Peter and Emma commissioned us to build an oak frame for their small family self-build, the result of years wading through the planning process, and coming out the other end with a Section 106 agreement for a “local connection” which aims to help local families afford homes in the area they grew up – you could throw a stone in both directions and easily hit Peter and Emma’s childhood homes on the northeastern edge of the Long Mynd.
The family, including dogs, chickens and 3 children have been living off-grid on the site in preparation for the build, and so it was with a great deal of excitement and apprehension that the raising day finally arrived. Just the most perfect conditions – dry, warm, sunny with the merest hint of a breeze.
The following pictorial record should give you an idea of our time spent on site and in their delightful and charming company. To be honest, it really didn’t feel like work! But work it was, and everybody mucked in to ensure that the whole frame, complete with 2 fully joisted floors, and common rafters on the roof, was “topped out” in just a shade over 2 days.
Special thanks to Paul “the crane” Stealey, to Matt the builder (for just wanting to be there), to Kai and Jake (the raising crew). And extra special thanks to Emma and Pete and the kids for not only choosing us to make their frame but joining in the fun too!
All ready to go. Timbers laid out, scaffolding looking tip top against an azure sky and the crane fully rigged
Some rustic shelving has been incorporated into the frame. You may remember the debate about whether to round off the corners…..or not
Good luck with the rest of the build!
If you're considering an oak framed building (or larch, or douglas fir), let's talk. We'll gladly put together an outline quote (completely free, with no strings attached). And we need very little information from you to do so.
Equally, we're always here, at the end of the phone, to talk through your ideas.