A fusion of styles: Combining traditional and modern elements
Robert Linforth took on a major renovation project to create his dream holiday home. In this Q&A, he shares insights into his decision to pursue the project, his vision for the new home, the challenges he faced during the planning and construction stages and his approach to material and product specification.
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What inspired you to take on this project?
I was enjoying life in my property on a new housing development and had contemplated having an extension. After a few conversations with family members, we came to the decision that it would be better to invest in a new property that would offer more scope to add value and also enable me to have a better quality of life.
Have you always wanted to pursue your own project?
Y es. I think most people have the idea that one day they would like the opportunity to build their own home.
How and why did you choose this property to renovate?
I chose a property close to the area I lived in to make the project easier and more accessible, but also because I am familiar with it.
T here are ample amenities nearby, as well as pubs and restaurants, accessible on foot. There is also woodland behind the house, which is lovely for walks. Further afield, there are plenty of natural beauty spots, as well as day trips to places such as Cadbury World, Drayton Manor theme park and Warwick Racecourse.
I found the property through Rightmove and, after viewing it, felt the property was full of potential, so I wasted no time submitting my offer.
What style and age is the original building?
It was a mixed bag – what was left of the original property dated back to the early 1900s, but then the property had been extended through the 1980s. I had intended to restore the home but then decided to take a different approach.
How did you combine the original building’s style with the extension?
A fter careful consideration, I decided the original property was not in a state I could renovate, so I decided to demolish and rebuild the property to a custom specification. This would allow me to create a property with all the envisioned elements and it would become a truly unique experience.
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What was the vision and inspiration behind your new home?
I have always wanted a modern home balanced with traditional layouts. I wanted to create a space that would give my family and me a comfortable living area to relax and spend time together, as well as being somewhere I could entertain and accommodate friends. I also wanted to make the most of the surroundings.
How did you approach finalising your design brief?
I had a clear idea of how I wanted the layout of the house and the space to work, which I could draw out the old-fashioned way on paper. I passed this on and discussed my ideas with an architect, who then went away to create a finalised version of the brief.
How long did it take to gain planning permission?
G aining planning permission for this project was quite complicated. We applied to demolish the existing property and build the new house, which came with complications as the original property was located
on greenbelt land, so size and position were key to getting plans approved.
A fter we had the original plans approved, I decided to extend the property down – I have always wanted a house with a basement, so I decided to resubmit the application to include this addition.
G iven the size of the plot, I also thought an indoor pool would be great. I did contemplate adding this to the basement design but decided that a separate building would work better.
I submitted plans under the permitted development to build a pool room and gym area. The whole process, from start to finish, took around two years.
Were there any challenging aspects to the project and build?
T he majority of challenges came through the planning stage. There were many different hurdles, different surveys and investigation reports. These elements can come at a high price, and often these costs don’t get spoken about, but they could easily add between 3 and 5% to your overall budget.
T he next challenge we faced was finding quality tradespeople and builders, which could potentially have come down to timing or location, or simply the challenges within the construction industry at that moment.
O ne thing became very clear during this process; when building a house, there are daily challenges, but you learn to find ways to manage these as best you can and overcome them.
Did you project manage the build yourself?
Yes, and it’s not a decision to take lightly. You have to put your heart and soul into it. It’s incredibly rewarding to take ownership and feel a sense of accomplishment when it’s complete. But there is nowhere to hide during the process or anyone to blame – everything is in your hands.
Did you work with an architect at any point in the process?
Yes. The planning process is a minefield, so you need experts to guide you. It’s also necessary to get the drawings, plans and calculations accurate, so you can be confident in what you are issuing to the trades so they can clearly understand the requirements. Having all the correct documentation at the start makes things easier through development.
How did you approach material and product specifications?
It’s a fine balance between quality and budget. I started looking at design well before the planning stage. I must have visited every homebuilding show for three years. I could have filled a room with product literature and samples. It’s essential to have a clear idea of design.
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I also produced mood boards for each room to help with this process; this has a huge impact on choosing product specifications and then the material purchases and costs.
Are there any particular materials you recommend to others looking to renovate or self-build?
Material choice is very personal to your build. That said, the key is whatever materials you choose, make sure they are fit for purpose. Do your research and due diligence, as choosing the wrong materials can be very costly in the long run.
How long did the project take?
The main house was started in late 2016, and we finished and moved in, in December 2018. It probably ran over by about two months. We were still working on the property, but it was livable, so we could enjoy Christmas dinner.
I knew the project would not be completed on time due to budget constraints. The basement fit-out, pool room and landscaping were completed by late 2021. So, a five-year process in total.
Did you remain within the original budget?
I had a budget with costs, but I firmly believe anyone who says they stick to it is not telling the truth! Budgeting was a daily job. Prices changed both up and down throughout the project. I knew what the end value of the property would be, so I approached this with the idea I could not exceed this figure, and I didn’t.
Please provide an overview of both the interior and exterior finished space. There are electric gates at the entrance of the property and off-road parking space for up to 12 cars. The gates make it secure for pets and children to roam freely.
The property is set out over three floors, with the entertainment area on the lower ground floor. Here, you’ll find a movie room with comfy cinema-style seating for nine, a huge screen and a fully-immersive sound system. There’s also a games room with sofa seating, a pool table, an electronic pinball machine, a smart TV with Netflix and BT package, a PlayStation with DVD player and a bar area.
The main living area on the ground floor is designed for socialising. In the lounge, there’s seating for everyone to gather and watch TV. Meanwhile, the open-plan kitchen and dining room, like the rest of the house, are sleek and stylish. There’s everything you could need to cook and entertain with special touches, such as a steam oven and a warming drawer, as well as a tap that provides filtered and instant boiling water, plus another smart TV.
As well as a dining table that overlooks the garden, there’s sofa seating and a kitchen island with a breakfast bar. We’ve added features such as a wireless phone charge, USB plugs, a knife holder and an extractor fan that pops out of the worktop.
Large sliding patio doors lead from the dining room onto the rear garden and the patio, which is furnished with a gazebo, table
and chairs so that you can dine and admire the views of the woodlands at the back of the house. There’s also a gas BBQ, a wood-fired pizza oven and a gas fire pit.
In a separate building in the garden, there’s a mini leisure complex that you’ll have all to yourselves, with an indoor swimming pool, sauna and a gym area with a smart TV. In partnership with Luxury Cottages, guests can ask its guest services team about pre-booking spa treatments there as well.
The house has four bedrooms, with an additional two multipurpose rooms on the lower-ground level that
can cater for a double bed, which can also be split into two singles, and they share an en-suite shower room. The other four bedrooms are on the first floor, one with a king-size bed and the other three with double beds. These all have en-suites with a shower, but two also have a bath. All but one of the bedrooms has a TV.
How does the building respond to its surrounding landscape?
I’m biased, but I think the building fits into its surroundings very well. I took this into account during the design stage. Position and location were key to the design.
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What does the local community think of the refurbishment?
I would say, on the whole, it’s been accepted in a positive light by the local community. You will always get some kind of negative attitude from some people, but generally people have been very supportive of the build.
Is the finished space everything that you hoped it would be?
Oh yes, and more! I couldn’t be happier with the overall finish. It has fulfilled the type of home I wanted for my family and me, and seeing it come to life was an amazing experience.
What do you love most about your new home?
It’s really hard to say one thing. I suppose just living in it and enjoying it, making lots of new memories. There are so many things I love about the house. The feeling of space and not having to live on top of each other enables us to have the quality of life we were hoping for.
What’s your favourite room and why?
I love all the rooms. The house really flows well. The cinema room was an extravagance, and I’m proud to say it’s as good as going to the cinema, so that would probably be my favourite.
Is there anything that you would have done differently?
As with all major projects, there are always lessons to be learnt. If I were to do it again, there are certainly things I would do differently – not necessarily because what I did was wrong, but to take an alternative approach. The one thing I would look at differently is the outside. I would have used lighter cladding as opposed to render. I actually replaced the render on the walls around the house with cladding, which helps keep the maintenance down. Technology is forever changing, so there will always be alternative products available.
Would you do the whole thing again?
The honest answer is yes, it was very stressful but, at the same time, very rewarding.
What advice would you offer to anyone looking to renovate or self-build?
Plan, plan and plan again and double check everything that is being done at each stage. I’d also strongly advise getting a good team around you – work with the local planning department and building control and then just enjoy every moment.
www.luxurycottages.com
Woodland House in Belbroughton, Worcestershire, is available for getaways. With six bedrooms and five bathrooms, the dog-friendly holiday home has space for 12 guests, from £786 per night. Visit Luxury Cottages’ website for more information.
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"It’s incredibly rewarding to take ownership and feel a sense of accomplishment when it’s complete. But there is nowhere to hide during the process or anyone to blame – everything is in your hands."
Going green: The top renewable tech for your renovation project
Jordan Brompton, Co-Founder and CMO of myenergi, discusses the best renewable technologies for your home renovation project and explains how maximising self-consumption can help to shorten payback periods.
According to statistics from money.co.uk, the popularity of home renovations continues to rise1. More than three quarters of homeowners (77%) invested in improving their property in 2021 alone, with total spending increasing by some 36% year on year2
To some extent, this trend has been driven by escalating national property prices, soaring inflation and rocketing mortgage rates, with many Brits delaying relocation ambitions and instead investing in perfecting their existing property. However, with energy prices also at their highest rates in decades, many others are taking the opportunity to invest in renewable energy generation solutions to protect against price volatility in the long term.
While renewable energy generation was previously seen as an expensive, novel solution for the wealthy few, significant investment and development have seen the market accelerate fast. Indeed, mainstream solutions have quite simply soared in popularity, with consumers eager to invest in the futureproof home energy tech of tomorrow.
But with so many options available, which is right for you? What’s more, with generation subsidies no longer a major part of the equation, how can you ensure that you’re making a savvy financial decision for the long term?
Energy, sustainability and renewables
W hen considering investing in renewables, it’s important to consider the numerous options available. Though most people want to save money, others will put a greater priority on cutting emissions and lowering their carbon footprint.
M ainstream generation solutions, such as solar PV, heat pumps and small-scale domestic wind turbines, are an excellent place to start –offering a simple way to offset reliance on the grid and take control of your energy spending. While many have the misconception that purchasing and installing hardware is expensive, this really doesn’t have to be the case.
I ndeed, according to Solar Together, a single solar panel can cost as little as £350. A typical 4kW system, which can be purchased and installed for less than £6000, will cover around 29m 2 of your roof and provide sufficient power for a family of four (for much of the time). With data from EDF suggesting that the average annual energy bill for a four-bed property currently sits at £1639 per year 3, the payback period of renewables is far shorter than many would have you believe.
But while installing renewable energy generation technology might, therefore, seem like a no brainer, it’s important to understand the limitations. While
free energy is a huge hook, the peaks and troughs of renewable generation are unpredictable. What’s more, most homeowners are out of the house during periods of high generation and use most energy during low periods. As such, it’s not unusual to see users exporting surplus energy to the grid and buying it back (at a far more expensive rate) when they need it most.
I n the past, this scenario has proven a barrier too high for most homeowners to overcome. But, thanks to significant developments in battery technology, as well as new innovations in self-consumption solutions, the picture is changing. At myenergi, we’re renowned for our innovative eco-smart product range, which has been designed to maximise the value of renewable energy generation technology and improve payback periods for homeowners.
W e’re best known for designing the market’s first eco-smart electric
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LIGHTING & ELECTRICALS RENEWABLE TECHNOLOGY
vehicle charging device – zappi – a futureproofed solution that, alongside operating as a mains-connected charging device, seamlessly integrates with renewable energy generation technologies to harness self-generated energy and allows users to charge their EV for free. In periods of low generation, zappi is able to automatically optimise around your energy tariff to enable charging at both cheaper and greener times from the grid.
A longside zappi, we also manufacture a wide range of other devices – such as eddi, a UK-leading solar power diverter, which diverts surplus renewable energy to domestic heating systems, and harvi, an energy monitoring wireless sensor that allows the zappi and eddi to be installed without wiring a direct CT clamp.
R ecently, we launched our stateof-the-art home battery solution – libbi. Like all myenergi products, libbi is eco-smart, making intelligent decisions about when it provides and stores electricity based on how much energy is being used, how much is generated from renewables and the customer’s electricity tariff. The hybrid battery system can adapt to a wide range of installation setups, accepting both solar and grid charging.
U nlike other home storage batteries, libbi will allow customers to prioritise loads as they wish within the myenergi app. This means that they can avoid the battery discharging automatically when they plug in their electric car, or conversely, charge their EV directly from their home battery when their zappi is in ECO+ mode.
Collectively, the myenergi ‘ecosystem’ helps users to embrace the future and minimise reliance on fossil fuels. We
see innovation as a key enabler in this journey – an opportunity to embrace the future. We want to equip households to make a difference, providing energy independence and leading-edge green energy technology. To that end, innovation is critical in delivering new technologies that can provide meaningful change. Our products have already disrupted a hugely competitive market, providing a fresh approach that drives rather than follows.
As society transitions towards net zero, our ambition is to make energy independence simple and achievable for everyone. The idea of smart, automated systems that use renewable energy to power and warm your home while recharging your zero-emission vehicle is a real game changer. However, it’s not a vision for the future; it’s available to us today.
When it comes to investing in renewables, it’s important to make the right choice for your energy
requirements. There is no silver bullet solution, but instead, a diverse range of options that can each protect against price volatility and reduce mains reliance.
While it’s easy to say that selfgeneration tech should become part and parcel of every home, it comes with a caveat. Renewable generation is key to avoiding costly price hikes and reducing reliance on the grid, but pioneering solutions to maximise self-consumption are the essential final piece of the jigsaw – helping homeowners to achieve complete energy independence.
www.myenergi.com
FOOTNOTES:
1https://www.money.co.uk/loans/renovation-nation
2https://www.insightdiy.co.uk/news/the-great-britishhome-renovation-of-2022/11266.htm
3https://www.edfenergy.com/for-home/energywise/ what-is-the-average-energy-bill-in-the-uk
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Bales to beauty: The stunning Hay Barn self-build project
The Hay Barn is a superb realisation of the Potts f amily’s selfbuild dream, delivered by Cambridge-based PiP Architects. With striking architecture and minimalist principles, the design is a stunning contemporary take on the local agricultural vernacular, which fits pleasingly into its rural surroundings.
The building is made up of two dramatic forms. The main two-storey, barn-style living accommodation is clad in black corrugated metal punctuated by simple aluminium-framed windows. The windows vary in dimension, creating a pleasing overall composition. Dramatic Corten features include an overhanging bay window and an L-shaped canopy porch over the front door.
Running adjacent to the main structure is a steeply-vaulted, openplan kitchen-living-dining space, timber clad with large openings that connect inside and outside spaces. Inside, the pitched ceiling is panelled with large tiles of plywood, with lighting running the length of the apex and under a surrounding plinth.
Owners Jodie and Dan Potts had always been interested in property but had no previous self-build experience. “We had watched every episode of Channel 4’s Grand Designs but would never have had the confidence to do it ourselves,” Jodie says. “We had never even renovated a property.”
But Jodie and Dan were inspired to begin their self-build journey by an unappealing property market. “We loved our previous home,” Jodie explains, “but we wanted more space.
We looked around various houses on the market, but beautiful architecture seems so rare to find. We quickly realised that to fulfil what we wanted, we would have to create it ourselves.”
The couple approached PiP Architects with a detailed brief heavily influenced by Jodie’s New Zealand heritage. “We love the low-key, pared-back look of New Zealand baches,” says Jodie. “A bach is a small holiday home, often a black corrugated metal hut with lots of interior plywood.”
The material palette, internally and externally, is strongly minimalist. Polished concrete floors sweep throughout the ground floor. Hand-made doors and bespoke fitted cupboards are made from bare plywood. Black detailing from the staircase handrail to the magnetic door catches stand out against simple white walls.
“It was also important to us to create separate spaces but without a feeling of disconnect,” adds Dan. “We both work from home. Jodie’s parents often come over from New Zealand for long stays. And we wanted a cosy family space as well as open-plan living. PiP Architects came up with three different designs and worked with us to create an overall flow through the house that really delivers what we wanted to achieve.”
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RURAL RETREAT
All images: ©Harrison Bunning Photography
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A huge amount of work has gone into achieving the simple lines of the Hay Barn. Guided by PiP Architects, Jodie and Dan were very involved in making design decisions, from the flush shower trays to statement light fittings. “With us both working full time, we couldn’t have managed the project ourselves, but it still felt very full on and intense. We asked lots of questions to understand what was going on. Not a day goes by that you’re not thinking about it,” Dan says.
T he Hay Barn was built on a plot that already had services connected and outline planning permission agreed. PiP Architects managed the design and technical aspects and supported Jodie and Dan with contract administration. The practice recommended MAN Construction, which was appointed as the main contractor.
“The strong relationship between us, the architect and the builder was really key to the project’s success,” Dan says. “Your personal relationship with your architect is so important. PiP was the right fit for us. They design quite edgy stuff, and we liked that they use more interesting materials. We trusted our architect to make good decisions, particularly on the technical aspects, and we felt in really safe hands. Small issues came up all the time, and PiP was able to figure out solutions to achieve a good outcome. I don’t think you can end up with a highquality finish without the support of an architect all the way through.”
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“A self-build can bring an architect a real opportunity to be creative,” says Kathryn Pedley, Architect and Associate Partner at PiP. “Every self-build is unique. The design will evolve depending on the client’s brief and the ambition that they bring. Most self-builders don’t come with a complete building in their head. We ask them to start by creating a mood board or Pinterest board, which are useful to help communicate ideas. Then it’s our job to turn these initial ideas into reality.”
Kathryn also emphasises the important influence that budget constraints have on a self-builder’s design aspirations. “From the outset, your budget is something that needs to be very clear,” she explains. “We guide our clients to spend on their design priorities and identify aspects where they can save. It is a bespoke process adapted to each client’s individual needs.”
A high-end finish was a priority for Dan and Jodie. “We wanted to spend the budget on something that was really good quality and architecturally interesting in design,” says Dan. “PiP advised us to shrink the bedroom dimensions by 10% and added the overhanging bay window to extend a sense of space from the bed. This made the savings we needed for more expensive detailing.”
Despite the pressures of the process, Jodie and Dan would take on a self-build again. “It was really nice to do something so creative,” Jodie says. “To dream up an idea and see that come to life is really amazing. I had this house pictured in my head in extreme detail for so long that I felt at home from the moment we moved in.” www.piparchitecture.co.uk
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The benefits of underfloor heating: Why it’s a must have for your home
A properly-installed underfloor heating system is categorically the most efficient heating delivery solution for the home as it runs perfectly on the lowest flow temperatures.
Fr om helping to save money to the minimal maintenance required, UFH is becoming increasingly popular for many reasons.
E very household in the country has been affected by price cap increases. For self-builders and homeowners
looking to optimise efficiency, many are researching more affordable and sustainable options to keep living costs down in years to come. Recent research from Rightmove, one of the UK’s largest online real estate portals, found that UFH was one of the top five features that have grown in popularity
by 114% 1. This rise in popularity is partly due to homeowners and self-builders desiring more energyefficient solutions at home driven by the green revolution over the last 10 years plus. More recently, this has been compounded by the increased time we spent at home during the pandemic, resulting in a desire to invest in our personal comfort while saving energy and money.
The ability to operate at low temperatures and, in turn, lower costs, is one of the strongest reasons to opt for a water-based UFH system, but the benefits don’t end there. There’s a whole raft of benefits that comes with switching to a UFH system.
Here, Tom Edmunds, General Manager for British heating expert Wunda Group, explains how the right UFH system can tackle rising energy costs and reduce our carbon footprint.
Better efficiency means savings on your energy bills
F irst and foremost, a major benefit and deciding factor in switching to a UFH system is efficiency. Which, in turn, leads to cost savings. On a technical level, UFH input temperatures can be as low as 40°C, using a lot less energy/fuel to heat a radiator that typically requires temperatures of 70 to 90°C. UFH also provides a much more even and comfortable spread of heat in the home versus radiators, which need to work harder to circulate around a room. Radiators are often hidden away behind curtains or sofas, blocking the heat.
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O pting for a wet-based system will have more energy- and cost-saving benefits than an electric system. For example, a WundaFloor UFH system will cost on average 60% less to run than electric floor heating.
Pared-back aesthetic
UFH allows you to keep the whole home at maximum comfort levels while retaining beautiful decor throughout. By removing radiators, you will gain up to 15% more useable floor space within a home. You are no longer bound by radiator positioning when styling a room’s layout, and you can furnish it with freedom. It’s an interior designer’s dream scenario.
Seamless operation
The firing up of the boiler, the rattle of pipes, bleeding radiators and the ongoing noise associated with heating are often amplified in larger, sprawling properties. UFH operates silently and out of sight and is tamper proof and child friendly with no hot surfaces.
Allergy-friendly heating
One of the lesser-known benefits of a UFH system is that it minimises the movement of dust. Radiators circulate air around a room that moves dust that we breathe in. This is why a UFH system is recommended for homes with asthma and allergy sufferers.
Simple installation
G one are the days when UFH would limit your choice of floor finishes. With a well-designed system, you can have any floor finish you desire. When it comes to installation, you no longer need to dig up your floors to bury a slow-response system beneath six inches of screed and cement. There are hassle-free dry-fix systems – such as WundaFloor – that are far quicker to install. They are laid directly on top of the existing or new
wooden or concrete floor and are strong enough to support any floor finish you desire. WundaFloor Premium boards are approved for tiling directly onto, without the need for extra supporting layers.
Installation of UFH can seem daunting, but with guided technical support, or the help of a professional, the system can be set up just right for your home.
W hat many might not realise is that the entire downstairs footprint of a three-bedroom home could be retrofitted over the course of a weekend with minimal disruption if you opt to simply move furniture to another room. Key to a successful install over a weekend is being aware of the planning and preparation work involved, such as lifting the old flooring before installation.
UFH can also work harmoniously in conjunction with radiators, meaning you can opt for a UFH system on the ground floor whilst keeping radiators on other floors to reduce installation costs.
Q uick to install and fit, a UFH system, such as WundaFloor, turns your whole floor into a rapid-response radiator of warmth. A system, such as Wunda’s, is fantastic for larger and older buildings as heat won’t travel down to old floorboards thanks to its aluminium and polystyrene boards with close pipe centers.
www.wundagroup.com
FOOTNOTE:
1Based on the number of agents advertising UFH as a key selling point
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HVAC
Using native plants for a sustainable garden
Sustainability is at the forefront of our minds in many aspects of life nowadays due to climate change and the need to look after our planet. Using less plastic and buying locally are general rules of thumb that we all live by, but how does sustainability work when it comes to gardening? Nick Hamilton, Owner of Barnsdale Gardens, shares his insights.
Th e shortage of salad and vegetables at supermarkets recently has highlighted the benefits of growing your own food at home. Apart from knowing that you will actually be able to get your hands on tomatoes if you plan on producing a ‘plotto-plate’ harvest, the health aspect of knowing that the sooner you eat your homegrown food, the higher the vitamin content and the better the taste is immeasurable. But how can we grow non-edibles sustainably?
P eat- and chemical-free gardening is the obvious way to garden whilst also being as kind as possible to the planet. Defra is now moving to
ban the sale of peat for use in the amateur gardening sector by 2024 to protect peatlands and the natural environment. However, the team at Barnsdale Gardens have been growing in a peat-free compost for 30 years and has had great success with the wide range of plants using this peat-free medium.
Geoff Hamilton, the much-loved BBC Gardener’s World Presenter, was a firm believer and pioneer in organic gardening and Barnsdale was his ‘great experiment’ in peat-free and chemicalfree growing. These techniques have continued, and the gardens at Barnsdale remain an outstanding example of these organic principles.
G eoff’s son, Nick, who now runs Barnsdale, offers these tips for peatfree gardening.
Peat-free tips:
1 . Remember that this compost is a different growing medium from peat, so don’t treat it the same
2 . You will probably need to feed your plants a bit more
3 . If the compost dries out, it’s much easier to re-wet than a peat-based compost
4 . Multipurpose peat-free compost is great for raising seeds and growing on, although we add pelleted chicken manure to it when potting on seedlings and plants.
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All images: ©Steve Hamilton
Nick Hamilton received his commercial horticulture training at Writtle College. He completed his sandwich year placement at Darby Nursery Stock in Norfolk, where he later worked. Prior to his father, Geoff Hamilton, buying land next to Barnsdale in 1989, Nick Hamilton worked at different nurseries. After Geoff passed away, Nick took over ownership of Barnsdale Gardens and transformed it into the motivational garden it is today. These rambling, naturalistic and idea-filled gardens provide inspiration for home gardeners. His zeal is contagious, and he has published gardening books and appeared on numerous television shows thanks to his wide expertise.
Another way of creating a sustainable gardening landscape is to use native plants. Those used at Barnsdale for hedging are beech, hornbeam and yew. If you are looking to grow an evergreen hedge, yew is ideal as it holds onto its leaves and offers a rich, green screen, even in the darkest months. Beech, although not evergreen, holds onto its brown leaves throughout most of winter, giving it similar properties to an evergreen hedge.
Native hedge tips:
1 . Before buying your plants, ensure that where you want to place them is where they want to grow. For example, the beech hedge likes to be planted in a site with sun or partial shade.
2 . Check the best time for planting the variety you plan to use. Early autumn is ideal for yew. However, deciduous plants such as the hornbeam can be planted from mid-autumn after the leaves have fallen.
3 . Prepare the soil by digging it over, adding organic matter and ensuring the weeds are taken out
4 . When it is time to plant, make sure to allow space for the hedge to fill out whilst at the same time ensuring it does not impede pavements etc.
5 Spacing between plants for a hedge varies, so make sure you check recommended spacings before planting
6 . Once planted, ensure that the hedge is watered in very dry spells, whenever possible, using the water saved in your water butts. Keep the hedge weed free, too, as weeds take up water.
7 . Hedge cutting is generally carried out in early spring and autumn, with the main breeding season for nesting birds, March to August, avoided.
T here are also many native species that can be grown in the garden as ornamentals, such as the Sambucus nigra. Barnsdale has a superb Sambucus nigra ‘Black Lace’ on display in its gardens. There are also many native British flowers that are available to grow, such as Pasque Flower (Pulsatilla vulgaris), Primrose (Primula vulgaris), Snake’s Head Fritillary (Fritillaria meleagris), Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis) and Wood Anemone (Anemone nemorosa), to name but a few.
By filling your garden with native plants, the beneficial pollinators in your garden will thank you for it. The wildlife will, too, as they will provide food and a home for British birds and insects.
www.barnsdalegardens.co.uk
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All images copyright ©Steve Hamilton. Licenced for use in iBuild Magazine, May 2023 issue.
Green roofs: Gorgeous, long lasting and packed with eco benefits
Selecting the right roof finishes for various parts of your self-build or renovation project is key to its overall look, feel and, increasingly, function, with modern flat and pitched roofs taking on a variety of roles from energy generation to additional living spaces, says Wallbarn’s Director Julian Thurbin.
Gr een roofs have always been a popular choice for self-builders. They add a beautiful and individual finish to projects and deliver an eco shot in the arm to their locality, attracting insects (most notably pollinators) and birds.
H owever, they can also influence the environment around them, perhaps most notably managing heavy rainfall by prolonging the time between rain falling and entering the drainage system (stormwater attenuation).
Rainfall study
A study looking at a 90mm-deep sedum roof revealed that for the first two hours of a day-long rain storm, it retained 99% of rainfall (0.76mm of rainfall in the first hour, 2.28mm in the second hour). The third hour (3.55mm of rainfall) dropped to 98%, the fourth hour (5.33mm) to 97%, and the fifth hour (almost 12mm) to 95%. Over the next 19 hours, rainfall averaged almost 23mm/ hour, classed as ‘heavy’ in UK terms.
U p to hour nine, the green roof retained more than 40% of the precipitation. From hours 10 to 11, this figure was more than 30%, dropping into the 20%+ band from hours 12 to 22. For hours 23 and 24, rainwater retention fell to 19%.
T hese figures confirm the ability of living roofs to affect their environment. Over the course of the 24-hour rain storm, the roof retained on average 44% of the precipitation (67% for the first 12 hours), a phenomenal impact.
T he ‘big picture’ benefits of stormwater attenuation are decreased risk of flooding (including flash flooding) and its many impacts. For individual homes, controlling rainfall can manage the risk of localised flooding, particularly in low-lying locations and for properties with a history of waterlogged gardens etc.
There’s also another benefit that is perhaps less well known (keen gardeners take note). Water collected from a green roof is proven to be cleaner than, for example, from concrete surfaces, thanks to the filtering abilities of the plants and substrate.
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The benefits of living roofs don’t stop there. Along with the boost to biodiversity and creating habitats for flora and fauna (a study of green roofs in London recorded more than 20 species of bee foraging), green roofs are proven to improve air quality and the sound/ thermal insulation of buildings, reduce the urban heat island effect, extend the lifespan of roofing waterproofing membranes and even boost the mental wellbeing of those looking out on to them. They look great, are incredibly adaptable, can be designed for large or small areas on most structural decks and last in excess of 40 years if cared for correctly.
Instant appeal
For homeowners, there are perhaps three main benefits of installing a green roof, over and above the desire to use natural materials and give back to the environment:
Protecting the waterproofing membrane: A green roof covers the waterproofing layer, reducing UV degradation and pest interaction, and protects it from temperature fluctuations and other atmospheric pressures. This combined protection prolongs the life of the membrane, with a whole system life of 40 years+. There are green roofs worldwide that are more than 75 years old.
I nsulation: The evaporative cooling effect of the roof, combined with increased insulation or thermal mass, can reduce the need for summer cooling (air conditioning etc.). A living roof can also deliver a surface that is 30 to 40% cooler and reduces heat flux from roof to building by up to 72%.
V isual appeal: A green roof is far better looking than a grey membrane.
Additional benefits
C arbon sequestration: Plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen during photosynthesis
A ir quality: Sedum and other green roof plants absorb soot and other pollutant particles, which helps to improve air quality
U rban heat island effect: The evaporative cooling of green roof vegetation reverses the heat-reflecting effect from hard impermeable surfaces, such as waterproofing membranes and concrete. Hard surfaces absorb heat during the day and radiate it back into the atmosphere, increasing the ambient air temperature.
M acro biodiversity: Green roofs can be used to create ‘green bridges’ or ‘bee corridors’ through the built environment
A coustic performance: An extensive green roof (most domestic systems) can insulate up to 40 dB, and an intensive green roof up to 50 dB
S olar gain reduction: Returning moisture to the atmosphere through evapotranspiration reduces solar gain, and moist air helps trap dust and some gases, reducing pollution.
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Can I design and install a green roof?
Modular green roofs lend themselves to design and installation by competent self-builders, and system manufacturers should be able to assist with technical support. The basic build up is a geotextile fabric laid on the waterproofing membrane, followed by the green roof cassettes clicked into place on top. If a roll-out solution is chosen, we advise engaging specialists to carry out the work from specification to installation.
Technical issues to consider
Fire regulations require a hard border between vegetation and building walls and around features such as rooflights. The fire performance of green roofs should also be considered; leading manufacturers offer systems with industry fire classification B Roof (T4) EXAP gained through independent physical testing to CEN/ TS1187:2012 (Test 4) and CEN/ TS 16459:2019, Test methods for external fire exposure to roofs. Look out for no fire penetration of the green roof system in a one-hour physical fire test and ask for certificates.
Substrate s
This is the material plants grow in. Its composition and depth vary from system to system and can heavily impact the roof’s long-term performance. The GRO Green Roof Code (www.greenrooforganisation. org) lays out recommended minimum depths for different systems, starting from 60mm. We believe that 100mm is the ideal depth, allowing optimum space for healthy roots. The Green Roof Code also discusses the content of substrates and advises that they should comply with BS 8616:2019
Specification for performance parameters and test methods for green roof substrates. An independent laboratory test showing that the substrate complies with BS 8616 should be provided by the supplier.
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Timeless style: How to achieve a period look in your bathroom
Creating a period-style bathroom can be a challenging task, especially if you want to capture the essence of a particular historical era. However, by paying attention to details such as colours, materials and style, you can achieve a period look that is both authentic and stylish.
Colours
T he colours you choose will play a significant role in creating a periodstyle bathroom. For instance, if you want to create a Victorian-era look, consider using deep, rich colours such as burgundy, forest green or navy blue.
I n contrast, if you’re looking to capture the Art Deco style of the 1920s, opt for bold and bright colours such as black, white and gold.
Materials
The materials you use in your bathroom can also help you achieve a period look. For example, if you’re trying to create a Victorian-style bathroom, consider using marble, porcelain and brass. On the other hand, if you’re going for a 1950s-style bathroom, try incorporating chrome and pastel-coloured tiles.
Style
When it comes to creating a periodstyle bathroom, paying attention to style is crucial. For example, if you’re trying to achieve a Victorian-era look, incorporate ornate details, such as clawfoot tubs, decorative tile patterns and brass fixtures. Alternatively, if you’re aiming for a 1920s Art Deco style, consider adding geometric shapes, bold patterns and sleek, streamlined fixtures.
Popular trends in period bathrooms:
Art Deco: The Art Deco style, which emerged in the 1920s, is all about glamour and luxury. To achieve this look, use bold geometric shapes, bright colours and reflective surfaces such as glass and chrome. Incorporate elements such as sunburst mirrors, black and white tiles and streamlined fixtures.
Victorian: Victorian-era bathrooms are known for their ornate details and rich colours. To achieve this look, use materials such as marble, porcelain and brass. Consider adding features such as a clawfoot tub, a pedestal sink and decorative tile patterns.
Mid-Century Modern: The Mid-Century Modern style, which emerged in the 1950s and 1960s, is characterised by clean lines and minimalist design. To achieve this look, incorporate materials such as chrome and coloured tiles. Consider adding features such as a floating vanity, a sunken tub and simple fixtures.
Industrial: Industrial-style bathrooms are all about raw, unfinished materials such as concrete, metal and brick. To achieve this look, use materials such as concrete floors, exposed pipes and steel-framed showers. Consider adding features such as a rustic wooden vanity and vintage-inspired fixtures.
In conclusion, achieving a period-style bathroom involves paying attention to details such as colours, materials and style. By incorporating these elements, you can create a bathroom that is both authentic and stylish. Popular trends in period bathrooms include Art Deco, Victorian, Mid-Century Modern and industrial styles, each with their unique features and design elements.
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Matki Classica shower enclosure in aged brass
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Matki Classica hinge door for recess with gold frame
Swadling Brassware Invincible exposed shower mixer
Matki EauZone hinge door for recess with Living Copper frame and Swadling Brassware Invincible collection in Living Copper Swadling Brassware Illustrious wall-mounted basin mixer in gold
Classica hinge doors with fluted glass and gold frames
Swadling Brassware Illustrious floormounted bath/shower mixer in chrome
A conservatory is one of the most desired home improvements that expands your living area with extra space to provide that extra touch of home comfort by giving you a chance to create a stylish space that can be for whatever your heart desires. Not to mention, it can also increase the value of your home. However, as with any building work, it’s important to do your research before you embark on a project like this.
GJohns & Sons has provided some of the dos and don’ts of adding a conservatory to your home:
Do: T hink about the motive of your conservatory: It is important to have a clear understanding of the purpose of adding a conservatory to your house. Will it be a dining area, home office or relaxation space? The purpose will have a major effect on the various elements, such as the size, layout and design, so having a clear vision early on will prove to be very beneficial.
Discover if you need planning permission: Adding on to your home may require planning permission from your council. A range of factors could affect it if you need to seek planning permission, such as the size and location of your conservatory. It is very important to check this before you start any building work.
The position of your conservatory: It is definitely worth giving some thought to the position of your conservatory as it may affect the planning. If your conservatory is going to be north facing, it will probably get quite cold in winter. If your conservatory is going to be built in a sunny, south-facing direction, it’s likely to get very warm in the midday sun.
Do your research before choosing a contractor: Choosing a good contractor is probably the most important decision you will make regarding your new conservatory. You need to be able to trust the person you are giving all this responsibility and, more importantly, money to. A reliable contractor can provide you with a direct timeline, cost allocation and references. Make sure you get references.
Don’t: Disregard Building Regulations: Building Regulations are standards for design and construction to help protect the health and safety of
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people living in them. It is really important to abide by Building Regulations to decrease any issues with your project.
Try to skimp out on materials: It may seem tempting to save some money and opt for lowcost materials, but this may have a greater cost in the long run. Your new conservatory will be up against various weather conditions all year round, therefore, you should invest in high-quality materials.
Forget about ventilation: Proper ventilation is essential to prevent the build up of condensation and mould. Make sure to include plenty of windows and vents in your design.
Disregard the rest of the ground floor: When adding on to your home, you want the design to flow seamlessly with the rest of your house; it is definitely worth thinking about all the other elements of the adjoining rooms, such as the flooring, electrical wiring, paint, materials and overall colour scheme.
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By following these simple dos and don’ts, you can count on having a stress-free and positive conservatory project.
The dos and don’ts of adding a conservatory to your home
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