Sessile Oak
Sessile Oak workshop Intricate wooden carving

Traditional & Contemporary Oak

An Ancient Craft for Modern Times

Green oak frame construction is a well tested and extremely adaptable building technology. It is a method of construction which has been widely used in the UK and throughout Europe for many centuries. Although often associated with Tudor buildings, its introduction to Britain is likely to have been as far back as Roman times.

Green oak summer house by Sessile Oak

What is Green Oak?

Green oak frames are made from unseasoned ('green') oak, held together using traditional pegged mortice, tenon, dovetail and other joints, and will typically form the major structural component of a building, roof or extension. It can have a moisture content of between 60-80%, which reduces as it ages and matures as an erected structure, and may have been sitting up to two years since felling before milling.

Looking upwards through a 2-storey barn conversion

As a modular material, it is almost unique in its ability to sit visually and structurally within both traditional and contemporary contexts. The range of materials and settings that it can be made to complement is limited only by the imagination - its lifespan not just measurable in decades but centuries.

A skillfully crafted oak frame is an extremely strong structure and can span wide spaces with impressive timbers and graceful curves, whilst still permitting the open aspect of wide windows and doorways to the sides. The strength of such a traditionally jointed oak post and beam frame means this can be achieved without the need for the restrictive studs or panels normally associated with modern timber framed and SIPs construction methods.

A cosy bedroom in a green oak building

In addition to its longevity, few materials can rival oak for the creation of a beautiful and homely space in which to live. Whether a light and airy open gallery, a warm and sunny garden room or a cosy bedroom, an oak frame will lend a space a special welcome and comfort all of its own, often to become the most used and enjoyed part of a home.

Woodland valley garden room verandah

An oak frame is a cost effective way of adding both space and value to your property without having to relocate, and compares very favourably with block, steel or uPVC systems - a complete frame can cost less than you think.

Once installed, the area it occupies is totally transformed both inside and out, to become a beautiful and functional living space that will last a lifetime - and many more besides.

Sessile oak tree - Quercus petrea

As well as its suitability to a wide range of applications, green oak is renowned for its environmental credentials. Our timbers are selected from sustainably managed and certified woodlands, through reputable suppliers. This promotes the continued management and survival of oak and mixed broadleaved woodlands, together with their associated habitats and wildlife.

Once more, this versatile and sustainable material is being appreciated for its strength, adaptability and beauty, and a hitherto dying science and art is now undergoing a welcome revival.

Oak Framed Building Projects

Mono-pitch Conservatory

Check out some of the green oak framed building projects we've undertaken over the years in our Gallery. From simple porches to three storey extensions, we guarantee there's something that will catch your eye!

Green Oak Frame Building Gallery
Oak Frame Gallery

Designing & Commissioning a Build

Designing & Commissioning

Starting the project of your dreams may seem daunting at first, but we're here with a guide on the design and commission process.

Design & Commission
Design & Commission Process

Project Slot Availability

Stay up to date with project workshop slot availability and times, by visiting our News & Events page for latest schedules.

News & Updates
News & Events

Types of Green Oak Frame
&
Glossary of Common Oak Framing Terms

Oak frame drawing

There are many types of green oak frames. A very versatile material, it allows a great deal of creativity in design, which may vary according to both aesthetic preference and structural requirements.

Frame Types
Oak Frame Types & Glossary

Glazing a Green Oak Frame

Green Oak Orangery

An overview of methods for glazing green oak frames using either direct or externally attached units or frames.

Glazing an Oak Frame
Oak Frame Glazing

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