Planning a major refurb or a Grand Designs-style self-build? Don’t break ground until you’ve talked to Roderick James Architects, the UK’s leading designer of contemporary and traditional timber frame buildings. Specialising in the use of green oak frames, RJA are known for their award-winning designs which maximise space, light and sustainability and have offices in Totnes, Wiltshire, and Glasgow.

Having built their reputation over the last fifty years, the 10-strong team have helped thousands of self-builders to design and build their own dream homes, so you’ll be in safe hands. They’ve gained oodles of experience in renewable technologies, natural building materials and waterside buildings, and can also help you jump the hurdles associated with listed buildings, Conservation and Coastal Areas, AONBs and National Parks.

While you remain in charge, the talented team will steer you through the whole project, from turning your dream into a design, through planning permission and surveys to the build and turning the key in the lock. You won’t be searching for builders and chippies either, thanks to their close working relationships with all the leading local carpenters. What’s more, they’re happy to suggest timber barn stays locally, such as the jaw-dropping Gitcombe Estate (awarded The Daily Telegraph Homebuilding & Renovating’s ‘Highly Commended Best Traditional Style Self-Build 2019’), to give you a taste of luxury timber home living.

Looking for off-the-peg? Check out the very inspiring BAARN, their new timber-frame house service. It’s a choice of four different house types which are built off site, from the bijou Prairie Cabin to the spacious four-bed Sail Loft. Whether you’re craving an artist studios or granny annex in the garden, or after a brand-new timber home on virgin land, a scroll will have you blue-skying about your next move, for sure.