Business Details
20 Years
experience
Bespoke Green Oak Framed Buildings in Cumbria
Established in 2006, Sessile Oak is a specialist in crafting traditional and contemporary green oak framed buildings. Based in Cumbria at the northern border of the Lake District National Park, we combine centuries-old carpentry techniques with modern innovation to create durable, bespoke structures. Our team of skilled craftsmen designs and constructs oak frames for extensions, garden rooms, barns, bridges, and other custom projects, prioritising sustainability through responsibly sourced timber.With decades of combined experience, including founder Keith Gibson's lifelong expertise in woodworking and forestry, we deliver high-quality solutions tailored to client needs. Our workshop at Sunnymede Barn, powered partially by solar energy, reflects our commitment to environmental stewardship. While temporarily pausing operations until Summer 2026, we maintain a focus on precision, artistry, and enduring value in every project.
Services
Green Oak Frames
Carpentry
Construction
Finishing
Glazing
Project Gallery
Carvings
Environmental Policy
Details
- Year established: 2006
Highlights and features
- We combine traditional hand tools with modern techniques for precision craftsmanship
- Our founder has over 30 years of experience in forestry and professional carpentry
- Timber sourced exclusively from certified sustainable woodlands
- Dedicated to environmental responsibility through solar-powered workshop operations
- Offer nationwide service from our Cumbria base with bespoke design support
Services
Green Oak Frames
Handcrafted green oak frames form the structural core of buildings, using unseasoned oak joined with traditional mortice, tenon, and dovetail techniques. Our frames combine historical craftsmanship with modern engineering for durability and aesthetic appeal. Each structure is custom-designed to complement its environment while maintaining the natural character of oak.
Carpentry
Traditional and modern carpentry techniques shape each frame in our workshop. Using hand tools like chisels and planes alongside precision machinery, we ensure exact joints and finishes. Our craftsmen's expertise guarantees structural integrity while preserving the organic beauty of oak in every cut and assembly.
Construction
Green oak frames are pre-assembled in our workshop before rapid on-site installation. Components are precision-cut for seamless reassembly, with pegged joints creating self-supporting structures. This method minimises construction time while maintaining the strength and longevity inherent to traditional oak framing techniques.
Finishing
Natural weathering develops oak's silvered patina over time, though protective treatments can be applied. We guide clients on maintenance options to balance aesthetic preferences with durability. Our finishing processes enhance wood longevity while respecting its natural characteristics and environmental sustainability.
Glazing
Glazing solutions integrate seamlessly with oak frames through rebated or face-mounted installations. We adapt methods to suit functional requirements and architectural styles, ensuring watertight seals while maintaining structural integrity. Options range from traditional double-glazing to modern energy-efficient systems within handcrafted oak casements.
People
Keith Gibson
Founder
With carpentry experience since age 11, Keith combines forestry expertise and postgraduate wood science studies. He established Sessile Oak in 2006 after diverse careers in radio, kayaking instruction, and professional forestry, bringing multidisciplinary innovation to traditional oak framing.
Questions
What defines a green oak frame?
Green oak frames use unseasoned timber joined with traditional mortice, tenon, and dovetail joints. This creates durable, self-supporting structures that develop natural patina over centuries while maintaining structural integrity.
How do I commission an oak frame?
Contact us with your project concept or architectural plans. We collaborate with clients, builders, and engineers to develop bespoke designs, providing guidance from initial sketches through to final installation and finishing.
What tools do you use?
We combine traditional hand tools like chisels and planes with modern machinery. This includes circular saws, morticing machines, and laser levels to ensure precision while maintaining artisanal craftsmanship.
How long do oak structures last?
Properly maintained oak frames endure for centuries. Historic examples exceed 500 years, with natural tannins providing decay resistance. Our structures are designed for multi-generational longevity through traditional joinery techniques.
Are your materials sustainable?
All timber comes from certified sustainable woodlands via reputable suppliers. We actively support forest conservation and use solar energy in our workshop to minimise environmental impact.
Videos
