Who are Kohtalo Construction?

Kohtalo Construction is a North Devon-based building company offering design, build, and project management services. We handle everything from home extensions and renovations to modular cabins and commercial fit-outs.

Do you cover building projects in Barnstaple and Braunton?

Yes, we’re based in Braunton and regularly work in Barnstaple, Ilfracombe, Bideford and across North Devon. We also take on specialist builds further afield in the UK.

What building services do you offer in North Devon?

Our team provides general building, conversions, extensions, renovations, modular timber cabins, and turnkey design-and-build solutions. We handle every stage – from design to completion.

Are you a local builder near me in North Devon?

If you’re searching for reliable builders near you in North Devon, Kohtalo Construction can help. Our workshop is in Braunton, and we serve Barnstaple, Ilfracombe, Bideford, and surrounding areas.

Do you design and build modular cabins or tiny homes?

Yes – we specialise in prefabricated timber cabins and tiny homes that are customisable, eco-friendly and compliant with building regulations or caravan licensing requirements.

How much does it cost to hire a builder in North Devon?

Costs vary depending on the size and complexity of your project. We can provide an initial estimation after discussing your ideas and requirements.

Can Kohtalo Construction manage the whole building project?

Absolutely – we offer a full project management service, from initial concept and design through to the final handover, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience.

Do you offer estimations for extensions or renovations?

Yes – we can provide clear cost estimations for home extensions, renovations, conversions, and new builds throughout North Devon.

Caddecleave House

Kentisbury, North Devon

Exterior of zinc and cedar-clad timber frame home in North Devon countryside

Project overview

Completed Spring 2020

Set in the quiet hamlet of Kentisbury, North Devon, Caddecleave House is a 270m² timber-framed new build, designed and constructed entirely by us. From groundworks and structural design to the final finishes and landscaping, this was a deeply personal project, and one that ultimately inspired the launch of Kohtalo Construction.

We acted as both client and contractor on this build, collaborating with a structural engineer and architectural technician to ensure the design was efficient, compliant, and future-proof, without compromising on aesthetics or craftsmanship.

The house sits on a one-acre plot and was carefully designed to sit softly within its rural setting. We clad the exterior in zinc and natural cedar, which silvers over time and helps soften the modern angular form. The result is a contemporary home that feels connected to its landscape.

Double-height living space with oak-clad ceiling and microcement floor

Panelled walls in master bedroom with four-poster bed, painted in Jitney by Farrow & Ball

Modern open-plan kitchen with warm natural textures

Key Features

Timber frame construction with super-insulated walls for energy efficiency
Grand double-height ceilings in the main living areas and master bedroom
A split level floor and double-sided fireplace dividing the open-plan living space into zones
Custom oak-clad ceiling and wall to add warmth and texture
Seamless microcement flooring with full underfloor heating throughout
Glide-and-slide retractable doors opening the living area and master bedroom onto the patio and garden
Custom welded steel staircase and balustrades with hand-finished oak treds
Custom oak window seats and surrounded in bedrooms
Paved bridge from driveway to the front door on the first-floor
High end paint finishes across all room

The internal layout includes four bedrooms, three bathrooms, an open yet zoned kitchen/living/dining space, a separate utility room, and outbuildings – all arranged to maximise light, flow and connection to the outdoors. We also completed the hard landscaping, retaining walls, and garden design to fully integrate the house with its surroundings.

Project Notes & Final Thoughts

The build spanned two years and was completed in 2020 - during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Like many projects at the time, we faced supply chain delays and material price increases, but we were able to adapt with on-the-go design changes and flexible planning. The result is a home that not only met but exceeded our original vision.

As both builder and end user, this project was incredibly rewarding. It taught us so much, and more importantly showed us how much we love the overall build process. Caddecleave House was the spark that led to Kohtalo Construction’s creation, and it remains a project we’re deeply proud of.