J Johnstone Engineering were proud to fabricate and install the structural steelwork for a striking self-build home in Seaton, West Cumbria, designed to take full advantage of its elevated position and sweeping views across the Solway Coast.
The property was a standout architectural build featuring a twin peak A-frame steel structure, expansive glazing, and a wrap-around balcony. The design creates dramatic internal spaces and large glass elevations, making the structural steel framework a central feature of the home.
Working alongside the builder on the project, our team fabricated the steelwork in-house before delivering and installing the structure on site.
Twin Peak A-Frame Structural Design
At the heart of the property is a twin peak A-frame portal frame, forming the primary roof structure and defining the architectural shape of the building.
A-frame structures are ideal for modern self-build homes because they allow for wider spans and striking roof lines while maintaining the structural strength required to support the building.
The steel framework allowed the design to incorporate:
- Large glass A-frame windows
- Open-plan living spaces
- A wrap-around balcony overlooking the surrounding landscape
- Clean structural lines throughout the property
The result is a home that combines bold architectural design with strong structural engineering.
Structural Beams Supporting the Floor Layout
Alongside the main A-frame structure, our team fabricated and installed multiple structural beams designed to carry the floor joists within the property.
Accurate fabrication and installation were essential to ensure the steelwork aligned perfectly with the building structure and allowed follow-on trades to continue work efficiently.
All steelwork was installed in accordance with the structural engineer’s drawings, ensuring correct load transfer throughout the building.
Fabricated In-House at Our Cumbria Workshop
All structural steel components for this project were fabricated at our family-run workshop in Silloth, Cumbria before being delivered to site in Seaton.
Our team cut, prepared and assembled the structural elements ready for installation, ensuring each component met the required tolerances and engineering specifications.
Producing steelwork in-house allows us to maintain strict quality control while ensuring the project runs smoothly from fabrication through to installation.
Bespoke Steel Spine Staircase with Walnut Treads
Another standout feature within the property was a bespoke steel spine staircase, fabricated and installed by our team as part of the project.
The staircase was built around a fabricated steel spine, which forms the central structural support for the stair and allows the treads to appear clean and visually light within the interior space.
The stair structure included:
- A fabricated steel spine forming the main structural support
- Solid walnut treads fitted onto the spine
- A fabricated steel landing frame connecting to the upper floor
Once installed, the staircase was finished with a glass balustrade and handrail installed by others, completing the modern architectural appearance while allowing light to flow through the stairwell.
The combination of structural steel, walnut treads and glass balustrading creates a staircase that is both architecturally striking and structurally robust, perfectly suited to the contemporary design of the home.
Structural Steel for Self Builds in Cumbria
Modern self-build homes increasingly rely on structural steel to achieve open layouts, large glazed elevations and distinctive architectural features.
From A-frame portal frames and multi-beam floor structures to bespoke staircases and balconies, J Johnstone Engineering regularly support self-build homes and residential construction projects across Seaton, West Cumbria and the wider Cumbria region.
With nearly four decades of experience, our team continues to work alongside builders, developers and private clients to deliver reliable structural steel fabrication and installation.
Structural Steel Fabrication and Installation in Cumbria
If you are planning a self-build or renovation project requiring structural steelwork in Cumbria, J Johnstone Engineering provide in-house fabrication and professional on-site installation, supporting projects across West Cumbria and the surrounding areas.
Related Steel Fabrication Projects in Cumbria
J Johnstone Engineering regularly fabricate and install structural steel and bespoke metalwork across Cumbria and the Lake District. Recent projects include:
• Structural steel for the conversion of a former railway station in Mealsgate, Cumbria
• Structural double A-frame installed for self build in Seaton, West Cumbria
If you would like to discuss a project or Request a Quote, feel free to get in touch.
