In this issue of Building & Construction review, we are pleased to feature Oaksmiths as the winner of our Building Products & Services Innovation Award.
From elegant porches and garden structures to substantial garages with accommodation above, Oaksmiths creates bespoke oak frames that combine durability, natural character and architectural appeal. Alongside its residential work, the company collaborates with larger building firms on commercial projects, applying its specialist expertise across a diverse range of construction requirements.
What distinguishes Oaksmiths is its commitment to traditional craftsmanship. Every frame is individually designed and handmade, without the use of CNC machinery. Instead, skilled craftspeople employ traditional jointing techniques and generations of practical knowledge to ensure each component is carefully cut, fitted and finished. This approach honours the heritage of oak framing while producing structures built to stand the test of time.
For homeowners, Oaksmiths offers a personalised service that can extend from initial concepts and planning assistance through to project completion. Its turnkey packages can incorporate the trades required at each stage, providing a single point of contact and a finished structure tailored to the property’s character, the client’s needs and their budget. For contractors, the company supplies precisely fitted, high-quality frames designed for efficient on-site assembly, working alongside other trades to support the wider construction process.
The company uses sustainably sourced French oak, with English oak available on request. Its commitment to quality also extends to the people behind the work, with investment in training and professional development helping to maintain high standards across the business.
Speaking to Duncan Pragnell, Director and Nick Lynn, Oak Framer at Oaksmiths, they emphasised the pride the company takes in every frame that leaves its workshop. “We approach every project as though we were building it for ourselves, applying the same care, attention to detail and respect for the material, whether it’s a small porch or a large house,” they explained. “Maintaining that consistency is what we value most. Much of our work comes through recommendations and repeat business from previous clients, while we continue to welcome a steady stream of new customers.”
This commitment is reflected in Oaksmiths’ investment in its team. Alongside practical, hands-on training in traditional oak framing, the company supports employees in gaining recognised qualifications and developing skills that contribute to a safe and professional working environment. The team includes trained first aiders, and Oaksmiths has supported a team member in achieving a Level 6 NVQ Diploma in Construction Contracting Operations Management. Apprentices are also working towards and achieving their qualifications, while team members undertake PASMA training to ensure work at height is carried out safely and competently. Through this combination of professional development and traditional skills, Oaksmiths is helping to preserve the specialist knowledge required to keep the craft alive for future generations.
Looking ahead, Oaksmiths hopes to build a house of its own, creating an opportunity to explore innovative approaches to sustainable homebuilding. Duncan and Nick believe that eco-friendly homes have a promising future and that oak framing has an important role to play. “Oak is a natural, long-lasting and renewable material, so it is well suited to low-impact building, and we are excited to show what traditional craftsmanship can achieve in the homes of tomorrow,” they said.
Reflecting on the company’s award, Duncan and Nick added: “We are proud and delighted to receive this award. It is a reflection of the hard work of everyone at Oaksmiths, including our apprentices, who are learning these traditional skills on the job. We would like to thank everyone who has supported us along the way, and we look forward to continuing to build to the standard we would expect for ourselves.”
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