Tucked into delightful garden grounds in Winchester, Mr. and Mrs. Gill's charming thatched cottage epitomises traditional English architecture. Desiring additional space to fully appreciate their garden throughout the year, they envisioned a glazed oak extension that would seamlessly blend with the historic character of their home.
The Gills entrusted us with this delicate task, and so we embarked on a project that harmoniously marries classic aesthetics with modern functionality. Our skilled craftsmen got to work to bring the couple's dreams to life.
Selecting high-quality green oak was crucial for structural integrity and visual appeal. Green oak's durability and timeless beauty made it an ideal choice, ensuring the extension would age gracefully alongside the existing structure.
A Light-filled Vision
The Gills' primary objective was to create a light-filled space that offered panoramic views of their meticulously maintained garden, regardless of the season.
For the glazing, energy-efficient glass was chosen to maintain comfort across all seasons, providing insulation during winter and reducing heat gain during the summer months while also framing the lovely views.
It was imperative that the new extension not only provided this connection to the outdoors but also complemented the existing thatched cottage's architectural integrity. This required a design that respected the cottage's historical significance while introducing contemporary elements to enhance daily living.
Collaborating closely with the Gills, we developed a design featuring a glazed oak-framed structure. This approach was chosen to introduce natural light and offer unobstructed garden views, while the oak frame ensured a cohesive aesthetic with the original cottage.
Careful and Conscientious Construction
Ensuring the preservation of the existing structure was paramount. Protective measures were implemented to safeguard the thatched roof and surrounding areas during construction. The site was carefully prepared to accommodate the new foundation, with considerations made for proper drainage and structural support.
The handcrafted oak frame was assembled on-site by skilled craftsmen, employing traditional joinery techniques that have stood the test of time. This method not only ensured structural soundness but also paid homage to the artisanal methods used in the original construction of the cottage.
The glazing was carefully integrated into the oak frame, ensuring airtightness and thermal efficiency and everything was done to provide a seamless blend between the old and the new.
Ideal Interior Finishes
The interior design focused on creating a seamless flow between the existing cottage and the new extension. Matching oak and tile flooring was installed, and the walls were finished in neutral tones to enhance the sense of space and light.
This project exemplifies how thoughtful design and quality craftsmanship can enhance historic homes, providing modern amenities while respecting and preserving their unique character. The Gills' glazed oak extension stands as a testament to the successful fusion of tradition and innovation, offering a blueprint for similar endeavours in heritage property enhancement.
The Gills are now able to enjoy a light, bright, comfortable and beautiful addition to their home, that will enrich their lives and bring joy for many years to come.
Testimonials
What our clients are saying
“James and the team at Green Oak did a wonderful job building a beautiful handcrafted oak building. They were polite and friendly and kept us well informed throughout, and their craftsmanship is second to none!! Thank you very much for a great job” Mr. and Mrs. Hill
Enjoy browsing this gallery of photographs of the beautiful oak buildings and extensions we are proud to have created with our customers.
John Smith
Project Spotlight
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Explore more our of case studies showcasing the stunning oak buildings and extensions we've proudly crafted
In 2019, a devastating fire engulfed South Barn, a cherished 500-year-old Grade II listed structure nestled in the heart of Oxfordshire. The calamity not only erased a piece of architectural history but also left our clients with the daunting task of restoring the barn to its former glory.
In 2022, Mr. and Mrs. Masterman sought to enhance their North Hampshire residence by integrating their existing dining room with a new open-plan kitchen. Their vision was to create a spacious, light-filled area that would serve as the heart of their home, fostering both functionality and aesthetic appeal.
In 2022, Mr. and Mrs. Pink sought to replace their existing oak extension at their property in Midhurst. The original structure, built a few years prior, had suffered from severe leaks due to poor construction, making it virtually unusable.
In 2021, Mr. and Mrs. Highams sought to enhance their Curdridge, Hampshire residence by creating a spacious, open-plan area that seamlessly combined their kitchen, dining, and living spaces. Their primary objective was to establish a harmonious connection between the interior and their picturesque garden.
