Business Details
29 Years
experience
Expert Building & Restoration Services in Devon
Established in 1997, Character Builders is a family-run business operating on the edge of Dartmoor National Park. Led by four brothers with specialized expertise, we focus on period property maintenance, barn conversions, and restoration projects, blending modern and traditional techniques. Our commitment to sustainable materials and contextual design ensures minimal environmental impact while preserving historical integrity.We collaborate with specialist craftsmen and maintain strong local ties, supporting community initiatives and demonstrating our dedication to quality through awards like the Federation of Master Builders' Builder of the Year. Our portfolio spans Devon Long Houses, churches, and timber-framed structures, reflecting our progressive yet heritage-conscious approach.
Services
Building
Joinery
Decoration
Barn Restoration
Period Property Maintenance
Cob Work
Stone Masonry
Timber Framing
Church Restoration
Eco-Friendly Construction
Details
- Year established: 1997
Highlights and features
- We have over 25 years of experience in traditional and modern building techniques
- Our team includes four brothers with specialized expertise in restoration work
- We integrate sustainable materials and environmentally conscious practices
- Award-winning work recognised by the Federation of Master Builders
- Strong local community engagement and partnerships with specialist craftsmen
Associations and certifications
- Buy with Confidence scheme
What people say
Highest standard
Professional team
Excellent workmanship
On schedule
Great communication
Services
Barn Restoration
Specialist barn restoration combining traditional techniques with modern methods to preserve historical integrity while ensuring structural longevity. We work with period materials like cob and lime, maintaining authentic aesthetics while incorporating sustainable solutions. Our award-winning team delivers projects ahead of schedule with minimal environmental impact.
Period Property Maintenance
Comprehensive maintenance for listed buildings and heritage properties, focusing on traditional materials like oak and stone. Our approach balances preservation with modern functionality, ensuring compliance with conservation standards while meeting contemporary needs through expert craftsmanship and detailed project management.
Timber Framing
Precision timber framing services using sustainably sourced materials. We combine carpentry expertise with traditional joinery techniques to create durable, aesthetically pleasing structures. Our work integrates seamlessly with both historic and modern buildings while maintaining environmental responsibility.
Stone Masonry
Expert stone masonry services led by trained specialists, including carving and structural work. We restore historical features while maintaining material authenticity, working with local stone sources to ensure contextual harmony in Devon's landscape.
Eco-Friendly Construction
Environmentally conscious construction solutions incorporating ground source heat pumps, air source systems, and wood chip boilers. Our approach minimises ecological impact while maintaining heritage values, demonstrated through community projects like ecological compost toilet installations.
People
Tom Diffey
Managing Director
With 16 years' local experience, Tom oversees client liaison and project coordination. His expertise in roofing and carpentry combines with a passion for sustainable practices, ensuring every detail meets exacting standards while maintaining 'green living' principles.
Matt Diffey
Stone Mason
Former apprentice to renowned sculptor Peter Randall-Page, Matt specialises in stone carving and masonry. His European experience, including Italian marble training, enhances our restoration projects with artistic precision and technical excellence in heritage conservation.
Sam Diffey
Project Manager
Cob work specialist and site manager Sam leads apprentices while focusing on internal finishes. Recognised for leading the 2013 Federation of Master Builders award-winning church restoration project, he combines technical skill with team leadership expertise.
Simeon Diffey
Project Coordinator
Youngest brother Simeon manages payroll and site projects. With formal conservation training from Kingston University, he bridges traditional techniques with contemporary building practices, ensuring our approach remains innovative while respecting historical integrity.
Questions
What types of building projects do you specialise in?
We specialise in period property maintenance, barn conversions, church restorations, and timber-framed structures using traditional materials like cob, lime, and oak.
How do you combine modern and traditional techniques?
Our approach integrates modern efficiency with heritage methods, using sustainable materials while preserving historical authenticity in every restoration project.
Are you experienced in listed building conservation?
Yes, with award-winning expertise in Grade II listed properties and churches, our team holds specialist knowledge of conservation area requirements and planning regulations.
Do you work beyond Devon?
While based in Devon, we consider projects across the South West, maintaining our focus on rural heritage buildings and countryside integration.
What sustainability practices do you use?
We prioritise local materials, energy-efficient systems like heat pumps, and eco-friendly construction methods while supporting environmental charities through practical donations.
Reviews (1)
Andy H.
Nov 06, 2019
Report
We first contacted Character Builders in July of 2017 with an outline of our plans to convert a redundant agricultural barn into a three-bedroom, modern, energy-efficient home. We were immediately impressed by the way Tom Diffey and Sam Diffey had clearly prepared for our first meeting because they were able to discuss detailed aspects of the plans and offer their professional advice right from the outset. Their budget indication was detailed, clear and precise and our project was completed on time and to the original budget forecast. Our aim was to be as energy efficiency as possible and we
