensions
• Get three detailed quotes and go over them with your designer to ensure you are comparing on a like for like basis
• Always have a contingency budget of around 10% to deal with any unforeseen circumstances
• Don’t forget to budget for external works including paving, decking and landscaping

Mark Stevenson's final advice for timber frame extensions? "You don’t have to match the structural system of the existing house but in my opinion, it’s a good idea to avoid insurance and mortgagability complications."

However, with older properties, this isn't always an option, so "if you do opt for a timber frame extension on say a masonry house, it’s essential that the two elements are detailed and connected properly, particularly at junctions to manage structural movement," he says.

"From a planning and aesthetic perspective, however, matching external materials is often more important than matching structure. A timber frame extension can be clad in brick, render, or timber, so visually it can sit comfortably alongside almost any existing property, making it an option for most homeowners."

For more inspiration on building with timber, take a look at these timber frame extension ideas, and how this 1970s terrace home was transformed with a timber frame extension.

There's no questioning the premium look you'll creating when adding an oak frame extension to your home. But with this style of extension comes a raft of decisions and choices that need to be made.

Much the same as when building an oak frame house, a lot of the earlier stages of the process will be fundamental in completing a successful build. From design decisions through to issues such as how to connect an oak frame extension with your house, research and planning is key.

That said, with the right supplier, plan and knowledge of how to add an oak frame extension in place, the end results can be stunning. Here's what you need to know.

What type of homes do oak frame extensions suit the most?

One of the main appeals of an oak frame extension lies in its ability to suit almost every type of home. From period properties and bungalow renovations right through to new builds, oak frame extension ideas can be adapted to suit most sizes, shapes and styles of home.

So, whether you're looking to add an oak frame conservatory or an oak frame kitchen extension, the flexibility of the construction method and the different looks available mean there are very few limitations to what can be achieved. The materials and methods of construction also mean that architectural features, such as vaulted ceilings and glazed gable ends can also be created with relative ease.

And, unlike on-site methods of construction such as masonry, the majority of the oak frame structure is prefabricated off-site meaning it can also be quick to build, thus causing the least amount of disruption to your current home once the work begins.

Design considerations for an oak frame extension

The design of your oak frame extension, like other types of house extension will start with you understanding how you want to use your new space. Are you looking for a large open plan kitchen extension, or a cosy snug where you can enjoy garden views, whatever the weather.

Once you understand how you will use the space, one of the most fundamental questions regarding the design of an oak frame extension, is how much oak will you want to leave exposed?

Are you looking to complement a period home with more traditional exposed oak rafters, purlins or trusses, or are you seeking a more streamlined look, in which case you may want to pare back the oak to the structural minimum.

Typically, the most cost-effective route of adding an oak frame extension lies is approaching an oak frame company who can provide an in-house design service, or an architectural practice with experience designing timber frame extensions. Their working knowledge of the possibilities, challenges and limitations of this build system will ensure you get a design that not only meets your needs, but is suitable for the materials you will be using during construction.

George Allen, regional design consultant for Oakwrights says areas that need particular consideration are:

• First floor windows: These often dictate roof design as if you have windows on the adjoining wall, then a flat or mansard roof design may be your only option
• Internal floor space: What access, routes across the extension and furniture positions might influence your design?
• Glazing: If you are thinking about three fully glazed walls for example, then plug sockets will need to go in the floor
• Plinth materials: If you are having a brick or stone plinth make sure it will match or complement your home
• Access to the extension: Where will this be? Can you use an existing external door, or you will need to knock through an external wall?
• Heating: How will you heat your oak frame extension? Underfloor heating continues to be very popular as do log burning stoves

Creating a cohesive visual connection

As with any house extension ideas, the connection, and impact of this on the existing house also requires a great deal of thought during the design phase. Extensions which are subservient, but draw their cue in terms of design and materials from the existing house, can often work well, although there is equal aesthetic value in creating contrast too.

One way of making a new extension feel instantly at home is to introduce elements of oak into the main house at the same time as building an extension.

"You could include elements such as an oak frame porch or an internal glazed oak screen, both of which would help to visually tie the extension to the existing house," suggests architect Mike Hope of Roderick James Architects ; a practice well versed in designing oak frame homes.

Building an oak frame extension

Once your design is agreed and any necessary planning permission approved, what comes next? It's a relatively simple three stage process says George Allen.

• Production of the oak frame off site, while onsite your builder will complete the extension foundations
• Installation of oak frame, roofing, walls and glazing
• Interior finish

Off-site production phase

Most homeowners will work with a specialist oak frame company when adding an oak frame extension. This company may work on the basis of design and supply of frame only, or they may also provide the 'encapsulation' system.

Traditionally, an oak frame would have been infilled with wattle and daub, or brick. Today, the options are more varied, says Paul Edmunds, the founder of Welsh Oak Frame, noting how the changes are necessary to ensure oak frame extensions meet Building Regulations standards for thermal efficiency.

"Softwood stud, SIPs (structural insulated panels) or timber panels are all used to encase the system," says Paul Edmunds. "Then, when it comes to the external finish, the options are wide ranging. Timber cladding, brick work, masonry, render, block or stone can all be used. This allows the external appearance to fit vernacular local styles and satisfy any extension planning permission requirements."

It should however be noted that heavier claddings such as brick and stone often have to be built off their own foundations, which will likely have an impact on the timings and your final budget. As will the amount of architectural glazing you use in your final structure.

In terms of the stages of building an oak frame extension, Paul Edmunds say you can typically expect it to look as follows:

• Foundation by ground workers
• Raising frame to rafter roof level
• Clad roofing or slate tiles
• External envelope brickwork, weather boarding
• Internal first and second fix

Most oak frame companies will require the homeowner to commission a builder or groundworking company to complete the foundations, before delivering and erecting the oak frame on site.

Once the oak frame is constructed, the homeowner will typically have the option to project manage individual trades to finish the extension, or commission a builder to manage this process for them.

Time frame for building an oak frame extension

In general, expect to allow around 5 - 6 months for your oak frame extension schedule, says George Allen. This will ensure there is sufficient time for the design and consultation process, planning, groundworks and then the oak frame assembling and roofing, with the interior work and glazing done last.

In terms of the the time on site, it will all depend on the size and scale of your extension says Paul Edmunds.

Practical considerations when connecting your oak frame extension to your home

Oak frame extensions are typically built to be structurally independent. In other words, the house and extension sit next to one another but don't rely on the same set of foundations.

"An oak frame extension will generally be structurally separate to your home," confirms George Allen, "and the extension will often connect through a softwood battens, a weatherproof seal and capping on the side, along with a softwood roof rafter with flashing and detailing on the roof join."

"As an extension, it can be butted against the existing structure," says Paul Edmunds, "and there are various ways to anchor it to the existing home by means of stainless-steel resin anchored into the masonry/brickwork. This will be done with all the necessary weather-stripping and damp-proof courses in the appropriate places."

Keeping them structurally separate can be beneficial, particularly with older properties adds Merry Albright, creative director at Border Oak. “It means we don’t need to mess around with the main building or foundations, as often we are extending an old building and you never know what you may find. This route can offer more control over the whole project and the costs involved,” she explains.

Another option is to create a glass link extension between the two buildings, a device which visually separates old from new and helps draw light into the house.

Oak frame extension costs

As with any extension costs, oak frame extension costs are generally dictated by the final size, design, features and particular requirements of your project.

The amount of glazing specified is one example of where costs can escalate. Introducing large sets of bi-fold doors, as opposed to a simple set of French doors, will naturally add to the price, so too will factors such as the complexity of the extension and the location of the build.

Access to the site can also present issues and extra costs, as a crane is commonly used to erect both the frame and the SIPs (if used). However, where access is limited, there are solutions. "Difficult sites often involve specialist lifting equipment – occasionally the oak frame has been craned over the house, and there is lifting equipment available that can fit through the space of a garden gate," says Paul Brierley of Paragon Oak.

"Costs can vary greatly per m2," says George Allen, "but I would cost for between £3,500-£5,000 per m2 for an oak framed extension. If you're looking for a way of reducing costs, single storey pitched roof extensions with clay tiles are probably the most cost effective option," he adds.

Although it should be noted, says Paul Edmunds, that as with other extensions, on a pro rata basis, "a single storey extension can more expensive, as the foundation and roof costs are the same as a two storey extension."

Another element that can influence price is the type of oak used he adds. "Depending on the style and content of the oak used, the price can vary considerably. There are however options to use a hybrid system using oak and softwood timber framing which is proving to be very popular."

Pros and cons of oak frame extensions

Benefits of an oak frame extension

In general, design characteristics, speed of build, cost effectiveness and the sustainable nature of timber are all front runners in the list of benefits of oak frame extensions.

"A bespoke oak frame doesn’t just provide structure for your home," says project consultant, Dan Wilson at Carpenter Oak. "Because it will be visible within the extension itself, the timber also brings character, texture and warmth to your home. It will only ever improve with age.

"Oak frame extensions are also generally less ‘heavy on the eye’," says George Allen. "Options such as face glazing really give the sense of allowing the outside in, and are perfect for enjoying the outdoors all year. In addition, oak is a natural material and contains embodied carbon making it a great option for those looking for eco-friendly ways of building.

"Having a solid roof, will also allow you to keep the roof cool in the summer," adds George, "and the fact that the frame needs to be well insulated will keep the extension as warm as the rest of the home during the winter."

Drawbacks of adding an oak frame extension

When it comes to cons, there are of course some, but most of them can be overcome.

Oak is a natural material and even with offers of ‘dry’ oak, the timber will still crack and move slightly – but it’s not a structural weakness, simply a feature of the wood. Due to the shrinkage of the oak, glazing between the oak frame is an area that requires particular attention, but this is where face glazing can be worth considering when choosing windows for your oak frame extension.

Likewise, if you are looking for vast expanses of glazing with minimal posts, an oak frame extension may not result in the final look you are hoping for. If this sounds possible, you may need to consider other options such as glass extension ideas.

FAQs

Do I need planning permisson for an oak frame extension?

As with any extension, regardless of construction system, an oak extension must comply with planning rules. Fortunately some extensions do not need planning permission – the work could fall under Permitted Development.

“It is very important to speak to the planning authority regarding size, style and specific requirements and policy restrictions – some extensions may not actually need planning approval but some houses will have lots of conditions and restrictions,” recommends Merry Albright.

What time of year is best to build an oak frame extension?

"The advantage of the manufactured oak frame sections, means the kit can be manufactured in controlled conditions in the factory," says Paul Edmunds. "This subsequently reduces the site time and means an oak frame extension can be protected from the elements in under two weeks."

"I would suggest try to avoid winter if you are knocking through an external wall," adds George Allen. "However, if you plan to access your extension through existing doors you have more flexibility. If you start in early spring you should have a finished build by late summer!"

Our final tips for getting your oak frame extension project to completion? As there are a number of contractors involved in building one, good communication between all parties is key to keeping the build on track.

Ensure that there are no long delays between the groundworks being completed and the oak frame being delivered to site and erected. With the opportunity to include lots of glazing in an oak frame extension, make sure you have also considered ways to make your extension work with your garden.

For more inspiration, find out how these homeowners transformed their cottage with oak frame extensions.

Content supplied by Oakwrights

Deciding to build your own home is a big decision in itself, but it also opens the door to a multitude of other sizable choices that you will need to make throughout the project, from financing your project, choosing a construction system and deciding on the build route that best suits you and your budget. 

For a project of this nature, expert advice is essential. While it is relatively easy to source generic advice online for your project during the pandemic, you will also need bespoke advice from industry experts in order to get the most out of your design and ensure you are thrilled with the end result, which can be much harder to achieve in the current lockdown.

To facilitate access to bespoke expert advice from the comfort of your own home, Oakwrights is offering complementary virtual advice appointments as part of its Home Design and Planning Clinic (26-27 March 2021). 

Hosted via Zoom, if you already own a plot of land and would like to discuss your vision for your dream oak frame home with industry experts, this complementary clinic has been designed to support you and your future plans.

What Can I Expect from the Appointment? 

From the comfort of your home, you will have the opportunity to dive into detail about your specific project and have your questions answered by Oakwrights’ in-house Chartered Architect Helen Needham, and members of its in-house architectural team.

Each virtual appointment is private and will last for up to an hour. When booking your appointment, you will be asked for more information about your upcoming project. Try to give as much detail as possible at this stage to enable Oakwrights’ experienced team of Chartered Architects, architectural designers and technicians to have an in-depth understanding of your plot and your self build vision, and undertake any necessary research prior to your appointment. 

Come armed with your wish list for the design of your dream home and the Oakwrights architectural design team will share ideas and inspiration to help you reach the full potential of your plot. 

The team is also able to offer expert advice on how you can ensure planning application success for your proposed project.

For more information on the Clinic and how to book a free, no obligation appointment, please visit the Oakwrights website.  

Timber frame extension ideas come in all manner of shapes and sizes. From bespoke oak framed and beamed kitchen extensions, to contemporary ones made with structural insulated panels (SIPs) and clad in metal, there's no end to the possibilities you can explore.

The bonus with this style of extension is that as well as offering a host of visual finishes, adding a timber frame extension can also be a time efficient way of adding space and value to your home.

The only difficulty you may face is choosing what type, style or design you want from the many that are available. If you're not sure where to start, these stunning timber frame extension ideas should certainly bring some inspiration.

1. Timber doesn't have to mean straight lines

Although timber generally leans towards a more linear look, this modern extension designed by 2020 Architects proves that curves aren't just achievable, but are always worth considering in your timber frame extension ideas.

And, despite the fact this extension was added to a 100-year-old blacksmith’s forge, and is nestled in a National Landscape (formerly known as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty), the innovation wasn't just limited to curves. The extension is a modern, sustainable and super insulated straw bale and timber frame construction, taking its cues from the agricultural setting in which it's located.

The beauty extends outside too, with the curved metal clad roof contrasting with the cream render, timber cladding and timber and glass balcony. Corner sliding patio doors open to allow the homeowners to embrace the surrounding views. It's a master class on just how much can be achieved with timber frame extension ideas.

2. Use a double-sided approach for your facades

Choosing to use timber when building an extension doesn't mean you have to have it on display everywhere. Instead, as is the case with this terraced house extension from Paul Archer Design, timber was used in the construction method, but one of the external facades was clad in brick.

"The extension is a timber frame construction so it's well insulated, but we wanted to explore treating the brickwork as a very obvious non-structural 'screen' on the back of the building," explains director, Richard Gill.

"Stack bonding and stepping the brick line in and out, gave the impression of hanging bricks, and we worked with Ibstock to create a series of brick specials that hide all visible fixings to lintels and sills.

"Pushing the brick faces in and out allow a sculptural articulation of the form, while a similar brick tone to the original London stock allows the new structure to tie in with the main house and the neighbourhood," he explains.

From the side, however, it's a very different viewpoint, with light grey timber cladding providing the perfect frame for the simple, but large swathes of aluminium glazing.

3. Combine a variety of timber finishes inside

It would be impossible to not talk about timber frame extensions without sharing some examples of oak frame extension ideas. A classic approach to using timber in an extension, there are a whole host of ways in which you can use oak, most of which do – and should – involve leaving some of the beautiful oak trusses and beams exposed.

In this light and airy open plan kitchen extension, Carpenter Oak were tasked with creating a kitchen, dining and living space that would connect with, and complement the existing property's period style.

A New England-style weatherboard-clad vaulted ceiling provides the ultimate backdrop to the oak beams and trusses, while large powder-coated aluminium windows, patio doors and rooflights ensure the new extension is filled with light.

4. Replace a conservatory with a timber frame extension

One of the advantages of using timber frame construction is the fact it can be a lighter alternative to a more traditional masonry method. But that needn't mean basic design, as this curved roof single-storey extension from MW Architects proves.

What's perhaps even more surprising is that this idea developed from the desire of the homeowners to replace a conservatory with a more contemporary and solid structure.

Driven by the need to use the existing conservatory foundations and being able to retain the slab, underfloor heating and tiles, the architect and structural engineers designed a stunning double curved roof plane.

Matthew Wood, founder and MD explains more. "A composite timber roof structure was supported by steel columns, while roof beams were made from sections of laminated veneer lumber, creating a visual structural grid inside, while providing sufficient support for the roof above. The joints are self reciprocating on each connection – they hold each other up so the load can be picked up at any point.

"A clerestory window was then placed all around the exterior, above the timber-framed walls that were internally plasterboarded and rendered on the outside. This created a sense of the roof floating, and allowed for additional light to flood the inside of the room," he continues.

"In addition, we wanted the roof to open up towards the sunlight in one corner but stay low for the neighbour on the other side and protect the privacy from the upper windows in the warehouse. This is where a traditional structure would struggle," says Matthew. "However, the laminated timber beams could be cut from flat pieces, rather than trying to bend them out of steel, which would have been difficult and heavy. Forming the shape in a lightweight way was what helped to make this project so unique."

5. Use an oak frame extension on an oak frame house

If you've built your main home in timber, it's often better to extend using the same construction method. Something these homeowners were delighted to do having already had an oak frame home built by Welsh Oak Frame four years earlier.

After deciding that the glazed roof on the sunroom wasn't as practical as they'd imagined, they looked for options for extending above the room. As they'd had to dig deeper than normal for the foundations due to the proximity of a tree, the existing build was strong enough to support the addition of a second floor.

Using an oak frame was the most logical solution so that they could match the new addition to their existing home, giving the overall impression that the house had always looked this way.

6. Tell the tale of time with a contemporary timber frame extension

Constructed as part of a much bigger project to renovate and extend this semi-detached coastal cottage, the new timber frame extension was created to replace existing, piecemeal extensions that didn't provide the homeowners with the living space they needed.

"Built using a hybrid timber and steel frame and, where possible, the existing structures to minimise the environmental impact, unsympathetic extensions were removed and replaced with a rationalised contemporary extension," Adam Knibb founder of Adam Knibb Architects tells us.

"The new extension also serves to establish a clear hierarchy between old and new," he continues. "Large areas of slimline glazing and carefully framed openings strengthen the relationship between interior and landscape, while overhangs and carefully positioned openings provide solar control and seasonal comfort.

"Material selection was integral to grounding the extension within its coastal setting," adds Adam. "Natural timber cladding was chosen for its durability, sustainability and ability to weather gracefully over time. The architectural expression is intentionally contemporary but rooted in place, demonstrating how new additions can complement rather than imitate existing structures."

7. Use zinc cladding with a timber frame

Sometimes it's hard to know what an extension is constructed from, such as this innovative side extension to a brick terraced house, designed by Platform 5 Architects.

With no visual exterior clues, you might be surprised to discover that it was actually formed by resting an oak rib and skin structure, externally clad in zinc, onto the brick party wall.

Timber can often be seen as traditional, but in this case it proves that there really is no limit to your ideas for your timber frame extension.

8. Go for an opulent timber and brick orangery

Orangery extension ideas are perfect for showcasing the character of a timber frame, as this project from Welsh Oak Frame demonstrates. Comprising a rich oak structure atop a dwarf brick wall, a generous roof lantern floods the space with light, with its design matching the window and porch gables.

Of course, with this amount of light, it's important to make sure you specify the right glass for a roof lantern at the design stage to prevent too much solar gain which can lead to overheating.

9. Add a dormer loft conversion onto a bungalow

Looking for a place to raise their young family without breaking the bank led these homeowners to renovate and extend a dated bungalow in Surrey, by adding a dormer loft conversion.

Carried out under Permitted Development, the double dormers achieved the maximum allowable addition volume for a detached house, giving the family much-needed extra space.

Constructed using a timber frame, the ground floor was dressed in timber cladding, while the loft conversion contrasts with its black slate tile-hung cladding instead.

10. Extend in a way that mirrors the existing home

The beauty of this particular timber frame home, designed by renowned architect Walter Segal, was that its timber panelised construction allowed it to be extended and reconfigured by the homeowners themselves.

And, while builders were used for some elements, the dry timber construction method allowed the current owners to undertake much of the work in person under the guidance of MAP Architecture. Timber was used for the structural frame, with the whole house and new extension being updated and wrapped in a layer of environmentally friendly insulation before receiving a visual upgrade to the external cladding.

The end result makes it look as if the house and extension were always one, as opposed to it being an extended property.

11. Design a timber loft conversion that celebrates the view

Semi-detached extension ideas are often sought out by architects and homeowners keen to expand living space, without losing a sense of any of the existing home's features – particularly as this type of home often has period architectural features that need preserving.

In this project from William Tozer Associates, two extensions were created to add more living and bedroom space to the overall footprint. A timber structure was used to create the loft conversion, which stands proud on the roof, but uses the same tiled exterior finish as the existing roof.

Large patio doors give the sense of being in the treetops from the inside, with a frameless glass balustrade providing safety without obscuring the view.

Interested in a timber frame extension now you've seen what's possible? As these ideas demonstrate, there's a variety of looks you can achieve, but there's also more than one method of building one.

Find out more in our guide to timber build systems, and if you will be opting for a loft conversion extension, take a look at how to choose your loft conversion cladding.

Stylish oak frame porches are a lovely addition to any home and come with practical elements as well as plenty of style. With gorgeous exposed beams and wonderful design features, oak frame porches are a great way to update the front of your house.

Oak frame houses are a growing trend in the self build arena but if you can’t stretch to a whole new build, why not try touches of oak in the form of oak frame conservatories,  an oak frame garage, or a simple yet striking porch.

Read on to discover everything you need to know before embarking on this type of oak project.

(MORE: Get a Quote for Your Oak Frame Project) 

What is an Oak Frame Porch?

Oak frame porches provide a practical cover to shield your front door from the elements, plus a porch adds a characterful architectural feature to your home. 

Your porch can be a whole range of designs from open, canopy-style coverings that provide protection from the weather, to fully enclosed structures that double up as entrance areas and boot rooms.

How Much Does an Oak Frame Porch Cost? 

Costs vary a great deal depending on the size and design of the porch.

For a small, simply-designed, canopy-style oak structure supplied on a DIY basis, expect to budget a minimum of £1,000 for the oak elements alone.

If you’re not planning to erect the porch yourself, you’ll need to factor in labour costs, too, as well as the outlay for additional materials such as tiles and the external floor finish.

“As a guide, a 2m x 1m porch would cost around £5,000. The oak would be £3,500 with £1,500 labour cost,” says Gareth from Welsh Oak Frame. “A larger and more complex structure would cost more.”

If you’re building a fully enclosed porch with a more complex design, glazing and lots more oak, the costs could rise above £10,000. 

"While porches are much smaller in scale than primary oak frames, the carpentry/jointing involved is no less,” says Fergus Stuart, design and project consultant at Carpenter Oak. 

For larger structures, perhaps enclosed with glazing, the oak frame could be in the region of £8,000 to £12,000 on a supply-only basis.

To erect such a structure would be in the region of £2,000.

How Much are Oak Frame Porch Kits?

Oak porch kits are designed for speed and ease of construction, either by you or your contractor. 

Whether you go for an off-the-shelf product or a bespoke design, typically, only the oak elements are included. 

“A simple open porch would also need basic foundations, a plinth wall, an external floor finish and roof tiles,” says Fergus from Carpenter Oak. “All of those elements are best procured through local tradespeople rather than nationwide oak frame suppliers.”

As a minimum, you’ll need to budget between £1,500 and £5,000 for the oak components, depending on how much oak there is and the complexity of the design.

The average cost of labour needed to build a porch ranges between £150 and £300 per day, with construction likely to take between one and two weeks (depending on the complexity of the design).

(MORE: 13 Inspiring Kit Home Ideas)

Do I Need Planning Permission to Add an Oak Frame Porch?

Typically, most new porches don't require planning permission and fall under Permitted Development, providing the structure is no more than 3m tall, with a floor area no greater than 3m2. 

The new structure should not be positioned within 2m of any boundary that fronts the highway. If your house is listed or within a designated zone such as a Conservation Area, it’s likely that permission will be required. 

“It’s always worth checking with your local planning authority before getting started, to make sure you are within the required regulations,” says James from Oakmasters.

 (MORE: 23 Things You Can Do Without Planning Permission) 

Do Oak Frame Porches Need Building Regulations Approval? 

Porches are usually exempt from Building Regulations approval, providing the floor area of the structure remains within the relevant size parameters (less than 30m2). 

To be considered exempt, the entrance door between the new porch and the existing house should also remain in place.

If your porch incorporates any fixed electrical installations or glazing, the work needed to fit these elements will, however, need to comply with the work standards laid out in the regulations.

Plus, if the house has ramped access for disabled occupants, the new porch should not adversely affect that.

(MORE: Building Inspectors)

Does an Oak Frame Porch Need Foundations? 

Generally, the answer to this question is yes. However, the depth of the footings are typically much less than would be required for a house built on normal ground conditions. 

(MORE: Foundation Systems and Soil Types)

What Oak Frame Porch Designs are Available?

One of the first choices is whether you want an open, enclosed or canopy porch:

• Enclosed - “The enclosed option offers an easy way to extend your home and create extra storage – it’s an ideal place to keep shoes and coats,” says James Rice, head of sales at Oakmasters. “King post trusses can be used along with glazed panels to add extra height and let the light in, and brick or flint detail can add a modern aspect to the design.”
• Open - An open porch could be built as a four-posted structure, perhaps built atop a brick plinth, or as a small canopy that extends outwards from the face of the house
• Canopy - A canopy is the simplest and most cost-effective option but won’t provide much shelter from the wind and rain. Generally, this style is better suited to smaller homes or for entrances at the back or side of the house.

When planning the design of your oak frame porch, it’s vital to consider the design of the existing property.

Whether you want your porch to make a traditional or modern design statement, it’s important to consider the details.

“Style can vary considerably, from large structures with sunken trusses and hand carved detail, to simple frames with brick roofs to extend the original style of your house,” says James from Oakmasters. “Wide beams can be used to complement larger properties, while small intricate structures can add character to smaller houses and cottages.”

(MORE: 10 Beautiful Porch Ideas)

What Type of Oak is Used to Build an Oak Frame Porch? 

Most UK suppliers use green oak to build their porches. Robust, durable and packed with character, recently-felled oak has a higher moisture content than kiln- or air-dried oak and it is therefore easier for manufacturers to cut and shape with precision.

Always double check that the oak used for your porch kit comes from a sustainable, FSC-certified source.

What is the Lead Time for an Oak Frame Porch?

Whether you choose an off-the-shelf design or something bespoke, you will need to allow time in your schedule for the oak elements to be crafted in your supplier’s workshop. 

Typically, this period is around eight weeks, though the length of time will vary depending on the supplier and the complexity of your design.

“Everything is made by hand, in the same way we make our houses, using the same high standard of oak so quality is maintained,” says Merry Albright, creative director at Border Oak. 

Opting for an off-the-shelf design is likely to shave off a few weeks while the oak elements are fabricated, but if you go down the bespoke route, you’ll need to allow extra time to cover design work and engineering time. 

During this time, your contractor can get to work preparing the foundations and building any plinth walls so that everything on site is ready to go once the oak frame kit is delivered.

(MORE: Find the Right Builder for Your Project)

What Materials Can be Used for the Roof? 

One way to ensure your new porch blends with the existing property is to match the roof tiles on the porch to those already on the roof of the house. 

If you’re looking to match the exquisite, hand-crafted aesthetic of the oak frame porch, premium products such as handmade clay tiles or slates might create the right aesthetic.

If you’re working to a tighter budget, interlocking concrete tiles offer an alternative solution.

(MORE: Roof Covering Ideas)

Bringing Light into Your Oak Frame Porch

A porch with glazed or open sides ensures natural light can be channelled into your home’s reception area.

If you’re concerned the porch roof might block out the sunlight, another solution could be to replace your front door for a partially-glazed model. Incorporating side lights to the side of the front door is another way to make sure rays of sun filter into the house. 

It’s wise to incorporate a motion sensor light in your new porch or some outdoor wall lights. That way, you don’t have to spend time searching for an outdoor switch as you rummage in your bag for keys.

The light could be fitted within the porch, or matching lamps could be fitted on brackets to the exterior walls of the house.

(MORE: 15 Great Glazing Ideas)

Can I Build an Oak Frame Porch Myself? 

Erecting an oak frame kit porch is well within the capability of a competent DIYer. 

However, if you don’t have much faith in your handywork, assembling the kit should be a straightforward job for a local builder or carpenter. 

Bear in mind, some of the components are quite heavy, so at least two people may be required to lift them into place.

“Our porches are designed and made as kits, supplied ready for the local contractor to install,” says James from Oakmasters. “The assembly of the porch is a fairly simple procedure, since the components are produced with all the joints pre-cut and marked for easy assembly. We supply the complete oak porch frame, including oak pegs for self-assembly.” 

How is an Oak Frame Porch Connected? 

The method of ‘fixing’ depends on what material you are tying the porch to.

Tying the porch to the house does tend to be one of the more fiddly parts of the construction process, but as most oak porches support their own weight, the connection tends to be more cosmetic than structural.

 “It may only need cosmetic tying in – around the roof area, primarily,” says Merry.

Adequate flashing should always be installed where the porch roof meets the exterior face of the building to ensure the join is waterproof.

How to Look After an Oak Frame Porch

Whether or not to treat the oak comes down to personal preference. Left open to the elements, oak will naturally weather to a silvery hue with no maintenance required. 

If you want to retain the freshly-sawn honey-colour of the wood, an anti-UV oil is required. The wood would then need to be re-treated every year or so to maintain the same shade.

How do I clean an oak frame porch?

The frame doesn’t need to be cleaned, however, if any water stains form on the surface of the wood these can be removed with oxalic acid once the porch is erected.

Can I Use Other Woods to Create a Porch?

While some suppliers offer softwood alternatives (eg air or kiln-dried pine or Douglas fir) to oak frame porches, oak tends to be the preferred material for timber frame porches due to its long-lasting, robust nature. 

Plus, the labour required to craft each porch is still the same, so the final cost for a softwood design may not end up being that much cheaper.

How Long will an Oak Frame Porch Last?

As a premium building material, oak is prized for its incredibly robust nature. A well-made oak porch should therefore offer a service life of a couple of hundred years – or more. 

There's no disputing the allure and appeal of oak frame buildings. From beautiful kitchen extensions to conservatories, garages and entire oak framed houses, there's very little that can't be created using an oak frame.

But when it comes to the cost to build an oak frame home, they are often seen as a luxury option and not always in reach for those who are working to a budget. However, with careful project management and the right design, it's possible to create a beautiful oak frame home that's stylish, functional and within reach.

We look at the costs involved and explore how to minimise your overall spend when building an oak frame home.

Average cost to build an oak frame home

As with any house design, it's impossible to give exact costs for building an oak frame home without knowing all the details and variables that can influence the final figure – most of which we'll come onto later.

"The cost is determined by numerous factors," confirms Gareth Edmunds, director at Welsh Oak Frame. "When we get asked about costs without a set of plans in front of us, we advise that the only way to budget oak frame house builds is to calculate a cost based on floor area."

However, there are always ballpark figures that will give you some parameters to work within, and a starting point to help you understand if oak frame house costs are worth investigating for your self build project.

We asked three major oak frame companies to give us an overview of how much you should be setting aside per square metre if you're looking at oak frame home ideas.

"We generally advise that clients should budget between £2,200 – £2,700 of usable floor space," says Gareth. "This excludes the plot of land and landscaping. The oak frame element usual works out to be between a third to half of this calculation."

At Carpenter Oak, Fergus Stuart, design & project consultant tells us: "Our customers spend somewhere in the region of £2,500 – £3,000 per sqm (excl VAT) for the total build (not including plot cost, or fees for architects, surveying or planning), and the oak frame would typically comprise 20 – 25% of this cost."

While over at Oakwrights, head of architecture, Helen Needham advises they tell clients: "The cost of building an oak frame home typically starts at around £3,000 per m² for a new build, depending on the level of specification and the chosen procurement route.

"If opting for a more comprehensive turnkey solution, costs are usually closer to £3,400 per m²," she adds. As with the other companies, Helen confirms, "these costs do not include demolition, landscaping, or renewable energy systems, as these elements are tailored to the specific requirements of each site."

Managing oak frame house costs: Where to spend and how to save

If budget is unlimited, it's possible to create a truly magnificent oak frame house with everything you could ever need. But, if budget is a little tighter, it is possible, to build an oak frame home on a budget. So where can your costs escalate and how can you keep a lid on them?

"A good rule of thumb is that complexity = cost," advises Gareth Edmunds. "So, the more simple a design, detail or process the more cost efficient it is likely to be."

A good example of this is in roof design, says Helen Needham. "Keeping designs simple can be key. An up-and-over roof will typically be more cost-efficient than a hipped roof with dormers. The more complex the design, the higher the cost tends to be."

It's also important to make sure you are completely happy with your final design before you start, warns Fergus Stuart.

"Making major changes to your home or oak frame extensions when you have reached a certain point in your project could have a big impact on costs, which is why the design process at the start of the project is so important to get right," he says. "Make decisions as early as possible and stick to them."

In general, Gareth says the main areas affecting the cost to build an oak frame home are as follows:

• Build route: Many self builders do not undertake much of the actual building work themselves, instead, relying on tradespersons and builders. Considerable cost savings can be made by managing the trades, quantifying and ordering materials; in essence either fully or partly project managing themselves
• Specification: Although the cost of many of the construction elements such as the foundations, and superstructure do not vary at all based on quality, the cost of external roof and wall cladding, windows and doors, flooring, fixtures and fittings, and renewables can potentially double the cost of building the same house compared to a standard specification
• Volume of oak: The more oak you have, the more expensive it will be
• Location: Where the plot is located geographically can also affect the build cost, for example, a tradesman in London is likely to charge more than a tradesman in the north of England
• Services: If the plot is not connected to mains services, such as electricity and water, the self-builder should get quotes for connection from your local utility suppliers before purchasing the plot
• Number of storeys: The square meter cost for a two-storey house is lower than a single storey build. Why? Because two of the largest fixed costs in constructing a house are the groundworks/foundations/slab and roof. The specification and cost for a set footprint and roof layout will not vary whether the design is single storey, two storey, or three storey, yet the overall area of the design will increase dramatically, spreading out the cost
• Plan, shape and layout: Complexity of design is one of the biggest factors affecting build costs. The simplest and most cost-effective floorplan is square. Compared to a square plan, a rectangular plan requires more wall for the same floor area, thus increasing costs. The longer and narrower the plan, the less efficient it is to build. Building straight walls is cheaper than building corners, as it slows down the build process adding to labour costs. Consequently, the more angles introduced into a floorplan, the greater the cost, so a simple design with few corners is cheaper to build. Angles other than 90° right angles are even more time consuming to set out and build and so will increase costs further. Curved walls are amongst the most expensive to build of all.

A hybrid frame could help reduce the cost to build an oak frame home

Another way of influencing the final cost for your oak frame home is to use a hybrid frame, a combination of oak and structural softwood which costs less than oak.

"The amount of visible oak framing will influence the overall costs," confirms Helen Needham. "A full oak frame that exposes every rafter and joist will generally cost more internally than a simpler principal frame. So, designing the layout so that ancillary spaces, such as the boot room or utility areas, don’t require the same oak framing can help reduce costs," she says. "Using structural softwood in these areas provides a cost-effective solution without compromising the overall design."

Instead, limit using a visible oak frame in key areas suggests Fergus Stuart. "We build lots of hybrid structures, where the timber frame is the primary structure in a certain area of a building, though not all of it," he advises. "This is typically in open plan or vaulted living areas, where the timber frame will be most appreciated, but choosing a different timber could save you money – for example Douglas fir is cheaper yet still gives a beautiful, warm and impressive finish."

Choosing your project team carefully at the start of the build is another way you might potentially save money in the long term.

“An experienced building team and project manager with knowledge and connections may actually mean the build is quicker, less problematic and easier to resolve, so can be less expensive,” says Merry Albright, creative director at Border Oak.

The external cladding choice will also impact your oak frame home costs

As well as the oak itself impacting on your budget, how you clad the exterior of your house will also have a bearing on the final cost to build an oak frame home.

Helen Needham explains:

"External cladding can impact costs, depending on the materials chosen. For example, combining a tiled roof with brickwork will typically only require a tiler and bricklayer, whereas adding additional materials, such as stone or wood cladding, could require specialists like a stonemason or carpenter.

"Purchasing in greater quantities of a single material may result in cost savings, but it's important to balance this with aesthetics and character. A house with brick, wood cladding, and tiles may have more appeal and long-term value than one with just brick and tiles," she notes.

"Some house cladding options, like timber or stone, may be more expensive, but they can add character and increase asset value," she adds. "A designer or architect can advise on the most cost-effective materials for your project and ensure that the design meets both your budget and your aesthetic goals. Additionally, the amount of timber cladding can influence mortgage lenders’ decisions, so it’s important to consult a design specialist for guidance on this."

If you're looking at ways to combine speed and budget, "timber cladding is likely to be the most cost effective and be installed quicker than other alternatives, as it's less labour intensive," says Gareth Edmunds.

Other areas to look at when choosing products for the exterior of your oak frame house include guttering, fenestration and internal fittings.

Watch out for added costs with the following:

• Material details such as copper or aluminium rainwater goods
• Painted or softwood aluminium windows and doors
• Internal fixtures such as laminate, wood or granite worktops
• Flooring choices

Oak frame home costs: Bespoke vs off-the-shelf

There are a few ways in which you can approach your oak frame home project. As a completely bespoke piece of design or by choosing an existing 'off-the-shelf' one. But, how much does this impact the final cost to build an oak frame home and is it worth the potential savings?

"The simple answer is yes, it would affect the design costs," says Gareth Edmunds. "With our design service, clients can either go down the bespoke design route or adapt a previous design from our archive. Adapting a design starts from £1500+VAT and bespoke designs start from £2,000k+VAT. Is worth considering that by paying a little bit extra, you could have a completely bespoke design."

And even though the initial cost of a bespoke design could appear to be more, it could find ways of saving money as the design takes shape, advises Fergus Stuart.

"Designing a bespoke home allows you so much more flexibility than an off-the-shelf design, allowing you to reduce costs in creative ways. Oak frame homes are usually conceived to be particularly efficient, however a well informed design team will be applying their knowledge of low energy building design, structural efficiencies and the associated costs as they develop your design with you.

"For example, you could choose a part-frame where only some of your self-build has a large section frame, such as in the living areas. Adding a mezzanine is also a great way of giving you more usable floor space without having to add another room," ideas which may not always feature in an existing product.

Plus, while it may cost more at the design and build stage, a bespoke product could end up adding more value if you come to sell your house in the future.

"A bespoke design can take full advantage of the site’s opportunities, such as views, natural light, and orientation, creating a more functional and appealing space," adds Helen Needham. "Over time, this can add significant value as well as better meeting your needs compared to a standard 'off-the-shelf' design. Ultimately, a well-thought-out bespoke design can be a smart investment, providing long-term enjoyment and increased asset value."

FAQs

Are oak frame home costs more expensive than other construction methods?

As oak is a premium building material, it’s generally considered to be more expensive than other routes to self-building, such as other timber build systems or building with masonry.

Working with oak requires specialist carpentry skills, too, with many elements of the frame hand-crafted in your chosen supplier’s workshop. You’re therefore paying for the expertise involved in the labour, as well as the material itself.

"Building with an oak frame can cost more than methods such as brick and block, or solely with softwood timber frame or structural insulated panels," agrees Fergus Stuart, "but you’ll save money in other ways," he adds.

"For example, a frame can be raised in a matter of days, and it can then be wind and water tight within a few weeks (especially if you opt for a ‘wrap’ pre-manufactured encapsulation system). This saves you money on labour costs, compared to brick and block which takes much longer to construct, as well as being less liable to be delayed because of exposure to the elements."

"What we have typically found with our clients," adds Gareth Edmunds, "is the oak frame will add on approximately 20% to the structural costs, which translates to around an extra 5% to the total build costs."

However, remember that while the oak frame itself may add money, it is acting as the primary structure of the building.

“As such, the structural requirements of the envelope around the oak frame are minimal, reducing the cost in this element of the build compared with non-oak frame construction,” says Fergus Stuart.

Will face glazing add to the costs of an oak frame house?

Face glazing is designed to allow for the natural movement of the green oak frame as it settles, without putting pressure on the glass unit. The glass is applied to the exterior face of the oak frame, creating a weathertight seal and can a striking design feature to your home.

“Typically speaking, this detail does cost more. However, face glazing can be kept simple to keep costs down,” says Fergus Stuart, suggesting tips such as reducing the amount of corners and opting for fewer larger panels rather than lots of smaller units.

Our final tips for ensuring the cost to build an oak frame home doesn't escalate out of proportion? Don't get carried away when choosing the rest of your fixtures, fittings and finishes. Expensive extras can soon add up. If you’re building with oak, it can be tempting to match the beautifully crafted feel of the frame with other premium items.

For example, the cost of clay roof tiles (rather than concrete alternatives) and handmade (rather than machine-made) bricks will all start to stack up. The same applies when choosing items for your oak frame interiors. Premium products in bathrooms and kitchens can also mount up if you don't keep a close eye on them.

Keen to move ahead and think an oak frame home is right for you? If you don't already have a spot on which to build, follow our expert advice for finding a plot for your new dream home.

Whether you're looking to update an old uPCV conservatory or considering conservatory ideas as a way of extending your home, oak frame conservatories are a popular option that can work with both contemporary and traditional homes.

But, as with any home extension project, there are a number of different factors involved and oak frame conservatories are no different.

In this guide we'll take a look at the different styles, options and finishes available and discuss some of the more practical issues such as planning permission and building regulations to help you get your oak frame conservatory design just right.

What is an oak frame conservatory?

By definition, a conservatory is considered to have around 75% of the roof as glazing and 50% of the walls. "However, this design format is something people are steering away from now due to energy efficiency," says Izzy Edey, sales & estimating manager at Oakwrights.

But, even if the ratio of glazing aren't as exact as the definition, there's another way of identifying what makes an oak frame conservatory different from other types of oak frame extension ideas.

"An oak frame conservatory can also be defined by its layout and purpose," says Fergus Stuart, at Carpenter Oak.

"Oak frame conservatories are generally made up of one room and have a sole purpose. They are usually used as an additional living space; a cosy sitting room, or an impressive dining room, and will have plenty of glazing for views to a garden or even further if the plot allows," he explains. "This is in contrast to other styles of oak frame extension which may be built for multiple functions such as a kitchen and dining room."

"Conservatories are usually used as extensions to living areas, as additional seating spaces where natural light floods in," confirms Izzy Edey.

Oak frame conservatories vs orangeries or garden rooms

Other oak frame additions such as orangery extensions or garden rooms (those attached to a home rather than separate buildings), are also popular extension ideas, but each one comes with its own unique set of design and regulatory criteria – not least of all how the roof appears.

An oak framed orangery typically features a flat (or sometimes mansard) roof with a glazed lantern that allows sunshine to stream in. “This type of structure originated in Italy in the 17th century to house tropical plants and fruits. It’s designed with luxury in mind,” says Gareth Edmunds, director of Welsh Oak Frame. Typically, orangeries have windows rather than fully glazed walls.

Garden rooms generally feature a solid roof topped with tiles. “It’s like an extension built with materials that complement the architecture of the existing house,” explains Gareth. Like an orangery, there will be large windows or glazed walls to invite natural light in. Another common feature is a high roofline with a dramatic glazed gable.

Planning permission and building regulations requirements

Whether you’re building an oak conservatory, orangery or garden room, the project falls under the same set of planning rules as any other home extension. If you live in a designated zone such as a Conservation Area, Permitted Development (PD) rights do not apply and you will need to obtain planning consent from your local authority.

However, if you do meet the stipulations laid out under PD rights, you may not need to apply for formal planning permission – though it’s always worth obtaining a lawful development certificate for peace of mind.

"You can build a conservatory without planning permission providing the new extension follows some rules such as the new extension cannot be bigger than the existing house wall, it isn’t bigger than 50% of the area around the original house and it is under 4m high," says Izzy Edey.

"You can also build a conservatory without building regulations providing it is less than 30sqm, the existing external walls and doors separate the new extension from the the current home, and the heating system is independent of the existing one," she adds.

However, you will need Building Control approval to form a new structural opening between the existing house and the new conservatory. Plus, it’s worth bearing in mind that if you are replacing a uPVC conservatory, this will have had a lighter structure which may mean you need different foundations – another factor which will require the involvement of building control.

Oak frame conservatory design and build process

When it comes to designing your oak frame conservatory, there are plenty of options available to you, whether you're looking for something more traditional to add to a rural cottage, or a more contemporary sun room.

"Oak frames offer a huge amount of flexibility in style and design, from something pared back and modern, to something more traditional with oak features such as dragon tie beams and direct oak glazing," says Fergus Stuart. There are also plenty of options for the shape of the extension – so you don’t have to go with a square, box-like profile, especially if you’re keen to incorporate panoramic garden views.

Glazing

Glazing options are a-plenty too say the experts. "Bi-fold doors that can open to create large indoor outdoor spaces, are popular," says Izzy Edey. "Or, Oakwrights' unique Face Glazing can add a real wow factor to projects offering walls and gable ends of glass and oak," she adds.

Face glazing offers a solution that allows for the natural movement of the frame. Glass is applied to the exterior face of the oak frame to create a weathertight seal. “This method ensures that any movement in the frame doesn’t disrupt the seal between the glass unit and the oak frame itself,” says George Allen, a regional design consultant at Oakwrights.

Ceiling glazing is also a big consideration for your oak frame conservatory, and even if you opt for a more solid finish, you could also have a bank of rooflights to add a light and airy feel.

Size and span

Concerned a conservatory won't give you the extra space you need? "The only limitations to size are the space the client has to extend in, and their budget," says Izzy Edey.

An oak frame comprises of a structural skeleton that’s visible from inside and out. Most UK suppliers use green oak to fabricate structural components as it’s easier to work with than seasoned timber. But this does mean movement and splitting are a natural part of the process as the wood loses its moisture content and shrinks over time.

The structure is typically erected in boxlike sections known as bays, each of which will be around 4.5m wide. There is no limit to the number of bays you can have in an extension, though to be classed as a conservatory the structure needs to adhere to the afore-mentioned specific guidelines on size.

As the oak supports its own weight, getting this part of the build right requires careful calculation from an experienced framer. However, depending on the style of roof chosen, it’s possible to create large clear spans without incorporating a support post in the centre.

So, if you are happy to design to a size that requires planning permission, "spans up to 6 meters can be achieved with oak frames without intermediate posts, which would create a very large room," confirms Fergus Stuart.

Heating and ventilation

“In warmer months, solar gain can be used to heat the space – though you’d have to ensure the specification of the glazing is suitable,” says Fergus Stuart. Given the extent of glazing in a conservatory, radiators are not typically viable. Underfloor heating may be a better solution for heating a conservatory.”

Electric panel heaters or portable electric heaters offer another route to warming the space, however, running costs can be higher. To transform your heating solution into a focal feature, log burning stoves offer a potential alternative to heat the space.

Another option would be to extend your central heating system into your conservatory, though this job would need to adhere to Building Regulations and therefore, you’d need to consult your council’s Building Control department.

While the broad expanses of glazing invite an abundance of natural light and warmth, you also need to make sure your conservatory doesn’t overheat during the warmer months.

The first strategy is ventilation: air trapped within a conservatory is a swift route to a sweltering space, so incorporate opening windows and doors. Roof vents or trickle ventilators in windows are also a good idea.

If you know the orientation of your conservatory is likely to contribute to overheating, opting for a design with a solid roof might be better. Alternatively, consider incorporating windows, conservatory blinds, awnings and overhead sails to prevent direct sunlight from streaming in all day long.

The build process

An oak conservatory frame is usually fabricated off site in your supplier’s workshop while preparatory groundworks (including the construction of any plinth walls) are carried out on site.

Oak framed conservatories have a swift construction process, as the frame can be erected quickly once delivered.

“More often than not our clients use their own contractors to carry out groundworks, tiling and other parts of a project that require general building work,” says Serena Andrews from Oakmasters. “We manufacture the oak components exactly to the agreed design and specification and deliver them to site just after the groundworks have been completed.”

The good news is, most companies will provide the same care and attention to the build of an oak frame conservatory as they do any other oak project.

"We offer the same quality oak for our extensions and outbuilding as we do for our self-build home projects, therefore costs are the same as other oak frames," says Izzy Edey. "Our team can design your extension, submit planning and building regulations, and then provide a dedicated project manager to work with for the installation of the oak frame, as well as roofing, joinery, face glazing – leaving the extension ready for first fix electrics and plumbing, insulating and plasterboarding and the interior finish."

Oak frame conservatory costs

To avoid unnecessary expenditure, "your oak frame conservatory costs can managed by carefully choosing materials, i.e. roof type and finish, joinery, face glazing, internal finishes," says Izzy Edey. "But don’t forget running costs," she warns, "so insulating against overheating or the cold should not be overlooked.

"The average cost of an extension from Oakwrights in 2024 was £66,000, across all styles," she notes, "including oak frame, glazing and joinery and roofing.

As with any project, that figure will vary depending on the size, specification and detailing of your conservatory, and although, "oak frame conservatories can have higher costs as more glazing is usually desired," says Fergus Stuart, "they don't have other elements which usually put the final project costs up such as kitchens or bathrooms."

Tips for reducing your final oak frame conservatory costs

1. Typically, the more oak you incorporate into the design, the more the project will cost. Therefore, it’s important to work with a specialist oak frame designer to keep costs down.

2. Design complexity is one of the main factors likely to drive up costs, so try not to set your heart on wow-factor features like glazed gables and exposed oak rafters before doing your sums.

3. Mixing in softwood elements internally is one clever way to cut down on costs. Try to keep the floorplan simple, too, as a straightforward rectangular shape will cost less to build.

4. Other elements such as ground conditions for the footings and the roof tiles you use will impact costs

5. Think and plan out your heating and glazing systems as they will all impact on the final outlay

Pros and cons of oak frame conservatories

Pros

• Most sunroom extensions guarantee an abundance of natural light, as well as an improved connection to the outdoors
• Thanks to its warm natural tones, plus the distinctive splits and shakes of the timber, oak adds character 
• Oak provides a more sustainable route to adding a conservatory, too, providing the timber is sourced from an FSC-certified forest
• This enhanced durability ensures an oak conservatory will offer an impressive service life (hundreds of years, or more) compared to some other materials like uPVC conservatories which typically last around 30 years
• The superior thermal performance of timber (compared to plastic or aluminium) is an extra benefit
• Clever glazing can also take in account solar gain or avoidance depending on their positioning - an architect who understands this is very important. Oak framed buildings/spaces are usually 'wrapped' with SIPs panels or other pre-manufactured panels which mean they achieve high standards of insulation and efficiency

Cons

• An oak conservatory costs more than a uPVC one – although this needs to be weighed up against how much longer a sturdy, timber structure is likely to last than something built in plastic
• Oak’s ability to weather to a natural silvery hue is one of the material’s main appeals. However, if you want to retain the original colour of the timber annual maintenance is required, which might be too much for some
• If you’re building a garden room that connects to an open-plan kitchen-diner, extra care might be required for internal oak surfaces. Water splashing can cause stains so you might need to apply an oil-based sealant to provide some protection
• Potential oak frame complications can be avoided if you spend plenty of time finalising the design details at the beginning of the scheme. For example, lighting design needs to be factored in early on, especially if your sunroom features a vaulted ceiling, as does the placement and location of sockets with more wall space taken up by glazing
• An oak frame extension might not be suitable if there are any potential access restrictions to your site. However, most oak framers should be able to get round any issues by using a smaller vehicle to transport the frame or specialist smaller lifting equipment

FAQs

Can I build an oak frame conservatory myself?

Constructing an oak conservatory on a DIY basis is not beyond the realms of possibility for an extremely competent DIYer. “If you require an oak conservatory and have your own building capabilities or contractors, we can supply our products in kit form,” says Oakmasters.

In this scenario, the components will be pre-constructed in the supplier’s workshop and numbered. When delivered, they will arrive with an assembly plan for how the frame should be erected.

How do I choose an oak frame conservatory supplier?

There’s a wealth of suppliers to choose from and it depends on your own personal preferences as to which company you use. Questions to ask yourself include whether you want to buy your oak frame in kit form or have the structural skeleton designed to your bespoke specifications and erected by the supplier’s team.

Most companies have a portfolio of standard designs and finishes to choose from – ideal if you’re working with a tighter budget. At the other end of the scale, you might choose to work with a company’s in-house designer to create a completely bespoke extension.

Many package companies offer an additional suite of services, too, including the planning, construction and finishing elements of the build. Most will be able to provide a list of contractors they have worked with for other parts of the build, such as groundworks.

Can I use a different wood to oak for my conservatory?

The UK’s preference for building in oak has endured since Tudor times. However, other timbers such as larch, Douglas fir or glulam (glued laminated timber) can be used to create the same framed aesthetic.

“Freshly sawn Douglas fir or larch have a lower moisture content than green oak, and typically dry quicker,” says Fergus Stuart. “While they provide a more stable material to glaze against initially, the movement in the timber is still an important factor in the glazing system that’s adopted. Glulam is a very stable material and opens up scope for a wider range of glazing systems.”

Other hardwood options include tropical hardwoods - however, bear in mind that sourcing materials locally is likely to be cheaper and lower on embodied energy, giving home-grown oak the edge in terms of sustainability.

Will my oak frame conservatory need much maintenance?

“The primary need is to keep gutters and downpipes unblocked to prevent water or dampness from penetrating the building’s envelope,” says Serena Andrews.

Oak’s natural tannins protect it from moisture and insect damage, making the wood itself virtually maintenance-free. The timber will naturally weather to an attractive silvery hue over time. If you want to retain the original hue of the oak, it needs to be treated and sealed before it’s exposed to wind or rain. The finish will need to be re-applied every year or so as it is worn away by the elements.

How long will my oak frame conservatory last?

Thanks to the robust nature of oak, structures built from this material can stand for hundreds of years. The architectural detailing of the frame is essential to ensure its longevity, as is effective maintenance of the timber. Providing these requirements are met, an oak frame conservatory can last as long as an oak frame house.

Adding a conservatory to your home can be a great way of feeling like you get more use out of your garden during the colder months, but if an oak frame doesn't feel quite right, check out these modern conservatory ideas instead.

Knowing the essential steps for how to build an oak frame home could be the deciding factor as to whether this characterful construction method is for you.

While homebuilding has an ever-increasing focus on biophilic and sustainable design, oak frame homes may pique the interest of self-builders looking to create green and healthy living spaces.

"As the UK's oldest vernacular construction methods, not only does green oak framing have a ‘tried and tested’ heritage, but it is also super sustainable, beautiful and strong, and people feel a genuine affinity with natural materials and craftsmanship," says Merry Albright, creative director of Border Oak.

How to build an oak frame home step by step

Oak frame properties are beautiful and full of character, and as a construction method, the frames are quick to go up. Providing you get a quote for your oak frame project through a reputable company, a reliable way to build a house.

1. Find a plot for building your oak frame home

"There are lots of different ways of finding a plot – some luckily have a large garden that can be divided and built on, others might buy a run-down house to replace. Some plots appear on the open market with estate agents, but many are sold via word of mouth," begins Merry Albright.

When making sure your plot is big enough, remember you’ll need space around the site to store materials, and tools for erecting the structure (this could mean hiring land from a neighbour).

Standard oak frame guides also highlight the need for an access road that is at least three metres wide for an articulated truck and crane to deliver and erect the house frame and encapsulation.

There are oak frame companies that buy land to create specific plots for oak frame homes, providing the services, planning and full build packages, plus landscaping. The plots typically come in clusters of less than 10 homes.

"We sell these plots to our clients who commission us to undertake the construction work to their specifications and budget," explains Merry. "We also work with landowners to achieve planning approval and create plots on their land – before making these available to our clients and working in partnership with the landowner to ensure the plots echo what our clients need."

It's important to consider planning permission for any plots, outlined in more detail later on in this article.

Other options for finding a suitable plot are:

• National land databases such as Plotfinder.net
• Local press
• Auctions
• Estate agents
• Builders

2. Designing your perfect oak frame home

When it comes to designing your oak frame home, it is important to appoint an architect or designer who is experienced in this build method," explains Paul Edmunds, founder of Welsh Oak Frame. "This will avoid complications further down the line.

"Many oak frame companies offer an in-house design service which is often cheaper than architect fees.

"One of the first things you need to do when designing a house is to develop a brief. Begin by considering the things that you need in your home, and things that you would like in your home. It’s also useful to list the things you don’t like."

Paul outlines a list of questions to consider below:

• Do you prefer open or closed plan?
• How many bedrooms do you need?
• Do you want them to have en-suites?
• What are your desired sustainable standards?
• What storage area do you need?
• Would you like a separate utility room?
• What materials are you going to use?

3. Set out your budget for the build

An important thing to know before building an oak frame home is to be clear about your budget from the start. Paul Edmunds suggests that budgets should be set out in tandem with the design of your oak frame house as it can affect the complexity of the overall design; "it will also impact the frame style and volume of oak that can be incorporated into your home," says Paul.

"Working with a specialist oak frame designer is essential if you’re keeping to a tight budget. They’ll be best placed to advise on how to make the most of the system while keeping costs down."

"Once the architect/designer understands your requirements, your site and how much it costs to build your oak frame home, they will produce a set of draft plans. This is an exciting stage where you will start to see your dream home coming together. After you agree on the final design, your drawing package will be ready to be submitted to the local planning authority for advice or approval," says Paul.

4. Apply for planning approval for your build

"The planning process for an oak frame home is no different to any other home, however, the adaptable styles of the exterior finish and ease of integrating an oak frame home into local vernacular, even with contemporary oak frame homes, can be favourable to planners," says Helen Needham, Head of Architecture at Oakwrights.

"Buying land with planning permission already in place gives you the assurance you’ll be able to build a house on the site," explains Paul Edmunds Founder of Welsh Oak Frame.

"Land sold with outline planning permission (OPP) is an agreement in principle that a house of a certain size can be built but the finer details – called ‘reserved matters’ – haven’t been agreed, such as its appearance, scale, access. You’ll have three years to finalise the design."

Then there is land with detailed planning permission (DPP). "This means the house design has already been approved as per the detailed set of drawings showing the property’s elevations and floorplans, external materials, and site plan. If you buy land with DPP you don’t have to stick to the approved design. You can submit a new application for a different design but you’ll be starting from scratch," adds Paul.

Buying land without planning permission can be risky, leading to delays and even disappointment if you are unable to secure the permission you need.

5. Decide on your your style of oak frame

"When we talk about oak frame styles, we are referring to the overall aesthetic you would like to achieve and the amount of oak you would like to see exposed in your new home or oak frame extension. The style of home you are looking to achieve will largely dictate how much oak is required," says Paul Edmunds.

"Traditional styles generally require the most amount of oak, usually exposed both internally and externally. Barn styles tend to have a more simple footprint and are usually more open plan with less oak exposed. Post and beam layouts work on a simple grid system and require even less oak."

"Adopting a hybrid approach, reserving oak for those high-impact areas and using a hidden softwood frame in the less important rooms, is a great way to add character to your home and at the same time, save money," says Paul.

Many self-builders choosing oak frames go down the encapsulation route, where all or part of the frame is wrapped in an insulated shell, which can then be clad in the finish of your choice — render, brick, timber boarding, tile hanging and so on.

6. Consider the materials you will be using to wrap your home

"Oak frames can have different panel encapsulation systems that effectively wrap around the structural oak frame depending on the design," explains Merry Albright.

"We work in oak frame, softwood timber frame, SIPs (structural insulated panels) and masonry – very often in combination with one another depending on the design."

Then there is the option to achieve the Passivhaus standard with your chosen construction system as Helen Needham explains:

"By integrating pre-insulated panels, MVHR (Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery), and the timeless aesthetics of oak, we create healthy, energy-efficient living spaces. MVHR ensures clean, filtered air at a comfortable temperature, enhancing the living experience."

7. Decide on your build route

"Deciding on how you wish to project manage your self-build is a personal choice and depends on what you wish to get out of the experience as well your budget, your time available and the level of responsibility you wish to take on," explains Charlie Mills, Managing Director at Oakwrights.

Here Charlie outlines the different self build routes you can take when thinking about how to build an oak-frame home:

• Traditional self-build: The most hands-on approach which will be the cheapest but most laborious. You will act as the principal contractor and do most of the build yourself.
• Self-project managing your build: With this route, you are handling everything except the building work and acting as the official principal contractor.
• Appointing a builder as Principal Contractor: this hands over the building site management to a professional. Your builder will manage Health & Safety on site, work with Building Control to gain approval and engage all your specialist trades for you, you will still have to be on-site regularly
• Turnkey service: The most hands-off, stress-free but inevitably priciest option. Other than being involved in design decisions your oak frame home will essentially be built for you by the oak frame company with no need for you to be there.

8. Work starts with the foundations being laid

Once you have decided on a design, the structural load of the frame will be calculated. This is usually best handled by your oak frame supplier or an engineer with specific oak frame experience. Your foundation system is dependent on ground conditions too.

Some frame companies offer the foundations as part of the service as it can be beneficial to have one set of people responsible for both elements which are interlinked.

"Ground workers will prepare the foundations for your home with pads for the oak posts and perimeter blockwork for the wall panels. Your oak frame and wall and roof system will be being prefabricated in our workshops at the same time," explains MD of Oakwrights, Charlie Mills.

Your build team will prepare the base for the oak frame to sit on. The build team you choose is up to you, but often your oak frame supplier will be able to recommend trades they have previously worked with.

"Generally speaking, foundations take a couple of weeks," adds Juliette Lessware of Carpenter Oak.

9. Construction of the oak frame on site

It is at this point after your foundations have been laid, your chosen oak frame team will take over from the builders periodically. Charlie Mills highlights that if you choose to self-manage your project, this will be the only stage in which your oak framers will be involved.

The oak frame is delivered to the site, ready to be erected on your prepared base. According to Juliette Lessware, the oak frame can be raised in a matter of days (for extensions or oak frame conservatories) or a week or two for a house.

"Treating or cleaning your frame e.g. sandblasting, needs to be done before further work takes place, such as windows and glazing being installed," says Juliette.

"Don't forget that your oak framer should also provide Standard Details and an engineering certificate for Building Control," she adds.

10. Oak frame is wrapped with the encapsulation system

This is the phase that Juliette Lessware refers to as 'wrapping' during your timber frame construction. "Whether with SIPs panels or another system, this will get your build to the wind and weatherproof stage," she explains.

If you choose a pre-manufactured system like SIPs, Juliette says that wrapping can take as little as a couple of weeks. The system will 'enclose' the oak frame and provide the walls and roof. Whether you use SIPs or another type of timber-based system this incorporates insulation.

Many oak frame specialists will have their own particular encapsulation systems that they tend to use around the oak frame. They can construct this as well as put up your frame if you choose this option.

The internal stud walls are put together and joists are secured as the frame takes shape.

11. Exterior cladding materials are fixed and interior is fit-out

Once the frame is up, the exterior cladding materials can be fixed to the infill panels or encapsulation system. The roof covering is also fixed into place – the glazing can be fitted into the window openings too.

Whilst the exterior cladding is being fitted the interior fit-out can commence. This will involve your first and second fix electricals and plumbing so it is essential that the house is weathertight.

If you're looking to achieve air-tightness, Charlie Mills points out that the first fix is the stage which you would do this using AeroBarrier or similar.

Plasterboard or drylining board can also be fixed into place, underfloor heating installed, flooring finished laid and so on.

The length of time the fit-out takes to completion depends on a few factors. "The fit-out could take anything from a few months to a year (or longer!) depending on how quick your main contractor is, how large your home is and how you're finishing your home," says Juliette Lessware.

FAQs

How long do oak framed buildings last?

"The use of oak in buildings in the UK can date as far back as 998 AD," says Paul Edmunds Founder of Welsh Oak Frame.

"Oak framing has been used to craft the nation's homes for centuries. This is because it is one of the most durable building materials that you can build with," he says.

In terms of modern oak-framed homes Merry Albright of Border Oak explains: "Newly built oak-frame homes are almost over-engineered, so if they are looked after they should also last hundreds of years. They are also very adaptable so can be varied should needs change."

The moment your house is truly ready is when the scaffolding finally comes down and any last bits of decoration and landscaping can take place.

To help achieve the look you want surrounding your new oak frame home, take a look at our list of garden landscaping ideas.

Whether you are looking to build a new house using timber frame, or simply extend using this popular construction system, we're here to help. 

Homebuilding.co.uk partners with the UK's best timber frame suppliers to match your requirements with their products. Simply answer a few questions about your project and we’ll put you in touch with a suitable partner.

When looking for oak-framed garage ideas, finding self build or extension projects which flawlessly blend elegant design and modern practicality is the perfect first step. 

A safe place to park away from the street is usually a planning condition for self builds so achieving a design which perfectly complements the exterior of a house is essential.

(MORE: Self Build: The Complete Guide)

Creating a house from scratch or building an extension with oak frame is usually chosen to provide a charming and characterful look – something which doesn’t always spring to mind when thinking about how to secure a family vehicle or store gardening equipment – but adding the wrong design could ruin the aesthetic of the rest of the house.

From garages with rooms above and parking integrated within a house to standalone carports and single-bay additions, we've gathered together our favourite designs, along with top tips to get you on your way. 

(MORE: Get a quote for your oak frame garage)

1. An Oak-framed Garage with Room Above

Designing a garage that's suitable for more than one purpose is a great idea for self builds with the plot space available. Whether it's guest accommodation, extra storage or even a small garden office, make the most of the allocated area by building taller and more effectively. 

The classic bay by Border Oak is designed to be adapted into different configurations with doors, windows, staircases, internal partitions, upgrades, insulation and logstores, and can accommodate most 4x4 vehicles.

2. Adding a Garage with a Woodstore 

Incorporate a sheltered verandah or porch area for gardening tools, storing furniture over winter or a place to put wood for a fire. Not just incredibly practical, this idea can also help any design turn from new property to the quintessential country home. 

3. An Oak-framed Garage for Every Need

Adapting designs to your own requirements is a must when given the opportunity to add a new space onto a self build or existing home. Think about the different ways in which a garage or carport could be suited better to your needs, for example:

• storing a large lawn mower or other power tools
• sheltering patio furniture
• creating a potting shed
• acting as a power source for outdoor lighting
• becoming a plant room for an eco home
• caring for vehicles suited to summer weather

Adjusting to a bespoke design can offer solution to all of these functions.

4. Designing an Integrated Garage in an Oak-framed Home

Dealing with an awkward plot directly on the main road meant the homeowners of this house had to include a garage into their design. 

Oakwrights beautifully and elegantly designed the space to sit alongside the traditional-style elevation while the homeowners were sure to paint in the same colour as the windows and door for a graceful finish. 

5. Keep it Simple for Compact Spaces

Where space isn't a virtue on a self build or extension plot, keeping the design of an oak framed garage or carport as clean and fuss-free as possible is a great solution. 

6. Complement the Main Oak-framed House

Garages aren't known for being easy on the eyes but oak framed structures by nature will be a high-quality addition to a home. 

This oak framed self build's garage and carport building matches the main house's roof covering and cladding design for a seamless transition between domestic and function spaces. 

7. Think About Adding Glazing to a Garage

Not all garages are used for actually storing cars so if you want to incorporate a workshop, make sure to consider adequate natural light sources. 

If adding dormer windows to a garage with space above for extra head-height, make sure the design for the roof looks natural or include rooflights to increase ventilation in places for woodworking or painting.  

8. Integrated a Carport into the Main House

This new farmhouse was designed by Border Oak and the layout is separated into two distinct sections. The side where the oak frame is exposed with a render infill is the 'family' zone with space for the living areas and the other, clad in weatherboarding, houses the farm's administrative hub. 

(MORE: Cladding a House: Everything You Need to Know)

The carport was strategically incorporated into the rear of this section with a side entrance meaning the practical space is firmly distinct from the family after hours. 

There’s lots to consider when designing the interiors for your new oak framed space. Unlike typical houses, the structure of the building doesn’t just keep your things dry, the oak frame plays a part in the overall character of the interior spaces too. 

Early on in the design of an oak framed room it can be advantageous to imagine and plan out the spaces to decide how much of the oak frame to leave exposed. Many of those who prefer a contemporary style choose less wood in open spaces while more traditional tastes might prefer to pay homage to cosy and comfortable rooms. 

We’ve gathered some amazing oak framed projects which illustrate how to create an interesting and charming new home interior. 

(MORE: Get a quote for your oak frame project)

1. Going Broken Plan in Oak Frame

A mix between modern open plan living and traditionally separated rooms, broken plan works particularly well in oak frame interiors. 

This single-storey home (design by Border Oak) has an easy flow through the house, utilising wide doorways and the same flooring throughout, but the exposed oak serves to demarcate the different spaces.

2. Blending Traditional Charm and Modern Styles

When building an oak frame extension or entirely new home it can be tempting to go over to top on the must-haves in a characterful home. A woodburning stove, varied ceiling heights, stone flooring, the list can go on. 

However, take the time to balance contemporary features – such as an expanse of glazing or a view to a contemporary kitchen (as above) – to avoid ending with an overly twee interior. 

3. Vaulted Ceilings in Bedrooms

This barn conversion beautifully incorporates a partially-glazed gable in the bedroom to make the most of the vaulted ceiling, without sacrificing privacy while a dressing area (pictured below) was forged using the original structure. The oak frame shines against pared-back decoration and is given the attention it deserves.

4. Recreating Traditional Interiors in a New Home

A grand entryway leading to a statement staircase and bridge landing is a sure-fire way to recapture the essence of traditional oak manor homes we have grown to love.

5. Make the Most of the Frame for an Unique Children's Bedroom 

Don't be afraid to personalise the space when designing the interiors of children's rooms; add hooks for coats, lighting, or even, as in this Oakwrights home, a swing.

6. Designating and Designing Useful Spaces

Whether its a utility room, boot room, a mixture of the two, or just a hardy spot with built-in furniture, all homes need a place which can take wet weather transitions from outside to in. 

This hallway oozes cosiness with the darker, panelled walls before leading into the open, calmer rooms in the house while a practical bench with coat hooks above keep the space functional as well as characterful.

7. Mixing Contemporary Appliances with Traditional Units for a Modern Country Kitchen

Oak frame kitchens and shaker-style units go hand in hand, but if you aren't looking for a traditional 'country' style interior, keeping mod cons – like wine coolers, fridge-freezers and dishwashers – on show rather than integrating can help to modernise a classic kitchen.

8. Mix and Match Materials for a Cosy Home

The exposed brick stairwell leading to an oak-framed bridge mezzanine works hard to create a cool, yet comfortable environment in this home, inviting a variation in texture and stimulating visual interest.

9. Making the Most of Double-height Spaces in Oak Frame Interiors

Chandeliers – both modern and traditional – work wonderfully in double-height spaces which can otherwise feel a little lost. This period-style new build by Welsh Oak Frame creates added drama by layering lighting throughout the bridge landing.

10. Utilise Contemporary Interior Design for a Pleasant Contrast

This oak home incorporates bold, dark walls to distinguish the sleeping spaces while an internal window into the guest room – with hidden curtains – means the hallway still feels light and open.

The master suite at the back creates a fantastic feature wall by showcasing the oak structure behind the bed.

11. Use the Frame to Zone Interior Spaces

The structural oak posts were incorporated into the interior design of this kitchen/dining/living space.

By visually separating the large area, it give the illusion of feeling more comfortable and homely, rather than creating a vacuum or void that some open plan space struggle with.

12. Getting the Essentials Right in Open-Plan Spaces

This contemporary kitchen is open to the rest of the ground floor but the savvy homeowners designed a utility room using their old cooker through the door to the right so they could cook strong smelling food and the like without permeating the rest of the house.

13. Separating Spaces in Modern Oak Frame Interior Layouts

While open plan living has been somewhat of an essential for the last couple of years, many self-builders are still opting for a separate snug or living room.

Big or small, a place to get away and snuggle up with a good cup of tea and a film, closed off from communal areas, is a must for a successful modern oak interior.

14. Stock Up on Kitchen Favourites with a Pantry or Larder

Designing a space where tins, appliances and bags can be stored (and, importantly, shut away) is a great helper in open-plan kitchens where there is nowhere to hide.

This kitchen integrates the walk-in pantry by using the oak to create a pseudo-entrance to frame the handy space. 

15. Getting the Kitchen Design Right for a Modern Home

This kitchen flawless integrates the elegance of modern kitchen design with classic staples of a country kitchen. A internal picture window and pendant lights keeps the spaces contemporary and connected while a freestanding dresser, an AGA and large, farmhouse table all do their part to introduce character. Top marks from us!

16. Achieving Cost-effective Interiors with Wow-factor

The original structure of this barn conversion was left exposed to retain a sense of the building's history while the builders cut star shapes into the MDF balustrade for a low-cost yet unique finish.

17. Make the Most of Views with Oak Frame

Who needs wallpaper when you have glass! This oak extension utilised vast amounts of glazing in their new living area so the interior spaces feel light and bright, as well as capitalising on picture-perfect views.

Contemporary oak framed homes offer the best of both worlds when it comes to self build projects — the unparalleled sense of timelessness and elegance that oak provides as well as an opportunity to cater for modern tastes and a busy lifestyle. 

The last decade or so has seen a huge spike in interest in combining the latest mod-cons and styles with this inherently comforting structure: modern rustic interiors with lime-washed timbers; a bold, colourful kitchen with country-inspired fixtures; and cosy living rooms with both a warming stove and a place to catch up on a good series. 

Oak frame is no longer limited to cramped cottages or draughty farmhouses, and, given the right consideration, become a stunning, contemporary feature in its own right. Scroll down for loads of great design inspiration for your contemporary oak frame project. 

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1. A Contemporary Curved Oak House

The rear elevation of this striking curved house is virtually all glass which, when paired with the open-plan interior layout, draws in plenty of light into the long floorplan. 

The oak frame was supplied by Carpenter Oak while architects Batterham Matthews Design worked to complement the modern form with a traditional exposed structure and natural stone to the exterior. 

2. A Modern Suburban Dream Home

Although fairly modest from the front (as to fit in with the residential setting of 1930s designs), this oak home works hard to deliver modern wow-factor with the glazed gable to the rear. 

A reduction of the exposed oak is a characteristic of Oakwrights' more contemporary designs, a feature which works wonderfully with a kitchen that breaks the mould of 'country'-style interiors (below).

3. An Oak Home with Futuristic Design

This home was the first of its kind to achieve Passivhaus certification in the UK. As a result of keen awareness of airtightness levels, matched by Oakwrights' own highly insulated encapsulation system, this modern home benefits from modern renewable technologies, as well as a charming oak frame. 

4. A Home which Connects to the Outside

Border Oak designed this L-shaped home so the homeowners could walk straight from the kitchen to the patio outside. The three banks of bifolding doors also provide the illusion of the outside becoming a part of the house when stacked. 

5. Modern Spaces in a Traditional Home

Although fairly traditional from the outside, this Oakwrights home ensures that the interiors illustrate the very best in modern technology. 

The dining hall is sleek with cutting-edge designs using natural materials – such as the glass balustrade and slate-clad fireplace – while the kitchen is full of high-spec, luxury appliances (below).

6. Reinventing the Cottage: a Modern Take on Traditional Styles

After being told their would-be renovation of an old cottage was undermined by surveys which condemned the structure, the homeowners of this Oakwrights build were asked by their planning department to keep the size of their replacement house fairly small and to retain the individuality of the original black cottage. 

The result is a contemporary take on the traditional style, using black timber cladding and large sliding glass doors to the back of the house (below) to create a contemporary feel. 

7. Going All Out with Glazing

Where planning permission restrictions kept the front of this house relatively traditional, the homeowners were keen to maximise their amazing views across the countryside by designing three giant glazed gables at the back of their Oakwrights house. 

8. A New Kind of Farmhouse

Playing with traditional forms and materials meant that Border Oak could design an amazing new take on the modern rustic aesthetic for this house. A series of barns (built using a sustainable fabric first route) are connected using large swathes of glazing. 

9. An Oak Home with Contemporary Interior Style

The homeowners of this Border Oak barn extension were keen to ensure a demarcation between the old and new spaces was clear. 

The exposed oak beams wonderfully warm the pared-back spaces while newer materials (such as the polished concrete floor) keep the space firmly rooted in the present day. 

10. Contemporary Home Built with Traditional Techniques 

Roderick James Architects designed this stand-out oak-frame home using a green oak structure. The twin vaulted wings are finished with large panels of glass either side of the glazed link to create an unforgettable finish.