A 200 year old heavy French oak house frame, Currently locat...

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A 200 year old heavy French oak house frame, Currently located in Neaufles-Auvergny, Normandy, France, 10%+VAT buyers premium applies to this lot, The oak frame (approx. 20m L x 5m W x 10m H) is in a good condition for its age and contains some much earlier timbers (two ‘A’ Frames possibly 16th century) together with some elaborately carved masonry footstones (believed to be 15th century and from a former chateau). The frame was professionally dismantled in 2023 and is currently stored in Normandy (North West France) ready for shipping to UK.
Principal timbers have been tagged with a unique number corresponding to a full architectural plan and this together with a file containing over a hundred photographs (taken during the dismantling process) will be available to the buyer to aid reconstruction (architectural plans can be provided on request). Additionally, around 60% of the original construction materials that were recovered during dismantling (daub, dressed stone and knapped flint) are to be included in the sale.
Originally constructed in 1816 as two farm labourer’s cottages this frame provides a floor plan of around 90 square metres so would be suitable for a small a one and half storey four bedroomed house, a large cottage or a workshop / garage with living accommodation above.
Vernacular Norman Architecture is very similar to that of South Eastern counties of England. This should appeal to planning officers looking for proportions and a style of construction which will blend into a rural setting. Alternatively, the structure may appeal to someone erecting an ancillary building or indeed someone wishing to re-use an original oak structure within in a more contemporary setting. It might also appeal to someone just looking to secure a large stock of authentic structural oak timbers for a range of domestic / commercial restoration projects.
The structure was in good original condition when it was dismantled with the majority of joints still capable of reconstruction without further restoration. However, it’s inevitable that some repair / replacement of joints may be required prior to re-assembly. Potential buyers are therefore strongly advised to view the frame prior to submitting a bid. On site viewing is strictly by arrangement with the vendor (details available from the Wellers Auctions team).
The structure will need to be removed from its present location (Rugles , 27250, Normandy, France) by Low loader or similar vehicle within 3 weeks of the auction. Help with loading may be possible by prior arrangement. Buyers are highly encouraged to familiarise themselves with current taxes, charges and regulations regarding the transportation and importation of items from the EU to the UK. Wellers Auctions are not responsible for making the buyers aware of these particulars in relation to this lot. Assistance with loading may be available onsite with prior notice, however is not guaranteed. Therefore, the successful buyer is responsible for providing suitable transport, labour and lifting equipment for collection. Buyers have 14 working days after the auction to collect their items, unless agreed otherwise with the vendor. For any further questions or to arrange a viewing, please contact Eric on 07966 437 101.