We specialise in the time-honoured art of hand-cut and drawbored joints – a method that delivers both strength and beauty, rooted in generations of craftsmanship.
Each joint is cut and fitted by hand, ensuring it is perfectly tailored to the individual piece of timber. This allows for a level of precision that machines can’t achieve, resulting in a tight, secure fit that enhances both the integrity and longevity of the frame.
We use the traditional drawboring method – a wooden dowel is driven through offset holes, pulling the joint tightly together. This creates a strong, lasting bond without glue or metal, built to endure for generations.
Mel and Craig Ketley were embarking on a self-build oak-framed home project and needed a specialist who could deliver with precision, care, and craftsmanship. They also had future plans for additional oak structures and wanted someone they could trust to return for further work.
A stunning oak home and outdoor spaces, with clients who return to us time and again.
“Dan was excellent from start to finish, his workmanship and attention to detail is brilliant… a pleasure to deal with and produced an amazing product.”
“Dan was excellent from start to finish, his workmanship and attention to detail is brilliant… a pleasure to deal with and produced an amazing product.”
With over 25 years of experience, Daniel Kursa Oak blends the best of traditional craftsmanship with modern precision. Every frame is handcrafted using time-honoured techniques - hand-cut joints, tapered oak dowels and meticulous detailing - while also incorporating modern tools to ensure absolute accuracy.
Fully Insured - £10M
Public Liability Insurance
25+ years crafting oak-framed structures
All pergolas designed and built in-house
End-to-end support from design to installation
Fully bespoke - we work with your space and vision
It depends on the size, location, and use of the structure. Smaller features like porches may fall under permitted development, while larger outbuildings or extensions typically require planning permission. We’re happy to guide you through the process or liaise with your architect.
Lead times vary depending on the complexity of the frame, but most projects follow a timeline of several weeks for design and build. Installation is typically completed in a few days, especially when everything has been prepared in our Surrey workshop.
We specialise in handcrafted oak frames, but we also manage groundworks, brickwork, tiling, and can coordinate with trusted local trades to deliver the full package — from foundations to finishing.
Every oak frame needs properly designed foundations to support its point loads. We work closely with structural engineers to ensure the foundations are tailored to your project — whether it’s a porch, garage, or a full oak extension.
Absolutely. Oak framing is incredibly versatile — we design and build everything from porches and pergolas to full garden rooms, orangeries, and open-plan extensions. All bespoke, all handcrafted.
Not at all. Oak frames work seamlessly with modern insulation systems such as SIPs (Structural Insulated Panels), allowing for high energy performance while keeping the timeless aesthetic of exposed beams.
Green oak is freshly sawn oak that still contains its natural moisture. It’s strong, workable, and perfect for traditional timber framing methods like mortise and tenon joints. We use green oak because it allows for beautiful, honest craftsmanship — and it ages gracefully.
Yes, and that’s part of the charm. Green oak naturally shrinks, splits, and moves slightly as it seasons. This movement is expected and carefully accounted for in the design and construction — it adds character without compromising strength.
No treatment is required for structural green oak — it’s incredibly durable and naturally resistant to decay and insect attack. We typically leave it untreated to allow it to weather naturally to a beautiful silver-grey over time. However, if you’d prefer to preserve its original colour or enhance the grain, we can advise on suitable oils or finishes.
It can take several years for oak to fully season, depending on its size and the environment. However, it begins to harden and settle shortly after installation, and the drying process is all part of how an oak frame matures.
Yes — and we encourage it. Our Surrey workshop is open by appointment, and many clients enjoy seeing the craftsmanship in action. It’s a great way to connect with your project and appreciate the detail that goes into every joint.
We’d love to hear about your project. Whether you have detailed plans or just an idea, we’ll help bring it to life — with no pressure, no obligation, and no hard sell.
