OBee CIC

We are delighted to be one of the finalist in this Innovation Award.
Since starting our social enterprise fifteen years ago we've worked with over 4,000 trainees/volunteers - teaching them how to convert trees into timber frames and shingle roofs, and earth into cob, clay lump, daub and earth mortar. We've been learning from heritage building practices how to source and build with materials less than 10 miles from site using traditional methods, hand tools and a shared focus that builds community, stamina, strength, skills and our community buildings! Fingers crossed for OBee at the award ceremony! # # We'll keep you posted

An example of the work we are currently engaged in ....

All of the work that has gone into this complicated carpentry and NOW it is being assembled. This photo shows the curved tie beam (hand converted by so, so many people including Construction students from West Suffolk College) being lowered onto the top of the jowl post. The jowl post supports the wall plate. The curved brace connects jowl to tie. Thank-you William. What a feat of 3D planning, marking out, cutting and making it all fit!

If you're new to all this and would like to attend a one day introductory course our next day is Saturday 9th April.

If you have some carpentry/framing skills but want more experience, then we have a 3-day Taking Timber Framing Further course 17-19th May. Both courses are led by William Clement-Smith and supported by the Orchard Barn team. IHBC CPD certificates are available following attendance.

OBee goes from strength to strength ....

You Tube video illustrates how OBee CIC meets its social, environmental and heritage objectives

Orchard Barn - Our Objectives Orchard Barn is run by OBee Community Interest Company. Established in 2007 with nine Environmental Education Objectives. This video shows you what our goals...

We were delighted to be asked to write this article by the CIC Regulator about the and work that OBee CIC is achieving.

Community Interest Companies Find out news and updates about community interest companies

The beginning of our second decade and the start of our next project ..... the reinstatement of this Suffolk Longhouse