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.
-
The Duke of Wellington's hearing aid, at the cutting edge of technology 200 years agoJohn Goodall meets the 9th Duke of Wellington to hear the tale of his famous forbear's hearing problems.
-
Country Life? More like Crunchy Life: Breakfast cereal is on the menu in the Country Life Quiz of the Day, May 13, 2026Bet you've never wondered how much you know about breakfast cereals before.
-
The best of British: How home-grown stone will be one of the stars on the Country Life stand at the Chelsea Flower ShowCountry Life's stand at RHS Chelsea will celebrate the beauty of Artorius Faber’s home-grown stone.
-
The art of the hand: George Saumarez Smith's design for Country Life at ChelseaGeorge Saumarez Smith will demonstrate the power of pen and pencil when Country Life unveils his hand-drawn design for its stand at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.
-
Reader event report: An eye to the future at DaylesfordThe magnificent Heritage Barn at Daylesford in the Cotswolds was the setting for an event at which five specialists with a deep understanding of country properties shared their expertise.
-
Reader Event: An eye to the future at Daylesford Heritage HouseWhat changes to a house do most to enhance its aesthetics, function, comfort, sustainability and longevity? On March 24, leading experts in architecture, interior design, craft and restoration will share the secrets to maximising possibilities and protecting value at Daylesford’s magnificent Heritage House in Gloucestershire.
-
Reader Event: Super women at London Design WeekWhat can be learnt from the achievements of the world’s greatest female designers and antique dealers? Which has created the most valuable legacy? What are the secrets of their success? Come and find out at an inspiring event on the first day of London Design Week at 10.30am on Monday, March 9, at the London showroom of luxury lighting brand Hector Finch.
-
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.
