BUILT TO LAST
Libby Faulkner catches up with Steve Dilworth to find out more about his bespoke oak buildings. Photography: Robin Lyndon
Tucked away in a reclaimed Sabden mill lies Ribble Valley Oak, the passion project of lifelong joiner and craftsman Steve Dilworth.
“I think it’s important people know the lifetime value of oak, which is one of the hardest and most durable timbers on the planet,” explains Steve.
“We use the highest quality oak and cedar to build bespoke summer houses, pergolas and garden buildings that will last for generations.”
With three of Steve’s outstanding buildings on display at Shackleton’s garden centre, it’s easy to see where the need lies for a project such as this.
“People often find that if they are working from home it can be stressful and difficult to find a work life balance. The buildings can be insulated and fully solar powered meaning it’s possible to have an outdoor office or studio 365 days of the year.”
Ribble Valley Oak buildings are hand crafted and designed fully to your individual needs, so no matter what your garden size or shape, it’s easy to have something that suits it perfectly. Materials are also completely interchangeable, so doors can be made of plastic or aluminium and slate roofs can be added where desired.
“The beauty of our buildings lies in the fact they are truly individual and how they can be fully made to your personal specification. Summerhouses need not be insulated and can be built with doors around the whole front allowing maximum light from day to evening. We can provide everything from design to project management and erection of the buildings, or we can work from pre-made designs if you have something already in mind.”
Steve has a long-standing career as a joiner spanning over 30 years, having worked on woodwork building projects as far afield as New Zealand. He has worked with oak countless times and its ability to withstand outdoor conditions is second to none.
“The craftsmanship of creating an oak building is very important as it’s key to us that they stand the test of time. Oak is the best material for the job as it is not prone to fungal attack, does not need treating and will not attract wood boring insects. It also looks better with age as the wood turns a silvery colour as it gets older.”
Whether you are looking for a spacious studio or home office, or simply a summerhouse that will last for years to come, Ribble Valley Oak is the best way to guarantee impeccable craftsmanship and project management from start to finish. Whatever your ideas, big or small, contact Steve for a quote or to discuss the best option for your space.
Ribble Valley Oak
Union Mill
Watt Street
Sabden BB7 9ED
07967 676979 Steve
07717 317698 Louise
