Architectural Design Services

The skills that experienced timber frame architects bring to the early design stages of a project are essential.

An architect is central not only to the design of your building but to the smooth running of the whole project. Architects are trained to understand their client’s needs. Guiding them through the whole design and construction process from the overall look of your project, right down to the quality of the materials and fixtures. They serve a pivotal role, planning, supporting timely strategic decision making and keeping the project on track with its programme and budget.

There are two different paths you can take when working with us:

1. You commission an architect who we will collaborate with (we can also suggest recommended architects we have worked with before).
2. You use our in-house architect who can provide a full end-to-end service.

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Collaborating with your architect

We regularly collaborate with some of the country’s most accomplished architects in practices large and small: Squire and Partners, Foster and Partners, Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, Roderick James Architects, Van Ellen + Sheryn, Harrison Sutton and BBH Architects.

The skills of a good architect can efficiently deliver value well in excess of the fees they charge. Bear in mind that if you haven’t travelled the path of self build before, and are not in the trade, you are unaware of how much you don’t know in advance of your project. Building your own house is a steep learning curve. Making poor decisions along the way or inadvertently causing significant delays costs you time and money. The architect is there to help to avoid these pitfalls.

Most architects offer different levels of service, from helping prepare the initial brief, to getting your project through the planning and building regulations stage to full project management right up to the point you move in. For more information visit the RIBA website.

Selecting An Architect

Time spent carefully selecting an architect is important. Find timber frame architects whose work you like and through word of mouth from friends, check out their websites and draw up a shortlist. Contact each one and briefly discuss your project, try to speak to some of their past clients. Your working relationship is as important as their portfolio of past work, so find an architect you feel understood by – ensure you can communicate well and reach decisions together. Many architects offer a free initial consultation.

We welcome the opportunity to work with an architect of your choice. We have established working relationships with several professional and award-winning practices. Should you need a recommendation, call us to discuss your project and we can recommend an architect based on your needs.

Using our in-house architect

Our in-house architectural design team will lead you through the design and planning process, creating a truly unique project that reflects your lifestyle and personality.

At Carpenter Oak, we combine our structural timber framing expertise with creative and imaginative architectural design to bring your projects to life. We can help you build anything – from extensions and cabins to outbuildings and ambitious new homes.

Our architectural design team offers a personal and flexible service that includes everything you need to design your building, including managing your planning and building control application. We will support you through the design process, keeping you fully informed about the progress of your project along the way.

Do I have to build with oak?

Because of the nature of what we do, it’s a given that your design will include a structural timber frame in some way. Each design is bespoke, meaning that there are many options when it comes to choosing the materials that you build with. We will talk you through the benefits of each one, so that you can make informed decisions based on your design requirements and budget.

Can you help with listed buildings, AONBs and National Parks?

Over the last 30 years, many of our clients have chosen to build and live in some extraordinary locations with a very specific set of design challenges. We use this experience and take a very careful and sensitive approach to each project.

If you would like to find out more about our in-house architectural services, please get in touch with us.