Larch Timber Frame or external cladding?
Larch is a versatile timber that works well in exterior structures and cladding as its resin content naturally protects it from decay. Whilst larch is a softwood, it is renowned for its durability. Larch brings character to patios, porches and balconies, as well as building finishes such as cladding.
Larch blends particularly well with Douglas fir. These two timbers form a natural partnership for projects where timber design is key to indoor and outdoor spaces. Not commonly found in large timber frame structures compared to a dense wood like Oak, there are examples of smaller frames in construction.
Often used for doors and finishes like cladding, Larch is often used for yacht building and joinery too. A fine choice for flooring because it has a nice machined surface with a fine grain finish, and due to the light yellowy color it can be stained easily.
Modern timber engineering techniques allow seamless integration of different timbers to create a complimentary feel from the interior to the exterior, we can design a palette of materials that work effectively with a timber frame project.
We can provide Standard Detailing on any project, to ensure seamless integration of your chosen materials and design into the build process. These can form part of a construction drawing set or be made available to assist the project architect.
Since 1987, we’ve been involved in some of the most challenging timber-framed buildings in the UK and overseas. Collaborating with our clients, architects, engineers and designers, our expert knowledge and skill has led to many award-winning projects that feature a Carpenter Oak frame, including multiple regional and national RIBA Awards, three consecutive Build It Awards for Best Oak Frame and the Stirling Prize. Get in touch with us today to discuss your project.
Meet the team
Adam Milton
Founder
Joined Carpenter Oak: 1987
Interview with Adam Milton
Favourite thing about working at Carpenter Oak?
Constructing great buildings, with a great eclectic bunch of people in the most beautiful part of the world.
When not in the yard, what do you enjoy doing?
Sailing on the river Dart and walking with the family and dog.
What is the best project you have worked on and why?
Bedales School Olivier Theatre in Petersfield, Hampshire: great design and a wonderful team.
What is the most embarrassing job you have ever had?
Selling beef burgers at university and having a dyslexic moment when I put up a sign saying “Beef buggers for sale!”
Biography
I have been in the timber/design world since leaving school. I gained a BA (Hons) in Furniture Design in 1984 and then trained as a fine cabinet/furniture designer and maker producing highly finished pieces. In 1987 I joined Carpenter Oak and Woodland as a structural framing carpenter. The work was mainly restoration and conservation of historical timber frames, culminating in the major repairs at Windsor Castle after the great fire of 1992. I gained huge knowledge of building conservation, running skilled teams of carpenters and project management. In 1995 I had the opportunity to set up a new yard in Devon with my colleague Paul Kirkup, becoming Carpenter Oak Ltd. It was an inspiring time, building a new team, alongside living and raising a family in the beautiful South Hams. Carpenter Oak has grown from a small team to fifty odd carpenters, all highly skilled and loyal timber framers and of course our dedicated and talented office staff. I passionately believe in our craft of timber framing. I find it heartening that we use skills developed over a hundred years ago, as well as cutting edge contemporary methods to create stunning timber framed buildings. This is what gives me the buzz.
Jean-Baptiste Rouvelin
Workshop Manager
Joined Carpenter Oak: 2004
Interview with Jean-Baptiste Rouvelin
What is the best project you have worked on and why?
Boyden for location and the challenge of the roof geometry
What do you enjoy doing when not in the yard?
Exploring Dartmoor, walking, woodwork and if I am injury free, a lot of running.
What is the most embarrassing job you have ever had?
I’ve always been a carpenter…..what does that tell you?
Do you have a favourite quote?
The show isn’t over until the fat lady sings
Where is your favourite place in the World?
Anywhere off road with some grippy running shoes
Biography
I trained as a carpenter in France as a Journeyman for five years, applied for a job in England and arrived at Carpenter Oak with a one year contract. Over a decade on, I’m still here. I love Devon and Dartmoor and wouldn’t go back to France for all the money in the world.
I love the fact that from the entrance you have no idea of what lies behind the door. When you open it up, the oak frame frames the view of the lake. A lot of people who come to the front door are surprised, from the outside you would not expect the space that you see upon entering the house.
Melanie – Tingrith Lakes, Client
The gallery at Tremenheere is a remarkable success. I believe this is a building in which everyone involved can take huge pride.
Neil – Tremenheere, Client
A green oak frame oozes character and, as with many of the fine things in life, gets better with age. As the frame seasons, the timbers are an enduring source of fascination as their tone and texture change and surface shakes appear.
Adam Milton, Founding Director
Watching the oak frame go up was incredible, and within three days it was fully erected. I almost didn't want them to build anything around it because it was so beautiful...
Annie Laing, Client
The Carpenter Oak experience was, as expected, a sturdy and robust service, with style and enthusiasm, a team of skilled workers who truly cared about the journey of this sensational building.
