The Heron Farm Shop and Cafe

Choosing the right oak framing partner

The Smiths approached a few different oak framing companies but decided on Carpenter Oak in the end. It was important to them that they could visit Carpenter Oak’s framing yard in Scotland and see an age-old craft being demonstrated by the carpenters, as well as getting the cost effective yet beautiful oak framed design they were after through a local supplier.

“We looked at several oak framing companies but were drawn to Carpenter Oak due to the traditional techniques used, to the fact there was a framing yard here in Scotland, and to the relationship quickly built with the design consultant Fergus Stuart. The fact that we could visit the framing yard in its beautiful location on the Loch of Lintrathen, see the work in progress and chat to the carpenters involved in our project allowed us to see the genuine passion they put into their work.” Emma Smith, client.

Clear design ideas and a smooth installation

Angus and Emma had a clear picture of their requirements and we provided some detailing advice for them. They knew they wanted two parallel oak framed barns for the main public spaces (with a third functional barn for back of house use) and had worked with their architect on the plan: “A timber frame would give not only a rural, rustic feel but also a ‘wow’ factor. We chose oak as it feels so warm.” Emma Smith.

Carpenter Oak designed, built and installed the oak framed barns which are the middle barn (the café) and the lower barn (the shop and additional seating). It made perfect sense for the open plan public areas to be oak framed, and there is a third barn attached which serves as the working part and contains the kitchen, offices and other staff areas.

The single-storey buildings are of classic barn proportions, and ideally suited for a queen post frame. The middle barn has seven bays, and the lower barn has 5 bays, each with a span of 5.7mWith a consistent bay size throughout of 3.6m, the open plan arrangement has a lovely flow and symmetry to the space.

Once the frame was built in the Scottish Yard and the site was ready for installation, the frame went up without any problems and was completed in five days: “Once onsite to construct the frame, it was an absolute pleasure having Steve and his team here – such a happy bunch, which we put down to the fact they had real passion for their craft and for seeing the frame come to life. ‘Topping out’ the frame with a branch my son had brought from an oak tree next to his school was a special moment with the CO team!” Emma Smith

Although the Smith’s main builder hadn’t worked with an oak frame before, there was easy communication between the Carpenter Oak team, the builder and the architect to resolve any issues.

A stunning venue, with views as well as comfort for its customers

Angus and Emma love their oak framed building and find working in a beautiful and calm space a pleasure. They feel that a major part of the business’ success has been down to the building, allowing customers to feel comfortable in the large open plan, airy space. They made sure to include large windows, giving customers great views and a connection with the surrounding countryside.

Fergus and the Carpenter Oak team in Scotland loved working with Angus and Emma and sharing in their passion for a handcrafted, beautiful oak framed venue.

“We love the Heron building. The warmth and beauty of the frame have given a real wow factor to the inside of the building. The outside is clad in Siberian larch, with a traditional tin roof, but when customers come in the front door they are met with bays of oak trusses and beams running the length of the building to our log burner at the far end.” Emma Smith

We’ve spent years collaborating with architects, engineers and contractors to create non-residential buildings all over the UK, from wedding barns and education centres to historic monuments and religious buildings. Please get in touch with us to find out more and discuss your requirements.

Photography: Connor Mollison