'We were blown away': How Oakwrights helped one couple create a breathtaking country getaway
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.
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 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 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.’
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
How an oak-frame extension can transform your home
Oakwrights’ oak-frame garden rooms, sunrooms, orangeries and conservatories are tailored to suit clients’ needs and blend seamlessly with their homes.
Credit: Richard Frew/Oakwrights
Go with the grain: How Oakwrights are using oak that's powerful, beautiful and sustainable
For centuries, oak has been used to create beautiful, characterful buildings that last for centuries. Tim Crump, founder of Herefordshire-based
Why oak-framed buildings are enjoying a renaissance
Tim Crump, one of the UK’s leading authorities on timber-framed buildings explains why oak is enjoying a revival.
Exquisite houses, the beauty of Nature, and how to get the most from your life, straight to your inbox.
-
Renault 4: Retro, rewired, and ridiculously likeableMatthew MacConnell falls in love with a reimagined French classic.
-
Five of our favourite dog-friendly hotels — and they've all been approved by Geoffrey the dachshundWe sent Jennifer George and her canine companion Geoffrey on a quest to find five of the best dog-friendly hotels in the south.
-
Reimagining the past at VaughanIn September 2025, leading designers shared their views on creating interiors with the capacity to last forever.
-
Tetrad: Over half a century of timeless good looksSince 1968, Tetrad has employed a combination of traditional skills and the finest materials to make upholstered furniture that is designed to offer years of comfort.
-
Reimagining the past: A panel discussion with VaughanAt Focus/25 later this month, Vaughan will host an inspiring talk at which leading names in antiques and interiors will explain why understanding the past is vital to designing for the future.
-
Star of the show: Rose of Jericho's paint created just for Country Life at RHS ChelseaOne of the highlights of Country Life's ‘outdoor drawing room’ at the 2025 RHS Chelsea Flower Show was a new paint colour created by Rose of Jericho,
-
Munder-Skiles and the art of exterior decorationThe success of this project — which was awarded four stars by judges at the Chelsea Flower Show — demonstrates Isabella Worsley’s versatility as a designer.
-
Sell your valuables with ease with The Antique Buying CollectiveThe Antique Buying Collective treats gold and silver as heirlooms, not scrap. From Victorian brooches to Georgian silverware, each piece is appraised for its history, craftsmanship .and charm, then thoughtfully rehomed through a trusted network. It’s a respectful approach, giving fine antiques the second life they so richly deserve
-
Great garden getawaysDiscover some of Britain’s finest gardens with a PoB Hotels break
-
Reader Event: Designing spaces that feel like homeOn Wednesday, March 26, interior-design studio Sims Hilditch and George Smith, makers of luxury, handcrafted upholstered furniture, will mark the launch of new furniture designs for bedrooms in an event chaired by Country Life.
