Our story
A family firm, four decades in the making
Specialist heritage building in East Dorset — grown quietly through word of mouth since 1978.
A brief history
Colin Clark Builders
Coming from a local family with a history of traditional building, Colin has been undertaking specialist building repairs, restorations, renovations and extensions for over forty years.
Since setting up business as a sole trader in 1978, Colin’s business has grown through word of mouth in the local area, and was incorporated as Colin Clark Builders Ltd in 2002. Colin now uses his skills and the knowledge he has acquired over the years to provide advice — and also to train younger apprentice workers in the traditional approach to building.
Where possible, we will always aim to source local and/or natural materials, in order to provide our services with the minimal impact on the environment.
Close to home, we carry out ongoing maintenance and refurbishment at Edmondsham House and across the Edmondsham Estate — the kind of long-term relationship that only comes from looking after historic buildings carefully, year after year.
Our approach
What we specialise in
A traditional approach, applied across the full breadth of an old building’s needs.
Cob & earth
Cob and earth wall construction and repair, using methods matched to each wall.
Lime
Lime mortars, renders, plasters and lime washes — breathable, traditional finishes.
Timber framing
Traditional oak and chestnut framing, pegged and jointed by hand.
Restoration
Restoration and renovation of older and listed properties, done sympathetically.
Extensions
Sympathetic new buildings and extensions in keeping with the original.
Natural materials
The use of natural and eco materials wherever it is practical to do so.
Stone masonry
Architectural stone masonry and fine detailing in stone, flint and brick.
Renewables
Integrated renewable energy for heating and micro-generation.
The people
Craftsmen who lead the work
Our trades are headed up by experienced local craftsmen who take personal pride in every project.
Colin Clark
Over forty years of specialist building experience, and the conservation knowledge behind a published New Forest guide to cob buildings.
Andy Shervington
Heads up our carpentry team, with deep experience in traditional oak and chestnut timber-frame construction.
Dan Timmins
Heads our own joinery workshop in Edmondsham, where all our bespoke joinery and carpentry is made.
F J Clark
Keeps the office running and is your first point of contact for enquiries and scheduling.
We work in a way that lets old buildings breathe as they were meant to.Colin Clark
Work with us