BUILD2_Package Home Bible 2018_20181407

PACKAGE HOME

BIBLE 2018

The complete guide to BuildItBROUGHT TO YOU BY...
designing & building your
dream individual home

52

32 EDITORIAL PUBLISHING

68 Editor Chris Bates Managing director Calum Taylor
Deputy editor Emily Smith Finance director Katherine Taylor
BuildItBROUGHT TO YOU BY... Assistant editor Sofia Delgado Marketing director Claire Drakeford
Digital editorial assistant Accounts Sinead Charles
www.self-build.co.uk Shona Jackson 020 3627 3253
Art editor David Flint
Contributors Emily Brooks Business development director
Sarah Wilcock 020 3627 3247
ADVERTISING SALES
Published by
Advertising manager Castle Media Ltd, Peasemore
Nick Gillam 020 3627 3245 House, Newbury, Berkshire,
Classified Sophie Gardiner 020 3627 RG20 7JH
3263, Richelle Rimmer 020 3627 3251

Cover image: Hanse Haus (page 38)

© Castle Media Ltd. All the content in this book is governed by copywright
and may not be reproduced in any form without the prior written permission of
the publisher. Information published in this book is intended to provide general
guidance only, and the publishers do not accept liability for any loss or damage
arising from use of this information. Anyone contemplating building their own
home should seek appropriate professional advice before commencing.

03

Contents

28

52 ADVICE & INSPIRATION

12 28 Design & Materials
30 Facit Homes
Articles 32 Feeling Homes
34 Fleming Homes
04 W hy build a 16 Fast track 36 Frame Technologies
package house? 38 Hanse Haus
Discover the benefits of going 40 Lakeland Timber Frame
Whether you’re a first-time self- turnkey, as the Marwoods 42 Meisterstueck-Haus
builder or a seasoned pro, the share how they completed their 44 Oakmasters
design and build route could be bespoke home in just 12 weeks 46 Oakwrights
the right solution for your project 48 Potton
20 Managing your 50 Revolution Homes
08 P lanning the self-build project 52 Scandia-Hus
perfect design 54 Scandinavian Homes
From shell-only options through 56 Scotframe
How package companies can to the full turnkey solution, 58 Solo Timber Frame
help you to achieve a unique get the lowdown on the key 60 Stommel Haus
home that’s an ideal fit for package build routes 62 Sylva
your family and your plot 64 Turner Timber Frame
24 Structural options 66 WeberHaus
12 Country escape for package homes 68 Welsh Oak Frame

With help from Oakwrights, Lisa Every construction method has
and Ian Milne have created a its pros and cons. Our guide
efficient oak home that oozes to the key factors will help you
contemporary vernacular style find the best fit for your scheme

04

Why build a
package house?

Whether you’re an experienced self-builder or a first-timer, engaging a
specialist company to design and construct your dream home can take
the hassle out of the process. Here are eight key reasons the package
route could be the right solution for your project

Creating your own home is a major
investment – an experience that
Build It expert Mike Hardwick likens
to the “biggest shopping trip you’ll
ever go on.” Add in navigating planning,

Building Regulations consent and managing

the project to completion, and it’s no wonder

that the overwhelming majority of the 13,000

people who successfully self-build every year

don’t actually to the work themselves. Instead,

most call in expert support throughout the

design, specification and construction phases

to help ensure they get a high-quality result.

One route to doing this is to engage an

architect to negotiate the planning phases,

and then put the scheme out to tender to

either a main contractor or to a series of

individual trades who will report directly to

you. While this can be very successful, you’ll

need to put in a significant amount of time

to coordinating quotes, materials deliveries,

onsite works etc – and ultimately you’ll be

the one responsible if things go awry.

That’s one of the big reasons why many

self-builders choose to work with package

house suppliers. These companies specialise

in creating one-off homes and, as the

moniker suggests, are able to deliver a

pick-and-mix selection of services tailored

to your needs. A typical package starts

with the structural design, manufacture and

This cutting-edge contemporary home construction of the shell of your home – to a

by Design & Materials features a split fixed budget and timescale – which instantly

roof and vast swathes of glazing takes a big part of the risk out of a scheme.

05

IN THIS
ARTICLE

Design & Materials
page 28
Feeling Homes
page 32
Meisterstueck-
Haus
page 42
Scandia-Hus
page 52
Scotframe
page 56
Stommel Haus
page 60

Left & inset: This
185m2 project by
Stommel Haus
features the
company’s energy
efficient, diffusion-
open structural
system, made from
untreated arctic
spruce for a healthy
living environment

You can add an array of extras on top a partner for your project – meaning you’ll 2 One point of contact
of this basic option, ranging from bespoke be the one driving the specification of your
house design through to the supply-and- new property. They’ll hold your hand through A key advantage of this route is that a
fit of additional materials, a professionally the process and make suggestions based significant portion of your build will be
managed build and – in some cases – even on their experience and your brief – such delivered by a single supplier. What’s more,
complete turnkey delivery of your new home. as your goals for energy efficiency, quality, most package companies will appoint a
There’s plenty more reasons to recommend affordability and build speed – but the final specific member of their team to be your
this route, too, whether you’re a novice self- decision will always rest at your door. liaison throughout the process, so you
builder or an experienced hand. know you’ll be working with someone who

Here, we summarise some of the key QUIC K GUI DE Common package services
benefits that could make a package house
build the best option for your project. Exactly what options you can select will vary between different package house
suppliers. Some focus predominantly on engineering and assembling the shell,
1 You’re in charge for instance, while others might be able to partner with you from initial design right
through to completion. Here’s an idea of some of the key areas in which you may
Working with a package house supplier be able to seek support (ranging from standard options through to rarer services):
gives you the opportunity to be guided
through the design and construction Core package Common options Additional services
decisions you need to make.
l Structural design l Plot appraisal l Land finding
This doesn’t mean you’ll be relinquishing l B uilding control l Architectural design l G roundworks
control over your dream home. On the l P lanning & building
contrary, these companies succeed at what drawings & foundations
they do because they recognise that self- l Materials supply control applications l Kitchens
building is all about choice: most of us go l Shell assembly onsite l P roject management l Landscaping
down this route because we want to avoid l F ollow-on joinery (may
the like-it-or-lump-it approach of the big services and/or turnkey
developers. Package suppliers aim to be be supply-only) delivery of your home

06

Below: Offsite understands your objectives. Even if you opt core part of their offering. This could simply skills to run your own site, and would prefer
manufactured for an entry-point package, this will usually take the form of rationalising your existing to pay for a professionally managed or
home specialist include at least the engineering, manufacture architect-drawn plans into a buildable reality; turnkey service. For more advice on selecting
Meisterstueck-Haus and assembly of your house’s superstructure or you might choose to go with the package the right route for you, including potential
built this architect- onsite. This leaves you with a watertight company’s recommended or in-house cost implications, turn to page 20.
designed project in shell that’s ready to be finished inside and designers from the start. The advantage
Maidenhead. Below out – and no question about who’s to blame if of the latter option is that you’ll be working 5 Simplified scheduling
right: This 1.5-storey there’s an issue at this stage of the scheme. with a team that knows the build system
timber frame home inside-out; plus the design output may well Partnering with an experienced package
by Scandia-Hus has In many cases, you can extend the be subsidised on the basis that you’re likely company to deliver a sizable chunk of your
been clad in brick company’s role deeper into the project – for to sign up for follow-on services. For more project has numerous advantages. One
to blend into the instance, you may want them to manage or design advice, see page 8. of these is that you’ll be taking a lot of the
local area. Bottom provide follow-on services during first fix, hassle out of coordinating the corresponding
right: Feeling Homes or even to complete all of the internal and 4 Managing your works onsite – especially if you’re dealing
created this four- external fit-out to your specification. building project with a pre-manufactured building system.
bedroom cottage-
style house, located 3 Design flexibility Package suppliers offer a comprehensive Your supplier will be working to an agreed
in the South Downs suite of services from which you can pick and schedule using crews that know its system
One of the most attractive things about self- choose (see the box on the previous page, in depth. This is as close as it gets to a
building is that it gives you the opportunity for a quick guide to the key provisions). guarantee that the corresponding part of
to create something unique: an individual the scheme will be delivered on time and
home that responds to your tastes, fits with Perhaps you need a full design solution, on budget. Some companies may even be
your family’s needs and suits the plot you’re but only want to get to shell build stage willing to advise you on developing a wider
working with. You can achieve all of this before you switch to your own trades and schedule of works, beyond the scope of
with the package house route. In fact, these manage the rest of the project to completion. their own involvement, to help you take
days many suppliers focus on design as a Maybe you don’t feel you have the time or your project to completion.

07

6 Cost certainty CASE STUDY Light-filled self-build home

As well as helping with programming, For their dream self-build project, John and Courtney insulation and airtightness. The couple are delighted
securing a big part of your project from O’Grady found a stunning plot in Aberdeenshire with with the structural kit. “Our architect had worked with
one supplier also makes budgeting much far-reaching countryside views. With a busy working Scotframe before and told us all about the factory-
more straightforward. In most cases, you’ll and family life to account for, the couple decided to injected insulated panels,” says Courtney. “They do
be getting the shell of your home – and team up with package supplier Scotframe to help everything that’s promised. This is without a doubt
possibly more – at a fixed price and to an provide a smooth journey to their new architect- the cosiest, warmest house I’ve ever lived in.”
agreed timescale. This not only takes away designed home. They were particularly keen to get
much of the risk of overspends (unless you assistance with managing the logistics of the process. The couple also specified Scotframe’s Val-U-
make changes to the design onsite) but Therm panels for the vaulted ceilings and floors.
also makes cashflow much easier to High on the priority list was developing an energy- “Their strength means we don’t need roof trusses,
manage. Of course, the total price of your efficient property that would provide low running so in the morning I wake up to a 3.5m-tall room that’s
project will depend on factors such as the costs. To achieve this, they specified Scotframe’s bathed in light,” says Courtney. “Scotframe were easy
size and specification you want to achieve. high-performance Val-U-Therm closed panel timber to work with and extremely helpful – the firm really
frame system, which offers outstanding levels of lived up to its reputation and our expectations.
As a rule, the more services you ask
your package company to provide, the House size 395m2 Structural system Val-U-Therm closed-panel timber frame Package
more risk they’re taking on and the greater supplier Scotframe Package included Supply of timber frame
the premium you’ll pay. As a guide, a fairly
typical self-build budget would equate to 8 Extra support foundation design and build, kitchens
around £1,500-£1,600 per m2. You may (although this is rare given the number of
be able to deliver a modest home on a shell While most package companies focus on the supply-and-fit specialists available in the
build route for as little as £1,000-£1,200 main above-ground building works and core UK) and landscaping. What’s more, even if
per m2 if you take on a lot of the follow-on joinery items (such as insulation, windows, you don’t want to commission a full package,
work yourself; but you’ll be the one digging doors and staircases), some are able to offer they’ll usually be happy to recommend good
into your pocket to deal with any mistakes. additional services that could help to keep local contractors and project managers to
your project on track. These bolt-ons might take your build to completion.
At the other end of the spectrum, a include plot assessment, arranging services,
turnkey or heavily project managed route
might require a budget in excess of £1,800
per m2 – but you get the reassurance of a
high-quality, professional build completed to
your specification, with a whole lot of stress
and risk taken out of the process.

7 Wide choice of
construction methods

All the main structural systems are
represented in the package house sector.
Pre-manufactured solutions such as
timber frame, oak frame and structural
insulated panels (SIPs) are prevalent, as
they’re naturally suited to delivering quick,
accurate house shells on site. But masonry
construction and insulating concrete
formwork are well represented, too, so
you’re free to select the best fit for your
build. Most suppliers specialise in a single
system, but some offer multiple options and
hybrid solutions to suit your scheme. What’s
important is that these companies regularly
build using their preferred techniques. Their
in-house or recommended crews will have
seen most of the highs and lows you get on
site, and will be able to bring that experience
to bear on your scheme. For more on
structural options, see page 24.

08

Getting the
perfect design

You can use a package firm’s The journey to a bespoke home common nowadays). Alternatively, you can
in-house designer to form always starts with the design have the plans produced by an architect
plans, or many are happy to process, and there are various before taking them along to a package
work with architect drawings ways to complete this if you supplier, who will work the scheme into
you’ve already got in place. choose to go along the package route. their specific structural system’s specs.
Whatever route you choose,
here’s how to get it right If you’re self-building, then chances are Every method has its pros and cons, and
you’re looking to create an individual house, the best solution for you is down to a number
tailored to your bespoke requirements. A of factors. Here’s how each one works.
lot of package firms have responded to
this demand and offer a full design service Traditional architect route
in-house or via partner architects. Others
have off-the-shelf plans on file that you can For many people looking to create a
simply tweak (although these are less bespoke home, a visit to an architect to
discuss ideas is the first port of call. After

This house by Fleming Homes had to be
designed around a complicated sloping site

CASE STUDY Modern timber frame 09

IN THIS
ARTICLE

Facit Homes
page 30
Fleming Homes
page 34
Oakmasters
page 44
Oakwrights
page 46
WeberHaus
page 66

When Terry Green and Mickey Dell approached Facit Homes to firm’s flying factory, allowing the super-insulated Facit Chassis to be
design them a new house, they had a very specific goal in mind: precision-manufactured on site. Both the frame and black-stained
to create a property that would provide both living accommodation external cladding were constructed in sustainable, FSC-certified
and a studio for Mickey’s work as an artist. The couple wanted timber, giving the project strong environmental credentials.
a contemporary piece of architecture that would be eco-friendly,
sit comfortably in the garden of their existing Victorian terraced This digitised way of working ensures a streamlined and efficient
house and become the place they spent the rest of their lives. build, with great integration between the design office and site
team. “One of the big plus points of the Facit Homes system is
Facit Home’s design team developed a simple plan formed of that they provide very detailed costings,” says Terry. “We have
two interconnecting volumes, aligned to respond to the geometry been extremely pleased with the cost control – the whole project
of the garden and driveway. Both parts of the property feature came within £2,000 of our original budget.”
monopitch roofs to help prevent debris from the numerous
surrounding trees accumulating on the surfaces, whilst also
creating high sloping ceilings in the first-storey studio spaces.

The company used Building Information Modeling (BIM)
technology to convert detailed plans into a complete model of the
property. This data was then translated into cutting patterns for the

Location South east London House size 220m2 Build cost £606,000 Project cost per m2 £2,755
Structural system Timber frame Package supplier Facit Homes Package included Turnkey build

going through the options with your designer to simply manufacture a structural shell or minimise costs. Regardless of how involved
you’ll have a clearer picture of what you take the project through to completion, your you want the supplier to be in your project,
want from your house, and possibly what architect will probably have a list of preferred most package companies are flexible and
structural system will be the best fit. The companies that you can utilise. happy to work around your preferences.
most important thing at this stage is to keep
an open mind and make sure the house is Many self-builders go to package An architect’s flair can benefit a project,
tailored to your exact needs. The best way companies with their architect drawings in but it may not come cheap. You’ll be paying
to do this is to work up a well-considered hand. The firm will be able to look at how for design and supply fees separately, rather
brief – find out how on page 11. the plans can be translated into their build than having one company do both. Also,
model. They’ll use their knowledge of the many package firms have pre-manufactured
Once you have a design and method structural system specifications to suggest parts in stock that can be utilised if they’ve
of construction in mind, do some research a few tweaks here and there to iron out worked up the design – a cost-saving
and find a supplier. Whether you want them any potential areas of concern and help to advantage of the following options.

10

Choosing a structural or other third-party designer to have them Your chosen package firm might work
system first work up the plans. Your structural supplier alongside recommended architects who
will be able to brief the architect on how the already have an intimate understanding of
If you know what method of construction build system works and any let them know how their system works. They’ve probably
you’d like to build with – perhaps you even about any key structural specifications, produced designs together in the past, which
know the package company you’re going to dimensions and other considerations. means you’ll be able to visit finished houses
use – then you can still approach an architect

CASE STUDY Traditional oak home

Alistair Nicholls

Having previously worked with Oakmasters for his swimming pool
company, Peter Crosdil appointed the oak supplier to design,
manufacture and erect the frame for his new self-build home. “I
did some research, but I already know the team well. Their price
for the frame came in much lower than others I spoke to,” he says.

Peter worked with Oakmasters’ architectural designer, Jenny
Turner, to come up with the design for his new home. He showed
her a photo of a house that had inspired him to build with oak. “I
had a vision for a substantial manor house with a timeless look, brick
features and plenty of glazing to showcase the views,” he says. “I
talked Jenny through my ideas and gave her a rough drawing of the
layout I wanted.” Peter then made a few tweaks to the plans.

With planning confirmed, work got underway on site. With a
basement and brickwork plinth in place, it was time for the oak
structural skeleton to be delivered by lorries and put together by
hand on site. Once the frame was raised, the rest of the house came
together around it, including handmade red clay tiles on the roof and
the 187 planes of glass that feature throughout the property. The
finished result is a stunning oak frame house packed with character.

Location West Sussex House size 613m2 Build cost £900,000 Project cost per m2 £1,468 Structural system Oak frame
Package supplier Oakmasters Package included Design, manufacture & erection

11

a tailored scheme. Alternatively, you might
see something that you feel is exactly what
you’re after, and simply look to tweak it
slightly to suit your bespoke requirements –
changing internal layout, cladding choice etc.

Going in-house is widely accepted as the
most cost-effective package design route.
If you’re after a turnkey solution then this
will be the best option, as this early stage
can involve decisions that need to be made
upfront and not changed further down
the line. Some firms want you to choose
all details at this point, right down to plug
socket positions, so be prepared to fully
immerse yourself in the experience.

WeberHaus produced this prefabricated home in a Bauhaus NEED TO KNOW: Briefing your designer
style after the owners were attracted to the idea of timber
frame properties being erected in less than three days l Finding a designer RIBA (the Royal Institute of British
Architects), CIAT (The Chartered Institute of Architectural
built by this design-supplier duo and see for supply process can help when it comes Technologists) and ASBA (The Association of Self Build
yourself if you’re happy with the result. Some to getting the specialist parameters of a Architects) are all good places to start. Locally based
collaborations even offer design service factory-built system perfect. Designers who professionals are likely to understand what your council’s
discounts to try and win your business. live and breathe a specific pre-manufactured planning department will accept and might even have
structure will know exactly how to produce a good relationship already established with the authority.
In-house design the best design for this system.
l Working with your plot Plonking a house on a site without
Many package firms are able to produce Some suppliers will have a number of first thinking about how to respond to its surroundings won’t
tailored schemes by having their own ready-made plans on file that you can look produce a successful result. Instead, think about where
architectural team. You’ll brief them much through. You may want to browse these as daylight moves and how it can be harnessed, whether you
the same as you would with the traditional an inspirational starting point before working want to capture any views and if there’s local vernacular to
architect route. Merging the design and with the in-house designer to come up with reference. Bring pictures of the site, vistas and local buildings
along to the initial meeting to work these into the design.
The owners of this property had their architect design a
property similar to a house he’d worked on previously. They l U nderstanding lifestyle needs Think about how you want
then had Oakwrights manufacture and supply the oak frame to use your new house. What will rooms be used for and how
big do they need to be? For instance, do you need a large
utility space for pets and boots or a large kitchen-diner for
entertaining? Your household routine will have an important
bearing on the design, so it’s important to discuss this.

l D on’t forget storage The popularity of vaulted ceilings and
loft conversions means that storage is notoriously overlooked
by self-builders. Make sure you design in enough space to
hide things away to leave rooms uncluttered – make a list of
everything that needs to be stored as a starting point.

l Designing to your style preferences Everyone has
individual tastes, so don’t let your scheme be dictated by the
looks your architect favours. Instead, show them pictures of
houses, materials and elements that you like the look of for
them to get a sense of what you’re hoping to achieve.

l Confirming your budget Be realistic about how much you
can afford to spend and your designer will say if costs need to
be reined in. You might need to make compromises, but there
are often ways to get eye-catching details on a budget.

make sure you read

If you’re looking Build It magazine
– out on Readly each
for self-build month. Packed with
beautiful reader homes
and renovation and practical guidance
to help you make a
inspiration success of your bespoke
home building project.

Build ItSELF-BUILD + RENOVATION + CONVERSION + EXTENSION
Plan,
design &
build your
dream
SecretsSELF-BUILD home
10 things you need to know
before starting a project EXTENDING
YOUR HOME

Planning tips for
adding real space
and value

WHAT WILL
IT COST?

Expert advice for
staying on budget

SHOULD YOU BUY PROJECT SUCCESS
PVCu WINDOWS?
INSULATION ESSENTIALS ‘‘We built a modern
HEATING & ELECTRICS
FOR OFF-GRID PLOTS oak frame home with

July 2018 £4.65 ’’bags of character

p001_BI.0718.indd 1 17/05/2018 11:44:43

Read it today!

12 eCsocuanptery

THE MILNE FILE The Milnes hadn’t contemplated self-building
before, but taking the plunge has given them
Names Lisa & Ian Milne the idyllic rural village lifestyle they craved
Location Bedfordshire
STYLE Contemporary Words KIRSTY DOOLAN Photos OAKWRIGHTS
package type Design,
supply & assembly of oak Lisa and Ian Milne had been living
frame and encapsulation close to Watford for 17 years when
system by Oakwrights they decided the time was right to
(see page 46) escape to a more rural area. “We
Plot size 0.35 acres wanted to be somewhere more tranquil but
House size 235m2 were both commuting into London for work,
build cost £445,965 so wherever we moved would need to have
build cost PER M2 good transport connections,” says Lisa. After
£1,898 losing out on a property in a bidding war and
building work TOOK suffering the frustrations of a post-recession
One year (completed 2013) housing market, the couple decided to change
tack and look for a piece of virgin land.

Planning pitfalls

The Milnes found what looked like the ideal
plot in Flitton, Bedfordshire – an edge-of-
village site just three miles from the station.
But it seemed their hopes were set to be
dashed when they discovered the land came
with an incredible 26 planning conditions.

“It sounded like it would be a nightmare,
so we decided not to pursue it,” says Lisa.
“Shortly afterwards we went away on holiday
and I was looking at the plot and initial design
again on my laptop, when a guy sat next
to me commented: ‘That looks like a nice
green oak frame.’ We didn’t really know what
that meant – but when we researched it we
thought that oak buildings looked great.”

Lisa and Ian called the estate agent while
on holiday, but were disappointed to learn
that the land had already been sold. They
gave the agent their number just in case
and, luckily for them, the original sale fell

13

Oak homes lend themselves to open plans
and focal features such as spectacular stairs

The rear gable is more modest – but features through. The couple had a bid accepted
bifold doors leading through to the garden in February 2012 and the exchange was
finalised in June that year.

The original vernacular-style design had
been put together by one of Oakwrights’
architectural team, so the Milnes decided to
go back to them to personalise the scheme.
“We made some minor alterations, such as
going for bifolds rather than French doors,
and generally changed things to suit our
needs,” says Lisa. “But on the whole the
footprint remained the same; we just made
non-material amendments.”

There was still a lot of work to do before
the project start in earnest, as nine of the
26 planning conditions – which included

14

Build cost breakdown elements such as the exact brick that would
Elements Cost m2 Cost % Total cost be used – needed to be discharged pre-
commencement.
Services £21 1% £4,989
Foundations £226 12% £53,139 Getting underway
Oak frame & encapsulation £527 28% £123,755
Roofing £55 3% £13,020 By December 2012 the site was cleared,
Doors & windows £171 9% £40,151 with the foundations laid the following month.
Plastering & rendering £47 2% £11,000 Getting out of the ground proved a bit slower
Plumbing & electrics £221 12% £51,861 and trickier than they’d anticipated, however.
Joinery & plasterboard £101 5% £23,700
Kitchen & bathrooms £185 10% £43,441 “We had prolonged discussions with the
Interiors £167 9% £39,233 planning officer about the garage footings
Fees & sundries £177 9% £41,676 because of its proximity to the trees, which
delayed things,” says Lisa. “Later on, when
Grand total £445,965 the team poured the concrete for the
foundations, it snowed. So the whole
process was disrupted. Once the site was
fully cleared we had to reroute some drains,
too – but on the whole it wasn’t too bad.”

Things sped up when Oakwrights arrived
on site to erect the oak frame, which was
assembled in just four days. Encapsulating
the structural skeleton in an insulated
wraparound took a further 10 days, so the
main shell of the couple’s new home was

A ground floor ensuite bedroom
provides guest quarters and an
element of future-proofing

15

we learned...

• PLANNING CONDITIONS can feel

onerous at times, but we found it
helpful to meet the planners for
some in-depth discussions. We
had to have the tiles, bricks and
windows approved.

• PAYING CONTRACTORS QUICKLY

was key to making sure we had a
harmonious relationship. We also
double-checked that they were
going to be on site a few days
before they were needed to ensure
everything was on track.

• IT TOOK A LONG TIME to get

water and electricity on to the site,
but luckily our neighbours let us
tap into their supplies. Make sure
you get these applications sorted
out well ahead of the build and that
you have a plan B in place.

built in just two weeks. “We opted for the underfloor heating, but have also cleverly The innovative arrangement is perfect
company’s Wrightwall encapsulation system, future-proofed the house by burying tail for the couple’s needs. “Having the guest
which provides extremely high levels of pipes in the first floor walls in case there’s bedroom on the ground floor is great, as
insulation,” says Lisa. “We felt this would ever a need to install radiators. Another issue visitors have a real sense of their own
help keep our utility bills as low as possible.” arose when the carpenter was fitting the space,” says Lisa. “It also came in handy
door frames. “We realised the unusual shape while my dad was living with us, as he
Another advantage of Wrightwall is that of the house meant that the door under the wasn’t able to manage the stairs and
it’s specially designed to attain modern stairs wasn’t going to open properly,” says everything was on a single storey for him.
standards of comfort while maintaining Lisa. “The contractor who was making the Upstairs, the views from the lounge are fab.”
traditional detailing, such as the fine line flight kindly rebuilt the door with a cut-off
of exposed rafter feet at the eaves of this in the top corner to ensure it would fit.” As part of the strict planning conditions
kind of heritage home. All of this is achieved on their scheme, Lisa and Ian had to submit
while masking the full depth of insulation Despite such teething issues, their home a full landscaping plan for approval. “I found
build-up within the roof. was ready to move into by mid-November a garden designer, Rosalind Rosewarne,
2013 – and the couple were delighted that online and she was brilliant,” says Lisa.
Smoothing the bumps the project stayed well on budget. At the “We’ve stayed good friends. When she
start of the process, they hired a quantity first presented her ideas to us, I was so
When it came to engaging the various surveyor to price the job, who had suggested happy I cried. We found a well capping
trades they needed to take the project to a total build budget of £448,000. In the stone on the site when it was cleared
completion, Lisa took recommendations event, the Milnes managed to deliver their from the vicarage well next door, so this
from a property developer she regularly new home for very slightly under this figure. has been incorporated into the garden.”
worked with. The couple also sought advice
from people in the village. They were able Tailored finish The Milnes are extremely pleased with
to assemble a great site team and, by and their first self-build project. “The house
large, things progressed well – although The internal layout has been carefully has given us great entertaining space,”
there were a few hiccups along the way planned to make the most of the site. says Lisa. “We have five children plus their
in their self-build journey. An open-plan kitchen, dining and living partners and two grandchildren, so it’s lovely
area is downstairs – along with a study, to have the ability for us all to be together.
“By far the trickiest thing to install was utility, WC and ensuite guest bedroom. The most rewarding aspect is that we did it
the mechanical ventilation and heat recovery Upstairs is the master suite and dressing ourselves, and knowing how proud my dad
(MVHR) system,” says Lisa. “It was all drawn room, two further bedrooms, a bathroom was of us for building it. He lived with us
out to navigate the wooden beams but and a living area with panoramic vistas for a while, but he has now passed away.
in reality it proved more difficult to route via windows on three elevations. It meant a lot to us that he loved it.”
the ducting.” The couple have installed

16 Fast track

THE MARWOOD FILE Chris and Sheila Marwood’s new prefabricated
German kit home took just 12 weeks to build,
Names Chris & Sheila Marwood despite their sloping Cornish site
Location Cornwall
STYLE Contemporary Words Debbie Jeffery Photos James French
package type Turnkey
by Hanse Haus (page 38)
Plot size 1.4 acres
House size 340m2
build cost £550,000
build cost PER M2 £1,618
building work TOOK
12 weeks (completed 2013)

When retired couple Chris and
Sheila Marwood began their
search for a house with plenty
of sun and views in Cornwall,
they struggled to find something that fitted
the bill. “Eventually we decided to look for a
plot of land instead,” says Sheila. Although
they had never built a house from scratch
before, they weren’t complete newcomers
to the process. “We’ve altered every property
we’ve ever owned and always lived in them
while the work was completed,” she adds.

The couple registered online to receive
plot alerts and spotted a 1960s bungalow
on 1.4 acres of land in Lostwithiel – a familiar
location, as they had holidayed there before.
“We took our retired architect friend, Peter,
along to view the bungalow with us,” Chris
explains. “The property sat in one corner of
a field, overlooking the small town and down
towards the river Fowey. As soon as we
witnessed the south-facing views from the
site, we knew we’d found something special.”

New project

Chris and Sheila briefly considered the idea
of upgrading the bungalow, but their friend
intervened. He explained that the outdated
construction techniques used in the 1960s
were guaranteed to be much less energy
efficient than modern building methods. So he
sketched out a rough design for a new house
on the large site. “It was a fantastic-looking
dwelling, although later we had to tweak the
plans to reduce it in size,” says Chris.

The scheme offered a modest two-storey
home, but the steep slope allowed for an

17

The three-storey beech-and-steel
staircase was delivered in sections

extra ground floor buried into the side of Floor tiles have been laid
the hill, with balconies above to take in the diagonally in the kitchen
view. This lower level contains the garage,
two guest suites with bathrooms, as well
as a utility and plant room.

“We didn’t want to end up with enormous
spare bedrooms,” says Sheila. “Having these
downstairs offers extra privacy for guests.
The design also meant that we could use the
entire top floor as a spacious master suite,
with the living areas at entrance level.”

They initially planned to rent out the
bungalow until their current house in Exmoor
was sold, but things ended up moving rather
more quickly than they had anticipated. “We
moved straight into the bungalow and lived
there throughout the build,” explains Chris.

Package route

Sheila spotted an advert in a Cornish
magazine for German house building
company Hanse Haus, which had recently
completed a cottage-style property nearby
in Padstow. The firm specialises in a
prefabricated ‘thermo-efficiency’ timber
frame construction system, with studs at
close centres to allow cabinets etc to be
easily fixed to the walls. Factory manufacture
is key to the success of this type of project,
as each house is carefully detailed to

18

Build cost breakdown prevent heat loss. “Seeing pictures of the Getting off the ground
Elements Cost m2 Cost % Total cost cottage project made us realise that using
a package company didn’t mean we needed Once planning permission had been
Site clearance, slab, £324 20% £110,000 to adhere to some kind of set format,” says granted, the couple employed a UK firm
services & basement Sheila. “We loved the idea that we could to excavate the site, and the lower ground
54% £297,322 have exactly what we wanted in terms of level was then constructed by specialist
Ground floor & first £874 10% £52,678 style and layout, plus a fast build time and a company, The Fell Partnership. This storey
floor construction really energy efficient home on completion.” has been formed using insulating concrete
16% £90,000 formwork (ICF) by Nudura, with waterproof
Fit out of lower ground floor £155 After contacting Hanse Haus, the concrete. Internal and external walls are
Marwoods flew out to Bavaria to visit the the same thickness, meaning each room
Access road, landscaping £265 company’s factory and see how their houses is efficiently soundproofed.
& septic tank were created. They were so impressed with
the process that they decided to not even Once the basement shell was in place,
Grand total £550,000 bother looking at any other companies and Hanse Haus came in and completed the
agreed for the package house firm to take zone, packing in the plumbing, electrics
on the majority of the build. and wall dry-lining. A lightweight Op-Deck
insulated concrete floor system was laid,

Glazed doors open from the sitting room
onto a balcony overlooking the valley below

forming the ceiling and making the project The large bathroom on the top 19
ready for the next phase of the build – the floor features a two-person tub
pre-manufactured above-ground structure. we learned...

Over in the firm’s German factory, the • LIVING ON SITE is worthy of
timber frame panels were layered with consideration during any build,
insulation, doors, windows and plasterboard even if it’s a prefabricated house.
to create a complete wall system. Ducting We were lucky to be right next
for cabling, pipes and sockets was packed door, as we could be on hand to
in, and the ceiling and roof elements were answer any questions if necessary.
formed. Chris and Sheila flew over for a
short trip to select finishes for their new • A GOOD PROJECT MANAGER
house. They spent two days in an enormous is an essential, and in our book
showroom that has dedicated sections if you’re working fulltime then it’s
for roof tiles, doors, stairs, flooring and virtually impossible to take on this
sanitaryware. The couple spent time at the role yourself. Thankfully, Hanse
showroom choosing every individual element Haus provided this service for
us as part of our package.

• QUICK DECISIONS are essential
when dealing with a closed panel
pre-manufactured structure. This
is because everything is chosen in
just a couple of days – from doors
to details like tiles. You simply
don’t have time to spend hours
debating over minor details.

for the dwelling, apart from the kitchen, The Marwoods were extremely impressed
which they sourced separately. “Hanse by Hanse Haus’s German workforce, even
Haus do absolutely everything they can in though one or two of the team needed to
the factory, right down to painting the ends translate for those who were less fluent in
of the exposed roof timbers,” says Chris. English. “This was a little frustrating at times,
“It really was fascinating and rewarding to especially because we were sometimes
watch how quickly it all came together.” having quite technical conversations, but
it was perfectly understandable and not
Ceiling beams add character Smooth sailing a major problem,” says Sheila.
to the vaulted master bedroom
Manufacturing the property took only three Home for life
days, at which point the structure was ready
to be delivered. Everything was loaded onto Chris and Sheila have thoroughly enjoyed
trucks in a very specific order so it could be the excitement of self-building their own
offloaded efficiently once it reached the site. house, without the drawbacks of slow
A crane lifted and placed each segment, construction times and unreliable trades
ready for the team to assemble. “It took just that some people face. “The entire package
four days to piece the house together – process runs like a well-oiled machine, and
much to the shock of our neighbours,” says makes other construction sites seem very
Sheila. “It’s quite difficult to envision how old-fashioned,” says Sheila.
everything will look, and we didn’t get all the
sockets in the right places, admittedly.” The couple’s new home has proved
to be extremely energy efficient and
Not only was the speed of construction a comfortable to live in. “We’ve no plans
big boon for Sheila and Chris, but they also to build another property for ourselves,
appreciated the efficiency of the process, because we’re so happy here, but we’d
especially when it came to finances. “The thoroughly recommend it to others,” says
great thing is that once you’ve made all Chris. “Until you live in a house like this, and
your choices, the price is locked in, so you appreciate the insulation and triple glazing,
know exactly what the final cost will be,” you don’t realise how inefficient many UK
says Sheila. “We simply supplied a deposit, homes can be. It’s a really cosy property
followed by agreed stage payments.” that’s exceeded our wildest dreams.”

20 Route 1: Shell

Project The simplest package is the supply and
management erection of the shell of the building – this
routes will leave you with a watertight structural
envelope, ready for your main contractor
Package builders offer a sliding scale of options to take over (or for you to manage the
when it comes to the services they provide, whether remaining stages yourself). If you want a
you want to take on some of the responsibility or hands-on experience, a shell build will give
leave the delivery of your home to the professionals you maximum control over what happens
next. It takes out some risk, but not all, as
The general rule when it comes to project management is the more work you are Left: Like many any subsequent problems having to be
prepared to undertake, the more financial risk and responsibility you’ll be placing package home sorted with your own time and money.
on your own shoulders. So, when deciding who will manage your build, it’s best to providers, Welsh
think in terms of how risk-averse you are, as well as how much time you can offer Oak frame offers a Typically a shell package will see you
and how much you value the project as a hands-on learning experience. pick and mix range end up with walls and a roof with external
of products and membranes (but not the cladding or roof
Money is obviously a factor, too. In theory it should cost less to manage the self-build services – from coverings), floor joists installed, and apertures
process yourself, but leaving it to the professionals can yield savings from their ability to run planning to design, for windows and doors (protected with
the works efficiently, leveraging their expertise to get good prices for materials and labour. Building Regs waterproof material). Package companies’
drawings and onsite definition of what a shell build is will differ,
A package company can alleviate the stress and uncertainty by bundling services together construction – so check that you are comparing like for
and assuming some of the risk. An entry-level approach would see a firm supplying materials providing maximum like. “Read the exclusions in any quotation
and labour to provide you with a watertight structural envelope. Moving up the scale, you could flexibility for how to ensure you are getting a full structural
add in design and planning services at the start, or take a largely hands-off course throughout self-builders want package,” says Simon Orrells, director of
the whole build with a turnkey service that guarantees costs and timings. to run their project
Route 2: Design & shell
The choice is wide, and the decision will come down to your unique set of circumstances –
everything from whether you have a main contractor in mind to how far you live from your site. Adding the design element of a self-build
In this article we’re breaking down the main routes and what you can expect from them. to the early construction phase can make
perfect sense. Bringing the two together
often streamlines the process, making it
faster and offering greater cost certainty.
It can produce savings, too, since the
design side (typically provided by an in-
house architect or a network of approved
professionals) is often subsidised by the
package company as an incentive.

This is a very common route when working
with package suppliers. Many of them offer
a range of house plans that can be adapted,
but most are now equally comfortable
creating something bespoke. They may
also take on the planning side and manage
Building Regulations approval, all of which
helps to ease the stress of self-building.

It makes particular sense to marry the
design and shell elements if the structural
system has special requirements. That
way, you’ll get a scheme that works in total
harmony with the build method. A good
example is green oak frame, which tends
to need an expert to get the best out of it;

21

Frame Technologies. “For example, in a works from architectural drawings to put mortgage to finance the works, getting IN THIS
timber frame project, make sure that all together the necessary structural elements to watertight stage is often when the ARTICLE
the beams required to support the building (bricks, blocks, mortar and wall ties), without next tranche of funds gets released,
are supplied, whether they are steel or the need for a quantity surveyor. so it’s a crucial landmark. Design & Materials
glulam. That way, you’ll have one point of l This route is great for hands-on self- page 54
responsibility from a structural point of view.” Things to consider: builders who are keen to take on as
l T his method will give you the freedom much as possible or oversee the project Lakeland
The package company will have taken themselves; with the potential for cost Timber Frame
your architect’s drawings and translated to use the architect (or other house- savings if everything runs to plan. page 36
them into a viable scheme that meets designer) you want, as well as your l Y ou may be missing out on further savings
Building Regulations and achieves agreed preferred follow-on contractors. by not opting for a package builder’s Potton page 44
specifications for energy efficiency. Once l You’ll have price certainty over a key design service, which is often subsidised.
they’ve erected the shell, they may also be element of the build. If you’re using a Welsh Oak
available for advice and support with any page 58
problems that may arise during the ongoing
build – check with your supplier to find out CASE STUDY A recommended project manager
where they see their role ending.
As a first-time self-builder, Nikki
Shell builds are associated with timber- Scrivens opted for the peace of mind
frame systems, and dovetail nicely with of using a recommended project
offsite construction, but they are not manager when she constructed her
restricted to this method. Stripping things Potton home. Having lived in her
back even further, you can even opt for previous house for 36 years, the idea
just the supply of materials. For example, of creating a new dwelling didn’t cross
you could bring in your own team to erect her mind until friends living nearby
a timber frame, or use a service such as offered to sell her a plot of land that
H+H’s Masonry House Package, which they had recently bought, adjacent
to their own property. An even nicer
or SIPs, which is put together in a very gesture was that the friends refused to
different way to traditional timber frame. take payment for the plot until planning
You’ll also benefit from an onsite team that permission was granted for it.
is experienced and comfortable with the
construction technique, so they’ll be able Nikki got to know Potton through
to efficiently get on with the job. word of mouth, and the fact that they were based locally was
a bonus. She liked their designs and the package they offered,
As with the shell-only method, once including a project-management service by Brent Ackerman of
you get to watertight stage, you are free Delta Project Managers. The brick and render house is based
to continue with the main contractor or on Potton’s Haslingfield design, but has been tailored to suit
individual trades of your choice. Your her needs and lifestyle. A key requirement was that the main
package provider may be willing to offer ground floor should be as open plan as possible but feature
ongoing advice as the build progresses. a separate lounge with an inglenook fireplace. The house has
a warm lived-in look, partly thanks to its exposed Douglas fir
Things to consider: beams and timber detailing, and partly because it was also
l M any companies offer a fully bespoke designed with Nikki’s existing furniture in mind.

architectural service – so there’s no need Brent oversaw the site work up to watertight level before
to compromise on the design side. supporting the rest of the build using Potton-approved
l The design work might be offered at a contractors. “The groundworks team were simply fantastic;
discounted rate to encourage you to use a they also carried out some brickwork and were always
firm’s materials and construction package. available to give me advice,” says Nikki. “Trevor from the
l I n-house designers (or external affiliated bricklaying contractor was really helpful and I have him and
ones) will know how to get the best of his team to thank for giving me the inglenook fireplace that
a build method, including making it as I have always wanted. I have been delighted with the service.
economical as possible with little wastage. They were all very professional, kind and helpful.”
l You will retain a high level of control
over the subsequent construction phases HOUSE SIZE 171m2 BUILD COST £299,250 BUILD COST PER M2 £1,750 STRUCTURAL
and are free to select a main contractor SYSTEM Timber frame PACKAGE SUPPLIER Potton PACKAGE TYPE Project-managed build
or project manage yourself.

22

Route 3: Project managed package companies, such as Potton and their job,” Mark points out. “Furthermore,
Design & Materials, can put self-builders an absent customer who doesn’t make
Below: A “While managing a build is not necessarily in touch with a trusted network of PMs. decisions when needed or doesn’t keep
contemporary complicated, it is time consuming and the funds flowing can quickly complicate
house in Ulverston therefore not possible for some customers, They are usually engaged directly by the and delay even the best of builds.”
by Lakeland Timber particularly those who lead busy lives,” says self-builder (rather than being strictly part
Frame. The company Potton’s Mark Stevenson. of the package) taking a fixed fee of around Things to consider:
offers a supply- 10-15% of the build cost for a full project l T he larger or more complex the scheme,
only service for its If you don’t fancy spending time poring management service. Key provisions include
frames, or a supply- over spreadsheets, sourcing materials, overseeing the tendering process, looking the more you will benefit from a PM.
and-erect package. coordinating trades and working out what after sub-contractors’ works, managing the l Y ou won’t need to be responsible for
Factory-fitted needs to be delivered when, you need a schedule of materials, liaison with building
insulation is a project manager (PM). It particularly makes control and checking the work to make sure day-to-day site management, ordering
further upgrade sense for inexperienced self-builders who it is carried out correctly and to the agreed materials, scheduling and checking the
want professional advice and expertise on quality and specification, etc. work is carried out properly.
tap, and for larger, complex builds. l E xpect to allocate 10-15% of the build
A good PM could recoup some or all costs to a PM. This is a significant jump
“The advantage of this approach is of their fee through their ability to negotiate compared to running your own site, but
that the customer retains a high degree the best deals for materials and labour, as if they’re good, they should save some
of control over the build and can set the well as being able to run a smooth schedule money compared to running your own
agenda about how the budget is spent, that’s free from costly errors and hold-ups. build, by bringing greater efficiency and
which subcontractors are employed, how the ability to negotiate better deals.
quickly the build will progress and what Just as it’s important to agree the role of l Y ou’ll still be heavily involved with the
level of quality is acceptable,” says Mark. the project manager, it’s equally crucial to be decision-making, but are more likely
aware of your own responsibilities. “There (although not obliged) to source features
A PM could be your main contractor is absolutely no point in employing a PM to such as windows, insulation and joinery
or another professional person, and many manage a build if the customer constantly through your project manager.
interferes and doesn’t let them get on with

Route 4: Turnkey

A turnkey route sees the professionals take
control of the majority of the construction
process, right down to second-fix plumbing
and electrics, installing flooring, tiling and
joinery, and even decorating. It’s done for
a fixed price and to a specific timescale,
agreed at the start. So if you want a high
degree of certainty that your project will be
completed on time and on budget – and are
happy to pay for the privilege of that security
blanket – it could be the route for you.

Turnkey can mean different things to
different suppliers, and it is not always a full
all-in-one solution. European housebuilders
such as WeberHaus are closely associated
with this route, and their prefab systems
allow them to be more accurate about build
times. You can expect to be flown out to their
sampling suites to choose everything from
taps to tiles over the course of a couple of
days. However, they usually expect you to
organise the groundworks and foundations
– although they may be able to point you in
the direction of a preferred contractor.

Many also don’t get involved in supplying
the kitchen or undertaking any landscaping.

23

CASE STUDY Project-managed by self-builder

Tony and Irene Crowther used masonry package company Design & The four-bedroom house is made from aircrete blocks, clad in local
Materials for their Oxfordshire home. They took a risk in buying a plot Cotswolds stone. Tony was adamant that a masonry build was the way to
of land with no planning permission for £20,000, in a village they loved: go: he reasoned that it felt like a natural fit with the stone cladding, and he
permission was granted on appeal, with the aid of a planning consultant. wanted solid concrete floors upstairs. The internal walls are also blockwork,
They resisted the urge to sell – an estate agent told them it was now specified for its feeling of solidity in preference to studwork. Having self-built
worth £500,000 – because they loved the site and the circumstances twice before, and with time to spare in retirement, Tony took on the project
were right. “I’d always wanted to build a Cotswolds stone house in this management. “I wouldn’t say that it doesn’t have its stressful moments,
village, and I’d just retired so I had the time to do it,” says Tony. because it does,” he says. “But actually, the most stressful thing in the end
was that we sold our old house quicker than we thought, and had nowhere
to live, so we were in a camper van on a campsite for five months.”

Tony came across Design & Materials after knocking on the door of
an attractive new house he had watched being built locally; the owners
gave a hearty recommendation. Design & Materials designed the house,
did the planning application, drew up Building Regulations drawings and,
once consent was achieved, coordinated the building tenders. Tony then
project-managed, acting as the link between his main contractor and
package supplier. A big part of the job was already taken care of though,
since Design & Materials were responsible for the getting the correct quality
of materials to site, at a fixed cost that had already been agreed. “It was
brilliant,” says Tony. “They delivered everything from bags of cut stone to the
joists and floor beams, all on time. They were on hand right up until the day
we moved in, and even guided me though the VAT claim at the end.”

House size 338m2 Build cost £245,00 Package cost per m2 £724 Structural system Blockwork Package supplier
Design & Materials Package included Design, planning and supply of structural materials

This should all be clear at the start of the project, having a set of architect’s plans l Turnkey suppliers are often heavily
process – but always make sure you know drawn up before handing them over to a focused on bespoke design – there
what you’ll be getting for your fixed fee. package company to take care of the rest. will still be plenty of decision-making.

As offsite construction has taken hold in Things to consider: l Find out exactly what the term turnkey
the UK, the concept has expanded, while l A fixed cost and timescale gives the most means to your chosen supplier, as
companies such as Revolution Homes now they are all a little different.
offer turnkey packages across a variety peace of mind of all the build routes.
of build systems. You may also be able to l It’s the costliest option of all, but that l T here is less of an opportunity to have a
separate out the design side of a turnkey hands-on learning experience onsite, so
reflects how little risk you are taking on. consider whether that’s important to you.

24

Structural options
for package builds

Every construction system has great things going for it, so how do
you choose between them for your project? Here’s a quick-fire guide
to how they all work alongside the package home route

Above left: For some self-builders, the choice the options to help you decide which method Regulations package with a timber frame
Oakmasters of structural system comes first: – and which type of package company – will provider, as there are so many systems out
expanded a they’ll be sold on a particular be best-suited to building your new home. there,” says Simon Orrells, director of Frame
Georgian country construction method from the start, Technologies. “After you have managed to
house with this and then seek out a package suppler that Timber frame secure your plot, the planning process is
two-storey oak specialises in it and can also offer the right the next big hurdle, which can kill people’s
frame extension; an level of services they’re after. For others, it Unlike a masonry project, which all happens programmes. Putting them together can
architect designed onsite, timber frame construction always enable the project to stay on track, as some
it, with Oakmasters might be less clear-cut – it could be about involves some kind of prefabrication. It’s of the timber frame design can run parallel
working with them to finding a system that their architect or this fact that may account for the rise of the with the detailed engineering.”
package market, because it makes perfect
produce specialist designer recommends; prioritising certain sense that the company designing the frame, The greater certainties of offsite
and then making it in a factory, should also manufacture are also a key reason why
oak frame drawings. criteria, such as energy performance in use; be the one to erect it. People appreciate the package companies are able to offer a
Above right: An timber shell-build route because it takes contract within a fixed timescale and budget.
open-panel timber or simply going with what’s locally prevalent. some of the stress out of this key stage of Factory-made panels deliver extremely
frame system, like There are strong arguments to support construction, while giving them flexibility as accurate results, perfect for creating highly
this one in a Devon to who takes the project to completion. insulated and airtight homes, although this
build by Lakeland every technique, but factors such as cost, also means that your foundations need to
Timber Frame, has build speed, energy efficiency, suitability for “There are a lot of advantages of bundling be pretty much spot-on to match up.
the insulation fitted your design and the ease of making changes together the detailed design and Building
further down the line can all differ. So it’s a

after the frame has case of working out which one best dovetails

been erected with your needs. The following guide explains

25

CASE STUDY Oak frame home in Staffordshire There’s less IN THIS
time spent onsite ARTICLE
because some of

the work has already Design & Materials
been done – but page 28
how much depends Frame Technologies
on the system. The page 36
two main options Oakmasters
are an open-panel page 44
or closed-panel Revolution Homes
structural shell. page 50
Welsh Oak
Closed-panel page 68
systems are more

‘finished’, with the

insulation already encapsulated with a

framework or softwood studs sheathed in

sheets of plywood or oriented strand board

(OSB). Vapour barriers and plasterboard

may also be affixed, and conduits for wiring

and plumbing might be pre-fitted within the

panels. Because so much has been done in

the factory, there’s less possibility of labour

errors compromising thermal performance;

plus the added bonus of little onsite waste.

If you’ve opted for a European-style, fully

prefabricated system, your closed panels

may even come with windows, doors and

For Simon and Tracey Cooper, the choice of package site is down a private road in the grounds of an external cladding already installed.
provider for their Staffordshire home was entirely historic manor house surrounded by old brick walls,
guided by their preferred build system: oak frame. close to a river and an old watermill. “The people “A pre-insulated timber frame system
“It’s natural and sustainable, but the intricacy and the we brought the land from had been trying to get
detail is amazing too,” says Simon. “Oak gives a lovely planning permission for years but without any gives you a complete solution,” says Simon.
warm feeling to a house and has so much character success,” Simon explains. “It was tricky for us, too,
you don’t need to go over the top with furniture.” but we made sure the design and quality of the build, “The self-builder puts in the foundations
plus the scale and proportion of the house, worked
Simon is an experienced builder, but when it came with the landscape of the conservation area.” and the timber frame does the rest – all the
to his own home he put the responsibility in the hands
of Welsh Oak Frame. The company took his ideas The Coopers focused on creating a home with external and internal walls, the floor system
and put them into 3D format, suggesting further character using new and reclaimed building materials.
solutions that would enhance his design, such as the “We wanted the house to look like it had always been and roof structure; all with one budget and
vaulted ceiling in the hallway. “The oak was integral here and had just been extended over a number of
to one of our favourite features,” says Simon. “We years,” says Simon. The project was finished after a one point of responsibility.”
are particularly delighted with the vaulted ceilings 10-year journey that began when they first saw the
and glazing at the back house. I love the exterior, too. plot – but the time it’s taken to get here has been Open-panel systems are constructed in
Often houses can look flat but we wanted our home worth all their efforts. “I’m a perfectionist, but there
to look interesting from every angle so there’s literally aren’t many things I would change about our home,” the same way but one side is left open, so
a surprise around every corner.” says Simon. “There’s a warm tactile ambience when
you walk in, like stepping into an antique shop, and that the insulation etc can be installed onsite
The traditional manor style of the property was it’s lovely living in this setting. We’ve shown a few
all part of the strategy to build a dwelling that was budding self-builders around our house, too, and we before the walling elements are sealed up.
in keeping with the area, on a plot where people had haven’t hesitated to recommend Welsh Oak Frame.”
previously struggled to get planning approval. The This means build times are a little longer

than with closed-panel systems, but you

can get more hands-on when it comes to

selecting insulation products – or even

doing some of this work yourself.

House size 260m2 Frame cost £130,000 Total cost £390,000 Total cost per m2 Structural insulated panels

£1,500 Structural system Oak frame Package supplier Welsh Oak Frame Package Sharing the same offsite construction
advantages as timber frame, structural
included Design, planning, supply of materials for house shell Please note the figures used here are approximate insulated panels (SIPs) consist of a layer
of rigid foam insulation sandwiched between
two sheets of structural board, usually made
from OSB. Unlike open- and closed-panel
systems, there’s no supporting framework
of studs, as the structural integrity comes
from the bond between the materials.

26

Above: A contractor Onsite, the panels slot together to form Oak frame good alternative to oak in such schemes,
at work using H+H’s the loadbearing superstructure and any gaps because it has a straighter grain and can be
quick-to-build thin are sealed off with expanding foam. A special “There are a number of advantages to using more easily planed to a clean-cut shape –
joint masonry airtightness tape is applied to joins before a oak structurally,” says Mark Jones, managing or you could try engineered glulam beams.
system (www. breathable membrane is fitted. As with other director of Welsh Oak Frame. “The material
hhcelcon.co.uk) timber-based systems, the exterior can be gives a house instant charm and character – Turnkey packages in oak frame are rarer
clad in any material, from render to brick and this is a huge draw to people to want to than with other timber systems, but they do
slips. The quick build times and low wastage create their own unique home. What’s more, exist, especially if the company is working
are on a par with closed-panel systems. with sustainability at the forefront of people’s on a site that’s local to its HQ.
minds, oak is ecologically sound, carbon
The rigid foam provides excellent neutral, renewable and non-toxic – everything Brick and block
insulation with minimal thermal breaks, and you need for a healthy, eco-friendly home.”
the finished build is highly airtight, making While the majority of package companies
SIPs a good option for those looking to build Self-builders who have opted for an oak work with timber systems, they do not
to Passivhaus standards. What’s more, the frame home often go with a design-and-build entirely dominate the market. For masonry
panels can be used to give an instant pre- package, because it can take a professional builds, the essential advantages remain the
insulated roof space, suitable for loft living. experienced in this system to bring out the same. There’s more certainty over cost, and
best in it. This partly stems from its visibility: hence less risk to you. Plus you won’t have
“With our system, all the design and to deal with making sure the right quantity
engineering is part of the service and once unlike other systems, of materials have been accounted for and
erected the building or shell is fully wind the structure is are delivered to site at just the right time.
and watertight,” says John Langley, director on show internally
of SIPs package company JML Contracts and provides the There’s also the opportunity to take
(www.jmlcontracts.co.uk). “This is typically a essential character advantage of a host of additional services,
good point to hand over to other contractors of the house. Oak such as planning application support and
or to the client to finish off. The house is frames also need project management. You can specify your
protected from the elements and ready for to be carefully chosen company’s level of involvement,
fit out both internally and externally.” detailed to allow from just the provision of materials right
for the movement through to full turnkey developments.
JML Contracts’ comprehensive service and shrinkage
includes foundations and groundworks, that occurs as the Masonry construction is all done onsite,
which is rare but gives a strong likelihood wood dries out. with the walls built up in courses. It’s more
of the build being trouble-free. “It ensures forgiving than prefab: your foundations don’t
there is continuity and oversight of the whole The frames are need to be quite so dead-on, for instance,
process, and we believe that it provides even made offsite and because any imperfections can be corrected
more benefits to our clients,” says John. then craned in to by a competent brickie. Plus if you want to
position and fitted change your mind about where to put a
together – effectively, wall or a window mid-build, you can.
it’s a giant kit of
parts. This could Cavity wall systems, where two leaves of
be where your brickwork are filled with a layer of insulation,
package ends with are capable of meeting Passivhaus standards
an oak frame company, but lots of them of efficiency, as long as they are built with
also offer their own open- or closed-panel due consideration (using non-metallic wall
encapsulation techniques that create the ties instead of stainless steel, for example, to
walls and roof. Welsh Oak Frame has three minimise thermal bridging). You also get the
systems, for example (open panel, closed benefit of plenty of thermal mass – good for
panel and SIPs). This gives the self-builder retaining warmth until it’s needed.
plenty of options when it comes to finding a
solution for their budget, energy efficiency Thin-joint systems, which use oversized
goals and construction time frame. aircrete blocks put together with quick-set
Oak frame may be associated with adhesive instead of mortar, have made build
traditional-style homes but that’s not the end times significantly quicker and mean the
of the story. A more contemporary design process is less reliant on the weather.
might use more regular, planed beams (as
opposed to rustic-looking irregular ones) Insulating concrete
and steel fixings instead of traditional joints, formwork
marrying the warmth of the timber with an
almost industrial aesthetic. Douglas fir is a ICF is a system that uses modular hollow
polystyrene formers, locked together onsite,
which are then pumped full of concrete
and strengthened with steel rebar. The

27

technology has been around for more than Design-wise, it’s extremely adaptable, As a less common build method – albeit
half a century, but, as energy efficiency has although it’s harder than other systems to one that is gaining traction for one-off
become an ever-higher priority for self- alter once built (for example, creating an projects – there are relatively few package
builders, its popularity is on the rise. opening for a new window or door may companies that specialise in insulating
require specialist equipment). ICF companies concrete formwork, especially up to turnkey
The concrete gives the house shell can translate your architect or designer’s level. Most will offer manufacture and
excellent strength, suitable for creating a drawings into the formwork needed to build supply of the materials only, with erection
range of architectural features, while the it. But if you know which ICF system you done by either in-house teams or, more
two layers of polystyrene provide great want to use, a more efficient method would often, an affiliated company. On the turnkey
insulation. Fast construction times – just be to have the designer create something side, Revolution Homes works across all
a few days to get the shell finished – and tailored to the blocks’ standard dimensions, structural systems, including ICF, while
the possibility of self-builders being able to which reduces wastage (although bespoke Design & Materials – well-known for its
get properly hands-on (after some training) dimensions are perfectly possible). brick and block homes – can also offer ICF.
are two further selling points.

CASE STUDY Timber frame home in Oxford

Martin Morgan and his partner Sarah built a new home in Oxford, replacing been unbuildable, with too little structural support for the first floor. Frame
a single-storey house on the same site. Planning guidelines meant that the Technologies also took care of the sign-off of Building Regulations drawings,
dwelling had to effectively still fit the description of a bungalow, so the challenge and then supplied and installed the timber frame.
was to create the most amount of space without changing the overall ridge
height. From the front the house appears more bungalow-like, but a mansard From this point onwards, Martin project-managed the work himself,
roof at the rear gives a substantial amount of space on the first floor. employing all the trades individually. “It was pretty challenging, what with
working as well – spending evenings and every weekend doing the house,”
The couple decided to self-build after Sarah inherited some money. They he says. “But it worked out in the end. We moved in on exactly the day I had
realised they wanted a change of layout from the townhouse they had been living said we were going to, seven months before.” The structural shell of this house
in – more open, lateral space, a bigger kitchen and a good-sized garden, too. is formed of Frame Technologies Tech-vantage E system, and the frame took
nine days to go up; a brick skin covers the underlying panels. The only major
They chose a package route because “we had never done this before, and we hiccup during the build was when two 10m-long glulam beams turned up, and
didn’t really know what we were getting ourselves in to,” says Martin. “Some of it each was a metre short. Martin says this brought home what a good idea a
is quite technical, and it’s not until you’ve been through everything that you realise package build was, because it wasn’t his responsibility to deal with the mistake.
how much you need to do.” He says Frame Technologies’ director Simon Orrells
was “as good as gold” at guiding him through everything, picking up the phone Downstairs, the property features an open-plan kitchen diner at the rear,
even on a Sunday afternoon to answer questions. with a lounge and integrated garage at the front of the building. There are three
bedrooms (two of which are ensuite) and a study upstairs. The finished house
The house had already been part-designed when Martin and Sarah took their looks modest and bungalow-like from the front, just as the planning officer
plans to Frame Technologies. The company made some changes – including wanted, but inside there’s an enviable feeling of space.
moving a wall six feet when they pointed out that the original plans would have

HOUSE SIZE 260m2 PACKAGE COST £52,000 TOTAL COST £300,000 PACKAGE COST PER M2 £1,154 STRUCTURAL SYSTEM Timber
frame PACKAGE SUPPLIER Frame Technologies PACKAGE INCLUDED Design, Building Regs drawings, supply and erection of frame

28

Design & Materials
We’re one of the UK’s leading package suppliers for masonry homes, but we can also build in a wide range of other materials,
including thin joint blockwork, structural insulated panels (SIPs), insulating concrete formwork (ICF) and timber frame.
We can work with you to help decide on the best solution for your project. At Design & Materials, we pride ourselves
on a high level of personal service and sound, impartial advice at every stage of your self-build journey.

DESIGN OPTIONS Every customer and budget is different,
We offer a free feasibility study for your site and then, for a modest but you get a truly bespoke build at a
cost, can put together plans for your new home to your exact final fixed price, with an experienced
requirements, taking your needs and budget into consideration. team to help you at every step
Our in-house design team is headed up by Beverley Pemberton
– recognised as one of the country’s leading house designers – Antony Kingston design & materials
and will work closely with you to create a beautiful bespoke home.
3great 1
CONSTRUCTION CHOICES projects
You can choose from a range of building methods so that you by Design & Materials
can find the best solution for your design. Before you commit to Shortlisted in the Best Masonry Home
the construction phase, we will provide you with an all-inclusive 1 category at the Build It Awards 2017, this
figure for how much your new property is going to cost – giving
you the confidence to move forward. We will be with you every traditional home has a brick and render finish
step of the way – from the initial meeting to discuss ideas through
to the day you move into your new home. Our expert team will 2 This striking contemporary property features
coordinate your project from start to finish. This means that when a split roof design and expansive glazing
the building work begins, our system ensures you have complete
freedom to choose all the things that are important to you. A beautifully proportioned traditional-looking
3 dwelling, this self-build project boasts a
CONTRACT SCOPE
You may be very busy in your daily life and think you don’t have the natural stone external facade and slate roof
time to build your own home – but at Design & Materials we strive
to make your project as stress-free as possible. Our comprehensive 23
customer service takes care of all the time consuming red tape and
technical matters, leaving you free to focus on selecting the all-
important finishing touches that make a house a home. We provide
three simple packages for you to choose from: weathertight shell
(where you manage the internal trades); complete build (where you
oversee the final finishes); and turnkey (where we do everything
on your behalf, handing over the keys to a finished house).

OTHER SERVICES
l Free feasibility study for your site.
l Going through the planning process on your behalf.
l Building Regulations drawings.

CONTACT DESIGN & MATERIALS

Tel: 01909 531454
Web: www.designandmaterials.uk.com

41

case
study

Modern elegance

Package supplier
Design & Materials
Location
Surrey
House size
270m2 (incl. garage & balcony)
Package type
Design & build
Building work took
10 months

When Steve and Trish Potter moved into their previous home was of paramount importance, but the project cost was under
they knew there was potential to build a new house in their pressure. The couple needed to engage the skills of a civil
large garden. The couple were backed by the experience engineer, which they hadn’t originally budgeted for. Earth had
of several extension and renovation projects, but felt out of their to be moved and overlooking issues had to be addressed, too.
depth with a self-build, so decided to approach package firm Being in a garden, site access was tricky; Steve and Trish
Design & Materials to help with their venture. had to fork out for an automatic sprinkler system to ensure
compliance with Building Regulations – as a fire engine is
Steve and Trish were after a contemporary design with a light, airy unable to reach the new property. Despite the various hurdles,
and open-plan interior. The building needed to make the best use the project was still delivered within the original budget.
of the site and offer clear views over the garden. To come up with a
suitable scheme, Design & Materials worked with the couple’s brief Thrilled with the results, Steve and Trish feel that the scheme
and asked about their day-to-day lifestyle. The firm’s flexible approach far exceeds their initial expectations of their garden site’s potential.
meant Steve and Trish had a selection of construction methods. “Right from the first meeting with Design & Materials’ regional
After discussing with Design & Materials which options were most project coordinator, Ian Watson, we had full confidence that the
appropriate for them, they chose to build in traditional brick and block. company could overcome the many planning issues others shied
away from,” says Steve. “We felt they could deliver an outstanding
The land came with some complicated elements that the design design on a budget – and the result is awesome.”
team needed to be clever to overcome, meaning attention to detail

30

Facit Homes
Facit Homes is one of the UK’s most innovative home manufacturers. We use digital manufacturing technology to
create individually designed, high performance houses. Our progressive approach combines total design freedom with
a guaranteed level of quality, sustainability and value – giving you peace of mind that your build will be delivered on
schedule and on budget. The result is a low energy, modern home that is perfectly tailored to you.

DESIGN OPTIONS Our innovative approach has moved
Everyone’s idea of what makes the perfect home is different – house building in to the digital
and we’re interested in yours. Our in-house architects will work age, creating beautifully designed,
closely with you from the start of the self-build process, using precision made homes and putting
their skills and your ideas to develop a design like no other. By the customer in control of their budget
responding sensitively to the site, and being beautifully detailed and the decisions that matter
and filled with natural light, your bespoke home will be elegant,
welcoming and perfect for modern living. RHYS DENBIGH FACIT HOMES

CONSTRUCTION CHOICES 3great 1
The Facit Home is an innovative bespoke product that offers projects
a turnkey solution for realising your ideal project. Each house by Facit Homes
is formed from a series of highly engineered systems and This Build It Award-winning, eco-friendly
components (including our advanced structural system, the 1 home is set in a gorgeously secluded, leafy
unique Facit Chassis) which can be endlessly customised and
configured to suit you. Outstanding environmental performance back-land plot in south London
comes as standard, with passive house levels of insulation and
triple glazing, meaning that you get incredibly low energy bills 2 Offering modern architecture in a rural setting,
and a healthy environment in which to live. this family home features Corten steel cladding

CONTRACT SCOPE A contemporary take on the vernacular, this
Building your own home is a once in a lifetime experience for 3 light-filled house stands out on its suburban
most of us – and an exciting opportunity to achieve something
truly special. But it can be a daunting prospect, too, filled with street for all the right reasons
uncertainty and risk. Facit Homes offers a simpler way to realise
your dream by combining all of the necessary skills and knowledge
into one company that does it all, even the foundations. This means
that you can focus on enjoying the journey and planning for life
in your high-quality new home. Assisted self-finish options are
available should you want to get your hands dirty, too.

OTHER SERVICES 2 3
l Experts in achieving planning permission.
l Hyper-real 3D visualisations.
l Digitally designed and manufactured.
l Complete end to end service.

CONTACT FACIT HOMES

Tel: 020 3034 0720
Web: www.facit-homes.com

41

case
study

A hi-tech build

Package supplier
Facit Homes

Location
Highgate, north London

House size
475m2

Package type
Turnkey

Building work took
13 months (five months for basement;
eight months for above-ground work)

Anya, Robin and their four boys were fast outgrowing their original house’s 200m2 to 475m2 was a big challenge and meant
existing house in north London – but were very keen to digging out a basement and adding a third floor within the roof.
stay in the area. So they decided to explore the option The digital manufacturing of the Facit Chassis allowed us to work
of demolishing it and building a new home on the same spot. the design into the ideal form and still produce a super-insulated,
high performance building envelope.
Having engaged a local architect to draw up some initial plans,
with a very complex brief, they began to lose confidence that the With open-plan ground floor spaces that can be separated off
traditional house construction process would to deliver such a when the situation demands, six ensuite bedrooms and a swimming
technically challenging project on time and on budget. pool in the basement, the family now has all the space they need
as the boys continue to grow. That’s all wrapped up in a low energy
After finding out about Facit Homes by word of mouth, they home that has been designed around their lifestyle.
instantly liked the idea of a working with a professional, technology-
based company that would take responsibility for the entire project “It was incredibly enjoyable, and at times fun, to realise this
and offer increased clarity alongside reduced risk. fantasy house that we had been dreaming of,” says Anya. “Facit
Homes buffered all the stress, making sure I was given choices
Anya and Robin wanted a contemporary design that referenced rather than dead ends. The team is intelligent, quick to respond
the traditional vernacular but put a lot of importance on making sure and always at the end of a phone line.”
it would feel like home. Increasing the gross internal area from the

32

Feeling Homes
We specialise in designing and building homes that are just as individual as you. We’re not restricted to using one structural
system over another and instead are able offer our clients multiple routes to creating their dream home – including masonry,
timber frame, insulating concrete formwork (ICF) and more. We’re therefore excellently-placed to give impartial advice on
the best and most cost-effective solution according to your requirements and budget.

DESIGN OPTIONS Our team loves working with
We believe that if you’re building your own home, it should reflect self-builders, helping to bring
your lifestyle and personality. With this in mind, each of our clients their plans to reality. This is
can individually tailor their property so that it meets their needs, reflected in the care, attention
as well as responding to the unique features of the plot. to detail and quality we produce
on all our projects
All of our projects are designed using the latest cutting-edge
3D modelling software so that you can visualise your new property GARETH BROWN FEELING HOMES
in context before you have even broken ground.
3great 1
CONSTRUCTION CHOICES projects
Unlike some package suppliers, we’re not limited to one type of build by Feeling Homes
system. Our experienced team specialises in masonry, insulating 1 This elegant masonry self-build home is
concrete formwork (ICF), timber frame and thin-joint blockwork, so cut into a bank and surrounded by trees
we’re well-placed to provide clients with an impartial view on which
method is best-suited to their needs and the characteristics of their Set into a sloping site, this contemporary
plot. We are also specialists in constructing basements. 2 house was built using an insulating concrete

CONTRACT SCOPE formwork structural system
Each client’s requirements are different, and that’s why we tailor
our packages to suit their needs. Our services range from design 3 This double gable design makes a modern
and erect to watertight stage, through to full turnkey solutions. We statement on its countryside plot
also offer a project management service for customers that don’t
want to take a hands-on role in their scheme. 23

The chosen route is generally influenced by the level of
involvement the client wishes to have, and our flexible approach
allows them to select the path that they’re most happy with.

OTHER SERVICES
l W e can provide full turnkey packages, watertight structures

or individual elements of work on any project in south England.
l W e are able to carry out all pre-commencement reports,

including topographical, environmental, geotechnical, bat,
asbestos and highways surveys, and more.
l We offer cost and budget analysis services prior to planning
submission stage to ensure that the scheme is viable, based
on the funds you have available.

CONTACT FEELING HOMES

Tel: 01243 885085
Web: www.feelinghomes.co.uk

41

case
study

The perfect fit

Package supplier
Feeling Homes

Location
Kent

House size
285m2

Package type
Full turnkey

Building work took
12 months for completed
house (incl. basement)

After seven years of planning – and having gone through a
number of architects – David and Debbie engaged Feeling
Homes to redesign the existing plans for their long-awaited
self-build in Sevenoaks. This was to include changing the elevations,
fenestration and layout to be more in keeping with their requirements;
all of which was swiftly approved following a simple application to the
local authority. Feeling Homes’ approach and experience in delivering
value engineering made them the ideal partner, as the couple’s
project required significant rationalisation. What’s more, it was set
at the bottom of a valley, with a well that was higher than the lowest
part of the planned basement. This meant David and Debbie required
the services of a team with a proven track record of successfully
achieving underground accommodation on wet sites.

The living space in the 285m2 house is split equally across the
basement, ground and first floors. The lowest storey contains a gym,
wellness centre, large games/TV room and a study. On the ground
floor is an impressive open-plan kitchen-diner with family area, plus
a snug, utility and WC. The top storey hosts the master suite and
three further bedrooms, all served by ensuites.

The basement was constructed in concrete. It features tall ceilings
and five large glass floor units, which borrow natural light from the
large lift-and-slide doors above – creating a bright, airy space. As
these light sources are internal, there were no issues with planning.
The superstructure above was completed using Flemings’ advanced
timber frame system, which has been clad in Western Red cedar.

“I will be recommending self-building to all my friends,” says David.
“Feeling Homes alleviated so much of the stress. We worked hard
on the specification, which meant they just got on with the work. Our
only delay was due to a band of running shingle below ground, which
couldn’t have been accounted for as it didn’t show up on the survey.”

34

Fleming Homes
Fleming Homes have over 30 years’ experience in the design and manufacture of bespoke, award-winning timber frame kit
houses. Self-building is a life-changing experience, and there’s nothing more rewarding for us than doing a great job, and seeing
our clients happily settled in their new home. Our aim is to make your journey as smooth and enjoyable as possible with our
flexible services, superb designs and products, and outstanding experience and expertise.

DESIGN OPTIONS Self-building can be a daunting prospect.
Our homes are developed from a blank sheet of paper. Our At Fleming Homes we aim to be there
experienced designers will work with you to transform your ideas for our customers every step of the way,
into something that’s realistic and individual to you. Whether that’s offering as much – or as little – support as
a breathtaking combination of space and luxury or a small family they need, when they need it
home conceived to cut the cost of living, the team at Fleming
Homes will take all your requirements into consideration to deliver Sarah Mathieson Fleming Homes
your dream house. If you’ve already bought your plot, our design
service is free of charge. We can also manufacture and supply a 3great 1
timber frame dwelling from existing architect’s drawings. projects
by Fleming Homes
CONSTRUCTION CHOICES 1 A stunning stone-clad four bedroom
All our prefabricated timber frame products are made in-house family home offering outdoor living
by our highly trained team. Each panel is hand-crafted by an
experienced maker, using treated wood sourced from well- This classic New England-style self-build
managed, sustainable forests. Our panels are carefully checked 2 house features spacious verandas and
for compliance with our own quality assurance procedure –
based on the toughest industry best practice and compliance an indoor swimming pool
standards. Each one is hand-signed by the maker, giving you a
personal guarantee of pride in the quality of work. Beautiful modern dwelling that benefits
3 from a contemporary combination of
CONTRACT SCOPE
If you plan to manage your own project from initial design to stone and timber cladding
erection, we offer a range of services that can save you time
and money. Our experienced team will help you overcome 23
the hurdles associated with planning consent and Building
Regulations approval. And if you are looking to minimise the
number of contractors you deal with, our experts can streamline
the self-build process for you. We also offer a comprehensive
specification which can be adapted to suit your individual
requirements and lifestyle.

OTHER SERVICES
l Structural engineering and site investigation.
l Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) calculations.
l Airtightness testing.

CONTACT Fleming Homes

Tel: 01361 883785
Web: www.fleminghomes.co.uk

41

case
study

A testimony to self-build

Package supplier
Fleming Homes
Location
Carmarthenshire
House size
317m2
Package type
Design service & full specification
to wind and watertight
Building work took
Two years

Paul and Rhian Bates wanted a spacious home to enjoy in their process,” says Paul. “They weren’t the least expensive company, but
retirement years. The couple knew timber frame was the route they took us through planning and Building Regulations, which can
best suited for them. “We wanted speed of construction to be tricky in rural Wales. They also did SAP calculations, and offered
avoid the weather impacting the build,” says Paul. “We realised timber a fantastic service as the project progressed.”
frame would give us what we needed in terms of space, insulation
and high-quality specifications at a good cost.” Fleming Homes erected the dwelling to wind and watertight stage,
and Paul and Rhian decided to self manage sub trades thereafter to
The design was achieved in the true spirit of self-build to meet
their individual requirements and to fit their lifestyle. The ground floor complete their home with a high specification for under £1,000 per m2.
comprises a large sitting room, open-plan dining and kitchen areas, The result is a stunning house that meets the couple’s requirements
a sunroom, study and a utility leading onto a garage. On the first perfectly. Winner of Best Timber Frame Home at the Build It Awards
floor sit three bedrooms with two ensuites and a family bathroom. 2017, this project is an exemplar for what self-builders can achieve
with the right team around them – one that maintains a realistic and
As first time self-builders, the couple were reassured by Fleming practical approach while keeping a close eye on the agreed budget.
Homes’ approach. “I could tell they would hold my hand during the “We have a home for life now. It’s as near perfect as we imagined.”

36

Frame Technologies
We are at the forefront of timber frame innovation, delivering value, energy-efficiency and environmentally sound solutions for
bespoke projects. Our advanced Tech-Vantage systems offer swift build speeds, high-quality construction and reduced running
costs. We work closely with every client to deliver a personalised home that meets their individual requirements, providing a
complete timber frame solution to a fixed quotation and with one point of responsibility for the whole superstructure.

DESIGN OPTIONS Your self-build is unique, so
Every project we work on is bespoke and specifically planned to meet selecting the right design and
the individual requirements of each client. We work in partnership with construction partner is key. We
our customers to establish their unique aspirations, before consulting deliver a complete solution to
with architects and engineers to refine these ideas into a deliverable help you navigate each stage of
plan. Our experienced in-house design team takes a flexible approach the process and achieve your
to customers’ needs, and can provide a cost estimate based on pre- ultimate dream home
planning drawings or a full quotation derived from approved plans.
Simon Orrells Frame Technologies
CONSTRUCTION CHOICES
We use sustainably-sourced wood to create breathable closed panel 3great 1
timber frame systems that can be used alone or easily integrated with projects
other construction methods, including brick and block, stone and other by Frame Technologies
types of timber frame. By addressing areas of thermal bridging and 1 The shell of this Tech Vantage E self-build on
air leakage, our innovative Tech-Vantage setup helps deliver in-use a garden plot was erected in just four days
energy performance as specified in the design brief. The Tech-Vantage
E is based on a single leaf panel design and achieves U-values A build in progress within a former steel-
ranging from 0.10-0.20 W/m2K, while Tech-Vantage S attains results 2 frame cattle barn; now home to an efficient,
of 0.13-0.24 W/m2K. Alternatively, the Tech-Vantage T is a twin wall
frame arrangement that reduces thermal bridging and attains U-values contemporary three-bedroom bungalow
ranging from 0.09-0.13 W/m2K using standard 270mm deep panels.
Frame Technologies’ team took on the design,
CONTRACT SCOPE 3 supply and erection of the timber frame for
Our aim is to offer clients flexibility. We can provide a full design, supply
and erect package, or translate pre-existing architect’s plans into a this demolish and rebuild project
timber frame solution that achieves best value for you. Our houses are
manufactured under factory-controlled conditions, to the Structural Timber 23
Association’s Gold Assured standard, before being delivered to site and
erected. They’re then handed over to you ready for follow-on trades.

OTHER SERVICES
l W e can produce Building Regulation drawings for our

clients, which helps support buildability and cost control.
l S tandard Assessment Procedure (SAP) calculations

can be incorporated into your package.
l We also offer alternative structural solutions, such as

open-panel framing, glulam beams and metal web joists.

CONTACT FRAME TECHNOLOGIES

Tel: 01544 267124
Web: www.frametechnologies.co.uk

41

case
study

Brick-clad timber home

Package supplier
Frame Technologies
Location
Herefordshire
House size
200m2
Package type
Design, supply & erection of timber frame
Building work took
12 months

Stewart and are fitted with insulation in controlled factory conditions, helping to
Catherine ensure the target U-value of 0.19 W/m2K was achieved. This also
had always saved time over the alternative of installing the thermal protection
dreamed of being on site. Once the house was weathertight, the build team could
able to one day build get straight onto bringing in all the services.
their own house
in a countryside After the brickwork cladding was complete, it was time to move
plot – but viable on with the internal works – including fitting the staircase, which
green field plots arrived as a complete kit of components. This was assembled
are hard to come within a weekend and creates an impressive feature.
by; especially in
Herefordshire. After Now the house is complete, Stewart and Catherine cannot
much searching, the believe how low their heating bills are – even in the height of winter –
couple eventually came across a site with an existing dwelling and they are very pleased they went the extra mile with the insulation.
on it that required major remodelling and modernisation.

To open the plot up and make best use of the location and
views, it was decided that a demolish and rebuild scheme – taking
into account their lifestyle – would give them better value than a
renovation. After lots of meetings and discussions with the architect,
a design was agreed upon and a planning application submitted.

Just a few months later, permission was gained with no issues.
Detailed plans were put through building control and materials
selection agreed, and the couple were in a position to get started.

Whilst preparing the Building Regs application, much debate was
had as to whether to build traditionally or opt for timber frame. After a
meeting with Simon Orrells of Frame Technologies and a factory visit
to see panels being produced, the couple chose the Tech-Vantage E
system. The order was placed and a delivery date agreed.

The timber frame arrived on site and was erected in approximately
two weeks, ready for roof coverings. The Tech-Vantage E panels

38

Hanse Haus
Since it was founded 85 years ago, Hanse Haus has built over 30,000 ultra high-efficiency, pre-manufactured homes. Each
project is totally tailored to fit your exact specifications. Our homes are noted for their masterful design and impressive
energy performance levels, which far surpass UK regulations. Hanse is also an experienced builder of certified Passivhaus
projects, which lose almost no heat thanks to their extremely high levels of thermal insulation.

DESIGN OPTIONS Based out of Bavaria, Hanse Haus
A Hanse Haus home is as diverse and individual as you are. We build builds beautiful, efficient homes,
special, bespoke houses and have a network of open, approachable and tailor-made to the tastes of our
imaginative designers who will help you get the most from your self-build clients. Since 1929, we’ve delivered
experience. We offer a variety of routes, from creating a new design over 30,000 exquisite, high-
from scratch, to marrying your needs with one of our many pre-designed performance turnkey projects
homes. Our recommended designers will work with you until planning
submission, at which point our team of technicians and interior consultants OLIVER GRIMSHAW HANSE HAUS
guide you through the finer details – even handling building control. All the
while, you’ll have the reassurance that your dream home will be flawlessly 3great 1
built to the highest technical standards and to a fixed budget. projects
by Hanse Haus
CONSTRUCTION CHOICES With its elegant lines and mix of materials,
Achieving excellence in house building is all about eliminating variables. 1 this barn-style home in Oxfordshire combines
To guarantee quality, Hanse Haus homes are pre-manufactured in a dry
indoor environment by expert, highly-trained staff. This is where German contemporary style with historical relevance
precision comes into play. Once your bespoke timber frame has arrived
onsite, the wind and watertight shell can be erected in just three days. 2 A super high-efficiency home in Guernsey
Depending on the design choices you make, we can complete a with floor-to-ceiling triple glazed windows
200m2 property on a turnkey basis within just 14 weeks.
This modern mid-Devon house is heated
CONTRACT SCOPE 3 passively through solar gain and energy
Before you build with us, we hope to have already worked with you
as design consultants. We offer a number of free services, such as generated by appliances and inhabitants
site appraisals, logistical advice and quotes. Design work is charged
separately by one of our known partners (if you appoint us, we can 23
reimburse much of this fee). Many clients like to visit us at our factory
in Bavaria; we can share this cost and refund it upon commissioning.

Once instructed, Hanse Haus will detail and deliver a house that, in
addition to the structural shell, includes flooring, paintwork, underfloor
heating, electrics, heat recovery ventilation and sanitaryware. We only
stop at the kitchen, as we think it’s important for you to have maximum
choice in this space – though we will coordinate with your supplier.

We do not undertake groundworks, foundation slabs or service
connections ourselves, but we have longstanding working relationships
with contractors in this area to help you get your project underway.

CONTACT HANSE HAUS

Tel: 0800 302 9220
Web: www.hanse-haus.co.uk

41

case
study

Ultra-efficient rural home

Package supplier
Hanse Haus
Location
Perthshire, Scotland
House size
311m2
Package type
Turnkey
Building work took
Four months

Nestled on a Perthshire hillside, this modern vernacular home have a constant warm temperature and a really quiet and calming
stands out for its design sophistication, energy efficiency and atmosphere,” says Gill. “Perhaps most exciting, though, is the fact
innovation. In many ways, it follows Active House principles – it that our renewable technology generates more electricity in a year
gives more than it takes, providing a healthy and comfortable life for the than we import from the grid. And with cashback from the Feed-in-
occupants, without negatively influencing the climate or environment. Tariff, the house is actually making us money.”

“We were originally planning a traditional block and brick build,” The building was wind and watertight within just two days, while
says owner, Gill Siddall. “But when looking through a self-build the internal fit-out was completed in four months. The ultra-efficient
magazine, I read an article about the benefits of pre-manufactured timber frame property shakes off traditional, staid views on pre-
houses and it made so much sense that the majority of the process manufactured techniques by demonstrating that contemporary
should be undertaken in a controlled, dry environment. It was also sophistication, good performance and bespoke modern living can
very appealing to have such a fast build onsite.” marry together perfectly. “Hanse Haus were very supportive every
step of the way,” says Gill. “They helped us make good decisions
Inspired by many business trips to Scandinavia, Gill and her that mean we’ve built exactly the house we wanted. It really has
husband, Stewart, knew they wanted a house that was a bit different exceeded our expectations – it’s just a wonderful home to live in.”
in design, that was well-insulated and incorporated renewable
energy where possible. “We
decided on a contemporary
scheme that fitted into the
surroundings,” says Gill. “We
wanted a metal roof, plus a lot
of floor-to-ceiling windows in
order to maximise the views.
Hanse Haus also suggested a
basement built into the hill, so
that we could take advantage
of the sloping site.”

A key feature of the project
is Hanse Haus’s thermo-
efficiency walls, which combine
a high-strength construction
method with excellent levels
of insulation. “This means we

40

Lakeland Timber Frame
Lakeland Timber Frame is a well-established family business specialising in the construction of bespoke self-build homes.
Based in Cumbria on the edge of the English Lake District, we have 17 years’ experience in the manufacture, supply and
assembly of timber frame structures nationwide to suit every design – from chocolate-box cottages and award-winning
contemporary houses through to extensions, annexes, garden rooms, garages and cart barns.

DESIGN OPTIONS Building your own home is a
We understand that every client, project and plot of land is unique, truly personal experience, so
so we do not limit our customers to standard, off-the-shelf houses. we always aim to go above and
Instead, we design and manufacture individual timber frames totally beyond simply supplying and
tailored to your needs. Our goal is to bring to fruition the drawings erecting your timber frame. We
that have been specifically prepared to suit your own particular can provide expert support for all
plot, circumstances and lifestyle requirements. other aspects of your project

CONSTRUCTION CHOICES Keith Cordukes Lakeland Timber Frame
Our service level can be customised to your requirements. On a
typical project, we provide prefabricated external wall panels (usually 3great 1
factory-insulated), internal partitions, engineered I-joist floor structures projects
with weather-protected floor decking, and all roof timbers (including by Lakeland Timber Frame
valley boards etc). This package will leave you with a complete
structure ready for the roofer and other follow-on trades. This project combines panelised timber frame
1 with steel beams to enable features such as
We can supply a range of wall and roof insulation options to your
specification if desired. We are also able to incorporate features such the cantilevered first floor
as oak beams and trusses to create a traditional effect, or you can
select glulam versions for a more contemporary look. The design and 2 This scheme involved extending a house on
materials options are endless, and we’re happy to guide you through three sides to create a light-filled family home
these decisions or work with your choices.
Green oak, glazing and stone have been
Combining sustainably-sourced timber, high-quality craftsmanship 3 incorporated to achieve a unique look to this
and the latest manufacturing techniques, we create buildings for the
21st century – whether you want a home that simply meets the basic modern twist on cottage-style design
standards or an ultra-efficient Passivhaus.
23
CONTRACT SCOPE
We will work with you and your architect to deliver the optimum timber
frame solution for your project. From there, we can provide as much
of the structural package as you desire – including supply-only of
materials or a supply-and-erect service using our experienced teams.

OTHER SERVICES
l W e offer external joinery items such as timber cladding.
l A dvice throughout the building process on key decisions, such

as underfloor heating and whole-house ventilation systems.

CONTACT LAKELAND TIMBER FRAME

Tel: 01524 782596
Web: www.lakelandtimberframe.co.uk

41

case
study

Self-build on a budget

Package supplier
Lakeland Timber Frame

Location
Buckinghamshire

House size
135m2

Package type
Design and erection of
timber frame plus insulation

Building work took
10 months

when Phillip and Emma Walters set out on the path to thoroughly individual home. “The layout of the house has really
building their own bespoke home, the couple were improved our lifestyle,” says Phillip. “I’d do it again in a heartbeat –
focused on achieving a high-quality result on schedule but next time I would leave all the trades to our main contractor.”
and within an affordable budget. “We just wanted a house that
suited us,” says Phillip. “Compared with the cost of moving,
self-building made a lot of sense to us.”

The pair took a hands-on approach, with Phillip even over-ruling
his architect on a number of key points. For example, rather than
square-up every aspect of the scheme, they went for a 1.5-storey
design that eschews the idea of conformist boxes and echoes
some of the style of the rundown chalet this build has replaced.

The couple initially looked at the idea of an oak frame home, but
this route proved to be outside of their budget. Instead, the Walters
opted for an LABC-warranted Lakeland Timber Frame package. “The
company was really easy to work with,” says Phillip. “We could just
pick up the phone and talk to the boss; they were our sort of people.”

The family lived nearby whilst the eight-month build was underway.
Foundation works went smoothly thanks to good ground conditions,
with simple 1m-deep concrete footings and a block-and-beam floor
structure laid within a few weeks. The onsite erection of the timber
frame followed, and was completed in just five days – giving them
a recognisable shell ready to be finished inside and out.

Phillip got stuck into project management, spending many hours
trawling the internet looking for deals on bricks, windows, kitchens
and more. The approach was labour-intensive but saved thousands
off the total budget – which came in at an impressive £169,711 for
a high-quality three-bedroom, 135m2 home.

This is a project built on common sense, perseverance, and
judicious planning and purchasing – and just goes to prove that
you don’t need a grand budget, or past experience, to create a

42

Meisterstueck-Haus
In our factory in Hamlin, Germany, we build offsite manufactured timber homes to the highest standards of quality
and energy performance. Our award-winning construction system has produced a wide range of houses in the UK,
from modest timber-clad schemes to stunning contemporary designs. Founded in 1903, and still owned by the same
family, Meisterstueck-Haus has been building bespoke properties in the UK since 2010.

DESIGN OPTIONS We care about your whole self-build
We have gained a great reputation for listening carefully to our experience and respect that this is
clients’ wishes and producing homes that are a faithful interpretation your home, money and time in our
of the architect’s plans. We also offer a comprehensive range of our hands. The Meisterstueck-Haus team
own designs with something to suit every budget, from post and in the UK and Germany will guide
beam houses with expansive glazing through to more modest homes and support you with their expertise
for the eco-conscious self-builder. We can also provide a completely throughout the whole process
bespoke architectural service including the planning application
process; or we can work from your own architect’s design. helmut Gross Meisterstueck-haus

CONSTRUCTION CHOICES 3great 1
We build in two different ways: the traditional post and beam projects
construction for our masterpieces in glass and timber; or closed by Meisterstueck-Haus
insulated panels for contemporary Bauhaus-style homes. We can This project was crowned the deserved
also combine these two construction methods to deliver the style and 1 winner of the Build It Award for Best
practical benefits of both. Each house is manufactured in our factory
in very large segments, with windows and external doors already Offsite-Manufactured Home 2017
installed; this enables us to assemble the building onsite within days.
2 A small house in Falmouth that benefits
CONTRACT SCOPE from amazingly low running costs
You can choose a manufacture, supply and erect package, where
your home is assembled by our team of German master carpenters. Meisterstueck means masterpiece; exactly
Our specialists will erect the watertight and lockable house shell 3 the right term to describe this stunning post-
within three to four days, and complete work to an externally fully
finished shell within two weeks. The fit-out can then be undertaken and-beam house in timber and glass
by your own contractors if preferred. Alternatively, if you are looking
for a turnkey solution, then we can work alongside our UK partner
companies to coordinate every element of your scheme, including
groundworks, utilities, foundations and the full internal fit-out.

OTHER SERVICES 2 3
l Full bespoke architectural services available.
l B uilding Regulations drawings, inspections and certification

are included in the total project price.
l S tandard Assessment Procedure (SAP) calculations and

Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) as part of the package.

CONTACT MEISTERSTUECK-HAUS

Tel: 0845 003 1383
Web: www.meisterstueck.com

case
study

Captivating
country house

Package supplier
Meisterstueck-Haus

Location
Kent

House size
300m2 (plus basement)

Package type
Watertight shell

Building work took
Three weeks (shell only)

First-time self-builders Charles and Anja Martens wanted
to design and realise a unique home exactly suited to the
next stage of their lives – and were keen for the process
to be as straightforward as possible. The trick would be finding
the right firm to help them achieve their goals.

The couple did their research carefully, and after meeting
Markus Baukmeier, owner of Meisterstueck-Haus, and the UK
team, they made their decision. “They are small enough to care,
but large enough to be a secure and reliable partner,” says Charles.
“The certainty of the fixed cost for the entire package, the German
reputation for precision and high quality, and the ease of dealing with
a single company for the whole process of building the shell house
persuaded us that offsite manufacturing was the way forward.”

For Charles and Anja, there were many stand-out moments on
the journey to their dream home. “Visiting the factory, finalising every
detail of the house and realising that the final price would be slightly
lower than the quotation were just the start,” says Charles. “Then
there was watching the huge trucks arrive; holding our breath as
the 60-tonne crane made its way down our narrow country track;
and finally seeing the construction of a watertight, finished, lockable
shell house, exactly on schedule. Meisterstueck-Haus are easy to
deal with, and delivered every time on their promises and our high
expectations. They inspired our trust, and did not let us down.

“Having Meisterstueck-Haus as partners took away multiple
areas of uncertainty, while leaving us in overall control of what we
were getting,” he continues. “The team worked amazingly hard to
build us a house that we – and they – would be really proud of.”

The striking project was awarded runner-up in a nationwide
German competition for the best self-build country house.

44

Oakmasters
A family business of over 30 years, we specialise in the design, engineering and manufacture of luxury, bespoke oak
frame buildings, from houses through to extensions and garden rooms. We pride ourselves on our friendly, personal
service, fine craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail. All our oak frames are hand-finished with love and
great skill, creating a refined and elegant environment for you to live in and enjoy.

DESIGN OPTIONS Nothing gives us more pleasure than
Our flexible design services will help to ensure you get a home hearing ‘I love my new home’. We listen
that suits you. Our in-house specialist team will create your ideal carefully to each customer and put
bespoke house or extension, be it traditional or contemporary. our hearts into every project so they
We can even submit your planning application and see it through love the house we have designed and
to approval. The Oakmasters experts are also able to work with built just for them
your architect to engineer an oak frame aligned with your existing
design. From this point, we can produce complete sets of drawings, Edward Hamilton Oakmasters
specifications and structural calculations for Building Regulations
purposes and use during the construction process. 3great 1
projects
CONSTRUCTION CHOICES by Oakmasters
We take a flexible approach to allow you to prioritise your project A large hybrid house built using traditional
design in terms of complexity, cost and energy efficiency. We 1 methods, with extensive use of oak for the
are able to adapt each oak frame to work with a complementary
construction method of your choice. You might prefer a traditional cladding, porch, beams and other elements
timber structure combined with conventional brick and render wall
build-up, for example. Or you may want a contemporary frame This two-storey glazed oak frame extension
with a cutting-edge encapsulation system comprising structural 2 has more than doubled the size of the original
insulated panels (SIPs) and high-performance glazing that’s
capable of achieving Passivhaus standards. Georgian house, adding real wow factor

CONTRACT SCOPE 3 An idyllic country kitchen in a bespoke oak
Our services range from supply-only to supply-and-build. A design house designed and built by Oakmasters
facility is included in all our packages unless you specify otherwise.
Our supply-and-assembly option includes manufacture and
onsite erection of the oak frame along with softwood studwork
and rafters, windows and external doors, weathertight shell wall
build-up and encapsulated glazing. We can also provide general
construction services using our network of contractors nationwide.

OTHER SERVICES 2 3
l Planning consultancy and application management.
l Structural calculations and Building Regulations.
l Augmented frame engineering solutions, utilising other

materials, such as glulam and steel.

CONTACT OAKMASTERS

Tel: 01444 455455
Web: www.oakmasters.co.uk

41

case
study

Modern country
barn conversion

Package supplier
Oakmasters

Location
Bolney, East Sussex

House size
400m2

Package type
Frame manufacture & assembly,
then subsequent consultancy
during conversion

Building work took
Eight months (plus three
months for the initial barn)

Rob, Jo and their family moved to Sussex in the late 1990s, the couple used a London-based architectural practice. Their brief
having bought a countryside cottage with some land. The was to transform the barn into a five-bedroom property, fitting into the
property also contained some outbuildings, which they original footprint, as required by planning. They wanted to blend the
decided to replace with a traditional L-shaped, vernacular-style best qualities of a contemporary open-plan house with the natural
oak barn and stables, with mixed agricultural and business use. cosiness of a traditional Sussex cottage.

The couple asked Oakmasters to build the barn back in 2008, Following the success of the original build, Oakmasters was again
with the hope that they would be able to convert it into their dream asked to work with the architects as a specialist consultant for the
home one day. The project was designed by Rob’s architect, while frame design and provide technical drawings required for structural
Oakmasters worked as consultants on the oak frame design, as well calculations, engineering and Building Regulations purposes. The
as manufacturing and assembling the structure. The project took project was managed and executed by a local contractor, with
about three months to complete and cost around £300,000. “I did Oakmasters supplying oak components to turn the structure into
not want to build the original barn as cheaply as possible. On the the lovely home it is now. Rob was able to keep a keen eye on the
contrary, I wanted a high spec, chunky frame with beautiful finish, build, too, which helped achieve a high-end finish on budget.
to show off the quality of craftsmanship,” says Rob.
“I liked the idea of working with local companies,” says Rob. “That’s
A few years later, Rob applied for planning permission to convert why I approached Oakmasters. I’ve known them now for years and I
it into a house, which he obtained in 2014. To get the design finalised, trust them to do a great job. We’re really pleased with the outcome.”

46

Oakwrights
As experts in oak frame construction, we are committed to building only the finest homes. We offer a range of contract
choices, from design and supply all the way through to our new turnkey service. Our full build solutions are coordinated
by an in-house expert managing teams of carefully hand-picked builders across the country and overseeing all works.
This ensures a seamless process from conception to final realisation of your build.

DESIGN OPTIONS Oakwrights have a multidisciplinary
Our architectural designers will put their fine-tuned skills and team who can carry the customer
knowledge at your disposal. Working in collaboration with you, from design concept, through
they will get to know exactly what you’re looking for in order to planning and the creation of an
produce a scheme that inspires. You’ll receive bespoke concepts amazing oak frame, right up to the
and ideas for your home, as well as drawings ready to put through full construction of your home
planning and Building Regulations sign off.
tim crump Oakwrights
CONSTRUCTION CHOICES
Once you’ve worked with our designers to turn your architectural 3great 1
ideas into a structural reality, these will be fed through to one of projects
the industry’s most technologically advanced frame cutting facilities. by Oakwrights
From there, our specialist framing team of highly skilled carpenters This property offers a clever update on
will take over to fit and hand-finish your oak skeleton quickly and 1 traditional oak frame, combining modern
efficiently. If you are looking for a complete wall structure, you can
opt for an Oakwrights encapsulation system, which will see the living standards with heritage influences
frame covered in an insulating wrap that produces a healthy,
energy efficient structure with excellent thermal performance. Expansive glazing and straight edge timber
2 cladding work alongside the characterful oak
CONTRACT SCOPE
We offer a flexible service, meaning there’s something to suit frame in this contemporary costal home
everyone. You can either be inspired by our range of pre-formed
house schemes, work with our in-house architectural design 3 Though clad in red, black and white brick,
team to come up with a bespoke scheme or approach us with inside the oak frame of this house is exposed
your finished drawings already in place. However the design
is formed, we can take on the rest of your self-build to see it
through to completion. We work with a contact list of trusted
trades and builders across the country. Our turnkey service takes
full responsibility for your project, meaning you can relax in the
knowledge that your build is in safe and experienced hands.

OTHER SERVICES 23

l Pre-application planning advice.

l Building Regulations drawings.

l Interior design service.

l Landscaping and groundworks.

CONTACT OAKWRIGHTS

Tel: 01432 353353
Web: www.oakwrights.co.uk

41

case
study

Modern oak home

Package supplier
Oakwrights
Location
Hertfordshire
House size
188m2
Package type
Oak frame & encapsulation
Building work took
11 months

After realising there was little worth keeping in their near- Johnny and Jane dreamt
derelict cottage, Johnny Jones and Jane Hughes-Jones of double-height spaces
underwent two years of battling with their local planners for and a sense of volume,
permission to knock down and rebuild. Although the location was a but the planners wanted
fairly built-up residential street, the site was in a green belt zone and the new house to have a
conservation area. After two refusals, thousands of pounds worth modest look inspired by
of bat works and a failed appeal they turned to oak frame specialists the previous black timber
Oakwrights and their architectural designer Pete Tonks of PJT cottage. To accommodate,
Designs to help make their aspirations into reality. Pete put together a scheme
featuring glass floor spans
upstairs to offer a spacious
ambience and an open-plan
layout downstairs. Modern
features alongside a rustic
oak frame ticked the boxes
for both the homeowners and
the planners. The front of the
house features traditional
proportions, while at the back
sliding glazed doors, floor-to-ceiling windows and pyramidal hip
roofs fill the house with natural light and offer a capacious feel.

PJT Custom Build acted as project manager throughout and
Oakwrights provided its WrightWall Light insulation softwood
encapsulation system. The oak frame was constructed in a workshop
before being delivered to the site and pieced together over the
course of a month. “We wanted a complete, seamless process
and Oakwrights offers an enhanced turnkey solution,” says Johnny.
“Your project manager will guide you and help you make the right
decisions with all of the elements of the house.”

48

Potton
We specialise in designing truly bespoke self-build houses, assisting you to complete your project from start to finish, including
helping with gaining planning permission. Having created over 6,000 homes, we have a wealth of experience, and working with
us will allow you to take advantage of this. Whatever your aspiration and however vivid your imagination, our team of experts
is on-hand to work with you to achieve a property specifically tailored to your exact needs and budget.

DESIGN OPTIONS We specialise in creating bespoke
We have a number of design services that can be adjusted to suit dream homes for self-builders,
your requirements. Perhaps you’ve fallen in love with one of our ensuring each design is as
show homes or would like to adapt an existing scheme to suit your individual as you
lifestyle – whatever your preference, our packages are flexible. You
can also come to us with a blank page and we can work together Paul Newman potton
to produce something bespoke. Whichever route you choose, our
expert architectural teams will help you create your dream house. 3great 1
projects
CONSTRUCTION CHOICES by Potton
In addition to tailoring a design, we also offer flexibility when 1 This 283m2 barn style dwelling cost
it comes to the materials you build with – we provide a variety approximately £1,600 per m2 to construct
of construction options, including timber frame and structural
insulated panels (SIPs). These systems are factory engineered Nestled into the Wiltshire countryside,
to the highest level of accuracy, delivering excellent thermal 2 this new 230m2 stone-clad property came
efficiency and extremely high levels of airtightness.
in at a total of £316,000
CONTRACT SCOPE
The right building route for you depends on a number of factors, Completed in just eight months and costing
including how much time you’ve got to spare and your overall 3 £415,000 to construct, this bespoke house
budget. Whether you want to take on the project management
or have support from one of our experts – Potton has a solution. was recently valued at £1,500,000

OTHER SERVICES 23
l O ur Potton Select option is designed for self-builders who

already have a house design drawn up by an external provider.
You can simply send us your drawings and we will offer advice
for the various options we can provide and send you a quote.
l I f you have identified a building plot, then you can take advantage
of Potton’s free planning appraisal. Just send us a photo of the
site and we’ll get back to you to offer guidance on the next steps
along with details of the latest planning policy.
l I f you are looking for a little education before you start, why not
book one of our Self Build Academy courses? We offer a range
of programmes and events, each tailored to the different stages
of the self-build process, to help guide you through your journey.

CONTACT POTTON

Tel: 01767 676400
Web: www.potton.co.uk

41

case
study

Contemporary timber home

Package supplier
Potton
Location
Cambridgeshire
House size
200m2
Package type
Design, planning, supply & erection
Building work took
18 months from plot purchase

Pip and Steve Gunn decided self-building was the best route attended a Potton seminar where they chatted to Self Build Director,
to a home that allowed them to explore their design ideas at Paul Newman, and decided this was the right house supplier for
the same time as offering good value for money. The couple them. “We were attracted to the firm’s bespoke design service; it
weren’t tied to a specific location, which meant they had lots of incorporated the planning process for what seemed a reasonable
options when it came to plot-hunting. “We found our 0.29 acre patch price,” says Steve. The couple then met with the company’s Self
of land in Peterborough by searching online; it took several months,” Build Consultant, Mark Day, who took away their ideas and worked
says Steve. “We knew we’d have to move out of London as sites with architect Vicky Corbett to finalise the plans.
there with planning permission were way beyond our budget.”
The finished property’s exterior is reminiscent of a modern barn,
The Gunns had initially planned a fairly traditional-style exterior with with a double-height entrance leading into large spaces and plenty of
open spaces internally; however, the local authority wanted the house outdoor living areas. The impressive open-plan sitting room boasts a
to look contemporary. Their site was part of a large settlement put vaulted ceiling, which is overlooked by a galleried landing. The living
together by various property developers. “The council specified there space was specifically arranged to ensure the Gunns were able to
had to be an allocation of plots for self-builders,” says Pip. “So our enjoy views of the rear garden through large sections of glass, while
entire street is made up of houses of various designs”. the site orientation was the driving force behind the design.

The couple visited the Potton Show Centre in St Neots and Pip and Steve are thrilled with the result, and now thoroughly enjoy
were impressed with the quality of the homes there. They then living in a bespoke home that responds perfectly to their needs.