The Green Oak Building Company is based in Hampshire. You can commission an oak framed building anywhere in the UK including the Channel Islands. Most projects are based in Hampshire and surrounding counties, but work can be undertaken further afield if required. Each project is planned carefully to ensure smooth delivery wherever your site is located.
You can choose from a wide range of oak framed structures, including garden rooms, garages, orangeries, extensions, porches, pool rooms and bespoke outbuildings. Every building is designed to meet your specific needs, blending craftsmanship, functionality, and style to create a space that enhances your home and lifestyle.
Yes, we are able to offer a traditional like for like replacement for any oak frame, reverse engineering from photographs if necessary. We can provide working drawings and supporting structural calculations if required. We also act as oak frame consultants during the design and planning stage and can assist you in your dealings with heritage/listed buildings. We can provide real value at this stage by suggesting the most efficient and therefore cost effective solutions.
Your oak frame is handcrafted at a dedicated framing yard at Long Acres Farm, Wangfield Lane, Curdridge, Southampton, SO32 2DA. Each frame is fully assembled in the workshop before being delivered to site as a complete kit. You are welcome to visit during production to see your frame taking shape.
Every frame is created using traditional joinery techniques for strength, beauty, and authenticity. The oak is responsibly sourced and carefully selected for quality and sustainability. You benefit from a fully bespoke service, designed around your home and preferences, ensuring your finished building is personal, durable, and environmentally responsible.
All oak frame structures come with a 10-year guarantee covering workmanship and timber quality. The guarantee excludes damage or issues arising from lack of maintenance , but offers confidence that your frame has been built to last using time-tested methods and premium materials.
Yes. You can arrange a free, no-obligation site visit to discuss your ideas and explore the best design for your property. During this visit, your requirements are reviewed, and a fixed-price quotation is provided soon after. This ensures clarity and transparency before any work begins.
Several former clients are happy for you to visit and talk to them about the process and how delighted they are with the end result. You can see first-hand one or two real-world examples of the craftsmanship provided and hear some real-life testimonials.
The process begins with an initial design consultation to discuss your ideas, budget, and timeline. A detailed quotation is then prepared accompanied by a concept CGI walk through if required. Once approved, design and planning begin, followed by frame construction and installation. You are kept informed at every stage to ensure the project runs smoothly from start to finish.
Green oak refers to freshly sawn timber that is typically cut within three to eighteen months of the tree being felled. At this stage, the wood retains some of its natural moisture, making it easier to cut, shape, and join precisely. Over time, the oak gradually dries, giving the frame strength, its unique character and rich oak colour.
As green oak dries, it naturally moves, twists, and develops small splits known as checking. Far from being flaws, these features add charm and authenticity to the structure. The movement of the oak also strengthens the frame over time. Each building develops its own character, reflecting the natural beauty of the timber.
Yes, an oak frame structure can significantly enhance both the value and appeal of your home. Whether it’s a small garden feature like a pergola or a larger addition such as a garden room, these buildings create beautiful, functional spaces that attract buyers and improve everyday living. Clients find they simply enjoy their home more after adding an oak frame but if you do wish to sell in future, an oak frame can increase both monetary value and saleability.
All timber is sourced from responsibly managed forests, prioritising UK-grown wood whenever possible. This includes FSC-certified Larch, Western Red Cedar, douglas fir. For projects requiring particularly straight, clean timber—such as glazed extensions—high-quality PEFC-certified French or Croatian Oak is used, which is the closest reliable source for this specific grade of timber. Each type is chosen to suit its purpose, ensuring stability, sustainability, and outstanding quality.
Oak framed buildings combine natural beauty with strength and sustainability. Oak is durable, energy-efficient, and environmentally responsible, as the oak is purpose grown on a 150 year cycle with new trees planted every year. Oak is a natural carbon store so given the buildings design life is many hundreds of years its environmental qualities are excellent, this in turn means you can enjoy your oak building knowing that you have absorbed and locked away many tons of atmospheric carbon dioxide for hundreds of years. Its rich grain and warm tones bring a timeless quality to any setting, while the frame’s natural insulation and longevity make it a wise investment for those seeking comfort, charm, and long-term value in their property.
Yes, oak framed buildings are highly energy-efficient and comply with all current building regulations. We use modern insulation materials and techniques that complement traditional craftsmanship, creating structures that retain warmth in winter and remain cool in summer. This approach ensures comfort throughout the year while maintaining the visual appeal of exposed oak beams and traditional detailing.
Absolutely. Oak’s natural strength and resistance to moisture make it perfectly suited to the varied British climate. Whether exposed to rain, frost, sea air or sunshine, oak weathers beautifully and grows stronger as it dries. With proper design and maintenance, an oak framed building offers lasting durability and comfort in any environment across the UK.
Yes, oak is one of the most sustainable building materials available. All our timber comes from responsibly managed forests, where new trees are planted to replace those harvested. Growing trees absorb carbon dioxide, reducing greenhouse gases, and oak requires minimal energy to process compared with man-made materials, just look into the embodied energy of modern building materials like aluminium and steel the environmental impact compared to oak is colossal . It’s a renewable, eco-conscious choice for sustainable construction.
Oak framed buildings are built to stand the test of time. Many examples from the 15th and 16th centuries are still standing today, proving the incredible durability of traditional oak framing. By using the same time-honoured techniques, structures can be created that are designed to last for generations while ageing gracefully and gaining character with each year that passes.
Yes, an oak framed extension offers a comfortable and practical alternative to a conservatory. While conservatories can be too hot in summer and too cold in winter, an insulated oak extension maintains an even temperature all year round. It provides a warm, inviting space in winter and a cool, light-filled room during the warmer months.
Yes. Support is available with both planning applications and building regulations. The process is managed carefully to ensure every requirement is met, making approval smoother and less stressful. This ensures your project progresses efficiently and remains fully compliant. We currently have a near 100 percent success rate on planning approvals.
Planning permission may be required depending on the size, location, and intended use of the building. Properties within National Parks, conservation areas, or those that are listed usually have additional restrictions. It is always best to confirm with your local planning authority before starting your project. Guidance before any application is made can be provided.
Oak framed buildings can be added to listed properties once Listed Building Consent and planning approval are in place. Specialist advice is available to help you navigate the process. Designs are created sensitively to complement the heritage of your home.
Yes, you can choose a complete, fully managed service that covers everything from design to installation. This includes groundworks, utilities, and frame assembly. Managing the entire process ensures consistent quality, clear communication, and a beautifully finished result that aligns with your vision.
You are only legally required to notify neighbours if your project needs planning permission or affects shared boundaries. However, we always recommend discussing your plans with them early on. A friendly conversation can help prevent misunderstandings and make the process smoother for everyone involved, particularly in close-knit or conservation areas. We generally find that neighbours are happy to see a beautiful oak frame even if its in view as they are far more aesthetically pleasing than modern buildings.
Your oak framed building can be designed to complement the style and character of your existing property. Whether you prefer a classic rural appearance or a more contemporary finish, the design will ensure that proportions, materials, and detailing work harmoniously with your surroundings, creating a seamless and well-balanced addition to your home.
Every oak framed building is entirely bespoke, giving you full control over the design. From layout and materials to finishes and architectural details, each element can be tailored to your preferences. By working closely with our experienced designers, you can create a structure that perfectly reflects your vision and enhances your property.
Oak cladding can be used, but it is generally not recommended as it can split or warp over time. Douglas fir or cedar cladding offers better performance, thanks to their natural resilience and weather resistance and our dimensionally stable even in direct sunlight. Both these materials look almost identical to oak after oxidising/ ageing.
All oak framed buildings are designed to meet or exceed current UK fire safety regulations. For multi-storey structures or those close to property boundaries, the frame can be engineered to provide the necessary fire resistance. This ensures compliance and safety standards are met without compromising the appearance or craftsmanship of your building.
We use face (direct) glazing for all our green oak frames. This method not only secures the glass but also encapsulates the frame, offering reliable weather protection and allowing for the natural movement of green oak as it seasons. It’s a trusted approach because it preserves the traditional appearance of oak framing, protects both the structure and the glazing system from movement-related stress, and helps keep the internal frame dry for long-term durability. Maintenance is minimal, and if the external cover boards ever need replacing, they can be changed easily without affecting the structural frame.
Yes. Virtually any design can be brought to life, whether based on architectural plans, sketches, or photographs. You can choose to recreate a period-style barn, build a modern garden room, or design something completely unique. Skilled craftsmen will ensure that every detail meets both your aesthetic and structural requirements.
Each oak frame is designed with balanced proportions that combine visual harmony and structural strength. Once the design is finalised, it is reviewed and verified by a qualified structural engineer to ensure it complies with all current building standards. This process guarantees that your building is both elegant and robust.
Doors and windows are often crafted in oak for its strength, beauty, and timeless character. However, other timbers can also be used if you have particular requirements or a preferred aesthetic. You can discuss your ideas with the design team to find the most suitable timber for your project.
No. Every piece of joinery is made to order, allowing for any size, style, or design. Whether you want a specific window shape, a set of oversized doors, or even a frame inspired by a photograph, the design can be fully customised to match your building and personal preferences.
The type of foundation required depends on your site conditions and the scale of your project. A thorough site assessment determines the most suitable option, whether that’s a concrete slab, strip foundation or an engineered solution such as a raft or piled foundation. The right foundation ensures long-term stability, proper weight distribution, and lasting structural integrity for your oak framed building.
The oak is crafted off site in a dedicated workshop, where every frame is cut, jointed, and pre-assembled using traditional joinery techniques. This ensures precision and consistency before delivery. Once the components are complete, they are transported to your site and assembled quickly and accurately, reducing disruption and ensuring the highest standards of quality.
Oak frame garden structures are assembled using traditional mortice and tenon joints secured with draw dowels for strength and durability. If we use mechanical fixings, they must be stainless steel to prevent corrosion caused by the natural tannins in the oak.
Yes, water and power can be integrated into your oak framed building. Lighting, heating, and plumbing can all be incorporated to suit your intended use, whether it’s an oak garden room, garage, office, or barn. The layout can be planned around your needs, creating a functional and comfortable space that fits perfectly with your lifestyle.
A skip is normally required for the disposal of building waste. If a skip is not available, all surplus materials and waste will be neatly stacked on site, ready for you to use or remove as you wish. This approach ensures a tidy finish and allows you to repurpose any leftover oak or timber if desired.
The cost of an oak framed building depends on several factors, including size, design complexity, and chosen materials. A detailed quotation is provided following an initial consultation so you know exactly what to expect. This ensures your estimate accurately reflects your individual requirements and the level of craftsmanship involved in your project.
A fixed quotation is provided once the design is agreed. A deposit is required before construction begins to secure materials and timber. After that we have a stage payment system that means you only pay a payment once a pre-agreed stage has been reached for example oak frame stood on site, or glazing complete.
Several design choices can influence the overall cost of your oak framed building. Factors include frame style, building size, type of timber, glazing, and cladding. Site access, boundary positions, and fire protection requirements may also play a role. By discussing your budget early, you can make informed design decisions that balance aesthetic appeal with cost-efficiency.
Yes, assembly prices include the cost of plant and lifting equipment needed to raise the oak frame, including crane hire. Some companies exclude these costs and add them as extras later, but your quote will include everything necessary for assembly unless you chose not to. This ensures full transparency and prevents unexpected charges once construction is underway.
There are no hidden costs. The only potential changes would occur if you decide to alter your design, if deeper foundations are required by Building Control, or if temporary site access is needed that wasn’t originally included. Any variations are always discussed and agreed upon before work continues, ensuring complete clarity throughout your project.
The timeframe varies depending on design complexity and size. The design and planning stages can take several weeks, while on-site construction generally ranges from a few weeks to a few months. Smaller projects, such as garages or garden rooms, can be completed relatively quickly, while larger or bespoke builds naturally take longer.
That depends on the size and type of structure. A standard extension typically takes around one day to assemble, while a medium-sized house frame usually requires about seven to ten days. Larger or more intricate frames may take longer, but each project is planned carefully to ensure efficiency and precision.
Oak requires very little maintenance thanks to its natural durability. Cladding will weather beautifully over time and can be treated for a particular finish if desired. Doors and windows may benefit from occasional oiling to preserve their colour, but beyond this, your oak frame will age gracefully without the need for regular upkeep.
Oak’s natural strength means additional treatment is not necessary. Softwood components, such as rafters, are pressure-treated to protect against the elements. Some owners choose to oil their oak for appearance, but this is purely aesthetic. The wood’s natural tannins act as a preservative, keeping the frame strong and resilient for years to come.
Modern oak frames rarely suffer from problems such as woodworm, damp, or rot. The timber used is carefully prepared, with almost all sapwood removed to eliminate any potential food source for insects. Good ventilation and proper detailing prevent moisture build-up, while oak’s high tannin content provides excellent natural protection against pests and decay if you do notice wood worm at any time it can be treated easily and cheaply at any time.
Oak frames can be cleaned using sanding, oxalic acid washing, or specialist blasting. Sanding and acid cleaning can be done yourself with proper safety precautions, while blasting should be carried out by professionals. Always follow safety guidance and test any cleaning method on a small area or preferably an off cut before applying it across the frame.
Black marks occur when oak comes into contact with steel or iron during handling or assembly. The natural tannins in the timber react with iron in metal, creating dark stains. These marks are harmless and often considered part of the character of the frame, though they can be removed or lightened if desired using specialist cleaning methods.
Tannin leaching is a completely natural process that occurs as the oak dries. The stains are temporary and will fade over time as weathering and rain wash them away. The duration depends on the environment, but typically the process slows significantly after the first few months and stops entirely once the timber has stabilised.