In Spring 2005 Oakmasters embarked on a project to renovate a traditional farmhouse on the Isle of Man, increasing the existing stone building in size by a factor of 3. The designers were keen to maintain the traditional ‘Manx’ architectural style by using a masonry façade (Isle of Man architecture usually comprises of stone walls approximately 2 ft thick), but with the innovation of Oakmasters’ chunky, structural oak frame interior. The new structure, in this case, acted as a load bearer with layers of insulation placed in the cavities and masonry added as the exterior 'shell'. The window frames were also constructed of solid oak.

In addition to work on the main house, Oakmasters enabled the renovation of a derelict outbuilding adjacent to the extension, by tailor crafting and constructing a new oak frame within the existing crumbling masonry. The stonework could then be repaired around the supporting frame and a high quality oak roof installed, also supported by the oak frame. As shown, the interior oak frame included a rustic mezzanine gallery and impressive vaulted ceilings to transform the outbuilding into something truly impressive.

The pictures below show the extension and accompanying outbuilding in construction on site. However the oak frames were first fully pre-constructed at Oakmasters’ premises before transportation to the Isle of Man.

Farmhouse Extension

Renovated Outbuilding

Contributed by Emma Hamilton