Returning Customers Create Their Ideal Oak Frame Home
When Michael and Maria Pereira sought to build their ideal family home on a plot of land they had bought seven years prior, they turned to English Heritage Buildings and the beauty of oak frame to turn their dreams into reality.
The couple was no stranger to English Heritage Buildings when they initially approached the company about their plans. Several barns were added to an existing property on the land, but the first oak framer used by the couple made such a mess of the construction that Maria and Michael called in English Heritage Buildings to take over, resolve the issues and continue the project.
Thoroughly impressed with the service and overall result of the extensions, Maria made contact with English Heritage Buildings again to design a full bespoke property on top of a foundation of reclaimed bricks.
Maria explains: “We had a very specific idea of the ideal home for us and self-build is a great option for ensuring you have a design that fits those ideals. We had used English Heritage Buildings before and were really pleased with the results. They are great at the consultation aspect of the build too, so we were more than happy to go back to them for our second project – this time a self-build to get their guidance and expertise.”
After careful consideration, a final design was reached. The couple opted for a five bedroom, traditional square build – large enough to accommodate the family’s four children – plus an extension off the original groundwork at the back of the property.
The main design of the house (not including the extension) is a replica of the original square red-brick farmhouse with an internal oak frame, and it features Georgian window panes supplied by English Heritage Buildings. Maria explains: “We have knocked one interior wall from the house through to create a larger kitchen area with a feather edge exterior, which will be the only real difference between the original build and our new home. We are also using reclaimed materials, such as doors, radiators, flooring and brick.”
Looking back, Maria enthuses: “We should have used English Heritage Buildings from the start, as they have the knowledge and expertise to deliver the finished product that we desired. It is also so lovely to be able to build to our own specification yet be able to turn to English Heritage Buildings for guidance.”
The installed oak frame creates a stunning effect, adding character to the house in everything from the twists in the wood to the vaulted ceilings in the bedrooms. The kitchen is another fantastic aspect of the home.
Maria explains further: “There is a beautiful ambience with an oak frame, and the material itself has a lovely aroma that stays within the home long after its construction. On a visual level, there is no comparison for an oak frame – it’s simply stunning.”
For Maria and Michael, self-build was certainly the preferred option due to the freedom and flexibility it offered. The journey was made all the more smoother thanks to the couple’s partnership with English Heritage Buildings, as Maria explains: “They are fantastic to work with. They will give your ideas a very honest appraisal and work around them to make sure they are reached in a way that is realistic before they even begin. The company are always 100% professional with a huge depth of knowledge of their craft and are far superior to other framers. They are also very approachable and will deliver your designs in the most practical and achievable way.”
Offering some valuable tips to those also considering a self-build project, Maria says: “Take your time and pay attention to details. Also, pick people you want and trust as opposed to the cheapest – this will always be well worth the extra money.”
