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Oak roof shortlisted for UK Wood Award

Oak frame specialists, Carpenter Oak, have been shortlisted for a prestigious competition which promotes outstanding work. Sources: Kingsbridge & Salcombe Gazette, Timberbiz, photos Carpenter Oak ,

The East Cornworthy-based company has made it to the final of the UK 2022 Wood Award. Judges praised the team at Carpenter Oak for their “intricate design, complex geometry and traditional craftsmanship” in making the octagonal roof structure for the independent boarding school.

Created from 1,100 sections of timber and more than 300 joints, the finished structure is “testament to the collaboration and expertise of the team,” the judges said.

The finished structure is a testament to the collaboration and expertise of the team, with the oak roof made and assembled in its entirety at Carpenter Oak framing yard in Devon. From there, it was transported to site in Abingdon where it was lifted to sit atop the new extension. The exceptional roof is a sight to behold and is in keeping with the existing chapel, which dates back to 1893.

The roof crowns a new extension, designed by architects Purcell, built to cope with increasing numbers of pupils at the school. The extension of the east end of the existing chapel enhances the capabilities of the space overall and provides space for 30% more seating overall.

It was selected from more than 200 entries, for designing and building the complex octagonal Chapel Roof at Radley College.

Established in 1971, the Wood Awards recognises, encourages and promotes outstanding wood design, craftsmanship and installation.