Simon Bowler | Wooden Sheds

Yorkshire Bespoke Wooden Sheds

Modern wooden sheds need not be the uninspired off the shelf item people often think of. Based in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, we produce carefully considered designs using appropriate high quality materials to produce unique garden storage areas. Whether your shed is a place to store the gardening equipment or a place to spend time enjoying hobbies, why not make it a fabulous looking piece of garden architecture. Be it slick and contemporary or traditional and cosy, even a little theatrical, we give all our wooden sheds the care and attention to detail they deserve.

For pitched roofs we are happy to use a wide range of roofing materials to complement the existing garden and architectural surroundings.  This could be number 1 grade western red cedar shingles, slate, clay tiles, rosemary tiles. The options are endless.  To achieve a decorative internal finish between the exposed roof rafters, we can clad our roofs with tongue and groove boards to match the timber used throughout the main structure. Whilst adding structural integrity to the roof, the boards also hide the hi-tech breathable waterproof membrane from sight. 

For flat roofs the finish can be either GRP, roofing grade rubber or living sedum turf. The options are endless.

As well as our unique designs it is this attention to detail that separate our bespoke structures from mass produced kits and other less considered alternatives.

For more info on our services visit our website

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Simon Bowler | Cedar Roofing and Cladding

Cedar Roofing and Cladding throughout Yorkshire.

For a truly unique and bespoke roofing or cladding solution throughout Yorkshire, you must consider Cedar. We regularly use cedar shingles as a roofing finish. We are extremely specific when it comes to choosing our quality of shingles as there are many grades available. Quite simply, we only use the highest grade, namely Certigrade No.1Grade (Blue Label) Western Red Cedar. These are 100% Edge Grain, 100% Heartwood and 100% Clear (no knots). By using only this grade of shingles it allows us to minimise waste and, when roof pitch allows, fit the shingles at their maximum exposure. Cedar shingles fade to a natural sun bleached grey colour within 12 months, after which their colour remains stable. We only use stainless steel fixings. This is critical as the use of ferrous fixings damages and stains the cedar, reducing its waterproof qualities. As an extra measure, we use a high quality breathable roofing membrane prior to fitting the shingles.

Not only is cedar good for roofs in the form of shingles, cedar is perfect for cladding walls of any description.  Western red cedar is regularly used to clad the walls of our summerhouses, garden offices and garages. As with the shingles, its colour changes over time to a weathered grey. We also use western red cedar for our slatted screen fences. Cedar cladding is also perfect for covering unsightly walls, turning them into a beautiful garden feature.

If you would like to discus Cedar Roofs, please call or use our Contact Us

http://simon-bowler.co.uk/

Simon Bowler | Yorkshire Wooden Hot Tub Surrouds

Yorkshire Wooden Hot Tub Surrounds

Wooden hot tub surrounds are the key to maximise the use of hot tubs in the British climate. We provide bespoke solutions designed and installed in and around Yorkshire, for exactly that purpose. Ranging from open air pergolas providing some shelter from the elements to covered gazebo style structures. These types of buildings increase the visual and practical aspects of your hot tub. Be it pressure treated softwood, green oak or any other hard wood, a wooden hot tub surround is sure to entice you outside  into the water and get maximum pleasure from your hot tub. 

For gazebos, we are happy to use a wide range of roofing materials to complement the existing garden and architectural surroundings.  This could be number 1 grade western red cedar shingles, slate, clay tiles, rosemary tiles. The options are endless.  To achieve a decorative internal finish between the exposed roof rafters, we can clad our roofs with tongue and groove boards to match the timber used throughout the main structure. Whilst adding structural integrity to the roof, the boards also hide the hi-tech breathable waterproof membrane from sight. As well as our unique designs it is this attention to detail that separate our bespoke structures from mass produced kits and other less considered alternatives.

We regularly design additional features into our hot tub surround schemes such as wooden decking, fitted seating, drinks bars, lighting and outdoor entertainment systems. To achieve an appropriate level of privacy, carefully placed screening can also be added.

Whether your hot tub is an existing feature that needs turning into a complete all year round functional area or you would like us to handle the procurement and installation of a new unit within a bespoke scheme, we can help

Simon Bowler | Yorkshire Summer Houses

Yorkshire Summer Houses

Based in Harrogate, Yorkshire, we design and create bespoke summer houses or garden rooms for just about any sized garden. Our designs are a worlds apart from the well-known glorified garden shed! Dependant on their intended use, the aesthetics and quality of finish on the interior can be as important as the exterior. 

If your summer house is more of a focal point from the house, we can leave the structural grade stud work on the inside exposed. If your summer house is a place to spend time with friends and family for entertaining, we can include features such as a log burner, lighting and fitted furniture. Perhaps your summer house will be used for work as a home office. We can fully insulate and plaster, illuminate and electrify your new space to the specification of your choice. Our summerhouses can be as traditional or contemporary in style as you wish from the outside and as simple or as comprehensive as you require from the inside.

Our summerhouses can be constructed from several different types of timber including green oak and pressure treated softwood. We can clad the exterior in western red cedar boards or shingles, log lap style tongue and groove or chunky 6” x 1” weather board style cladding.

We are happy to use a wide range of roofing materials to complement the existing garden and architectural surroundings.  This could be number 1 grade western red cedar shingles, slate, clay tiles, rosemary tiles. The options are endless.  To achieve a decorative internal finish between the exposed roof rafters, we can clad our roofs with tongue and groove boards to match the timber used throughout the main structure. Whilst adding structural integrity to the roof, the boards also hide the hi-tech breathable waterproof membrane from sight. As well as our unique designs it is this attention to detail that separate our bespoke structures from mass produced kits and other less considered alternatives.

Simon Bowler | Yorkshire Wooden Decking

Yorkshire Wooden Decking

For certain we are Yorkshire’s premier wooden decking design and construction company, offering traditional or bespoke schemes. Principally wooden decking falls into 3 categories, detailed below.

Softwood Decking

Quality softwood decking is a cost effective way of creating real useable spaces within any garden scheme. Wooden decking lends itself to uses where more traditional, stone based surfaces are either not desired or not possible for example raised platforms and balconies or alongside water features to give a floating feel. Wooden decking is perfect for creating that 'inside outside' feeling when installed next to your property alongside patio or bi-folding doors. Similarly it can be used in any area of the garden to provide a useable focal point. All our softwood decking is kiln dried prior to visiting the treatment tank, where it receives its pressure treatment for external use. The supporting timber framework is always structurally graded timber (c16 or better) which is also pressure treated for external use. We only use screws as a fixing method for our decking. Nails = Squeaks!

Hardwood Decking

Hardwood decking is used in all the same applications as softwood. It offers a more decorative, high end finish and feel. Hardwood decking is available in a wide range of timber species. We regularly work with Ipe, Iroko and Yellow Balau, all of which are renowned for their striking appearance.  We are also happy to work with any other species of timber our clients require, including oak. All our hardwood decks are carefully installed with either visible stainless steel fixings or hidden fixings. As with our softwood decking, the pressure treated supporting timber frame is formed using only structurally graded timber. Our clients who want a dark and rich finish to their deck are likely to choose one of the hardwood options.

Composite Decking

Composite decking is the ultimate answer to extremely low maintenance outdoor spaces. It is a mixture of natural wood fibres, re-cycled plastic and binding agents and is available in a wide range of finishes and colours, it can either imitate natural wood or have a totally artificial look and finish. Composite decking comes from the manufacturer as the finished article. There is no oiling or staining required. It has built in anti-slip properties ideal for shady and damp areas. Composite decking is used in all the same areas as both softwood and hardwood. As with our other decking and structures, the timber supporting frame is formed using only pressure treated, structurally graded timber

To view some of our previous work please view our Case Studies 

To arrange a Free Estimate please call or use our Contact Us page

Simon Bowler | Wood Fencing

Yorkshire Bespoke Fencing

Our bespoke wooden fencing designs are not available off the shelf or in your local DIY centre. You may have seen some our works at the Yorkshire or Harrogate Flower Shows. 

Fence styles have changed dramatically in recent years. What was once a dowdy nondescript perimeter to a garden or space now has the opportunity to be a stylish and artistic wooden fence. We often use western red cedar for our slatted screens. We choose this specifically for its intrinsic resistance to the elements. Alternatives include Iroko hard wood  or pressure treated softwood. We can even make a feature of the posts by using green oak sleepers.

Sometimes a wooden fence just needs to be functional. In this instance we lean towards two types of fence. Feather edge fencing provides a solid finish, leaving the rails exposed on the reverse side. Hit and miss fencing provides a partially see through finish, allowing the wind to pass through. Ideal for extremely exposed applications. Critically, both styles are 'loose board' i.e. no panels. This affords us the luxury of positioning our heavy duty support posts where we choose, allowing us to stay clear of services and other underground obstacles. Typically we position our posts a 1.8m (6') intervals or less. Once the posts are fixed with rapid set concrete, three rails are attached and the boards nailed on. With these systems there are no panels, more importantly there are no half panels and awkward 

cuts at the start or finish of the run. There are no steps, we are able to follow the lie of the land, smoothing out any lumps and bumps along the way. 

For more info on our services visit our website

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Simon Bowler | Landscape Sleeper

Landscape Sleeper Projects in Yorkshire

Increasingly popular, particularly in Yorkshire, are Landscape Sleeper Projects. Sleepers come in many different guises. When using reclaimed sleepers for raised beds for flowers or vegetables we only use the best grade, untreated hardwood sleepers. Poorer grade sleepers are invariably softwood and treated with copious amounts of creosote. The creosote is damaging to adjacent plants and can contaminate the ground. Its odour remains almost permanently and chemical leakage can occur particularly in hot weather. Reclaimed railway sleepers offer a traditional cottage style finish and provide none of the drawbacks presented by creosoted softwood alternatives. We like to see the holes from the train track pins. We like the fact they are not perfectly sawn and have evidence of many years of wear. We like the fact they have a story to tell.

Often our landscape sleeper projects require a more contemporary feel and finish. For this purpose we use freshly sawn solid green oak sleepers. More specifically we use French oak for our projects. The growing conditions in France produce a more stable product over oak grown in other regions of the continent. Because they are newly sawn, over time splits and cracks will appear adding character to the scheme, whilst not detracting from the style of the project. The shapes and designs we can create with any type of sleeper are limited only by imagination. Straight lines and linear designs are created using sleepers laid flat, whilst curves and more dramatic schemes are created using sleepers installed upright, ‘soldier style’. 

Recent projects have seen us use oak sleepers in school playground areas, seating, outdoor teaching and education areas. 

Either reclaimed hardwood or French Oak sleepers are ideal for structural retaining walls, either functional or decorative or both. Striking architectural designs can be incorporated into simple or intricate landscaping projects whilst catering for traditional and contemporary tastes. Small raised flower beds to extensive landscaping projects are achievable.

For more info on our services visit our website

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