REAL PROJECT OAK FRAME SELF-BUILD
A plot with views across grounds of a Lincolnshire golf course inspired Mark and Sarah Astall to self-build their new oak frame home
Mark and Sarah Astall had experience of self building and conservation work — when the couple first moved to Louth they had bought a home directly from a builder which was just a shell to be completed by themselves. Then, a few years later, a friend of theirs secured planning permission to construct three oak frame homes and two traditional builds on a plot high on the Lincolnshire hillside. “When we first saw the view of the golf course, that was it; that was the start of a new adventure. We’re now even members of the club,” says Sarah. “The views were fantastic — we gave them the deposit that night,” adds Mark.
EMBARKING ON AN ADVENTURE
The oak frame architectural designs for the planning permission were drawn up by Oakwrights. Mark and Sarah got to work researching and developing the pre-existing plans so they complemented and suited their lifestyle by staying in the Oakwrights’ show home, Woodhouse.
“The original proposal was for five bedrooms, but we changed it to three full suites instead,” explains Mark. Sarah had always wanted to live in a ski chalet, so a large balcony with a roof overhang was added to the original design to give them a space they now love to use, whatever the weather.
The guest room now also features full-height windows overlooking the garden, and another balcony has since been added. “Oakwrights design and provide a 3D walk around of the frame and every detail was planned meticulously,” says Sarah.
To save costs the couple chose to build some elements — like the utility and garage area — out of brick and block, rather than oak frame. This also allowed them to install wider garage doors and spend their savings elsewhere in the build.
the build
