The Shire Carpentry is dedicated to providing the highest quality of standards and the best possible service within the timber framing industry. As well as bespoke Oak frames, we provide a complete design and construction service for high insulated energy efficient timber frames.
With our roots originating in Germany, where modern carbon-neutral timber framed homes are long established, we are convinced that our expertise, experience and services are unique, especially amidst the timberframing industry in the UK where this is still a novelty. Our designs are based on German quality standards, by far exceeding requirements of British building regulations.
The founder of The Shire Carpentry, Toni Jakopovic, having been born and brought up in Germany, has always been fascinated by traditional timberframed houses, which are apparent throughout the old villages in Germany. Whilst travelling through Europe and North America and having observed various styles of timber framing, he decided to embark on a traditional carpentry apprenticeship back at home. With high standards of education requiring a three-year apprenticeship including intensive training, he was fortunate enough to complete his apprenticeship with the Fuhrberger Zimmerei – the most reputable timberframing carpentry throughout Germany (www.fuhrberger.de).
Following some years working in different countries, on various projects, and with different carpentries, Toni decided to study further at the Federal Master School for carpenters in Kassel and become a Master Carpenter according to the German skilled trades act. (www.bundesfachschule-zimmerhandwerk.de). The title of a Master Carpenter and the in-depth training are required in Germany to be permitted to train apprentices, to found a business/company, enable you to design and plan buildings for up to a two-family sized home and apply for planning permission.
Additionally, due to our concern for climate change and respect for nature, we are also dedicated to using only timber from sustainable forest management as well as insulating materials which are ecologically friendly, like hemp and cellulose fiber .We are also affiliated with Roto (www.roto-frank.de) – one of the leading manufacturers in high end roof lights, solar thermal and photovoltaic roof panels.
A tradition passed on from the middle ages still continues to this day. As can be seen, upon successfully completing the carpentry apprenticeship, the carpenter is traditionally nailed through the ear to the workshop door or to a piece of timber by his Master who taught him during the last 3-years. The carpenter receives an earring from him which should traditionally be worn by every German carpenter.
Young craftsmen who have successfully completed their apprenticeship, and thus become Geselle, may choose to make the commitment to join the Wandergesellen (journeymen) and spend the following three or more years on the road learning from diverse masters in various regions and countries across the world and gaining wide-ranging experiences. Unfortunately, if the young craftsman fails to return home, the earring would pay for his funeral!