The Oak Frame
Why choose oak over other building materials?
Oak is a durable, sustainable and aesthetically unique material. It offers exceptional strength, natural thermal properties, and a lifespan of centuries. The natural character of the timber adds significant value and beauty to any property.
Aside from that, it can be used to create a space that stirs your emotions when you first enter… almost like walking in a forest.
What are the benefits of oak framed buildings compared with conventional construction?
Modern construction has largely prioritised efficiency and uniformity, but oak framed buildings offer something fundamentally different – warmth, character and a strong emotional connection to the space.
Oak frames combine beautiful, tactile timber with large expanses of glazing, creating light-filled, flexible spaces that suit contemporary living while retaining a timeless quality. An oak framed building has presence and soul that cannot be replicated with standard construction methods.
Every oak frame is bespoke. Your project can feel traditional and barn-like, or clean and contemporary, and oak elements can also be integrated into a conventional block and brick structure to achieve the balance you are looking for.
Because the frame is fabricated off-site in controlled workshop conditions, on-site disruption is minimised. Upon the delivery of your oak, frame erection typically takes between 1 and 5 days, depending on size and complexity.
Why is oak referred to as ‘green’?
Green oak is freshly cut timber that still contains a high moisture content. It is easier to work with than seasoned oak and gains its exceptional strength as it dries over time. Green oak construction has been used successfully for centuries.
Does green oak change as it dries out?
Yes – and this is a key part of its appeal. As green oak dries, it will naturally shrink, twist and develop surface splits. This is expected behaviour and does not indicate a fault. These characteristics add authenticity and character to the frame and are accounted for in the detailing and engineering of the building.
Do oak frames cause draughts or leaks as the timber moves?
No, provided the frame is detailed and built correctly. Modern oak frame construction uses proven glazing, cladding and movement detailing systems that fully accommodate timber movement. This is why experience is critical when selecting both frame supplier and builder.
How much maintenance does oak require?
Once erected, the oak may show saw marks or colour variation. These can be removed through sandblasting depending on your taste. This gives the frame an even colour, enhances texture and raises the grain. After sandblasting, the oak frame requires minimal ongoing maintenance.
Externally, exposed oak elements such as cover boards will naturally weather from a honey colour to a silvery grey over time. This is purely aesthetic. If you wish to retain the original colour, periodic treatment with products such as Osmo UV Protection can be applied every few years; this is optional and not required for durability.
We provide detailed guidance on the long-term care of your oak structure upon completion of your build.
Is oak a sustainable material?
Yes. Oak is a renewable resource, and increased demand has encouraged responsible forestry across Europe. Much of the oak we use is sourced from managed French forests where growth exceeds harvesting rates.
Where do you source your oak?
We carefully source our green oak from sustainably managed European forests to ensure the highest quality and environmental responsibility.
About Nadar
What type of construction does Nàdar specialise in?
Nàdar specialises in the design, supply, and construction of bespoke oak frame buildings, including extensions, conservatories, garages, and full-scale houses. We focus on combining traditional craftsmanship with modern building techniques.
Where is Nàdar based?
While our work takes us all over the South East and Surrey region, our main office is located near Dorking. You can visit us there to discuss your project.
Our frames cut and dry assembled in Kent and we have 3 teams of excellent builders delivering turnkey projects across the south east.
Why should I choose to work with you?
Unusually for an oak frame company, we are not just about the oak frame. We are very design led and whilst oak framing is our unique selling point we put as much emphasis on the materials that surround the oak frame. We specialise in delivering buildings that are emotionally engaging, not just structurally impressive. Because we understand the entire process – from concept to completion – we know how to balance oak, glazing, materials and lighting to create spaces that feel exceptional to live in.
Our buildings stir people’s emotions and create a warm homely feeling that positively affects one’s day-to-day wellbeing… we call these affects the TWB’s (Tangible Well Being). That may sound a bit ‘woo woo’ but trust us, all our clients express this same feeling.
We believe restraint is often as important as expression. A carefully designed oak frame, integrated with complementary materials, often creates a more powerful result than excessive timber. This philosophy underpins our work and sets us apart.
How can I contact Nadar to discuss my project?
You can reach us by phone at 01932 590111, email us at enquiries@nadaroak.co.uk, or submit an enquiry on our Contact page. Upon further discussion we can arrange an initial consultation meeting either in-person or over a video call.
From Concept to Completion
What is the typical process for an oak extension project?
The outline process usually involves several key stages:
- Initial Consultation: Discussing your vision, needs, and budget.
- Design and Planning: Creating architectural drawings and securing necessary planning permission.
- Frame Manufacture: The oak frame is traditionally crafted in our workshop.
- Groundwork: Creation of foundation, brickwork and enabling work ready for the oak frame.
- Frame install: Often the most exciting day for the clients as the frame arrives and is assembled.
- Structure & Roofing: Completing the roof, sandblasting, glazing, cladding, and internal finishes etc etc.
- Handover: Final inspection and project completion.
When should I contact you about my project?
As early as possible. Early involvement allows us to advise on feasibility, structure and budget before designs become fixed. This often saves time and cost later in the process and helps ensure the oak frame is fully integrated into the overall design from the outset. We carry out all design works so you don’t need to worry about finding an architect.
How long does the design and build process take?
Timeframes vary by project size, complexity and planning requirements. However, once the frame is manufactured, the on-site construction phase is generally faster than traditional builds.
We will provide a detailed timeline upon project commencement and keep you updated on progress throughout the duration of the project.
As a guide:
- Initial design and concept development stage, 1-2 months
- Planning approval (where required), typically 8-10 weeks
- Technical design and building regulations: 1-2 months
- Construction – this obviously varies subject to the size of the project.
In total, a typical project may take 5-6 months from initial consultation to site start. Projects under permitted development can often progress significantly faster.
Build duration depends on scope. A two-storey rear extension with an oak frame and fitted interior would typically take around 6 months on site.
Oak frame manufacture and delivery usually takes 8-14 weeks from contract signing, with installation taking 1-5 days.
Will I need planning permission?
Most oak extensions and new builds require local authority planning permission and building regulations approval. We can manage the entire planning application process on your behalf, including the preparation and submission of all required documentation, such as the initial design plans and engineering drawings.
Is planning permission more difficult for oak framed buildings?
In our experience, well-designed oak framed buildings are viewed positively by both Planning Authorities and Building Control, particularly when proportions, materials and context are handled sensitively.
Can we use our own architect?
Absolutely. Around half of our projects are delivered in collaboration with external architects.
Can you provide glazing systems?
Yes. We design and supply glazing systems specifically engineered for oak frames. We strongly recommend that oak frames and glazing are designed together to ensure correct movement detailing, weather performance and long-term reliability.
Can you combine oak frames with SIPs?
Yes. Structural Insulated Panels are an excellent partner to oak frames, offering high levels of insulation, airtightness and speed of construction. Using SIPs allows us to secure a weather-tight structure within weeks of your oak frame arriving on site. This can reduce overall build time by several months.
Working With Us
What services do you offer?
Depending on location and project type, we offer:
- Initial design input – Nationwide
- Oak frame design and manufacture – Nationwide
- Oak frame supply only – Nationwide
- Oak frame, glazing and enclosure packages – Nationwide
- Full design and build (turn-key) service for extensions and new builds – Surrey and surrounding counties (please enquire if just outside this area)
Do you work on projects that are not predominantly oak framed?
Yes. Subject to location and workload, we are happy to work on projects where oak forms a key architectural element rather than the entire structure.
What safeguards and warranties are in place?
Building Control inspections take place throughout construction to ensure compliance with national standards.
On all of our projects we provide a 10 year warranty on the oak frame itself and a 2 year warranty on glazing.
For new build homes, we work with recognised warranty providers offering 10-year structural warranties.
Is Nàdar fully insured and certified?
Yes, Nàdar is fully insured and all our work complies with the relevant building regulations and standards. We are committed to maintaining the highest level of professional accreditation. Copies of insurance and warranty documentation are available upon request.
Costs and Investment
How much does an oak framed house or extension cost today?
Key factors include the size and complexity of the design, the type of glazing and roofing materials chosen, site access, internal specifications and procurement route.
As a broad guide:
- New build oak framed homes typically range from £2,000 to £3,500 per square metre of internal floor area.
- Turnkey oak framed extensions generally start from £3,000 per square metre and can rise with complexity and finish level.
- Lower figures may apply for experienced self-builders.
Caution should be exercised with unusually low figures when comparing quotes from other companies, often excluding essential items or underestimating build complexity.
These figures exclude VAT. New build homes are zero-rated for VAT in the UK, while extensions are generally subject to VAT.
Can you give me an estimate?
Every Nàdar project is custom-designed, so a generic price would be misleading. We offer a no-obligation initial consultation to understand your project and provide a detailed, accurate quote.
We are currently developing an investment estimator that will be available on the Resources tab soon.
What happens if costs begin to exceed my budget?
Costs are monitored throughout the project, and any design or specification changes are discussed openly as they arise. This ensures informed decisions and avoids unexpected costs throughout the build.