Case Study: Seamless collaboration delivers challenging extension in Petworth, West Sussex

Published On: 4 March 2025

Merronbrook has had the pleasure of working with AWA Builders Ltd for multiple years, collaborating on various successful projects.

Domestic extension project in Petworth, West Sussex

The most recent project involved extending an existing build, presenting some design challenges as the extension needed to seamlessly integrate with the property at multiple levels. Time was also a crucial factor, with everything needing to be on-site within the first week due to the project’s quick turnaround, aiming for completion before Christmas.

Adam Alderson at AWA Builders Ltd shared his experience:

“AWA Builders Ltd worked alongside Merronbrook’s team of designers and fitters on our most recent three projects and all have been a success.

We are very happy with all three builds from design through to the build. We have had some tricky designs, and through great communication and teamwork, we have been able to achieve three brilliant new homes.

Thanks again to all the Merronbrook team, see you on the next project.”

Merronbrook products supplied:

Merronbrook’s open panel system uses a 140mm CLS stud, insulated with rigid insulation board, clad externally with 9mm OSB ply, and a reflector shield breather paper. Combined with easi-joist® and trussed rafters, this creates a complete timber frame kit solution offered on a supply and installation basis.

How good design and collaboration can overcome a challenging site:

Richard Linge, Timber Frame Designer and Estimator, Merronbrook, worked closely with Adam Alderson at AWA, initially reviewing architect drawings, which were found to be inaccurate.

“The architect’s drawings were not accurate, so I undertook two site visits to gain a true understanding of the site. Being on-site allowed me to explain to the client how the existing design did not reflect the site and build that relationship,” Richard explained.

The design presented certain challenges, as the extension needed to connect with the property at various floor levels. This complexity required precision and expertise. Richard completed a revised set of drawings and issued them to AWA for client approval, preventing potential issues on-site and demonstrating the value of Merronbrook’s design services.

Sean Burgess, who oversees on-site Quality Assurance for Merronbrook, provided a post-completion handover, ensuring that everything was installed correctly according to engineering requirements – a seal of approval guaranteed on every single Merronbrook project.

“I was proud to see the whole project completed seamlessly and accurately. From site visits to design services, manufacturing, deliveries, and quality assurance checks – we worked with AWA to complete this tricky build with no problems.” Richard concluded.

Why choose timber frame?

AWA Builders Ltd has worked with Merronbrook for a long time and understands the advantages of timber frame solutions:

  • Speed: Timber frame allows for faster construction, even in challenging weather conditions, making it a preferred choice for pre-Christmas builds.
  • Weather resilience: Unlike traditional brickwork, which cannot be laid below 3 degrees, timber frame construction remains feasible in colder temperatures.
  • Efficiency: From the initial request for drawings to construction on-site, Merronbrook’s timber frame solutions typically require as little as 10 weeks from design to build.

Get in touch:

Merronbrook supports projects across Southeast England, supplying trussed rafters, open metal web joists, and complete timber frame systems.

If you’re planning your next build, get in touch today to see how we can help. Please call 01252 844747 or email: webenquiries@merronbrook.co.uk.