A Spectacular Centrepiece for Scottish Self-Build

Kris Kirk is a professional designer who is currently building his dream home in Ayrshire on the west coast of Scotland. Oakmasters has provided a showpiece structural oak frame that provides a dramatic vaulted ceiling for the open-plan living room.

Kris has taken control of the project, using his skills as a designer to develop his ideal property. “I had taken the project as far as I could, and I needed the help of expert engineers and designers to bring my design to life”. Kris went out to tender, contacting four companies before choosing Oakmasters. “I’m a business owner myself, and I recognised that right from the offset, the communication was excellent.”

To bring Kris's designs to life, he worked with 3D CAD / CAM designer and engineer, Val who understood his vision and translated it into a series of designs. During the process, Kris worked closely with the Oakmasters team, a process he enjoyed and benefited from. “They’re articulate and engaging and helped me, as a self-builder, to develop confidence in the designs and the finished product.”

Oakmasters manufactured the complex design at their West Sussex base before packaging it up for the long journey to West Scotland. When it arrived, every piece was present, correct, and ready to be installed. Kris and a friend followed the detailed instructions and slotted the structure together. "A team of professional joiners and I were able to build the structure quickly. Everything slotted into place without a problem. It’s precision-engineered,” he said.

Kris selected a special aged finish to the beams, providing this new-build property with instant character and appeal. "The beams themselves are beautiful pieces of wood and look as though they're 100 years old," he said.

The oak timber frame is now in place while construction work continues. The frame provides solidity to the structure – essential in an unforgiving landscape where it will feel the full impact of the changeable Scottish weather. "We're hoping to complete the project by the middle of the winter in 2023," said Kris.

Reflecting back, Kris is happy he selected Oakmasters. “I could have gone for a cheaper design or a different supplier, but the results we have achieved are spectacular,” he said.

How has he found the service? “Everything has been absolutely first class. From the minute I spoke to the team until the finished installation, the communication and commitment from the team has been exemplary.” As a self-builder, the support from Oakmasters has given Kris the confidence that he’s made the best decision.