News: Contemporary Oak Porches: Blend Tradition with Modern Design

28/08/2024

Oak porches have added charm to homes for centuries. But did you know an oak porch needn’t be exclusive to historic homes? It’s true… You can attach an oak porch to a modern house and with the know-how, it will match your contemporary style.

So, if you've got a newer home and want to compliment it with a modern oak porch, read on. In this article, you'll find tips to create a contemporary oak framed porch to match your modern taste. Let’s dive in!

The Historical Significance of Oak Porches

First things first, let's take a trip back in time.

Porch Origins and Early Uses

You can trace the concept of porches back to ancient Greece and Rome. Back then, "Porticos" were columned structures forming entrances to temples. So, the idea of a porch acting as a warm welcome isn’t a new notion.

Here in the UK, we wouldn't fall for the charm of porches until later. In medieval England (1066-1485), stone or oak porches became prominent features at the entrances of churches. As visitors entered the church, a porch allowed a moment of reflection. The covered entrances also served as a sheltered space to begin ceremonies, such as baptisms and weddings.

Transition to Residential Features

Although porches graced churches, it took a while for them to adorn residential architecture. Porches didn’t beautify homes until the Tudor period (1485-1603). The ornate entrance porches were a statement feature and the complex designs were exclusive for grand English manor houses.

Come the Victorian era (1837–1901), the British love of oak porches grew. Embracing the decorative styles, oak porches became synonymous with quality and elegance. By the Edwardian era (1901-1914) porches were becoming more common and used to enhance curb appeal while providing a sheltered space at the entrance.

Modern Innovations in Oak Porch Design

Fast forward to today, and you don't need a stately or old home to enjoy the warm welcome of an oak porch. What's more, we’ve got nifty advancements to make sure we can offer a blend of vintage charm and cutting-edge technology. Here’s how:

• Sustainable Oak Sourcing:

  These days, sustainability is a big deal and it’s important to us too! Unlike those grandiose manor houses back in the day, we source materials for our modern oak porches from sustainable sources. You’re doing your bit for the environment while upgrading your home. Want to know more? Then read this article here.

• Advanced Joinery Techniques:

  Despite being handcrafted, we still use modern tools to make our porches. Alongside a wealth of skill and experience, that's taken traditional craftsmanship to the next level. Think of precise cuts and smooth beams. This means your oak porch is both pleasing to the eye and built to last.

• Integration with Smart Home Features:

  Beyond what we do, porches can be enhanced to bring them into the next-gen. How about some smart lighting or a built-in security system? You can kit your oak porch with the latest tech for added functionality.

Designing a Contemporary Oak Porch

Albeit a traditional concept, porches can look modern. So what can you do at the design stage to make your oak porch contemporary? Here are a few key elements:

• Minimalist Design:

  We can make a porch as elaborate as you want, but simpler designs are more contemporary. Think sleek lines, thinner beams and minimal features.

• Straight Lines:

  We offer four types of truss to incorporate into an oak porch. Queen, King and Shaped King offer traditional aesthetics. But opt for truss struts to keep with the straight sleek line modern look.

• Customisation Options:

  One of the many beauties of working with Oak Timber Structures is the bespoke nature of our kits. Want integrated lighting? Balustrades railings? A unique roof design? Want your porch to accommodate glass panels? You got it!

• Brickwork:

  Certain styles of porch sit on a wall. It’s simple, but using new brickwork will add a modern twist to the porch. Likewise, a smooth render finish can marry with the house for a contemporary aesthetic. Regardless of the size of the wall, we'll cater the porch to suit.

• Colour and Finish:

  We pride ourselves on the quality of our oak. Furthermore, you can leave our oak porches without any treatment. However, with beams planed as they leave our site, you have the opportunity to treat and finish the porch with ease.

Customization Options with Oak Timber Structures

At Oak Timber Structures, we know one size doesn't fit all, so we make every porch bespoke and tailored to your specific needs. Here’s what you can expect:

• Personalised Design:

  Using the Online Designer, you can create your very own unique design. As you change the design you'll see a 3D image of your bespoke porch. Or, get in touch and we can help. Tell us your vision and your house’s architecture, then we can work with you to create a contemporary porch to your style preferences.

• Detailed Kits:

  Once your design is ready, we'll send you a CAD drawing for approval. At this point, if there are any tweaks let us know and we'll send a revised design. We won't start creating your porch until approved.

• Benefits of Choosing an Oak Porch Kit:

  With your contemporary porch design approved, we'll get to work. Why go for a porch kit, anyway? Here are a few reasons:
  
  
  • Simplicity: We'll include everything you need. With parts pre-cut and joinery complete (excluding ironmongery for doors), the porch is ready to assemble. It’s a major time-saver!
  • Quality: You get the best materials and craftsmanship without the hassle of sourcing and cutting everything yourself.
  • Cost-Effective: Kits are often more affordable than custom-built structures from scratch thanks to the big savings from labour cost, giving you a high-quality porch without breaking the bank.

• Ease of Assembly:

  Our kit porches arrive flat-packed. The kits come with pre-drilled holes and precision cuts, making assembly a breeze for you or your builder.

Conclusion

So, porches have a rich historical background, but that doesn’t limit the design. Combining the timeless beauty of oak with fresh design elements, modern oak porches offer the best of both worlds. And we can bring your contemporary vision to life.

Are you eager to create your modern oak porch? Then, head to the Oak Timber Structures Porch page and use the online designer tool. Or, call us on 01889 597283 and chat with our friendly team to discuss your vision. We'll work with you to transform your home’s entrance with the sophistication of a modern-looking porch.