When Mark and Sarah Firth decided they wanted to create luxurious holiday accommodation in their Leicestershire garden, they brought in Oakwrights to help them realise their vision — and the results were wonderful.
Creating a new building in a garden offers a wealth of opportunities, from extra space for work and leisure to providing guest rooms and holiday accommodation that generates an income.
For two Oakwrights clients, Mark and Sarah Firth, it provided an exciting chance to generate a new source of revenue by using the company’s Winchester garage design as the basis to build a highly desirable holiday let.
The open-plan kitchen, dining room and living space is the heart of the house. ©Mark Watts / Oakwrights
A collaborative project
At the heart of the projects success is the harmonious working relationship between the couple and Oakwrights.
‘After visiting Oakwrights and seeing the quality of their operation, we were blown away,’ says Mark.
‘It also helped that they were really good to deal with and were friendly and helpful. In effect, we were self-builders and their hand-holding was greatly appreciated.’
The outdoor areas are perfect for sunny afternoons and eating al fresco. ©Mark Watts / Oakwrights
The first step was for Mark and Sarah to meet one of Oakwrights’ design consultants, Zoe Grey. Together, they discussed ideas that would shape the initial design of their oak-frame garden barn.
‘Mark and Sarah had a vision of what they wanted to create and I was delighted to work with them to achieve this,’ explains Zoe.
Light, height and luxury
The space-efficient envelope of the popular oak-framed building is the loftiest model in Oakwright’s ‘Room Over’ garage range and creates a light, airy feel both upstairs and downstairs.
The oak frame is a feature throughout the interior. ©Mark Watts / Oakwrights
The accommodation comprises an open-plan kitchen, dining and living space, plus four ensuite bedrooms, one of which is on the ground floor. The compact proportions ensure that it can be easily incorporated into the garden without compromising anyone’s privacy.
The beauty of oak ‘Oak-framed buildings seem to have a visual warmth you just don’t get with other materials,’ says Mark. He also values the timelessness of oak: ‘It looks as though it might have been an old, converted building, but works really well with the space.’
The design fits beautifully into the landscape, feeling as it it might have been here for many years. ©Mark Watts / Oakwrights
Inside, the succession of smart, comfortable spaces has significant wow factor, thanks to the oak frame, which guests love. Externally, the oak has blended seamlessly into the beautifully landscaped garden and the Leicestershire countryside beyond.
For more information on Oakwrights call 01432 353353 or visit www.oakwrights.co.uk
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