Robin Welland-Jones, founder and managing director of Rookery Barns shares his expertise on what to consider before you branch out on a stunning addition to your home with an oak framed building.
Choosing the right supplier
Unless you have construction and project management skills, I'd recommend using a specialist oak framing company which offers a comprehensive one-stop service - from designing the building and securing planning approval through to its completion.
Check client recommendations, how long the company has been established, whether they are based locally and ask to see local examples of their buildings.
Designing for form and function
The advantage of a bespoke oak framed garden building is that it is designed just for you - to suit your specific requirements and needs.
A good design should take into account:
- How the building will be used - as a studio, home office, pool house, home gym, guest accommodation, garage, garden store or outside entertaining space?
- Appearance and style - will it complement the garden setting and main house?
- Are there any planning requirements to consider?
- And importantly, what's your budget?
The team at Rookery Barns will visit your home and guide you through all these considerations before providing you with a design of your building and a quotation.
An investment for the future
Durable oak has been used for centuries and nothing is stronger than an oak framed building. Costs can vary considerably depending on the size, design features, materials and service.
Check that any quotes include building dimensions, details of groundworks, windows, doors, roofing materials, insulation, electrics, flooring and internal fit out. Lower quotes may not always represent value for money if unexpected costs turn up later in the project.
Do I need planning permission?
Most oak framed garden buildings and garages will require planning approval although some may be allowed under Permitted Development. Factors such as whether your property is Listed, and where you're located can all influence planning decisions. Obtaining planning approval can be time consuming and demanding, so it's best to use an oak framed building supplier that has planning experience and expertise.
Rookery Barns can handle the entire planning application procedure including dealing with any issues and requirements during the process. Visit the website to discover why you should choose Rookery Barns for your oak framed garden building.
What is involved in the construction?
There are several stages to building an oak framed garden building, starting with groundworks to provide a base, and provision for electricity, water, drainage.
Once the oak building frame is made and erected on site, roof tiling is carried out and the building is then completed through the fitting of doors, windows, flooring, internal fit out, electrics, plumbing and decorating. It tends to be a smoother and more efficient process if you use one company to manage the whole project.
A one stop service, Rookery Barns takes care of every stage of the process to deliver your bespoke, oak framed building. Visit www.rookerybarns.com to find out more or call 01420 488870 for a free consultation.
