Our Timber Frame Building Process

Initial Contact & Consultation

At the initial stage, we take time to understand what you’re aiming to achieve, along with any constraints that may shape the project. This allows us to establish scope, context, and suitability before decisions are fixed.

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This early stage is particularly important when working with Oak timber frames, where structure, proportion and material choice are closely linked.

These early discussions give space to ask questions, explore options, and clarify expectations on both sides. Clear communication at this stage helps ensure the project develops with confidence and direction.

If you’d like to begin a conversation, you're welcome to get in touch.

Timber Sourcing

Every timber frame begins with the material itself. Sourcing is approached carefully, with attention given to quality, provenance and suitability for structural use.

Where possible, timber is sourced close to home. We’re fortunate to work with local and regional sawmills supplying Scottish oak, larch and Douglas fir, keeping transport to a minimum and maintaining a close connection to the material from the outset.

Some projects call for larger sections or specific requirements, particularly where glazing or longer spans are involved. In these cases, European oak may be sourced through established sawmills in England to ensure the right timber is used.

Design

Design work develops in response to the brief, site, and structural requirements of the project. Digital modelling is used to explore layout and proportion, helping bring clarity to the form and function of the timber frame.

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For a broader understanding of timber framing principles and structural considerations, our in-depth guide to timber framing provides useful context.

Where a project involves an architect or design team, we work closely with them to resolve structure and detailing. If an architect has not yet been appointed, we can help advise on next steps and suitable routes forward.

Workshop Manufacture

Once the design has been engineered, planning permission granted and the building warrant in place, work begins in our workshop.

Each frame is cut, fitted and assembled by hand using traditional mortice-and-tenon joinery, informed by centuries of timber-framing knowledge and supported, where appropriate, by modern tools.

We think through each junction with the finished building in mind — how loads will transfer, how the frame will be erected, and how it will sit once complete. This considered approach allows the structure to go together cleanly on site and perform as it should for generations.

Our frames are not rushed, and they are not standardised. They are made deliberately, with careful attention given to proportion, fit and longevity.

Costing

Once a design direction and material approach have been agreed, we prepare an estimate based on scope, complexity, and build method. This allows costs to be understood early and discussed alongside design decisions.

We take a straightforward and honest approach to pricing, aiming to accommodate different project requirements without compromising the quality of materials, detailing, or workmanship. Where adjustments are needed, they are typically achieved through careful design development and thoughtful choices, rather than changes to how the building is made.

Site Installation

Once the frame arrives on site, installation begins. Careful planning ensures the erection sequence is controlled, accurate and efficient.

Our experienced team assembles the frame with precision, allowing the structure to take shape and the building’s proportions to become clear.

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You can see how this stage translates into finished buildings across our oak frame projects.

Depending on the scope of works, this may mark the completion of our involvement or the beginning of the next stage. Where glazing or further timber elements are required, we remain closely involved.

Within a matter of days, the site is transformed by a structural timber frame handcrafted in our Angus workshop.

At this stage, the building stops being an idea and becomes a structure.

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