Business Details
20 Years
experience
Bespoke Green Oak Framed Buildings in Cumbria
Established in 2006, Sessile Oak specialises in crafting bespoke green oak framed buildings using centuries-old carpentry techniques. Our team combines traditional hand tools with modern machinery to create durable, aesthetically pleasing structures tailored to individual client needs. Based in Cumbria at the northern edge of the Lake District National Park, we serve clients across the UK and beyond. Our commitment to sustainability is reflected in sourcing timber from certified woodlands and utilising solar energy at our workshop. Founder Keith Gibson brings decades of experience in forestry, carpentry, and design, ensuring every project benefits from deep expertise and passion for the craft.Our workshop, Sunnymede Barn, was purpose-built using green oak and exemplifies our dedication to quality and environmental responsibility. We handle projects ranging from small porches to multi-storey commercial buildings, prioritising custom solutions that harmonise with their surroundings. Sustainability underpins our operations, from material sourcing to energy-efficient practices. While temporarily pausing new projects until 2026, we remain focused on delivering excellence in oak framing when we resume full operations.
Services
Green Oak Frames
Traditional Carpentry
Structural Construction
Timber Glazing
Custom Carvings
Details
- Year established: 2006
Highlights and features
- We offer 20+ years of specialist oak framing expertise since 2006
- Our team uses proven traditional carpentry techniques alongside modern tools
- We prioritise sustainability through certified timber sourcing and solar energy
- Our founder brings multidisciplinary expertise from forestry to fine woodworking
- We provide nationwide service with a deep understanding of UK woodland ecosystems
Services
Green Oak Frames
Craft bespoke green oak frames using unseasoned timber joined with traditional mortice, tenon, and dovetail joints. Our frames form structural elements for extensions, conservatories, and commercial buildings. Each frame combines centuries-old techniques with modern design requirements for durability and aesthetic appeal.
Traditional Carpentry
Employ specialist hand tools like chisels and planes alongside modern machinery to shape oak timbers. Our carpentry preserves historical techniques while meeting contemporary standards. Projects range from intricate carvings to large-scale structural components, all finished to exacting quality specifications.
Structural Construction
Erect prefabricated oak frames rapidly on-site using precision-cut components. Our construction method ensures self-supporting structures that withstand environmental stresses. We handle complete building processes from foundation preparation to final assembly of complex multi-storey frames.
Timber Glazing
Install glazing directly into oak frames through rebates or face mounting. We adapt installation methods to suit site conditions and aesthetic goals. Our solutions maintain structural integrity while optimising natural light and thermal performance for various building types.
Custom Carvings
Create unique decorative elements from commemorative plaques to large architectural sculptures. Our carving work incorporates traditional motifs and contemporary designs. Each piece showcases the natural grain and durability of oak while adding artistic value to structural projects.
People
Keith Gibson
Founder & Master Carpenter
With carpentry experience since age 11, Keith combines forestry expertise and academic study of wood properties. He established Sessile Oak in 2006 after diverse careers in environmental work and international travel. His multidisciplinary background informs innovative design solutions and technical precision in every project.
Questions
What defines a green oak frame?
Green oak frames use unseasoned timber joined with traditional mortice, tenon, and dovetail joints. These frames form structural elements that develop natural durability and silvered patina over time.
How do you commission an oak frame?
We collaborate from initial concepts through to detailed designs, working with clients, builders, or architects. Our process ensures bespoke solutions tailored to specific requirements and site conditions.
What construction methods do you use?
Frames are shaped in our workshop using hand tools and selected machinery, then rapidly assembled on-site. This approach maintains precision while enabling efficient installation of complete self-supporting structures.
How sustainable are your practices?
We source timber from certified sustainable woodlands and use solar energy at our workshop. Our environmental policy prioritises minimal ecological impact through responsible material sourcing and energy-efficient operations.
What projects do you undertake?
We handle structures from small porches to multi-storey commercial buildings. Our expertise covers residential extensions, garden rooms, bridges, and decorative architectural elements, all custom-designed to client specifications.
Videos
Reviews (5)
Esther Neate
Aug 06, 2019
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Sessile oak designed and crafted our green oak veranda. The craftsmanship is awesome, something that is hard to find these days. His design for a difficult location was excellent, and he took the time to visit the site twice to ensure it was what we wanted, and that it would fit the space. I rarely review anything, but the quality of this work is a worthwhile exception. I would highly recommend and definitely use again.
Ellie Baldwin
Feb 03, 2017
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Innovative and imaginative design, sublime carpentry. Can carve a bit too! Some Very Special Talents.
Reflecta Reflecta Signs & Reflecta Window Films
Oct 23, 2015
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Always fantastic to see a true craftsman in action with great attention to detail from initial planning to construction.
Andrew Tapner
Oct 13, 2015
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Amazing carpentry work for architecture and sculptures. I would definitely recommend - five stars from me.
Donald Gibson
Aug 15, 2015
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I'm constantly impressed by your skill and reminded of it each time I look at the beautiful tray you made for us.
