An oak framed garage with a room above overlooking the Wye AONB

“When we were looking to return to this part of the world, we asked some friends for their recommendations of garage designers and builders, and these conversations led us to Oakwrights,” Neale explains.

Neale and Wendy wanted to build a garage that would remain in keeping with their home and be conducive to housing a coaching studio above.

“Oak for me ticked all those boxes,” he continues.

The ground floor of Neale and Wendy’s garage benefits from three bays and an additional wood store: one bay is enclosed with beautiful oak double doors, and the other two are open and used for parking. A timber staircase leading to Neale’s studio is positioned on the left-hand side and on the right, a balcony with a glass balustrade surrounding composite decking stands proudly – a peaceful place for reflection and a mid-morning coffee break. 

“We also positioned a triple Velux window in the middle of the garage’s roof and two Velux windows to the side to capitalise on the view and allow as much light as possible into the studio,” says Neale.

Once inside, you can see and feel how the expansive space which spans all three bays is naturally illuminated thanks to the glazing additions and warming oak subtly framing it, uniting to curate its inviting, airy ambience. Furthermore, Neale cleverly chose to complete his studio with furniture on casters to ensure its versatility for years to come. The adaptable space allows room for a kitchenette, shower room with w/c, a desk and even a boardroom table that would easily seat 8.