Self-build homes come in all shapes and sizes to suit the needs and means of those wanting to take this adventurous route, and a particular site in Leicestershire showcases this diversity.
Rotherby Manor is a mixed site including custom-build plots where all potential homeowners shared the common goal of creating an Oakwrights home to suit their lifestyle – whether choosing to turnkey or self-managing their project.
One couple who chose the latter were Joe Dallas and David Tew, who spent two years searching for the ideal plot. Build their dream home.
Project details
- location Leicestershire
- house Self-creation Separate oak frame
- The size of the house 250 square meters
- Build costs About £1m
- Oak frame Ochrites
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Expert advice on design
The couple decided to adapt the Tame Barn style from the Oakrites range, customizing it to suit their needs, rather than a completely bespoke design.
“It was the company’s frame designer, Sarah Connelly, who made sure we got what we wanted, even when we thought it wouldn’t work,” says Joe. “She advised us on how best to use the interior spaces and was very clever in knowing where to add or lose the odd 50mm which made a huge difference.”
Emphasizing the importance of this collaboration, Sarah says, “I like to have a few meetings with clients during the 3D modeling phase to better understand the use and design interest of each space to ensure the best result. Our collaboration plays a vital role in shaping a smart layout and a more considered oak frame.”
Before they made the final call to go ahead, the couple cleverly commissioned an independent architect to do a “sanity check” of the design to ensure that all the things they had discussed and learned during that time were included and incorporated as best as possible.
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Lifestyle requirements
The changes Jo and David made to the original Tame Barn design were significant but they reflected a clear vision of what best suited their lifestyle and also their future needs.
For example, they were very keen on interior design open plan But only on the condition that the design would allow for the addition of interior walls at a later stage, if the couple ultimately felt it was necessary.
“This is our last and final home so the interior has been future-proofed in many ways,” says Jo.
Another equally significant change was the orientation of the building to face the southeast, which did not mean that they had a desirable view across the fields, but it increased the effectiveness of the building. Solar panels on the roof
“It also reduced our solar gain Prevent overheating In the summer, that was important, given that we have such an expanse of glass at the front,” says David.
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Beautiful and practical
As is typical of Oakwrights Oak frame homes, the finished result has a stunning visual impact and is a marriage of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary performance.
From the beginning, the couple was determined to have one Eco-friendly home And proudly say, “We’ve managed to achieve a near passive house with triple glazing, MVHRone Air source heat pumpSolar panels with battery storage, rainwater harvesting, maximum insulation and airtightness of less than 1.”
“We’re self-sufficient, energy-wise,” David continues. “We have EV charging and despite driving an electric car for the last 12 months, including the winter period, we have not had an electricity bill, which has worked out better than any of us could have hoped for.”
The success of the project is summed up by frame designer Sarah Connelly, “This beautiful Oak frame The home demonstrates how traditional wood craftsmanship can be integrated with contemporary design, creating a structure that is both sustainable and visually appealing. An exposed oak frame provides warmth and character, while a laser-cut helical staircase creates an effect of contrasting materials.”
As spectacular as the house is, after 18 months living here the couple now admits to taking it for granted, “but every now and then, we’re reminded of how special it is when first-time visitors comment on its wow factor – inside and out,” says Joe.
For more inspiration, take a look around Arts and Crafts-style DIY in Surrey Or this modern Barn-style self-build in Kent countryside.
