About Us
More about Upfold Construction
Company History
Upfold Construction is proud to be recognised as one of Surrey and Sussex’s premier building contractors. With a reputation built on reliability, craftsmanship, and attention to detail, we deliver high-quality construction projects across the residential and commercial sectors. From design and planning through to structural engineering, construction, and final finishes, our experienced team is committed to providing a seamless service at every stage. Whether it’s a new build, extension, or full property renovation, we work closely with clients to bring their vision to life with professionalism and care.
What we want to achieve
Our Mission
We pride ourselves on providing our customers the very best in quality, service and craftsmanship, taking care of all aspects of your project, great or small. With our knowledge and dedication to our craft, combined with oak framing’s structural strength and timeless beauty, we can help build your dreams and enhance your homes.
We offer a professional, seamless and multi-trade service, for all domestic projects from garaging, extensions, renovation, refurbishment and maintenance to fully finished houses, all tailored to meet our client’s specific requirements.
We have been awarded Chartered Building Company Status, which identifies those businesses at a professional level that are committed to quality of product and service, integrity of conduct, and concern for clients’ needs.
Craftsmanship, Integrity, and Excellence
Our Values
Built on tradition, driven by quality—our commitment to exceptional oak-framed buildings ensures durability, sustainability, and customer satisfaction in every project.
Our Commitment to Craftsmanship
We take pride in delivering expertly crafted oak-framed buildings that blend timeless beauty with modern functionality. Every structure we create is built with precision, using the highest quality oak to ensure lasting durability and character.
Exceeding Customer Expectations
Your vision is at the heart of everything we do. From concept to completion, we work closely with you to ensure every detail is perfected, delivering bespoke oak-framed structures that reflect your needs and aspirations.
Sustainability at Our Core
We are committed to responsible sourcing and sustainable building practices. Our oak is carefully selected from well-managed forests, ensuring our projects enhance the environment while preserving natural resources for future generations.
Heritage Meets Innovation
Combining traditional craftsmanship with modern design techniques, we create oak-framed buildings that honour British heritage while incorporating contemporary features for comfort and efficiency.
Experts in Oak Framed Excellence
Meet The Team
James Upfold
Managing Director of Upfold Construction Limited
James’ career to date spans nearly 40 years, resulting in a broad experience across industry sectors and procurement arrangements from ‘high end’ residential to educational establishments and prominent commercial and public entertainment/leisure venues for ‘blue chip’ clients and leading project management organisations, with a career highlight undertaking a senior management role in the feasibility, design coordination, procurement and successful delivery of the London Eye Project.
James has been a member of The Chartered Institute of Building since 1992 and has also participated in the selection panel for the professional interview and assessment of new candidates for membership.
In 2004, James established Surrey Oak Barns, and the success of this business was due to James’ highly developed professional approach, experience, technical knowledge and attention to detail, ensuring his clients realise their aspirations in quality oak framing. As managing director, James’s hands-on approach saw the successful construction of numerous oak-framed garages, barns, extensions, orangeries, swimming pool complexes, commercial cafés and recreational buildings together with domestic dwellings.
In 2009, James established Upfold Construction as he identified the need for clients for a general building contractor with the same professional approach. Upfold Construction has been successfully constructing new build houses together with extending, refurbishing and restoring residential dwellings. In October 2015, due to expansion, we moved to our current premises in Cranleigh.
After nearly 20 years of successfully managing Surrey Oak Barns Limited, James decided to incorporate oak framing into his general building business. In 2020, Surrey Oak Design and Build was created as a new brand operating under Upfold Construction Limited. Surrey Oak Design and Build provides new and exciting opportunities to potential clients wishing to explore oak-framed building solutions separately or as part of their proposed extensions and refurbishment works.
For the last 5 years, Surrey Oak Design & Build has been specialising in delivering quality oak-framed garages, barns, garden buildings, home offices, games rooms, stables, pergolas, oak-framed extensions, orangeries, annexes, homes and recreational buildings.
Tony Maynard
Project Manager
Tony joined Upfold Construction in 2009. Tony has been a professional builder for over 35 years and has a wealth of knowledge of all aspects of the profession. Tony manages all our projects together with our on-site teams of specialist craftsmen. Tony’s calm and personable approach is appreciated by all our clients, who frequently praise him for his contribution.
Jane Williams
Accounts and Company Administration
Jane joined the team nearly 20 years ago and is an invaluable member of the organisation, assisting James with all company matters and heading up the company accounts and administration for the business.
Chris Williams
Office Manager
Chris has been with the company for the last few years and looks after the day-to-day running of the office. Chris provides an essential accessible link between our teams and supports our clients needs.
What People Say About Us
Our Testimonials
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