renovation & building
BUILDING AN OAK FRAME HOME
From its design possibilities to sustainability credentials,Scarlett Deamerexplores the benefits of this beautiful structural system
This stunning house in Torquay, designed by Roderick James Architects, combines clean, contemporary lines with the traditional handcrafted character of exposed oak. The generous face glazing set within the oak frame creates bright spaces flooded with natural daylight
COLIN POOLE
Oak has been one of the UK’s most popular building materials for centuries and continues to be used by self builders today to create stylish and thermally-efficient homes. Here I’m looking at the ins and outs of this build system to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your next project. Among the benefits we’ll be looking at in more detail are:
● Impressive design possibilities ● High performance system ● Naturally sustainable ● Quick build times
● Attractive to potential buyers.
Design options
When creating your oak frame home, you can either work with your own designer or engage the supplier’s in-house architectural team. Their designers will have extensive knowledge of oak construction, and if you like the scheme you’ll then buy the frame directly from that company.
Oak can be used to craft many different architectural styles, whether you’re aiming for a classic country cottage or ultra-modern home. Certain techniques can be applied to emphasise the material in line with your preferred aesthetic. For example, traditional homes often feature large, exposed beams to create a rustic feel, while more contemporary designs might use oak more sparingly, focusing only on key timbers and concealing smaller beams. “The detailing of the frame can also be adapted to fit your design – having traditional pegged joints or adding portions of steelwork will all have a big influence on the ultimate feel and appearance of the building,” says James Lock, partner at Roderick James Architects.