http://raptorconstructionltd.co.uk/

Raptor Construction Ltd, Oakleigh Lodge, Newent (2026)

06/06/2026

Material Spotlight: Semi-Charred Larch Cladding

One of the standout design features on our Bulley renovation project is the use of beautiful semi-charred larch timber cladding.

Often referred to as burnt larch or semi-charred timber, this finish is created using a specialist burning process which enhances the natural grain, texture and character within the wood.

Rather than covering the timber, the charring process actually reveals more of its detail and depth, creating a finish that feels both contemporary and organic at the same time.

For this project, the cladding was carefully selected to:

* Add warmth and contrast to the property
* Complement the surrounding rural setting
* Tie together the annex, garage and extension design
* Create a more architectural, premium finish

The timber has also been treated with UV protection oil to help preserve the richness of the colour over time and protect it from weathering.

It’s a perfect example of how material choices can completely elevate a project, adding not just durability and practicality, but also texture, character and identity to the finished build.

We love incorporating natural materials that age beautifully and help create homes with real individuality.

If you'd like to learn more about how we can help extend your property to complement it's surroundings, get in touch.

07870 260001

[email protected]

28/05/2026

Project Spotlight: Multi-Functional Luxury Garden Room

This bespoke garden room was designed to create a fully flexible, self-contained space that could evolve around the client’s lifestyle both now and in the future.

Rather than building a standard outbuilding, the brief was to create a space that could function as a home office, gym, guest annexe, relaxation space or entertainment area, all while maintaining a premium finish and long-term practicality.

Externally, the building was finished in feather-edge cladding, giving it a clean, architectural appearance that contrasts beautifully against the surrounding landscaping. Large bifold doors open the space onto the garden, strengthening the connection between indoors and out during the warmer months.

Inside, the space combines modern finishes with practical design. Decorative trowelled concrete effect walls add texture and depth, while multiple lighting layouts and carefully planned socket positions allow the room to adapt easily depending on how it is used over time.

The building was designed to feel comfortable and fully liveable all year round, with full insulation throughout, a wood burner style electric heater, and self-contained facilities including a kitchen area, sink and toilet.

A major part of the project focused on future flexibility. Bedside lighting and socket layouts were incorporated from the beginning, allowing the room to transition seamlessly between guest accommodation, workspace or leisure space as the client’s needs change.

This project reflects our wider approach to design and construction, combining practicality with premium finishes, flexible layouts and carefully considered detailing throughout.

If you are considering a garden room, annexe or multifunctional outdoor space, feel free to get in touch.

07870 260001
[email protected]

22/05/2026

Project Spotlight: Bespoke Outdoor Kitchen & Barbecue Build

This project formed part of a high end, design led landscaping scheme delivered in collaboration with an award-winning garden designer, Peter Dowle of . We were brought in to take care of the specialist brickwork.

The brief was inspired by American outdoor living spaces, combining multiple elements into one cohesive feature. The finished build includes a wood fired pizza oven, fire pit area, integrated log storage and a section for a wine cooler, creating a central social hub within the garden.

Constructed using handmade bricks sourced locally from Coleford Brick and Tile, the finish has a natural character and variation that you simply do not get with machine made materials. While more challenging to work with, the result is a far richer and more bespoke appearance.

A key feature of the build is the series of traditional brick arches. These were formed using custom made timber supports on site, allowing each arch to be built and cured before the supports were removed, leaving a fully self supporting structure. This method requires precision and experience, but delivers a much more authentic and refined finish.

Working alongside a leading garden designer on a project of this scale allowed us to combine high level design with specialist construction, resulting in a standout outdoor space that reflects the quality and ambition of the wider scheme.

If you are considering a bespoke garden feature or full outdoor transformation, feel free to get in touch.

📞 07870 260001

📧 [email protected]

🌐 raptorconstructionltd.co.uk

15/05/2026

Supporting local clubs and organisations is something that means a lot to me, and I’m proud to be able to sponsor groups and some great causes in our community through Raptor.

Currently, this includes Barnwood Utd AFC, Brickhampton Court, Prestbury Phantoms Girls and Gloucester Rugby.

Also, recently we supported Darren Keith who ran the Paris Marathon in aid of Edie's Charity – an amazing accomplishment raising money for Scleroderma & Raynaud's UK - SRUK.

I believe supporting local teams, community organisations and charities that mean a lot to us is incredibly important. It is a meaningful way of giving something back, supporting young people and helping important causes and local clubs continue to grow.

08/05/2026

Hi I'm Darren, owner of Raptor Construction.

A lot of people only see the finished result, but there’s a huge amount that goes on behind the scenes to keep a project running well.

For me, it’s not just about the building work itself, it’s about clear communication, reliability and making sure clients feel confident at every stage of the job.

Being trusted to work on someone’s home is something I never take lightly, and I’m proud of our reputation across Gloucestershire and Herefordshire.

If you’re thinking about a project this year, now is a great time to start the conversation.

01/05/2026

Happy Bank Holiday Weekend from us at Raptor!

I’m Darren, a qualified builder with over 20 years of experience in the trade. Based in Gloucestershire, I’m proud to offer high-quality workmanship and a reliable, professional service on every project.

From home extensions and new builds to landscaping and full turnkey projects, I help bring ideas to life and create spaces you can be proud of.

If you’re planning a project and would like to have a chat, feel free to get in touch:

📞 07870 260001
📧[email protected]
🌐raptorconstructionltd.co.uk

24/04/2026

One of our favourite parts of this schoolhouse renovation is the character in the original stonework. It has a naturally aged beauty, full of variation, texture and history, and that is something we were keen to celebrate rather than compete with.

Because of that, we made a conscious decision not to try and replicate the existing stone with new materials. It is very difficult to match that kind of weathered character successfully. Instead, we introduced linear bricks as a contrasting feature that complements the original structure while clearly defining the new elements of the build. This creates a more honest transition between old and new, while still maintaining a cohesive overall look.

Linear bricks are longer and slimmer than standard bricks, which gives them a more refined and contemporary feel. Their proportions emphasise horizontal lines and work particularly well alongside modern features such as large glazed sections, helping the new spaces feel lighter, cleaner and more considered.

To help the client make the right choice, we created a full sample panel on site. This included a range of mortar colours, cement types and pointing styles, allowing them to see first hand how each variation would affect the final finish. Small changes in mortar can completely change the overall look, from lighter and softer tones through to darker, more defined contrasts.

The final selection was a recessed pointing style with a darker mortar, which highlights the linear format and gives a sharper, more contemporary finish while still sitting comfortably alongside the original building.

These bricks are being used as a feature element on the garden room, working alongside large glass panels to bring in plenty of natural light and create a strong connection between inside and out.

This is a good example of how careful material choices can respect the character of an existing building while still introducing a clean, modern edge.

If you are planning a renovation and want to strike the right balance between old and new, feel free to get in touch.

18/04/2026

This project in Tewkesbury transformed a home that once felt closed off and compartmentalised into a bright, spacious open plan living area, bringing the kitchen, dining and living spaces together into one cohesive environment.

The original layout was made up of several smaller rooms with no real communal hub. The brief was to create a modern, multifunctional space better suited to how people live today, following the shift towards open plan living over the past 15 years.

The design evolved during the project. What started as a simple flat roof was upgraded to a parapet flat roof with a large central glass lantern. This became a key feature of the build, flooding the space with natural light and drawing it deeper into the existing house. It achieves the brightness of a conservatory but with proper insulation, making the space comfortable all year round.

Large bi fold doors open out onto the garden, strengthening the connection between inside and out and making the most of the generous outdoor space.

Delivered as a full turnkey project, we managed everything from structural work through to the finishing details, including a feature wall behind the fire. Specialist elements such as the fire installation were completed by certified subcontractors.

This project is a great example of how changing the layout can completely transform a home, not just by adding space but by improving how it is used day to day.

If you are considering an extension or reworking your layout, feel free to get in touch.

10/04/2026

Happy Friday!

I’m Darren, a qualified builder with more than 20 years’ experience in the industry. Based in Gloucestershire, I take great pride in delivering quality workmanship and a professional finish on every project.

Whether it’s a home extension, new build, landscaping project or a complete turnkey service, I’m here to help bring your ideas to life and create a home you can be proud of.

If you’re thinking about an upcoming project or would like to talk through some ideas, get in touch:

📞 07870 260001
📧 [email protected]
🌐 raptorconstructionltd.co.uk

30/01/2026

These are my three top things to consider when planning a new extension:

1. Budget (and the hidden costs)

It’s not just the build. Make sure to factor in design fees, planning permission, building control, surveys, utilities, temporary living costs, and a 10–15% contingency for surprises (there are always surprises!)

2. Planning permission & regulations

Check whether your extension needs planning permission or falls under permitted development. Even if planning isn’t required, building regulations still apply, and ignoring them can cause serious problems when selling later.

3. How it affects your daily life & long-term value

Living through building work is noisy, dusty, and disruptive. Also ask: Will this actually add value or just space? Extensions that improve layout, light, and flow usually pay off more than awkward add-ons.

If you have an extension in mind in the Gloucestershire or Herefordshire area, speak to me, I'll be happy to help.

Raptor Construction Ltd

06/06/2026

28/05/2026

22/05/2026

15/05/2026

08/05/2026

01/05/2026

24/04/2026

18/04/2026

10/04/2026

30/01/2026

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