i-Build may 2022

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FOCUS:

S ELF B U ILDS

R ENOVAT IONS

C ONVER S IONS

DIY

EXT ENS IONS COVER STORY

P U R C H A S I N G A G R E N H O USE FOR T H E V RY FI R S T I M E ?

M AY * *

ISSUE 1,

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INSPIRATION

BASKING THE LOYR Bridge ton retu n d to our scre n last month, and it’s brim ng with

OFBRIDGERTON

ADVISORY

P I N C H I N TG E P N I E S Cut down ris ng en rgy

inter o insp rat o

Eight key question you should ask yourself befor cho sing a design for your outd r space, so you can make the most of growin fresh produce right from your very own garden

bil s with thes top tips on reducing your lighting expenditure

EN RGYBIL S:

I-DEAS

POPULARPOLISHED CONCRET FLOORING consider when deci ng if polished con ret is

The key things to suitable for you

MATERIALS

O YNGAIB URHEDA IAGNSABRIC T ?LA W K How to cho se the right type of brick for your self-bui d or refu bishm nt project

WHAT DOES YOUR HOME SAY ABOUT YOU?

SAY IT WITH CARE

www.cedral.world

SAY IT WITH SUSTAINABILITY

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EDITORIAL: Rebecca Kemp

ditor's Welcome I-BUILD MAY 2022

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Hannah Woodger

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PRINT & DIGITAL ADVERTISING: Sam Ball samr@ edtuh e m a id .com

Jim Moore

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PRINT DESIGN MANAGER: Jack Witcomb

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DIGITAL DESIGN MANAGER: Matt Morse

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ACCOUNTS: Rachel Pike aco c tnu s@redtuh e m a id .com

SALES SUPPORT & STATISTICS: Klare Ball

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PUBLISHER: Sam Ball samr@ edtuh e m a id .com

TERMS AND CONDITIONS:

Contritu b o i sn arev n i ti ed ane dh w not ace c ptedle b i w reture n d ony l f iaco c p m ane i dy b ay l u f stamped andreturnadrd essed envelope. o N responsti l i b y i le b i w takeno f rrd awg n i s, photographs orti l erary o c tn ritu b o i sn ru d g n i transsi m sionorn ithe edti or'sa h sd n .n Ithe absene c of an agreemetn , theo c pyrigth of allo c tn ritu b o i sn t,i l erary, photographsc i or artistice b o l g n s toe R tdu H e Ma i d tL .d e h T si l b u P e h r ace c ptso n responsti l i b y i n irespect of advertisemetn s appearig n n ithea m gaze ni andthe opio i n sn expressedn iedti oriala m terialor otherwsi eo d o n t e n e c ssariy l represent the viewof the pusi l b e h r.e h T si l b u P e h ro d eso n t ace c pt anya i l ti l i b y of anyo l ss arisg n i rf om thea l te appearane c oro n n pua c i l b tionof any advertisemetn .

Cover story:

Hartley Botanic reveals all you need to know about buying a greenhouse and growing your own produce this spring.

2022’s energy price hike has sent shock waves throughout the nation.

With bills calculated to reach a £700 rise 1 and concerns about Brits plunging into fuel poverty this coming winter, homeowners up and down the country are desperately seeking energy- and cost-saving suggestions from the professionals.

Fortunately, those building their own homes and extensions from scratch, or undertaking home improvements to their building envelopes, are in an incredibly advantageous position. If energy-efficient building elements weren’t at the front of these lucky home improvers’ minds previously, they certainly will be now. To steer homeowners in the right direction, we talk to 4lite’s Marketing Manager, Rachel Morris, about how specifying smart lighting choices can help reduce lighting expenditure in the home and keep absurd energy bill increases at bay. Turn to page 10 to read the full article.

Elsewhere, we ask Lazenby key questions about opting for in-vouge polished concrete for a self-build project. In this article, the concrete specialist explains all you need to know about the process, maintenance, cost and sustainability of the popular industrial-style floor and wall surfacing solution. Flick to page 34 to find out more.

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ditor's

On page 06, we celebrate the return of one of Netflix’s most-watched shows with a Bridgerton-inspired Desired Designs spread that’ll encourage you to immerse yourself in the Regency London era. Meanwhile, Plus Rooms outlines the best route to take if you’re thinking about starting a home extension project on page 32, and Hartley Botanic reveals all you need to know about buying a greenhouse and growing your own produce this spring on page 36.

I hope you enjoy this issue. Don’t forget, if you’re coming to the end of your self-build and would like us to feature your home as inspiration for other budding housebuilders, then please do not hesitate to get in touch.

Alternatively, if you’re about to embark on your self-build journey and would be keen for us to document your progress, do get in contact.

FOOTNOTE 1https://www.independent.co.uk/

news/uk/home-news/energy-bills-uk-pricehike-cap-rebate-latest-b2048771.html

Rebecca Rebecca Kemp Editor @ibuildmagazine

@ibuildmagazine

ibuildmagazine

Download the i-Build app for iPhone, iPad and Android. Search 'i-build'.

Picks

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May 202 IN S PIRATIO N

Netflix’s Bridgerton returned to our screens last month, and it’s brimming with inspiration for those looking for a more traditional interior scheme.

This year marks the Q u een’ s Platinum J u bilee, and much of the nation will be commemorating the event with street parties, B Q s and family get- t ogethers.

I- D EAS

This month, we ask J a mes B e rnard, Director of Plus Rooms, for his expert tips on how you should approach your extension project.

Lazenby reveals the key things to consider when deciding if polished concrete is suitable for you.

Thinking about purchasing a greenhouse for the first time? H e re, H a rtley B o tanic provides answers to the most common questions asked by its customers.

ADV I SO R Y

CASE STU D IES

As spiralling energy prices continue to dominate the headlines, we speak with 4 l ite to discuss the latest technologies available to reduce lighting expenditure in the home.

Self-builder Vickey Nolan reveals how she completed her build in an outstanding six-month timeframe and explains the benefits of having her husband as the architect for their home.

W i th such a wide offering of windows and doors on the market, Russell H a nd from REH A U W i ndows explores some of the products and considerations you should bear in mind.

W e talk to Alison and Chris K i tchener about the couple’ s conversion journey to complete their dream home and discover how they successfully fulfilled the stringent fire suppression system stipulations outlined by building control.

M A TERIAL S

B r icks come in hundreds of shapes, siz e s, materials, colours and finishes. So how do you choose the right type of brick for your new home or refurbishment project?

N E W S /PRO D U C T G U I DE

B u ild It L i ve will be offering a whole weekend of exciting self- b uild inspiration.

The latest innovative products in the marketplace, designed with your build in mind.

M e rmaid explains how to use panels to create a bathroom design that is not only easy on the eye, but will also stand the test of time.

Wienerberger UK and Ireland explores options for self-builders to add colour to their home’s exterior.

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I B U I L Dm M AYm**

DESIRED DESIGNS

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SHALL WE P R OMEN A D E ?

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ollowing the release of the top-rated period drama, many homeowners are ready to embrace the highsociety Bridgerton aesthetic wholly, or as it’s otherwise known, ‘Regencycore’.

There’s no need to apply the trend in a fashion-faux-pas ‘Featherington’-style form with over-the-top, vividly-coloured interiors. Unless, of course, that’s the look you’re going for.

You can fully immerse yourself in the world of Regency London with soft pastel green upholstery, delicate floral prints, I B U I L Dm M AYm**

©THE FRENCH BEDROOM CO

YOURS TO BUY

exquisite glassware for those ‘special’ family get-togethers, grand dressing tables and sparkling chandeliers. Of course, the television series is far from historically accurate – which is perhaps the reason behind the rage – so veering off course with this scheme certainly isn’t an issue and provides a great opportunity to mix in your individual style.

Here, we’ve curated a stunning selection of home accessories and furniture designs to help you achieve that elegant and sophisticated Bridgerton House look.

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VIEWPOINT

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achel Mo r i s is the Marketing Manager at 4lite

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Viewpoint R i s n g e r yb i l s : s m a r t l i g h t n c h o i e s t o h e l p yo u b e a t h e i k As spiralling energy prices continue to dominate the headlines, i-Build speaks with 4lite to discuss the latest technologies available to reduce lighting expenditure in the home.

W

e’re experiencing the biggest rise in energy costs in living memory, and with utility bills soaring, the vast majority of us are looking for ways to reduce the amount of gas, oil and electricity we use.

One of the key benefits of renovating or building your own home right now is that you can easily integrate the latest technologies into your property. From nextgeneration insulation and heat pumps to solar panels and ultra-efficient appliances, there are many options available that will help you to save the pennies.

Lighting is one such area. According to the Energy Saving Trust, lighting makes up for around 15% of the average UK household’s electricity consumption, and with such a significant proportion of energy being used in this area, it’s easy to

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see how any improvements in efficiency will benefit the pocket. But what are these technologies, and what should you be considering?

If an entirely new lighting system isn’t on the cards, then at the very least, making the switch to LED bulbs will improve your energy use. This is something that has been well publicised during the last decade and, indeed, with the prohibition of incandescent bulbs back in 2009, is something that many of us have already done – even without realising. If you haven’t already made the switch, then make sure you do, as LEDs use between 10 and 30% less energy than CFL alternatives and last an average of 15,000 hours longer.

If you are building a new home or completely renovating an older one, then smart lighting, alongside the use of LEDs,

VIEWPOINT

4lite E14 candle filament bulb (amber and clear)

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4lite WiZ Connected LED up-and-down wall light

4lite Wiz Connected smart downlight

is most definitely an area you should explore. A well-implemented and carefully-operated system can reduce lighting energy use by up to two thirds, which, based on the assumption that 15% of your overall electricity bill is spent on lighting, can translate to a 10% reduction in your bill.

Smart lighting is an advanced technology. Operated via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, it allows every single detail of lighting to be programmed and automated so that it is used only where and when it is needed.

It can be used to connect lights both indoors and out and allows you to link various luminaires together throughout your home and garden, switching them on and off at specific times of day as required. It can be fine-tuned to such a level that you can even create different lighting scenes, controlling the number of luminaries in action at any time.

Aside from operation, smart lighting systems also offer complete control over elements such as brightness, intensity and colour temperature, which have a real impact on energy use. Not only does this deliver cost-

saving benefits, but it can also help you to achieve different moods or ambiences at different times of the day. Some smart solutions, such as 4lite Wiz Connected, can even be integrated with weather apps so that the colour of the lights will automatically adjust according to the weather outside.

Another major benefit of smart lighting systems is that they are easy to use and install. They can be pre-programmed to operate at specific times, activated remotely, programmed to respond to voice or motion or even integrated with ecosystems such as Alexa, Hey Google and Siri. Most smart lighting systems are simply fitted like a normal lamp or switch and are controlled and hosted on the cloud, so there is no hub or wiring requirement.

Aside from a fully-connected smart lighting system, there are a host of other smart lighting solutions and products you can consider alongside older lighting systems, which will help you to regulate energy use.

For example, motion sensors and presence and absence detection

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lighting automatically turn lights off when you leave a room, cutting energy use. In fact, so effective are these products that The Carbon Trust estimates that the use of automatic sensors alone can cut energy usage for lighting by up to 40%.

Another great energy- and moneysaving device that can be used for floor and table lamps are smart plugs. They add connectivity to anything plugged into them, so more traditional fittings can be linked together and controlled in the same manner as a brand-new smart lighting system. Similarly, smart bulbs can be installed in existing lamps and light fittings and linked with other connected products to form a fully controllable lighting system.

When it comes to lighting, technology really does have a great impact on energy use and expenditure.

Having the ability to automate and control even the most intricate details translates to real cost savings and is something that anyone embarking on a house-building or renovation project should explore and integrate.

www.4liteuk.com I B U I L Dm M AYm**

IMPRESSIVE INNOVATION

The Self-Build Diaries:

OliverandiVckeyNolan

@

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Follow this self-build story on Instagram

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I B U I L Dm M AYm**

Located in County Meath, nestled between a woodland and barley field, husband-and-wife self-build team Oliver and Vickey Nolan have recently taken a leap of faith by designing and building their very own sustainable, timber-clad home.

I

n this article, Vickey talks to i-Build’s Editor, Rebecca Kemp, about the issues the pair encountered when it came to planning, how they managed to complete the build in an outstanding sixmonth timeframe and explains the benefits of having her husband as the architect.

day. Meanwhile, the L-shaped plan creates partially-enclosed, sheltered patio areas, which provide many opportunities for connecting the inside with the outside.

RK: W aQ "IB Ee d q)V Q) e !b aE )" q)VE )k" BE) e c Q O VN: My husband had completed his degree

with the design, making sure every area was perfect inside and out. The beauty of having my husband as the architect meant we could make changes in 3D, and I could walk through all proposals and see the implications fully. It was incredible to move the walls and stairs and see the possibilities.

in architecture and always wanted to design our forever home. We were living in Dublin at the time and looking to relocate back to Meath to be closer to our families and friends and start a family. Being able to design and build a house has always been our dream. It would mean that we could discuss everything we wanted and incorporate it into the build.

We both grew up in Meath, and when the opportunity to buy a local site from the area arose, we knew it was fate. We just had to make it a reality.

RK: W aQ kaI Q e j I )" a"d "IB EaQ )" b e "d q)VE "e k )!e O VN: The dwelling is organised into two

distinct forms, which are linked with the entry. At the entrance, the space promotes views through the home into the woods, which provides the perfect backdrop.

As for the layout and orientation, these are designed to maximise the number of rooms receiving direct sunlight from different aspects during the course of the

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RK: H)k d d q)V aBBE)ac f "a I "g q)VE d e I g" b E e f O VN: There was a lot of back and forth

RK: D d q)VE BE) e c Q "e e d Q) c aQe E f)E a"q IBe c a Ee HV Ee !e "QI O VN: No, not really. We were conscious

that we perhaps would need the ability to live downstairs when we’re older, so we have catered to these requirements in the bedroom, living room, kitchen and bathroom.

RK: H)k a"d k q d d q)V c ))Ie Q I B )Q O VN: The plot was not for sale when we

approached the owners, but the location was perfect. Being from the area meant we had local needs with family and friends living within a few minutes from our proposed home. When we approached the owners, we were pleasantly surprised that they were open to the suggestion and inevitably sold the site to us.

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I B U I L Dm M AYm**

I M P R E S I V E I N NO V AT I O N

RK: H)k )"g d d Q Qa e Q) ga " B a"" "g Be E! II )" O VN: It took us 12 months to obtain

planning. We were refused the first time due to sightlines on the road being an issue. However, we were fortunate that the landowners had a plot further along the street that they were willing to sell to us instead. So, we up and moved the planning location 100m down the road and were granted permission.

RK: We Ee Q e Ee a"q c a e "g "g aIBe c QI Q) Q e BE) e c Q a"d b V d O VN: When you are building a home,

it can be one of the most stressful situations. Still, if you keep your eyes firmly fixed on why you’re building, everything will fall into place. As a selfbuilder, organisation was vital, from managing who needed to be on site and when to what materials they needed to cleaning and clearing the area every evening. We found the most difficult thing was delays with contractors not starting or finishing on time and holding up the next tradesperson or even trying to manage different trades in the house simultaneously. Another thing we found challenging was navigating the banking drawdowns and having stages completed before funds would be issued, and needing the money to finish the stage.

RK: H)kd q)V aBBE)ac !aQeEa a"d BE)dVcQ IBec aQ)"O VN: We went with high specification

on everything we used as it meant a better quality build in the long term.

Oliver is a Commercial Architect and specified many commercial products.

RK: D d q)V "IQa a"q Ee "e kab e IqIQe !I O VN: Yes, we installed an air-to-water

heat pump. We have also first-fixed a heat recovery system; however, we are still to finish this.

RK: H)k d )e I Q e BE)Be EQq Ee IB)"d Q) P aII je H)VIe BE "c B e I O VN: Timber frame houses are

recognised as the most thermallyefficient form of building. Engineered timber framework offers the flexibility for high levels of insulation to be fitted as it arrives on site preinsulated.

Timber frame offers excellent thermal efficiency, low thermal bridging and excellent airtightness. The entire house is wrapped with airtightness tape with high levels of insulation throughout.

RK: H)k )"g d d Q e BE) e c Q Qae O VN: We wanted to move in as quickly as possible, so we gave ourselves an eightmonth build timeframe, but we pushed hard and managed to get in within six months. We broke ground in May 2020 I B U I L Dm M AYm**

and moved in October 2020 – this is something we are very proud of. When we moved in, the house wasn’t finished; we had no kitchen, floor or hall, but within a few weeks had the downstairs completed.

RK: D d q)V Ee !a " k Q " Q e )E g "a b Vd ge Q O VN: We stayed within budget, but we

left big-ticket items off our budget and thought we would worry about them as the need arose, like our automated gates. We left the outside landscaping and concentrated on the house in the first phase. So, the budget is everevolving now as we complete the outside of the house and finish some more projects inside. We are currently adding a basketball half-court and a decking area with a pergola and jacuzzi.

RK: W aQ aEe Q e "Qe E )E a"d e pQe E )E f " I e d IBac e I e O VN: On the ground floor, we have

clear views directly out to the back of the house with floor-to-ceiling glass that captures the woodland scenery.

The kitchen is recessed into the floor

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above, creating a flush wall of units as you come into the space. To the right is a 4m window that extends into the double-height space with everchanging landscape views. The house is situated in a barley field, and the crop is fascinating to look at as it dances in the wind. Our bespoke kitchen was made by ‘Dillions Kitchens’ and boasts a 3m island, black stone tops and a secret door into a hidden utility room.

The house itself is open plan, and the kitchen/living space is ideal for having friends and family over.

Continuing on the ground floor, there is an office for my husband, a gym, a bedroom and a bathroom. Moving to the first floor, we have two en-suite bedrooms, one soon to be a nursery as we are expecting our first child. The master suite is my favourite room in the house; it includes walk-in wardrobes, a rainfall shower and we have a bathtub in the main bedroom space. It has a luxury hotel feel with deep teals, blacks and golds. Both bedrooms have 4m skylights over the bed, meaning you can lie in bed and watch the stars.

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I B U I L Dm M AYm**

IMPRESSIVE INNOVATION

Outside, the house’s exterior is clad in charred black larch and contrasted with sawed natural larch.

We also have a Tegral Fineline roof and expansive skylights.

RK: H)k d )e I Q e BE)Be EQq Ee IB)"d Q) QI IVEE)V"d "g a"d Ic aBe O VN: The house sits beautifully into

the landscape with a look of a barn conversion amongst a tillage farm and woodland.

RK: W aQ d )e I Q e )c a c )!!V" Qq Q " )f Q e " e k BE)Be EQq O VN: Cars stop daily and take pictures,

and people call in all the time to ask for the architect’s name and number, which I find amusing. The response has been overwhelmingly positive and a talking point.

RK: II Q e f "a BE)Be EQq e je EqQ "g Q aQ q)V )Be d Q k)V d b e O VN: Yes, we love it. I couldn’t have ever dreamed that I would live in such a perfect space.

RK: W aQ I q)VE faj)VE Qe Q "g ab )VQ q)VE "e k )!e O VN: We adore the peace and quiet, and

the fact that it is so close to all our friends and family makes it perfect.

RK: II Q e Ee a"qQ "g Q aQ q)V k)V d aje d )"e d ffe Ee "Q q O VN: I would have met all contractors

before going ahead with anyone. We did everything over the phone or by email as we were in lockdown. You need to know who you are working with, understand if they hold the same vision as you and know if they can be trusted to complete the job to the standard you want.

RK: W)V d q)V d ) Q e k ) e Q "g aga " O VN: I would not be afraid to do it

again. That said, I never fully understood the extent of work we would have to undertake ourselves initially, but my eyes are wide open now, and I would do it again.

RK: W aQ ad j c e k)V d q)V )ffe E Q) a"q)"e )) "g Q) Ie f b V d O VN: Be prepared to work hard and

reap the benefits. We did the work for approximately €200,000 cheaper than going with a builder; however, aspects of the home are still not finished, but we will get there. The other advice I would give is to know exactly who needs to do what and make sure it’s all done while they are on site, or you will be left to plug the gap!

Do take some time away from the build, whether it is a date night or a trip away, as it can be all-consuming and just try and relax and enjoy the process.

I B U I L Dm M AYm**

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LIGHTINGBLOCKS BRICKS, & ELECTRICALS & PAVERS

t o w c h H s e r i g h t b oc y uk n rs w e m f Bricks come in hundreds of shapes, sizes, materials, colours and finishes.

So how do you choose the right type of brick for your new home or refurbishment project? Andrew Pickersgill from W McGovern & Co., one of the largest brick merchants in the north of England, investigates.

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our choice of brick will make a huge difference to the overall look of your property. Still, there are many other things to consider than just the appearance, such as your budget, lead times, local planning conditions and sustainability requirements.

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Over 90% of bricks manufactured in the UK are made from clay, which is shaped, dried and fired in a kiln to create a hard and durable product. Wire-cut clay bricks provide a smooth finish and typically have holes in the bed – this means less energy is required for drying, and the bricks are lighter, so easier to handle. For a more textured look, choose soft mud or handmade bricks, which can create a more characterful and authentic look – particularly effective in conservation areas.

If you’re knocking down a property and building a new one on the plot and you want to replicate the look or need to due to a planning condition, then you can use bricks reclaimed from the I B U I L Dm M AYm**

original building. Although, getting the quantity and quality for a whole house or a large extension can be difficult.

The small remaining section of the market includes bricks made from other materials, the largest of which is concrete bricks. Concrete bricks are made from sand and aggregates mixed with pigments and cement to harden into a concrete block. Concrete bricks usually imitate the appearance of classic clay bricks and currently have a shorter lead time: two weeks rather than 22 to 26 weeks for clay bricks.

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Brickwork is about 80% of your home’s visual appeal but only about 10 to 15% of the entire build cost. With something so inexpensive in the grand scheme of things, why wouldn’t you choose something perfect that will put a smile on your face every time you pull onto the drive?

Prices range from around £400 per 1000 for machine-made bricks to upwards of £1100 per 1000 for more bespoke and distinctive handmade bricks.

There are several online brick calculators available to help you work out how many standard (65mm long) or pre-war (73mm long) bricks you need by simply inputting the size of your walls.

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You will have been planning your dream home for quite some time and may have a specific look in mind. Perhaps your local planning department insists that you use a particular brick. Or maybe you are extending a property and want to match the new type of bricks with the existing

BRICKS, BLOCKS & PAVERS

ones. In all these circumstances, you will need a brick-matching service offered by many brick merchants and brick suppliers, including W McGovern & Co. You should also consider asking your brick supplier to create small sample walls so that you can see how the bricks look at different times of day and in various weather conditions and even using other mortars to help you find your perfect look.

However, it’s not unusual to see contemporary designs incorporating a contrasting brick extension, so it’s always worth investigating what’s likely to get planning permission at the start of your project.

Also, to add architectural interest and character, consider adding decorative design details such as indented bricks, angles or patterns of different coloured bricks.

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Your choice of colour will be influenced by product availability, cost, local planning restrictions and your own personal taste.

Historically, bricks would have been made on, or very close to, the construction site. Even in the modern day, bricks average less than 70 miles from the manufacturing location to the site. This means that different coloured bricks are used in other areas of the country. For example, red bricks are common in the north whilst creams and yellows are often used around Cambridgeshire and London.

In 2019, the UK, as recommended by the Committee on Climate Change, became the first major economy to pass a net-zero emissions law with the target to bring all greenhouse gas emissions to be net zero by 2050. Building green is a rapidlygrowing enterprise. There is clearly an appetite for and willingness to change; however, the construction industry is restricted in its efforts by the lack of low-carbon materials available on the market. Those materials that are available inevitably attract a higher cost.

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Check the green credentials of your bricks by asking your supplier for an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD). This document is generated based on data obtained through a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and determines the environmental performance or impact of any product or material over its lifetime. It covers areas such as the use of raw materials, resource consumption, recycled content, product waste, air miles and the like.

Brick manufacturers are now making bricks more carbon-friendly, and some breeze blocks are being built out of recycled materials, so the options are available if you are looking to achieve a more sustainable home.

To most people, a brick is a brick but look a bit deeper, and the vast variety of styles, colours and textures become clear. When you’re building your dream house, take time to choose the perfect bricks and achieve that all-important kerb appeal every time you come home.

www.wmcgovern.com I B U I L Dm M AYm**

RURAL RETREAT

Barn life Fifield Barn, located in Oxfordshire, is part of a Grade II Listed building complex comprising several barns, stables and shelter sheds, and a farmhouse – which have all been regenerated into new homes over the years. Alison and Chris Kitchener purchased the only remaining 18th-century barn to be converted as a ‘passion project’.

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he couple secured planning permission to convert the building into a contemporary five-bedroom home across two storeys while preserving the building’s history and character. Here, i-Build’s Editor, Rebecca Kemp, talks to Alison about the couple’s conversion journey to complete their dream home and later discovers how they successfully fulfilled the stringent fire suppression system stipulations outlined by building control.

RK: W aQ "IB Ee d q)V Q) Qa e )" Q I BE) e c Q O AK: We had been looking at a self-build project that fell through, so we visited the barn out of curiosity and fell in love with it.

RK: Had q)V a kaqI ka"Qe d Q) BVEIVe q)VE )k" BE) e c Q O AK: We were both avid watchers of Grand Designs

when we met, and it was always something we had dreamed of doing.

RK: H)k a"d k q d d q)V c ))Ie Q I BE)Be EQq Q) Ee ")jaQe O AK: Our original plans were for a new build, but

once we saw this barn, we were swept up in its age, beams, location and, frankly, the challenge.

RK: WaQIQqea"dageIQe)Eg"abVd"gO AK: The barn is Grade II Listed from the late 18th

century, with Flemish bond bricks and glazed headers, and it’s a part of the complex that’s linked to an old manor house.

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RU R AL RE T R E A T

RK: H)k d d q)V c )!b "e Q e )E g "a bV d "g I IQq e k Q Q e c )"je EI )" O AK: We wanted to feature the old

beams, but we had to produce “a building within a building” as per the planning restrictions. We also had to make the roof fully visible throughout the length of the building.

RK: W aQ kaI Q e j I )" a"d "IB EaQ )" b e "d q)VE "e k )!e O AK: To honour the barn’s roots in

farming, we incorporated an industrial style and kept the open-plan areas in a pared-back colour palette.

RK: H)k d d q)V aBBE)ac f "a I "g q)VE d e I g" b E e f O AK: We initially used an architect, but

were lucky to have very creative, flexible builders with an artistic eye so we could work on features and changes as we went. We used the original architect to create the basic layout. This was the architect who also worked to get the initial planning permission.

RK: H)k )"g d d Q Qa e Q) ga " B a"" "g Be E! II )" O AK: We were lucky to buy the barn

with planning in place, but it took the previous owners 20 years to get planning permission!

RK: We E e Q e E e a " q c a e " g " g aIBecQIQ)Qe BE)ecQ a"d b V d O AK: With an old building, challenges

are often uncovered as you go. Apart from incorporating three enormous bat voids and a vast roof expanse that needed insulating and plastering, our main challenge was that everything had to be done on an industrial scale.

And, of course, the pandemic started six months into the project.

RK: D d q)V BE) e c Q !a"age Q e b V d q)VEIe f O AK: Our builders took on most of the

project management, with me and Chris contributing as and when possible.

RK: H)k d d q)V aBBE)ac !aQe E a a"d BE)d Vc Q IBe c f c aQ )" O AK: Some materials had been

specified in planning, but we tried to compromise between the needs of an old building, the scale and cost.

RK: A Ee Q e Ee a"q !aQe E a I Q aQ q)V k)V d Ee c )!!e "d Q) )Q e EI O AK: Warmcel roof insulation with

Devana was very effective. The concrete pour with Connop and Son was brilliantly done. All of our windows were from Cherwell Windows, and our sliding doors are from Internorm; their whole service has been amazing. What’s I B U I L Dm M AYm**

more, Vapourmist provided us with a very effective, discreet fire suppression system that was much more affordable and desirable than sprinklers.

RK: H)k )"g d d Q e BE) e c Q Qa e O AK: The build took two and a half

years, but we hadn’t put a time on it, which was lucky due to COVID!

RK: W e " kaI Q c )!B e Qe d O AK: There are still some final

elements to take care of, but we’ve been in for two months now.

RK: D d q)V Ee !a " k Q " Q e )E g "a b Vd ge Q O AK: We were very wrong with our

original estimates, and we probably wouldn’t have started the project if we’d known the true costs.

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RK: W aQ aEe Q e "Qe E )E a"d e pQe E )E f " I e d IBac e I e O AK: The outside of the property still

needs landscaping, but there was very little to do with the exterior.

The interior is mainly open plan with five bedrooms and five bathrooms with a guest WC. The kitchen is the largest of the spaces and utilises original bricks on the rear wall to remind us of the barn’s exterior. A spiral staircase and curved gallery area at one end give great views over the barn, and the curves are replicated throughout the building.

RK: W aQ d )e I Q e )c a c )!!V" Qq Q " )f Q e Ee fVEb I !e "Q O AK: Our neighbours were eager for

the barn to be lived in and were very supportive throughout the build.

RU R AL RE T R E A T

T HE KIT C HENER S FIR E S U P R ES S ION S YS T EM

RK: II Q e f " I e d IBac e e je EqQ "g Q aQ q)V )Be d Q k)V d b e O AK: We love the finished space! There

is so much natural light, space and character, and we’re enjoying learning how each area lends itself to be lived in.

For me, there are moments of joy that you come across as you walk around the home. One day it might be our beautiful bespoke doors; the next day, it’s the window seat that’s been made to look like it’s been there since the 1700s. I also love the kitchen, it’s so spacious, and the morning light is terrific coming through our windows.

RK: II Q e Ee a"qQ "g Q aQ q)V k)V d aje d )"e d ffe Ee "Q q O AK: We might have tackled the ceiling

earlier in the build and taken more care to keep our concrete floor covered to protect it from paint and plaster, but I think we’re happy overall.

RK: W)Vd q)V d ) Qe k)e Q "g aga" O AK: Only with the benefit of what we’ve learnt from this build and definitely not for a few years!

RK: W aQ ad j c e k)V d q)V )ffe E Q) )Q e EI O AK: Enjoy the journey; it can be a long one but shop around and don’t assume the traditional ways are the best or cheapest.

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Building control recommended installing a fire suppression system to protect the home’s means of escape. Determined to fulfil their open-plan dreams for the barn whilst retaining as much of the original structure as possible, the Kitcheners requested a quote for the installation of a traditional sprinkler system and Plumis’ Automist technology – which the couple had discovered at the Homebuilding and Renovating Show a year before buying the barn.

The cost quoted for a traditional sprinkler system was significantly higher than the couple expected and meant that the renovation project was no longer financially viable.

Fortunately, Automist was not only a fifth of the cost but protection could be provided across the 5425ft 2 building whilst also fitting with the home’s aesthetics.

As with many housebuilding projects, there were several unexpected delays and changes that were made.

Automist-approved installer Vapourmist, however, was able to accommodate the Kitchener’s needs and begin the installation whilst other works were being carried out.

In total, 15 wall-mounted spray heads were installed across Fifield Barn – ensuring the vast space is well protected in the event of a fire. Designed to be discreet – without compromising safety – once the system is activated and the alarm is raised, a pump drives mains water through the unique spray head’s nozzle unit, targeting the fire with a dense fog of water mist. This approach removes heat and displaces oxygen from the fire zone, resulting in fire control, suppression or extinguishment.

Due to layout changes, Vapourmist visited the site a number of times to assess whether the system would still be fit for purpose. Once the project was in a position to go ahead, Vapourmist’s team carried out the installation across a total of three days, with minimal disruption.

www.plumis.co.uk

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LIGHTING &BEDROOMS KITCHENS, ELECTRICALS & BATHROOMS

Ho w t a c h i e v b a t h ro m p a n e l p erf c t i o n i n yo u r s e l f- b u i l d p r o j e c t With an increasing variety of bathroom panel designs available, tiles are no longer your only option when it comes to waterproofing your walls. Keely Greenhalgh, National Sales Manager at Mermaid, explains how to use panels to create a bathroom design that is not only easy on the eye, but will also stand the test of time.

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ne of the key appeals of embarking on a self-build or renovation project is the opportunity to create a design that is unique to you. After many months, or even years, working on your build, the look of your bathroom walls may be something of an afterthought, but choose your products wisely, and your dream design can be made a reality with ease.

While tiles are traditionally synonymous with bathrooms and wetrooms, they can be costly and time-consuming to install – sometimes requiring a specialist tradesperson – and afterwards, you’re left with grouting that collects mould and requires regular cleaning.

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By instead opting for panels to decorate your walls, you will not only open up a whole realm of design possibilities that will allow you to create a truly original aesthetic, but also create a lowmaintenance finish that won’t tire.

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Wall panelling is becoming an increasingly popular option for decorating bathroom or wetroom walls, indicated by a 50% rise in online searches for ‘bathroom tile alternatives’ over the last three months at the time of writing.

Laminate panelling solutions are available in a variety of styles with matt, gloss and textured finishes that respond to the latest interior trends. In addition to decors that

KITCHENS, BEDROOMS & BATHROOMS

wall surface to remove any dirt and grease and ensuring the surface is clean and flat. An additional benefit of panelling is that it can disguise uneven surfaces, so unless the wall is completely out of plumb – in which case, you may need to replaster the surface and seal with a primer – you can go ahead and apply the panels to the wall using the recommended adhesive.

Silicones often used in sealing bathroom environments naturally break down over time, increasing the risk of water damage to a product, as well as potential leaks. Panel systems can avert this problem due to the aluminium trims that are used to join the panel run together and to create a watertight seal below and above the panels. However, with the Mermaid Elite range, there is no need for trims and instead a colour-coordinated sealant and adhesive called Complete can be used to backfill a 5mm gap above the floor. No matter which panels you opt for, it is always important to use an appropriate sealant to ensure a watertight finish.

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replicate natural stone, marble and wood effects, there are also options that recreate traditional tile styles, such as mosaic patterns or the popular metro tile look – minus the dirt-prone grouting. With such a variety of designs, you won’t be short of choice when it comes to finding the perfect aesthetic for your project.

Most panel ranges come in a variety of different sizes that can not only be installed in shower enclosures or as a splash-proof wall behind a bathtub or sink, but around the entire bathroom to create a wetroom experience. It’s also possible to apply some panels in vertical or horizontal applications such as niches, half-height walls behind toilets and sinks, or can easily be cut to create clean external corners on panels encompassing a bath.

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Working with tiles requires specialist tools such as a wet saw and can be a very time-consuming process, depending on the size of the space.

By contrast, a panelling system can cover a much larger space per unit, with each panel easily cut to size using traditional woodworking tools that are likely to be used elsewhere in your build. In comparison to tiles, panels can cover the same space in a fraction of the time, meaning you’ll be free to use your new bathroom a lot sooner than if you were opting for tiles – as well as freeing up time to complete work elsewhere in the build.

Surface preparation ahead of panel application is as simple as removing any protruding nails or screws, cleaning down the existing

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As panelling systems avoid the need for grouting, there is none of the build-up of dirt and mould typically found in a tiled environment.

Instead, soap, water and a nonabrasive cloth are all you need to maintain your newly-panelled bathroom or wetroom.

After finishing your installation, the last thing you will want to deal with is any internal leaking within your build. To avoid costly repairs in the long run, it’s recommended to opt for a manufacturer that offers a guarantee on its panel systems. This often involves following its guidelines during the fixing process, as well as only using the approved adhesives and sealants. For example, Mermaid offers a 15-year guarantee on all Elite range installations that use the aforementioned Complete all-in-one adhesive and sealant. The patented liquid polyurethane-based formula has been adopted from the marine and aerospace industries and offers strong grab adhesion and gap-filling properties that will repel water.

Whether looking for a sleek design to complement your surrounding interior scheme or a practical solution that will stand the test of time, panelling offers the best of both worlds – providing the ultimate alternative to ceramic tiles.

www.mermaidpanels.co.uk I B U I L Dm M AYm**

LIGHTING CLADDING EXTERIOR & ELECTRICALS & FACADES

Th e p ower f c o l u r i n s e l f- b u i l d s Colour plays a vital role in our world and how we respond to our surroundings. It has the power to sway thinking, cause reactions and transform our wellbeing by influencing our emotions. In this article, Manuela Fazzan, Design and Technical Manager at Wienerberger UK and Ireland, explores some of the options for self-builders to add colour to their property’s exterior.

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he considered application of colour plays a vital role in the building industry. We see it commonly in commercial properties, from distribution sheds to shopping centres, and in high-rise residential properties, too, with the addition of cladding. So why stop at individual properties?

Self-builds are not just a case of creating a functional building but about personal expression and projecting a public personality. So how should a self-builder go about designing and constructing buildings with unique, aesthetically-pleasing exteriors?

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The colour palette and materials used in shaping the exterior of your self-build need to consider several factors, including the building’s function, how users will interact with and experience the building, and how the building fits in with the character of the local community and environment.

Muted colours can bring subtlety to a construction, helping it blend in with other buildings around it. On the other hand, bold, striking colours can help the building stand out and really make a statement, highlighting innovative design, for example.

The choice of colour can also be used to engender particular emotional responses – to calm and placate or to invigorate and energise – and it is important to note that colours carry different cultural significances and can, therefore, carry a design message too.

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LIGHTING CLADDING EXTERIOR & ELECTRICALS & FACADES

T OP T IP S FR OM WIENER B ER GER

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Consider your building’s function and how it will fit into the local community and environment Think about what you are trying to achieve and how your material selection will help facilitate this Explore the different options, writing out the pros and cons of the options available to you, keeping in mind budget and ongoing maintenance.

to grow in popularity in recent years, especially in the high-end specification market. Another option is brick slips, which offer a costeffective way to create an authentic brick finish internally or externally.

Not only are our brick slips visually beautifully, but they also offer the same high-performance benefits of brick, including being energy efficient and recyclable – and all for a lower cost per square metre compared with bricks because there is less material.

However, the right solution for your self-build will depend on issues such as the required durability of the build, your budget constraints, local planning and building restrictions, aesthetic considerations, maintenance, thermal requirements, maximisation of natural light and airflow considerations, and the difficulty or otherwise of the fit, should you be doing the work yourself.

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Adding colour, therefore, opens a wide range of considerations, and it is important to keep in mind what you are trying to achieve in order to establish the colours and textures best suited to meet project objectives.

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Of course, adding colour need not just be a case of painting an exterior.

Different coloured bricks, mortar and roof tiles can all be utilised to enhance the build and create a striking design.

One of the many advantages facing bricks can offer as a building material is that they are available in a wide selection of colours, including red, orange, yellow and blue. Likewise, roof tiles also come in various colours, from I B U I L Dm M AYm**

traditional terracotta and vibrant red to slate black and green.

Mortar accounts for 15 to 17% of the visible brickwork of a wall, depending on the bond pattern, so another key consideration for determining the overall appearance of a building is mortar colour. In this case, it is vital to check that your mortar will suit the surrounding built environment, particularly when repointing existing brickwork. We, therefore, recommend trialling different mortar colours as part of the selection process to ensure the end product has the exact look and feel that you’re looking for.

For example, our Colour Fusion glazed bricks have continued

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When deciding on the type of exterior, it is always worth writing out the pros and cons of the options available to you in light of your budget.

For example, softwood timber cladding is among the cheapest options but will need priming, painting and regular maintenance. Brick slips, on the other hand, whilst more expensive, have a thin profile and are quick to lay and require less maintenance.

Whether you are going for a traditional or modernist build will be a decisive consideration. Whilst many of the factors driving your choice will be personal to you, a great place to start is The National Design Guide which outlines and illustrates the Government’s priorities for well-designed places in the form of 10 characteristics.

Colouring the exterior of a building is no longer a boring question of what tin of paint to use. Options are plentiful, covering a whole range of possibilities using natural or manmade materials – and allowing for the fullest expressions of individuality for self-builders.

www.wienerberger.co.uk

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LIGHTING DOORS & & WINDOWS ELECTRICALS

Whether you’re building your own property from scratch or renovating an older building, choosing your windows and doors is a key consideration that can radically enhance the external look of your home. With such a wide offering of windows and doors currently on the market, Russell Hand, Head of Product Management and Technical at REHAU Windows, explores some of the products and considerations you should take for your self-build project.

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living spaces, whether that’s a door system spanning the length of an open-plan kitchen or doors from your living room that look out onto the garden.

Perhaps the most obvious and functional purpose of your windows is to allow light into your home. Despite this, a OnePoll survey commissioned by REHAU last year found that 40% of those interviewed said they lacked natural lighting in the working area of their home. While a further 79% considered being able to see outside when working cheered them up.

With hybrid working models now the norm in most businesses, ensuring you are getting enough light into your property is essential for your wellbeing and productivity. If you are also planning to establish a working environment in your future home, it’s worth planning the window placement in your home office to allow adequate daylight into your room.

With multiple design options, casement windows are an excellent choice to retrofit existing windows while allowing the maximum amount of natural daylight into your home.

Multi-fold and sliding doors can also be installed at almost floor-to-ceiling height, allowing daylight to flood into your I B U I L Dm M AYm**

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When it comes to choosing your windows and doors, there are three main materials to choose from: uPVC, aluminium and timber.

Timber frames have natural insulating properties, can be painted in a wide range of finishes and given a further coat of wax to protect from external weather damage. However, a downside of this material is that it requires more upkeep than the alternative two options.

Aluminium frames can be the most expensive of the three but provide a strong material allowing larger spans and slimmer sightlines. However, as well as needing a powdercoated finish, aluminium is also the weakest in terms of heat loss, meaning those looking to keep their house warm are likely to need to specify frames with additional insulation and thermal-break features.

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DOORS & WINDOWS

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Depending on its age, if you’re restoring an older property, retaining some period features from years gone by may be important to you. Installing replacement bay or sliding sash windows will help reinvigorate the character of an older building and help further increase the value of the property.

Other considerations you may need to take are whether you can make alterations to the doors and windows if you have a listed property or are in a conservation area. In some instances, you may be restricted as to what you can retrofit in an older building, limited only to replacing old glass panes with a newer alternative.

If you can replace the windows, you’ll find the uPVC offerings on the market easily replicate those of period properties. It is possible to find sliding sash windows that are as authentic as their heritage counterparts, with additional details such as decorative horns, a deep bottom rail and optional Georgian bars that make the uPVC alternative a seamless alternative to the traditional version.

Installing French doors is another way to create a sense of charm within your property, whether that’s a renovation or a completely new build.

Available in uPVC, aluminium or timber, the French doors found on the market today are a great way to increase ventilation within the home. Added security features also serve as an additional entry and exit point that can overlook a garden or patio area.

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White uPVC windows first became a popular choice in the 1980s but have since evolved in terms of product strength, requiring little maintenance and improved thermal efficiency. Now available in a variety of styles, uPVC frames can replicate the woodgrain of timber frames combined with the sleekness of aluminium.

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According to The Times, improving the kerb appeal of your property can increase its value by 2 to 3%, with recommendations including repainting or installing a new front door. A traditional timber door may be your initial choice; however, the level of maintenance required could be restricting.

Another option would be to install a composite uPVC door, which offers all

the charm of a wooden door without the upkeep. Additional benefits include noisedampening, increased thermal efficiency and the multitude of colour options now available, including the modern anthracite grey colour, which has seen a 140% increase in Google search popularity since the beginning of the year.

Front door installations can also be configured to let in more daylight, with sidelights allowing more natural light into foyers and entryways, while transoms can be fitted above door frames as well. For those seeking to instil or maintain the traditional character of their property, impressive half-moon fanlights reminiscent of the Georgian period will allow even more light into your home while casting shadows through the fanlight bars.

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After completing your build, the last thing you want is to deal with hefty energy bills. With windows capable of losing up to 10% of a home’s heat, taking into account the thermal performance of your chosen frames ahead of their installation will make sure you’re futureproofing your property against the ongoing energy crisis. Due to its thermoplastic nature, uPVC frames are highly efficient at retaining warmth that, when combined with the appropriate panes, are the ideal solution to help keep the running costs of your property down.

In summary, there’s plenty of choice when it comes to entrance points of a self-build. One thing is for certain, no matter what the overriding objective of your project is – whether it be efficiency, aesthetics or wellbeing – modern uPVC often provides an allround solution.

www.rehau.com I B U I L Dm M AYm**

I-BUILD PLUS ROOMS

Idluohs w H hcaorp ? nois e tx moh y Faced with high moving costs and a scarcity of homes currently available on the market, many homeowners are considering extending their property. But navigating local regulations, budgeting, and choosing between the many options available can be difficult.

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e ask James Bernard, Director of Plus Rooms, a design and build company that has completed over 1400 home extensions, for his tips on how you should approach your extension project.

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Ideally, you want to be given a clear and transparent idea of costs ahead of the works, including architectural drawings, structural calculations, and getting the permissions in place.

If you’re looking to add value to your home, keep in mind that a wraparound extension will be more expensive than a rear extension, but you obviously get a much bigger space as a result, and the value per square metre is much better.

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Extension rules might vary from council to council: some local Governments allow wraparound extensions, for example, but only under certain conditions. The requirement is often to have a reduced wall height against the boundary wall, so it is an ideal choice if you own a terraced property with a side return space. It’s often useful to look at what other properties on your street have done.

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Regulations tend to be more flexible, and you can often apply under either permitted development or prior approval – which can be a much simpler process. So, I would say, if you don’t have an existing outrigger, consider a rear extension.

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I-BUILD - RE F U R B I S H M E N T & RE N O V AT I O N PLUS ROOMS

one is decommissioned, so include this in your budget. If you’re working from home, consider where you will have your working space to minimise disruption.

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Your garden is really important when it comes to calculating the value of your home, so over-extending can be counterproductive when it comes to selling your property. Be mindful of the garden space you currently have and make sure that a certain proportion of it is retained post-extension. If possible, try to incorporate unused side areas into a side return. This will allow you to maximise your ground floor area without affecting the view and feel of your garden.

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A wraparound extension is the best choice for open plans because you end up with more space overall.

The room will also be better proportioned, making it easier to fit a kitchen/dining/ living space into the area.

On the other hand, a rear extension extending onto the outrigger can allow you to make more of the space in your side return. We find that it is a dead space for a lot of

clients, so it can be a way to make more productive use of that area and help you make the most of your garden.

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Adding an extension can attract more traffic to the rear of your property, and if this is not anticipated, it might affect your new space. To help with this, at Plus Rooms, we try to cut some of the traffic flow by targeting it to specific paths. Blocking up part of the opening into the rear reception, for example, can be an efficient way of doing this and gives the space the best chance of working in its own right.

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Depending on the type of extension you choose, your daily life can be affected by the works, and that is something you will need to anticipate. Setting up a temporary kitchen in another room will probably be required when the original

It’s always best to work in sealed areas to live comfortably in the remaining parts of the house during the building works. This is especially important in winter. At Plus Rooms, we typically build our extensions first, ensure they are weathertight, and then connect them to the main house, so there is no disruption to the areas you live in.

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A lot of glazing on the back of a southfacing property will create a greenhouse effect, whereas a north-facing house will have to be heated a lot more if it has excessive glazing. Building Regulations now require a lot of insulation from both the structural and glazing point of view, but it’s key to get the right balance of structure and glass.

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A new extension is often an opportunity to create a different atmosphere and a ‘stand out’ space within your home. Still, you need to consider how the new area will connect with the original parts and rooms of the existing property.

Some people have a classic home internally, but they step away from this idea when they complete their rear ground-floor extension, and this creates a nice modern and traditional style fusion. Choosing the same flooring, cornicing or wall colours throughout the whole floor can also provide a certain amount of consistency so that it’s not too jarring and can just help bring the different areas of the home together.

www.plusrooms.com

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I-NTERIOR LAZ E NBY

Installation is relatively quick, taking as little as three days. The floor is then left to cure for a minimum of 28 days, protected from the rest of the building works. At the end of the project, there is one further day to clean, polish and seal the floor.

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While it has long been associated with commercial projects, polished concrete has become increasingly popular in residential properties. From complementing a contemporary selfbuild to adding a modern twist to traditional renovations, polished concrete is a long-lasting and stylish design solution. Here, the experts from decorative concrete specialist Lazenby reveal the key things to consider when deciding if this iconic surface is right for you.

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Polished concrete flooring is the perfect option for new builds, extensions and large-scale renovations. You only get one opportunity for a perfect finish with concrete, so preparation and research are integral to that perfect first-time fit.

In many respects, polished concrete is a one-stop shop, eliminating the need for screed and tiles. The concrete is installed at 100mm deep. It needs to be installed earlier than you might anticipate: before stud walls are in place and before wall build-out and plastering have commenced. This helps to ensure the best possible finish around the edges.

We recommend that external windows and doors are fitted before the installation of your polished concrete floor, but this isn’t essential. However, if doors are installed after the floor, it’s vital that a shutter is fitted to the finished floor level and that all openings are adequately weatherproofed.

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If grey comes to mind when you think of concrete, you’re not wrong. Grey interiors have been cemented among the chicest neutral shades: on-trend and timeless. But polished concrete also comes in a range of bright and bold or mellow and muted colours.

Lighter shades, like cream, feel fresh and inviting with dazzling light-reflecting properties.

Darker shades are luxurious and evocative, adding drama to any space. For an organic, earthy quality, browns and greens are a classic choice, and, if you’re feeling adventurous, pink is an increasingly popular option.

Your chosen shade is applied to the concrete surface and power floated to create an entirely unique cloudy texture with a mottled effect. If you prefer, the surface can be diamond polished to expose the stones within the concrete.

Floors can be sealed in either a matte, satin or gloss finish. With a special textured option for exterior surfaces, polished concrete can also be used to create a space that flows effortlessly from home to garden.

With endless bespoke colours and finishes, concrete is the ideal medium to get creative.

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Concrete is one of the most durable surfaces on earth, so it’s no surprise that polished concrete floors are low maintenance. If a quick sweep doesn’t do the trick, a PH-neutral cleaner certainly will. It’s important to avoid using aggressive bleach-based cleaners that can strip the sealant.

I-NTERIOR - S C R E D S & F L O R C O V E R I N G S LAZ E NBY

Like all hard surfaces, concrete can crack or scratch. An expertly-laid polished concrete floor will have crack control joints placed approximately every 5m to limit the risk. These joints are seamlessly filled with complementary coloured mastic. Natural wear can add to the unique aesthetic of polished concrete, but if you want to maintain a perfect finish, repairs can be done.

The colour of your floor is as durable as the concrete itself and should never change. In commercial settings, the sealer may dull slightly (and can be re-sealed), but most residential homes will never need re-sealing.

Your contractor will be able to advise you on how best to care for your floor.

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Far from the negative connotations of the concrete jungle, this misunderstood surface is actually sustainable. The main raw material in concrete is limestone, the most abundant mineral on earth. Many specialists now even use recycled cement and thinner floor designs.

Concrete has amazing thermal properties and is a great conductor of heat, making it extremely energy efficient. It’s the perfect partner to underfloor heating and can be laid directly over the pipes. Impressive heat-retaining properties mean that concrete uses less energy in the long term than comparable building materials.

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With no set price for polished concrete, it all depends on the individual project requirements.

A common misconception is that decorative concrete is a more expensive option. Although initial costs can appear higher, as concrete incorporates everything needed, it can often work out cheaper once the overall price of alternatives (including screed, adhesive, tiles and a tiler) has been factored in.

Generally, the greater the area, the cheaper the price per square metre. Prices typically start from around £100 per square metre for larger spaces.

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If you think polished concrete might be your forever floor, here are a few things to consider along the way: Check with a specialist whether your renovation project is suitable for a concrete installation. For example, a kitchen renovation where the units are not being removed wouldn’t be an ideal candidate.

Unlike resin or tiles, a polished concrete floor is bespoke, and hand-laid – small cracks and imperfections are natural and give your floor character Picked your perfect finish? Concrete is no more slippery than wood, and much of that surface texture will be determined by your sealer.

However, in external environments, opt for a textured finish to adhere to safety standards.

Are you working with a sustainable supplier?

Experts in decorative concrete know how to source raw materials locally to keep the carbon footprint to a minimum.

And finally, we know it’s tempting to try out your new underfloor heating, but when it’s first used, bring the temperature up slowly. This reduces the risk of cracking and preserves that perfect finish while keeping your toes nice and toasty.

www.lazenby.co.uk

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I-SCAPE HARTLEY BOTANIC

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If you’re thinking about purchasing a glasshouse or greenhouse for the first time but you don’t know where to start, Hartley Botanic has provided answers to some of the most common questions asked by new customers.

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Envisaging how you would like to use and enjoy your greenhouse is a valuable consideration in deciding upon a design and final size. There are many ways a greenhouse can bring your gardening potential alive and expand the way you utilise your garden as an outdoor space. Perhaps you want your greenhouse to fulfil a dual purpose: to be a very practical tool for growing your own food and an alfresco room where you can sit amongst your plants? For this, a structure that allows for a generous seating area with a view of key staging areas could be a consideration. Or perhaps it will enable you to indulge a passion for alpines, and being able to admire them from the outside is as important as growing them.

Or maybe you want to grow fresh flowers for your property and are interested in blurring the divide between your living rooms and your garden? For this, consider an abutting greenhouse that’s accessible from within your home.

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Your greenhouse needs access to as much sunlight as possible during all seasons of the year, so positioning is an important consideration. Avoid locating your greenhouse in the shadow of tall trees, boundary fences or walls, as these will obstruct light.

For lean-to greenhouses placed against a wall, a south-facing position is ideal. For standalone structures, the ridge along the top of the greenhouse should ideally run from east to west, allowing the sun to run along its longest side during the day. Other elemental considerations include a location to catch prevailing winds for ventilation purposes and choosing a site that is not shaded but equally not too exposed to the cold.

Site your greenhouse near electricity (if utilising) and water supply, and on fertile soil, if you want to install growing beds.

It is also essential to consider how the structure will fit aesthetically into your landscaping as a whole.

Your greenhouse needs to find a natural place within your existing garden rather than dominate it.

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Planning consent is not always needed for greenhouses or glasshouses that are intended solely for domestic use. However, there are many and varied circumstances where planning permission will be required, such as for Grade I, II or Listed properties or areas of outstanding natural beauty. You may also need permission if the greenhouse is disproportionately large in relation to your existing property. As instances will vary so much from customer to customer, we recommend you check this with your local planning authority.

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Lean-to and abutting greenhouses can provide clever, neat and stylish design solutions that effectively use smaller outdoor spaces or give direct access to your greenhouse through your property.

Lean-to greenhouses are placed along south-facing or well-lit walls and work well in both walled gardens and against a property’s external wall. They are ideal for compact garden areas.

With their roof pitch highest next to the adjoining wall,

I-SCAPE - G R E N H O U S E S HARTLEY BOTANIC

lean-to designs provide ideal spaces to grow fruit trees and ornamentals which benefit from being trained, such as Pelargonium and Bougainvillea.

Abutting greenhouses and glasshouses are typically attached to a building by their side. Attaching a greenhouse to the side of your property can create beautiful architectural interest and a contemporary look. This is especially true if selecting stone for the greenhouses’ dwarf wall, which mirrors that of the property itself.

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Watering is arguably the most important daily task in the routine of owning a greenhouse, so easy access to a mains water supply is a must, especially during dry seasons. There are automatic watering systems available for greenhouse owners. Still, for domestic structures, these are not always necessary and lack the intuition and personal touch of a gardener, able to tailor watering according to each plants’ needs. We recommend that greenhouse owners use sustainable water sources, using water butts to collect rainwater and ‘grey’ water recycled from baths or sinks.

This will save on the amount of water you need to use without negatively impacting your plants – unless they include

bleach, caustic materials or artificially-softened water (as found in dishwashers and washing machines).

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One of the most common reasons for plant failure in greenhouses is due to insufficient ventilation. Ventilation is maximised and prioritised for Hartley Botanic customers, with the number and position of vents being determined according to the specific needs of each bespoke structure.

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Running an electricity supply directly to your greenhouse is not essential, but it can certainly make your life easier and your greenhouse more efficient.

Both heat and light are wonderful ingredients for your flourishing plants and can be exploited further if available in all seasons and at all times of day or night. For instance, we offer stylish Hartley lights that can be powder coated to exactly match your greenhouse finish or are available in polished metal. What’s more, fan heaters are very efficient at circulating heat, even in medium and large structures.

For heating extremely large structures, electricity isn’t necessarily required – a hot water pipe system with a boiler

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powered by gas or oil is the norm. Thermostats for this system should be located at plant height near the centre of the greenhouse, where they will not be influenced by drafts or sidewall cooling and protected from direct contact with sunlight and water.

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This really depends on the type of greenhouse or glasshouse you would like, its size and scope. When considering the size of your greenhouse or glasshouse, weighed against its potential cost, it is essential to consider how long you are likely to be using it as a growing space and how your needs may change over time. With a Hartley Botanic Greenhouse, for example, you are guaranteed to be investing in a structure that will last for at least 30 years.

Many of our greenhouses and glasshouses last much longer - some of our early structures from the 1950s are still standing and in full use (such as the Hartley Botanic Greenhouse at Belgrave Hall, installed in 1950 and the Glasshouse in Glasgow Botanical Gardens installed in 1988).

Clearly, if you’re considering a larger structure, final budget considerations should include potential heating and lighting costs.

www.hartley-botanic.co.uk I B U I L Dm M AYm**

LNEW E G AS L & BU S I N ES S S H OW P R E V I E W : BU I L D I T L I V E | 1 - 1 2 T H J U N E 2 0 2

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visit to ‘Build It Live’ can help with managing a self-build or renovation project and provide inspiration for those looking to increase space or create new areas which are more suitable to the current trend of homeworking and leisure pursuits.

The exhibitions showcase all the latest innovations and allow visitors to experience new technology first hand. There will be dozens of daily, free demonstrations, seminars and workshops, including eco-friendly construction techniques and how to secure a plot for your build. You can also book free advice clinics with Build It’s experts who can answer your questions about your own self-build, renovation or extension project.

Build It Live is organised by Build It Magazine, and the Bicester show takes

place in association with Graven Hill – the UK’s first large-scale, self-build project with over 1000 self-build plots.

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Ask Our Experts Experts from Build It Magazine will be on hand all weekend, giving free impartial guidance on any part of your self-build, renovation or home extension. Don’t miss your chance to tap into the knowledge and experience of expert professional planners, architects, project managers, sustainability specialists and more. Their independent advice could save you thousands on consultancy fees. So, bring your plans, ideas and questions along and get to the show early to book your one-onone appointment.

Extensions Clinic Find the answers you need to make the most of your budget and add space, value and the ‘wow’ factor to your home at our dedicated Extensions Clinic. From planning permission through to design ideas, specification decisions and getting real value for money, an expert team of architectural specialists will be on hand to guide you through the process and help you identify the best ways to achieve your goals.

Heating Advice Clinic Our Heating Advice Clinic helps you decide on the best heating system for your home. Do gas boilers still make sense? Are heat pumps lowcarbon? Can woodburning stoves be eco-friendly? Get the answers to all these questions and more.

The Naked House Our first-fix, cut-away home is inspired by the choices made for Build It’s Self Build Education House.

From ICF blockwork to roofing, floor joists, windows and more, the Naked House gives you unrivalled insight into what it takes to build your own home.

Basement Advice Clinic Building a basement is a costeffective way to create high-quality space without eating up prized garden space – not to mention beat the planners. Yet it’s all too often overlooked in the UK. Head to our Basement Advice Clinic for impartial advice on what you need to know to build, extend or convert a basement successfully.

Build Cost Clinic Want to get to grips with budgeting for your project? Then head to the Build Cost Clinic to book an initial consultation with a qualified, experienced estimator who can help you better understand how much it will cost to turn your plans into the home of your dreams. Their advice will help you focus your design and specification choices, better understand builders’ quotes and could even save you money.

w.builditlive.co.uk

I B U I L Dm M AYm**

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DIRECT FROM THE M A N U FA C T U R E R DOUBLE GLAZED FIXED F L AT R O O F L I G H T S Our Fixed Flat double glazed rooflights provide a top quality spec at a great price.

Quick and easy to install, full aluminium, marine grade powder coated, easy clean glass and 20 year unit seal warranty all as standard.

Same day collection or delivered to site in 48 hours* *subject to availability and location

F I X I T, F L A S H I T, FORGET IT To get a quote call us today on

0116 214 5797 visit our website

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Unbeatable Quality at Unbeatable Prices GARAGES • EXTENSIONS • GARDEN ROOMS & ORANGERIES • LEISURE BUILDINGS & POOL ENCLOSURES • STABLING

www.ehbp.com 01424 838643

Celebrating 30 years of British Craftsmanship

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nglish Heritage Buildings started with one man’s fascination with restoring oak frames in the late 70s; leading to the formation of our company and the manufacture of new oak frame buildings in 1990. This ignited a British revival in oak framing and since then we have led the way in oak frame manufacture.

With our dedication to continued improvement in both product quality and the service we provide, we became the first - and still the only - oak frame

manufacturer to achieve Q-Mark certification from BM TRADA. Our Green Oak Building System BSYS-006 is also recognised as a NHBC accepted MMC system.

With our vast experience and understanding of oak framing - carpentry, technical details, weathering and structural requirements - we have been producing oak frame buildings for three decades. From garages to extensions, garden rooms, leisure buildings and stabling, each building is tailored and

designed to your own specification and exclusively manufactured here in the UK. We deliver both across the country and export around the world.

By coupling traditional English craftsmanship with modern manufacturing techniques, we will transform your dream project into a reality. Our precision, attention to detail and unparalleled quality sets us apart from the competition, leaving you with a beautiful and timeless addition to your home.

Recognised as a NHBC MMC accepted building system

Only oak frame company to achieve Q-Mark certification verified by BM TRADA

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LEGAL & BUSINESS PRODUCT GUIDE ADVERTORIAL: OSMO

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The foundation of Osmo wood finishes is based upon purified and refined natural resources, which are carefully harvested into natural oils and hard waxes.

Osmo products contain natural vegetable oils to help nourish the wood and retain flexibility.

Depending on the product, they might include linseed oil, sunflower oil, soybean oil as well as thistle oil. The interior range of hard wax oil products also contains natural plant waxes – carnauba wax and candelilla wax – offering wear resistance and repellency. Furthermore, Osmo’s extensively-cleaned pigments have been approved for use in the food industry.

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Choosing the right sustainable wood finish Consumers today are more conscious than ever about the sustainability ce r dentials )f Qe BE)dVcQI Qeq bVq a"d VIeM eEe I a c eaE QEe"d f)E IkQc "g Q) !)Ee IVIQa"ab e a"d e"jE)"!e"Qaq fEe"d q BE)dVcQIM aQI kq I) !a"q Be)Be QVE" Q) OI!) ke" ))"g f)E a k))d S"I N aI QI ")Q )"q g HVaQqN dVEab e a"d eaIq Q) !a"Qa" bVQ aI) !ade fE)! IVIQa"ab e "gEed e"QIM

Osmo’s mission is to preserve the natural beauty and durability of wood with only the highest quality and environmentallyfriendly products. Products made from wood – from flooring to furniture – are made from organic matter, so they will continue to need nourishment to ensure the product stays in the best possible condition, both aesthetically and structurally.

Osmo’s advice is to make use of a high-quality finish full of natural ingredients to complement the wood’s properties. This will ensure that the wood continues to breathe and respond well to environmental conditions, removing any possibility of cracking and blistering.

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Osmo supports sustainable forestry and works diligently to ensure that the origin of timbers used can be proven. To help improve, and with natural resources in mind, Osmo has taken on the high standard of FSC certification for certain products.

In choosing an Osmo product, you can be reassured that the product is not just good for wood but good for the environment too.

For more information on Osmo and its range of environmentally-friendly and sustainable products and finishes, visit the website below. www.osmouk.com 01296 481220 info@osmouk.​com

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PRODUCT GUIDE ADVERTORIAL: CR LAURENCE | ELISA | KELLER KITCHENS

Matte black shower hardware makes an impression

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lternative finishes to chrome are a big interior design trend, and matte black hardware from CR Laurence offers a stylishly-sophisticated option for the modern bathroom. Giving greater creative freedom in the choice of shower hardware, the matte black finish from CRL achieves a minimal look, blending seamlessly into the overall design of any space. As the Art Deco-inspired look for frame design showers gathers pace in 2022 and beyond, CRL offers the hardware solutions needed to embrace this latest bathroom fashion too.

CRL’s EUFB19MBL Flat Bar, for example, is a strip of metal that can be easily installed on glass shower frames to create the stunning effect. The metal-framed glazing gives the bathroom a contemporary feel, adding a hint of industrial style by taking a standard clear glass shower enclosure or screen and adding www.crlaurence.co.uk this important 01706 863600 detail with ease. crl@crlaurence.co.uk

Sustainable kitchens In t h i s a r t i c l e , Ke l e r a n s w e r s y o u r questions on su tainable kitchens.

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The first step is to select a carbon-neutral – or better, carbon-negative – manufacturer, like Keller, where there are no restrictions on achieving a truly sustainable kitchen as the entire manufacturing process is fully sustainable. There are other considerations too. An example is good storage planning. For example, you can use storage space for reusable storage vessels to bulk buy some food stuffs and household goods, drastically reducing the need for single-use plastics and other packaging materials.

Elisa premium shower brand launches in the UK

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lisa, a new premium bathroom brand, has launched in the UK. First to be unveiled in the collection is a range of heritage-style mixer showers and smart digital showers, designed for homeowners seeking a contemporary and personalised showering experience. Smart shower technology enhances owners’ wellbeing through its personalisation settings while providing greater visibility of water usage for a more sustainable lifestyle.

Sophisticated, stylish and intelligently designed, Intuition and Incite smart digital showers offer an exceptional showering experience for the entire family. With the accompanying ShowerMe Smart App, every household member can create their own personal profile for a fullytailored shower routine that meets their exact needs.

Users also enjoy the luxury of voice control through their existing smart home system, thanks to seamless connectivity with Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa.

Elisa smart digital showers can be started remotely from anywhere over Wi-Fi, with the reassurance that the water is at the precisely desired temperature at www.elisabathrooms.com all times.

01959 560003 enquiries@elisabathrooms.com

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The entire range is devised around being a carbonneutral producer of the best-quality kitchen furniture whilst providing the best value with true Dutch differentiation in terms of service and creativity. The longevity of a kitchen with particular reference to the finishes can be determined by the choices made at the outset.

For example, we would best advise a family with younger children to consider materials such as melamine and FENIX rather than veneers or lacquered fronts, given the potential demands and possibility of damage.

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Keller has been a carbon-neutral manufacturer for over five years. It is enshrined within the corporate social responsibility ethos. In 2021, the next step – to be a carbon-negative manufacturer – was taken. This initiative extracts 150 tonnes of carbon from the air over a five-year period that will be put to good use in agricultural soils; the 150 tonnes is the equivalent carbon output of a normal kitchen manufacturer making 70,000 kitchens. www.kellerkitchens.com

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info@kellerkitchens.com

I B U I L Dm M AYm**

LEGAL & BUSINESS PRODUCT GUIDE ADVERTORIAL: CEDRAL

development’s traditional masonry and rendered dwellings. Read more on Cedral’s website and order a free sample of cladding.

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Cedral: supplying the industry for decades with cladding and roofing slates

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our nearest Cedral supplier is fully stocked with a range of high-quality products. Simply enter your postcode in the company’s handy locator tool to find your closest stockist and place your order.

Visit the website to browse Cedral’s projects for facades and roofs. With local advisors across the UK and dedicated customer service and technical advisory departments, its team is on hand to guide you through every stage of work.

Learn how the brand’s trade customers are using Cedral’s products for stylish developments and new builds below.

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Cedral facades were chosen to create striking and inspirational new homes at the Beaulieu development in Chelmsford. Cedral Lap Boards in various colours created a New England look, which integrated perfectly with the

When it comes to finishing a high-spec project, it’s vital to get the details right.

Stylish apartments, The Cedars in Malvern, were designed to a very specific brief. The development needed a high-grade finish, so Cedral Rivendale in ‘Blue-Black’ was chosen.

Read more on Cedral’s website and order a free sample of slates.

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Fibre cement is a strong, versatile, durable material that is lightweight, easy to work with, and manufactured to withstand nature’s harshest conditions. It doesn’t rot, rust, warp or crack and is frost-, mould- and water-resistant, with an excellent fire performance classification of A2-s1, d0.

Long lasting and tough, Cedral products have a minimum life expectancy of 50 years Cladding planks can be mounted vertically or horizontally and are available in a choice of 21 factory-applied colours, two wood stains and a choice of woodgrain or smooth finishes that will stay colour-true for years.

Slates come in a range of beautiful colours and styles, making them exceptionally architecturally versatile.

With easy-cut planks and colour-matched trims, Cedral cladding offers the durability and resilience of cement in a lighter alternative for fast installation. Cedral slates can be placed on lighter trusses or frames without any additional reinforcement and work on low-pitch options down to 20°. www.cedral.world 01283 501555 infouk@etexgroup.com

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➔ Onyx Avanti Electric

Ideal for media walls and TV installations, the Avanti is a designer electric fire that provides dramatic flame effects, lifelike logs, plus app controllability. Available in a host of inset and multi-sided sizes, this fire is not only a centrepiece, but also an immersive mood-enhancing fireside experience. onyxfires.com

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Designer Fires for Maximum Impact

Looking for the perfect centrepiece for a luxurious living space? Here are five designer fires from the Stovax Heating Group that bring the ultimate wow-factor.

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➔ Onyx Liv 3

Stovax Studio Air

This luxury woodburning fire range brings industrial-chic styling, with its contemporary landscape format and wide viewing window.

Available as both freestanding and inset models, the Studio Air offers not only an Ecodesign burn, but also a wealth of installation options. stovax.com

The Liv 3 is a sophisticated, Nordic-inspired gas stove, with stunningly realistic flames and log effects.

Adding poise and allure to any interior, these elegant stoves create a contemporary centrepiece in your home. onyxfires.com

Nordpeis ME

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With its cutting-edge design, the Nordpeis ME woodburner breaks the mould whilst also offering high-performance heat. This award-winning log burner comes in pedestal and bench-mounted, wall-mounted and even ceiling-hung versions – the ultimate in modern inspiration. nordpeis.co.uk

Gazco Reflex 105 Multi-Sided ➔ Reflex 105 Multi-Sided gas fires provide stunning visuals that can be experienced from almost any angle. These stunning gas fires can be upgraded with WiFi connectivity, allowing you complete control over your fire via your phone or tablet – whether you want tall flowing flames, or a gentle glow. gazco.com

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I B U I L Dm M AYm**

The new Ultimate 2

In hindsight we wouldn’t have called it the Ultimate.

Because we just made it better.

High Heat Output ‘Screed heat diffuser’ improves contact with the pipe, which has a higher heat output and faster warm up than typical low build-up castellated screed systems, as well as minimising thermal striping.

Ultimate 2 High Performance Panel

Impressively thin 18mm highcompressive strength insulation provides an excellent substrate for the 9mm thin levelling screed, giving an overall system height of just 27mm – including insulation.

One panel Unique pattern minimises hand-routing and eliminates the need for separate ‘straight’ and ‘loop’ panels.

Generic Low Build Up Screeded Panel

Peel & Stick 50% faster to install with our self adhesive panel. Simply peel and stick to the subfloor and pour the levelling screed over.

Pre-Primed Pre-primed at the factory to save you time and cost.

Got a project in mind?

Call 01392 36 36 05 or visit omnie.co.uk

I B U I L Dm M AYm**

MADE IN GREAT BRITAIN

© OMNIE Limited 2021. All information correct at time of publication. Product information and performance characteristics are subject to change without notice. Please see omnie.co.uk for the latest information or contact your local representative.

OMNIE Limited, Unit 18, Apple Lane, Exeter, EX2 5GL 01392 36 36 05 customer.service@omnie.co.uk www.omnie.co.uk LowBoard®, TorFloor® and OMNIE® and the OMNIE logo are registered trademarks.

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