A New, Energy-Efficient Extension; Proudly Provided by Timber Frame Ireland
When we were invited to become the new timber frame supplier for DIY SOS: The Big Build Ireland, we knew it would be an opportunity unlike any other.
From the moment we learned Hannah Leonard’s story, we understood this was about much more than building an extension. It was about helping create a home that would allow Hannah to return to her family following the life-changing injuries she sustained in a tragic road traffic accident while training for the Dublin Marathon in Sicily.
Our team designed, engineered, manufactured and installed the closed panel timber frame extension, helping transform the Leonard family’s home into a modern, accessible and energy-efficient space where Hannah can continue her recovery surrounded by those she loves.
Watching the finished program will undoubtedly be emotional, but being involved in the project itself was something our entire team will never forget.
More Than Just a Timber Frame Extension
The Leonard family’s project perfectly demonstrates how timber frame construction can deliver much more than additional floor space.
The extension wasn’t simply designed to make the home larger – it was carefully planned to create a safe, accessible and future-proof environment tailored to Hannah’s long-term needs.
As specialists in timber frame homes and timber frame extensions, projects like this show the flexibility that modern timber frame construction offers when designing spaces around the people who live in them.
Why DIY SOS Chose Timber Frame
The speed of a DIY SOS build is like no other.
A new home, including a new extension, delivered fully furnished within just 9 days! Some may question how it’s even possible.
With only days to complete an entire transformation, choosing the right structural system is critical.
By designing and manufacturing the closed panel timber frame off-site in our Donegal factory, the complete structure could be delivered to site ready for rapid installation.
Timber Frame – Complete on Day 1
On Day 1 (and with a mid afternoon start!) the extension was fully erected (insulated and airtight), allowing follow-on trades to fit windows and doors, and to commence electrics and plumbing within our factory fitted service cavity.
Modern off-site timber frame construction dramatically reduces program times while maintaining exceptional levels of quality, precision and performance.
The Benefits of Closed Panel Timber Frame
Every timber frame system we manufacture is designed with long-term performance in mind.
Our closed panel timber frame incorporates insulation, structural sheathing and airtightness measures within the wall system before leaving the factory, reducing work on site and improving build quality.
The result is a home that is:
- Highly energy efficient
- Precision engineered
- Airtight and well insulated
- Faster to build
- Manufactured in a controlled factory environment
- Designed for long-term performance
For projects where time matters, such as DIY SOS, the advantages of off-site construction become even more apparent.
Future-Proofing the Leonard Family Home
One of the most rewarding aspects of the project was knowing that the extension would support Hannah not just today, but for many years into the future.
Future-proofing a home means creating spaces that remain practical, comfortable and efficient as a family’s needs evolve.
That philosophy sits at the heart of every Timber Frame Ireland project.
Whether we’re building a bespoke self-build home or a timber frame extension; our focus is always on creating buildings designed to last.
An Incredible Community Effort
While we’re proud of our contribution, what stood out most throughout the build was the atmosphere on site.
Hundreds of volunteers, tradespeople and suppliers came together with one shared purpose – to help one family.
There was an incredible sense of teamwork from start to finish.
It reminded us that construction is about far more than materials and machinery – it’s about people.
Behind the Scenes
Throughout the project, our team documented every stage of the build.
From the first engineering drawings and manufacturing in our factory, to transporting the panels across the country, crane installation, drone footage and final erection – we’ve captured the complete journey.
We’ll be sharing exclusive behind-the-scenes content, interviews with our team, drone footage and insights into the design and manufacture of the project over the coming months – and we can’t wait to show you!
A Project We’ll Never Forget
Being involved in DIY SOS: The Big Build Ireland has been one of the proudest moments in our company’s journey.
Helping create a high-performance timber frame extension that will allow Hannah to return home is something we’ll always carry with us.
We’d like to thank the DIY SOS team for placing their trust in us, and most importantly, we wish Hannah and the Leonard family every happiness in their new home.
We look forward to supporting many more inspiring projects in the future!
