Green Oak Framing - Design & Commission Process
There is a choice of means by which a design can be arrived at and an oak frame commissioned. We are happy to build our oak frames to pre-prepared plans as well as to provide an "in house" design service for smaller frames.
If you already have a finished frame design with Planning Consent and the necessary documentation to satisfy Building Control requirements, fabrication can start as soon as a deposit is received. Where a building or extension design has been produced by an architect who does not specialize in green oak frame design, an oak frame may need to be designed by a structural engineer to accommodate it. In either case, it is recommended that there be at least one initial site visit prior to fabrication to confirm the suitability of materials, dimensions and common "laying out" points as well as to inspect site conditions and access.
Where a frame is designed "in house", the design is treated as a separate commission from the frame fabrication and construction. In addition to an initial site visit, there is a process of consultation, negotiation with local Planning and refinement by which a final design is produced. It may be that a design will have to undergo several alterations to meet Planning requirements. As each bespoke frame has its own individual features and location, each commissioned design and frame may involve its own design schedule and construction details.
Once a final design has been arrived at, we will produce a quotation for the fabrication and installation, and arrange the supply of any engineer's documents required by Building Control. The quotation will include details of cost (including deposit), a breakdown of included items and projected schedule.
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We will always deal with your enquiry as early as possible. However, it's worth noting that commissions are handled on a "first come first served" basis. As we are a small company, priority is given to existing projects so there may be a queue or waiting list, depending upon how busy we are. |
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Planning Permission
Securing Planning Consent for a project can sometimes take as long as, if not longer than, its fabrication and construction.
A positive outcome can often depend as much on the character of a Planning Officer as on the design itself. Planners are notoriously fickle and like to feel "in control of things" so it may be helpful to encourage them to feel included in the design process from the start.
Minor changes to designs are commonplace in areas of strict Planning controls or where a newly appointed Planning Officer feels it necessary to err on the side of caution.
On the other hand, a porch, conservatory or outbuilding may not need Planning Permission. However, if in doubt, it is advisable to consult with your local Planning office.
OPO Planning Office Locator
ASC Planning Office Locator
Building Control
Building Control regulations ensure that new buildings, extensions and alterations are structurally sound and meet criteria for such things as doorway dimensions, ceiling heights, stair angle, insulation, glazing and fittings.
Where required, a set of structural engineer's calculations will have to be provided for the oak frame. These show that the timber will perform as it should under load and over time.
They are available from a number of independent registered structural engineers around the country who are qualified to provide calculations for green oak framed buildings. All reputable structural engineers carry a level of third party cover.
There are many small structures like porches, garden rooms, garages and some conservatories for which such calculations may be unnecessary. As with Planning, it is always best to seek the advice of your local Building Control office.
Green Oak Frame Architects & Structural Engineers
Building Control Planning Portal (England and Wales)
Scottish Building Standards
More Information
The Planning and Building Information Resource page contains a wide selection of useful links to media, on-line tools and sites detailing the many aspects of planning, building and managing your project.
Can we use a client's own
timber, sourced on-site?
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