Oak Framed Summerhouse, Cumbria

About Project

Oak-framed Cumbrian summerhouse

This oak-framed summerhouse is located on the edge of a young woodland in the Cumbrian hills. It looks out across fields to the fells, and makes the most of the sunshine due to its south-west aspect.

Natural Materials

The untreated oak and larch cladding will eventually fade to a lovely natural silver-grey over time. This helps the building blend in with the woodland beyond. The anthracite tin roof is a simple, utilitarian, material, not uncommon in this agricultural setting.

Internally, the exposed pegged oak frame and curved braces provide a traditional aesthetic. The floor, walls and ceiling are also timber, giving the summerhouse something of a ‘chalet’ feel. Using timber throughout minimised the number of different trades involved, making the build process efficient. Here’s a blog on the full process.

Flexible Layout

The summerhouse is 3.6m by 3.6m, and consists of one room, with a mezzanine platform above for storage or sleeping. This flexible outdoor space is designed for socialising and camping out. Eventually, the owners plan to convert it into a home office and install a tiny wood-burning stove. The glazed oak truss maximises the light and feeling of space inside, and the direct double glazing system makes the transition from oak to glass seamless.

Sustainability and low-carbon building

The materials used to build the summerhouse are high quality, natural and locally sourced. Through the use of sustainably and responsibly sourced timber, we can ensure that this building has a low carbon footprint. Timber is very durable when designed correctly so that it can deal with the weather.

The direct double glazing system ensures airtightness, weatherproofing and thermal performance. The lightweight materials meant that foundations weren’t needed. This minimises the building’s carbon footprint and impact on its natural environment. The insulated floor, walls and roof make it a cosy escape even in the winter months.

For more woodland cabin inspiration, read about our oak framed woodland cabin in Suffolk.