Every hut we build is a testament to the craftsmanship and dedication of our team. Colin embodies this spirit as he crafts huts from the framing bench to the finishing bay…
How did you first become interested in hutmaking, and what led you to join Plankbridge?
My journey began long before I joined the team in 2019. Growing up, my dad was a builder but I never wanted to go into the trade. He was in it for the love of it, but I saw first-hand how it affected him. I’ve renovated quite a few houses over the years, fitting doors and windows, and eventually I decided to turn that into something more, and that’s what brought me to Plankbridge.
What does a typical day look like for you in the workshop?
No two days are ever the same, and that’s one of the things I enjoy about the job. Depending on what stage of the build we’re at, I could be framing the structure of a hut, fitting windows, or doing our much-admired lead work, which is something I really enjoy. Using an oxyacetylene torch in the Plankbridge forge, I make lead trays for the windows and hut ends, creating the very best weather-tight seal. There’s a surprising amount of lead involved in building a shepherd’s hut, and every piece needs to be precise and well-finished.
One of my favourite tasks is building the beds. It’s satisfying because it’s a big, visible part of the hut, and you can see the results of your work quite quickly. It’s those moments – when the hut starts to come together – that confirm why I enjoy doing what I do.
What skills or techniques do you think are essential for making a Plankbridge hut?
The key to good craftsmanship is attention to detail. It doesn’t matter what aspect of the build I’m working on, I want everything to be perfect. I really enjoy passing on the skills I’ve learnt over the years and mentoring younger members of the team, like Joe, who has grown into a great hutmaker. It’s rewarding to help the younger guys figure things out, whether it’s a new technique or how to approach a tricky part of the build. And, of course, I’m always picking up new skills myself – you never stop learning.
How do you like to relax at weekends?
When I’m not in the workshop, you’ll usually find me up in the air. I’m a licensed pilot and have a 50 percent share in a light aircraft. I tend to stay in the South West, with the Isle of Wight my favourite place to fly to. I also love walking my border collie, who keeps me on my toes with two walks a day in the Dorset countryside.
What do you most enjoy about working with the team at Plankbridge?
What stands out to me is the pride we all take in our work. It’s not just about building huts; it’s about getting every detail right and knowing that the finished product will last for years to come.
Meet more of our talented team here
