Working with Designers and Architects to Create Unique Spaces

Creating an oak structure is a collaborative process and it all begins with you. Your vision, your dream! Yet, you may need help even at that first stage. Enlisting the help of a designer, architect, or landscaper is common. Especially if the oak structure is part of a wider renovation project.

Whether we work directly with you or you call upon a professional, the results remain the same, a high-grade oak structure kit that’s tailored to your bespoke requirements. But with years of experience working alongside professionals, today, we'll share some of the unique structures and details that creative minds have requested. So read on to be inspired!

The Collaborative Process: From Concept to Reality

You can find an Online Designer at the top of our product pages. Using this allows you to design bespoke oak structures by picking specific measurements and features. Simply, the Online Designer makes light work of the design stage. Nonetheless, it's not obligatory.

We get all kinds of drawings. They can be anything from rough sketches on a piece of paper to technical illustrations from architects. Architects and designers will usually come on board to create extravagant designs for broader projects. And we must say, we’re more than happy to work with architects, in fact, we love creating unique designs! Remember, we make everything to order, so there are no limitations.

No matter the starting point, we'll transform every concept into a CAD drawing for the client to sign off. If needed, we can suggest and refine to ensure structural integrity. Once everyone’s happy with the design, we get to work sculpting your structure complete with carpentry, then pack it into a kit ready for assembly.

Pergolas: Turning Unique Drawings into Bespoke Designs

The above pergola is an example where we've worked with designers to create a unique spectacle. A pergola can be any shape you want. On one hand, it can be a simple square design, and such simplicity is effective with sleek and stylish visuals. That being said, as you well know, you can let your imagination run wild and push boundaries here.

This pergola's shape resembles our double-link gazebos. It comprises two equal-sized rectangular pergolas and a central frame. A long pergola forms a 'walkway,' and that's not uncommon. But this design takes the concept of a walkway and breaks new ground. In particular, the central linking part of the pergola stands taller than the sides, creating a standout visual.

Another interesting concept are the curved top plates. Curved braces are popular in trusses, but curvature is a rare choice for pergolas making this design unique. Taking the client's vision, we've sculpted the curved top plates creating a distinct characteristic to the structure.

Another feature removed from the norm in this example is the profile. The profile is the shape or style at the end of the horizontal beams. The four main choices are square, chamfered, rounded and ornate. See the ornate profile below for comparison. In the above design though , the client requested an inverted ornate profile throughout. So, instead of the decorative curve bending outwards, they curve inwards. Albeit a small detail, as Leonardo Da Vinci said, "Details make perfection."

Venue Gazebos: Unique Structures for Memorable Events

A further example of a unique and striking structure is an oak timber structures venue gazebo. Picturing a gazebo, you'll most likely not be thinking of this extraordinary design. But again, that's the beauty of bespoke; we can create those unique, breathtaking structures. Take a look below!

Here, we worked with designers to create something tailored to the wedding venue. Its sophisticated style and shape makes for unforgettable first impressions. Even the placement has been considered. Check out the idyllic backdrop! The bespoke gazebo and its backdrop are ideal for wedding ceremonies. A scene that’ll create memories and once-in-a-lifetime photos to ensure guest satisfaction.

Beyond being extremely photogenic, the design is practical, too. The extended sloping roofs offer improved coverage. The coverage is particularly important on a wedding day when rain can dampen the mood and wind can wreak havoc. This gazebo makes sure the couple's special day goes as planned and helps ensure the venue is a leader in its field. And… It all started with a vision.

A gazebo has always been a popular choice here at Oak Timber Structures. No doubt, they come in all shapes and sizes, but venues need specific designs depending on the business. That's when we can work alongside businesses to create show-stopping but practical spaces.

Oak-Framed Homes: Bespoke Frames for New Builds

Building a house from the ground up involves extensive design work. The good news is, when oak framing is involved, we can lighten the load. By working with architects, we've crafted oak framing for new builds.

Going off architect drawings, we cut the beams to size and complete all carpentry work, so it's just a case of assembly on-site. It's a role that requires meticulous precision, but it is one we've been entrusted with and delivered throughout our history.

In this recent example, you can see the planed oak frames and trusses in the entranceway. It makes for stylish space oozing luxury. You can read more about this project here.

No house is the same, so naturally oak frames will be of different sizes. But it's not just size. When working with architects building houses, there are different details where the bespoke philosophy lends itself to unique features.

Conclusion

Oak has timeless appeal, which is one reason architects and designers choose it. A luxurious wood, it has the adaptability to fit into contemporary and traditional spaces. However, oak is hardwood so can be difficult to work with, especially when creating unique designs.

Although difficult to work with for most, we don’t have such issues. Our team has accumulated 100 plus years working with oak, so we have the skills and expertise to craft your unique and complex designs.

In more ways than one, each design is unique. Every single structure is made to order, whatever the size and whatever the design, as such, there’s bound to be slight variations. But remember, as we say, ‘no design is out of bounds.’ So, if you're a designer, architect, or even an adventurous customer, don't be afraid to reach out.

We’re flexible here at Oak Timber Structures. So, if you want to use the Online Designer to streamline the design stage, that’s great! But if you’ve got something out of the ordinary in mind, or you need a structure to fit in awkward spaces, then send your drawing to contact@oaktimberstructures.co.uk. We'll embrace your vision and work with you to create something truly unique, however complex or eccentric the design!