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FOCUS:
ROOF
WINDOWS
|
WORKTOPS
|
LAWN
CARE
|
PAMPAS
&
PLUMES
COVER STORY
PLUMBING ISSUES?
05 O C T O B E R 20 - I S S U E 75
www.crossplatformmedia.co.uk
top tips from the experts to overcome plumbing challenges when renovating old, period properties – including pipework, shower additions and hidden cisterns
CASE STUDIES
CASE STUDIES
INSPIRATION
MATERIALS
ADVISORY
THE SELF-BUILD DIARIES
HALLOWEEN ACCESSORIES
TIMBER FRAME
WELLBEING AT HOME
Eight years after buying a plot, the Brysons have finished their cottagestyle self-build
Adorn your new home with the latest seasonal Halloweenthemed designs
The flexibility of timber frame can enable you to create a futureproof home
How the coronavirus pandemic has altered custombuilders' wish lists
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Gazco eReflex 135R Inset Electric Fire
Firing imaginations for over 37 years
WOODBURNING
| GAS
M U LT I - F U E L
www.stovax.com
| ELECTRIC
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EDITORIAL: Rebecca Kemp
rebecca@crossplatformmedia.co.uk
Hannah Woodger
hannah@crossplatformmedia.co.uk
PRINT & DIGITAL ADVERTISING: Sam Ball sam@crossplatformmedia.co.uk
Jim Moore
jim@crossplatformmedia.co.uk
PRINT DESIGN MANAGER: Jack Witcomb
jack@crossplatformmedia.co.uk
DIGITAL DESIGN MANAGER: Matt Morse
matt@crossplatformmedia.co.uk
ACCOUNTS: Rachel Pike
rachel@crossplatformmedia.co.uk
SALES SUPPORT: Klare Porter
klare@crossplatformmedia.co.uk
PUBLISHER: Sam Ball
sam@crossplatformmedia.co.uk
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Contributions are invited and when not accepted will be returned only if accompanied by a fully stamped and return addressed envelope. No responsibility will be taken for drawings, photographs or literary contributions during transmission or in the editor's hands. In the absence of an agreement, the copyright of all contributions, literary, photographics or artistic belongs to Cross Platform Media Ltd. The Publisher accepts no responsibility in respect of advertisements appearing in the magazine and the opinions expressed in editorial material or otherwise do not necessarily represent the view of the publisher. The Publisher does not accept any liability of any loss arising from the late appearance or non publication of any advertisement.
Cover story:
Lydia Luxford, Customer Services Manager at Easy Bathrooms, offers five tips to overcome plumbing problems when renovating an old house.
O
ditor's Welcome I-BUILD OCTOBER 2020
ctober; the month of cosying up by the fire, deflating those spacesaving vacuum storage bags and pulling your heavy knits out – plus, of course, preparing your house for the cold winter months ahead. This summer, we have been confined to our homes more than we usually would; however, with darker evenings and bitter, dewy mornings on their way, there's something undoubtedly enchanting about staying in at this time of year. Now, for self-builders or home renovators half-way through a build, I'm sure 'enchanting' isn't an apt description for the wet and windy months of October, November and December; however, with a little patience and endurance, you too can be basking in the glory of self-build success by this time next year. Whatever stage your home build is at, it's never too early – or late, in some cases – to compile mood boards for your interior spaces. This month, in true autumnal style, we've hand-picked some of this season's best Halloween interior accessories and decorations. Please turn to page 06 for our selection of seasonal delights. Meanwhile, on page 08,
Instagram-worthy pampas grass and plumes plump up the pages of part two of this month's Desired Designs. We've spent a lot of time getting green-fingered throughout lockdown and that lawn you've meticulously nurtured back to good health – or even grown from a small seed – is about to get an intense shock thanks to forthcoming weather adjustments. To ensure your lawn lasts through the winter and for guaranteed green vibrancy next spring and summer, there are a few crucial steps you need to take now. Turn to page 28 to discover how to prepare your lawn for the coming seasons. 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 dream home as inspiration for other budding self-builders, then please don’t 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.
Rebecca Rebecca Kemp Editor @ibuildmagazine
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@ibuildmagazine
ibuildmagazine
Download the i-Build app for iPhone, iPad and Android. Search 'i-build'.
ditor's Picks
See page 29.
01622 232723
Barham Court, Teston, Maidstone, Kent ME18 5BZ
PURE WATER ON TAP Fresh and ecofriendly drinking water with BLANCO's FONTAS-S II Filter Tap
3
COLOUR WITHIN THE LINES Earthborn introduces a palette of five new 'earthy' paint shades
AWARD-WINNING ROOF WINDOWS Keylite Roof Windows scoops ‘Best Roofing Manufacturer’ at BMJ Industry Awards
I-B U I L D/ O C T/20
Modular
䢢GREEN BUILDINGS NATIONWIDE
䣊䣱䣷䣵䣧䣵䢮䢢䣈䣮䣣䣶䣵䢢䢨䢢䣯䣱䣴䣧䢢䣷䣲䢢䣶䣱䢢䢹䢢䣨䣮䣱䣱䣴䣵 䣖䣴䣣䣦䣫䣶䣫䣱䣰䣣䣮䢢䢨䢢䣏䣱䣦䣧䣴䣰䢢䣾䢢䣅䣣䣴䢢䣄䣣䣴䣰䣵䢢䢨䢢䣒䣧䣰䣶䣪䣱䣷䣵䣧䣵䢢䣾䢢䣔䣧䣯䣱䣦䣧䣮䢢䢨䢢䣐䣧䣹䢢䣄䣷䣫䣮䣦䢢䣾䢢䣖䣴䣷䣵䣵䣧䣵䢢䢨䢢䣅䣱䣯䣲䣱䣰䣧䣰䣶䣵
䢢
䣊䣧䣮䣲䣫䣰䣩 Architects 䣄䣷䣫䣮䣦䢢䣉 䣉䣔䣃䣐䣆䢢䣆䣇䣕䣋䣉䣐䣕䢢䣕䣷䣵䣶䣣䣫䣰䣣䣤䣮䣻䢢䢨䢢䣒䣴䣱䣨䣫䣶䣣䣤䣮䣻䢢䢢 䣅䣃䣎䣎䢢䣗䣕䢢䣖䣑䢢䣆䣋䣕䣅䣗䣕䣕䢢䣛䣑䣗䣔䢢䣐䣇䣚䣖䢢䣒䣑䣌䣇䣅䣖䢢䣐䣑䣙䢢䢢
䣄䣧䣰䣨䣫䣧䣮䣦䢢䣃䣖䣖䢮䢢䣅䣣䣮䣦䣫䣥䣱䣶䢮䢢䣐䣒䢴䢸䢢䢷䣒䣔䢢䣫䣰䣨䣱䣂䣤䣧䣰䣨䣫䣧䣮䣦䣣䣶䣶䢰䣷䣭䢢䢢䣹䣹䣹䢰䣤䣧䣰䣨䣫䣧䣮䣦䣣䣶䣶䢰䣷䣭䢢䢢䢲䢳䢴䢻䢳䢢䢶䢵䢹䢢䢲䢷䢲 I-B U I L D/ O C T/20
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October 2020 INSPIRATION
06
Desired Designs:
08
Desired Designs:
10 24
Trick or Treat? Welcome autumn with open arms with novelty, autumnal Halloween interior accessories and decorations. Plumes and Pampas Here, i-Build’s hand-picked six of its favourite dried grass and feather designs to add some texture to your home.
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26
Style Guide:
For the Love of Limestone Recognised for its durability and good looks, limestone is undoubtedly a desirable substrate for clean-looking homes with added texture.
29
Timber Frame
Padraig Hurley, SelfBuild Manager for Taylor Lane Timber Frame, explains how the flexibility of timber frame construction can enable self-builders to create a future-proof home.
14
i-Nterior:
Worktops Here, Nick Jones, Sales Leader Wilsonart UK & Ireland, the market leader for laminate kitchen surfaces, details the trends taking the worktop market by storm right now and offers top tips on how to achieve them in your own home.
20
Paints
We've talked to Natasha Bradley from Lick Home to find out how self-builders, home renovators and DIYers have been getting creative with their paint.
ADVISORY
12
CASE STUDIES
MATERIALS
Viewpoint
Karen Curtin of Graven Hill discusses how COVID-19 has made many of us reconsider our priorities when it comes to our homes.
i-DIY:
Plumbing Lydia Luxford, an experienced bathroom fitter, is Customer Services Manager at Easy Bathrooms. Here, she offers five tips to overcome plumbing problems when renovating an old house.
Urban Sanctuary
The Wards from East London had selected existing family land in Havering as the location for their dream home. Their in-depth research into construction techniques led them to prefabricated homes specialist, WeberHaus. Here, i-Build looks at their self-build story.
Rural Retreat
Self-builders Brent and Aishling Bryson have been together for almost a decade. After being gifted a plot of land by Brent’s family, he and Aishling began devising plans for their very own self-build. That was eight years ago. One wedding and three children later, and the couple have completed the family home of their dreams.
NEWS / PRODUCT GUIDE
I-DEAS
28
i-Scape:
30
i-Build:
Lawn Care We have spoken to Alasdair Urquhart, Haskins Garden Centres’ in-house plant expert, to compile his top tips to ensure your lawns thrive throughout the colder months.
32
Product Guide
i-Build rounds up the latest innovative products in the marketplace, designed with your self-build in mind.
Roofing It’s often a struggle choosing the right roof windows for your project. Here, Keylite Roof Windows looks at the top five considerations you should examine before placing an order.
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I-B U I L D/ O C T/20
DESIRED DESIGNS
esired esigns
©LIGHTS4FUN
TRICK OR TREAT? Welcome autumn into your home with open arms and transform your self-build or new renovation into a ‘spooktacular' sight with these seasonal Halloween designs.
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ummer's well and truly packed up and left and, for many, our favourite time of the year is setting up for the season. We are saying goodbye to dry, sunny spells and hello to darker evenings and bitter weather, which means we'll be spending even more time at home. So, if it's time to cosy up in your brand-new house or you're reading this from temporary accommodation while your build's in progress, get ready to tear I-B U I L D/ O C T/20
YOURS TO BUY
out some pages for your 2020 Halloween interior mood board. Whether it's the burnt orange cosiness of autumn or the nostalgic delight of Halloween, there's something everyone enjoys about the crisp, fresh essence of October. From pumpkins and cobwebs to novelty outdoor lights and cliched black cats, here i-Build has selected a few of its favourite Halloweenthemed accessories that are sure to put you in the autumnal mood this month.
1. Glittered pumpkin garland, Gisela Graham London, £23.99
6. Light up ‘Happy Halloween’ banner, Lights4fun, £19.99
2. Large silver glass Halloween tealight holder, Gisela Graham London, £8.99
7. 10 warm white pumpkin fairy lights, Lights4fun, £4.99
3. Three ghost garden stake lights, Lights4fun, £19.99 4. Koziol miaou black ring stand, Red Candy, £10 5. Pale grey concrete pumpkin, Marquis & Dawe, £12
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8. Snake bottle opener, AUDENZA, £22 9. Skeleton hand jewellery tidy, Red Candy, £30 10. Stranger Things cushion, Red Candy, £38
DESIRED DESIGNS
01
YOURS TO BUY
1. Gold mercury LED glass pumpkin light, £29.99 2. 1.3m pumpkin autumn garland, £7.99
02
L
3. Six mini LED orange glass pumpkins, £24.99 4. 61cm orange and ochre maple leaf autumn wreath, £38.99
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OUR BRAND PICK
ights4fun
Lights4fun is a Europe-leading internet retailer of decorative lighting for the home and garden. This family business began from the kitchen table, when Tim Naughton and his wife, Jo, couldn't find a decent set of fairy lights for their garden. The now 40-strong team, based at its head office in Harrogate, is proud to offer high-quality, beautifully designed lights that everyone loves, with an industry-leading two-year guarantee.
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www.lights4fun.co.uk
HOT PRODUCT
Pumpkin orange
TOP TIP
Vibrant and refreshing, pumpkin orange hues generate an active ambience in bland interior spaces and calls forward feelings of enthusiasm, warmth and excitement. So, if you’re looking for an energetic atmosphere for your interior spaces, pumpkin orange could be the shade for you.
YOURS TO BUY
1. Monty three-seat sofa – pumpkin, MY Furniture, £899.99
3. Eva armchair – pumpkin, MY Furniture, £174.99
2. Pumpkin orange armchair, Ligne Roset, £POA
4. Mantis dining chair – pumpkin, MY Furniture, £144.99
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Dust your wellies off and get outside to your local farm for a spot of pumpkin picking. With an array of beautiful autumnal colours – from off-white and green to yellow, orange and even blue – there are lots of shades and textures to add a seasonal touch to your home. Dot smaller varieties around your living spaces for the ultimate autumnal look. I-B U I L D/ O C T/20
DESIRED DESIGNS
esired esigns PLUMES AND PAMPAS
Pampas and plumes have taken Instagram home accounts by storm. Dried grass and feathers are back on-trend and are popping up in self-builds, new renovated homes and conversions all over the UK. Here are a few accessories you can get your hands on.
©Dowsing & Reynolds
Cox & Cox
Hudson Home
a vase for a wonderful
reed grass has beautiful
Add Cox & Cox’s set
A smaller version of
of six pampas plumes to
pampas grass, this dried
textured accent. With the
fluffy plumes in a brown/
same enlivening quality
taupe colour and would
of real blooms, but with
look perfect in a vase in a
no maintenance needs or
bookshelf or on a side table.
commitment on colour, it’s
It’s sold as a bunch by
an easy trend to try.
weight, with approximately
www.coxandcox.co.uk
10 stems per bunch.
www.hudsonhome.co.uk
& Magnolia Woodchip
& Willow Sweetpea
wallpaper pays homage
from A Modern Grand Tour,
This ‘Swingers Paradise’
A truly majestic floor light
to the majestic plumes
the transcendent gold tree
of pampas grass, once
design creates a delicate
a staple in front gardens
and inviting light through
across the country.
the ostrich feather foliage.
It’s the perfect design
This lamp is sure to be the
for those adventurous
main topic of conversation
types in the mood to try
for you and your guests. www.sweetpea
something new.
www.woodchip
andwillow.com
andmagnolia.co.uk
& Dowsing Reynolds
NEDGIS
bouquet has a beautiful
Soren Ravn Christensen
This superb
This delicate fluffy reed
creation, designed by
ethereal feel to it. Its pale
for the Danish design
creamy flowers are soft
house, Vita Copenhagen
and wispy and make the
- Umage, is composed
perfect accompaniment
of a beautiful paper
to other bouquets. If you
lampshade, dressed
love pampas grass, then
in about 500 goose
you’ll love this miniature
feathers, with a height of
version of fluffy plumes.
16cm and with a 22cm
www.dowsingand
diameter.
reynolds.com
I-B U I L D/ O C T/20
www.nedgis.com
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The Millboard Way. It’s ingrained. Detail. It’s in everything we do. It’s in everything we create. And it’s everything we are. In finding that elusive piece of beautiful weathered natural timber. In hand-moulding the perfect board, hand-finishing it and hand-painting it. In our mindset, our customer understanding and our reason for doing what we do. Beauty isn’t skin deep. It’s Millboard. Experience the detail, order your free sample at millboard.co.uk
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Live.Life.Outside. I-B U I L D/ O C T/20
DESIRED DESIGNS
01 02 FOR THE LOVE OF LIMESTONE
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Recognised for its durability and good looks, limestone is undoubtedly a sought-after substrate for clean-looking homes with added texture. As it copes well in areas with high foot traffic, it isn't surprising to find limestone slabs in both indoor and outdoor spaces – typically the kitchen and as a patio in garden areas. Thanks to its easy-to-clean and maintain properties, the kitchen, in particular, benefits from limestone flooring and is resistant to mould and bacteria – handy for those with four-legged friends with muddy paws. Outside, spillages can easily be wiped up when you're hosting summer BBQs, and you can't go wrong with the aesthetics of natural stone. So, if you're struggling to make a flooring decision for indoor or outdoor spaces, there are several reasons why limestone should be on your list. Here are a few designs you can get your hands on.
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06 1. Marshalls 2. Marshalls 3. Marshalls 4. Original Style 5. Original Style 6. Walls & Floors
I-B U I L D/ O C T/20
10
04
BRUNDLE
F.H.BRUNDLE
For more information 01708 39 80 22 sales@brundle.com www.fhbrundle.co.uk
SERVING THE TRADE SINCE 1889 NATURAL
rinato
CLASSIC
TM
deck boards
• Wood plastic composite • Virtually Maintenance Free HERITAGE
• Easy to keep clean and stain free
PREMIUM
• Solid and hollow core options • Workability similar to wood
24/7 ONLINE ORDERING
COMPETITIVE PRICES
HUGE RANGE FROM STOCK
FREE DELIVERY OVER £150
TRADE COUNTER COLLECTION
With over 30 years experience, we offer bespoke solutions for the domestic market across the South East. Feasibility can usually be determined upon receipt of a site postcode. WATER SUPPLY & SOAKAWAY BOREHOLES DRAINAGE SOLUTIONS WATER TREATMENT Independent water supplies can be used for irrigation or consumption*.
RENEWABLE HEATING Reduce heating bills by up to 50%. Groundwater can be used as a heat source for an Open-Loop Ground Source Heat Pump which could meet all hot water and heating requirements.
Soakaways, drainage fields and other drainage solutions.
SEWAGE TREATMENT SYSTEMS Our bespoke systems are designed to meet the needs of individual clients and comply with strict discharge legislation. Maintenance contracts are offered for all our installations.
*subject to analysis and suitable filtration / treatment
enquiries@thehdgroup.co.uk | 01494 792000 | www.hdservicesltd.co.uk 11
I-B U I L D/ O C T/20
VIEWPOINT
K aren Curtin is Managing Director at Graven Hill – the UK’s largest self- and custom-build community
Viewpoint
Putting wellbeing at the forefront of housing The coronavirus pandemic has made many of us reconsider our priorities when it comes to how we live our lives. With home working set to become the ‘new normal’ for many, potential buyers are increasingly interested in purchasing a property that offers the full package, including gardens, office space and rural location, as opposed to just great transport links, says Karen Curtin, Managing Director at Graven Hill – the UK’s largest selfand custom-build community.
A
Available exclusively on a small range of homes, Graven Hill is currently offering up to £500 a month towards mortgage payments for a whole year
I-B U I L D/ O C T/20
recent report from Rightmove has shown that increased interest in moving out of the cities and into more rural locations is more than just a dream. The property website has stated that buyer enquiries from people living in 10 major cities across the UK, including London and Birmingham, increased by 78% in June and July 2020 in comparison to the same period last year. At the same time, enquiries from residents in city locations looking to purchase homes in village locations rose by 126%. With more people now working from home and many employers re-evaluating working processes to account for more flexible practices, access to transport links is no longer the number one priority. The focus has instead shifted to the quality of the location, and commuter links are now a bonus, as opposed to a dealbreaker. The recent launch of Home England’s ‘Building for a Healthy Life’ (BHL) design code has arrived at an opportune time, echoing the thoughts of many who found themselves stuck in their homes with little access to outdoor space
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throughout lockdown. The requirement to stay at home for two months emphasised a clear link between homes and wellbeing. Bright and airy properties should not be seen as an unaffordable luxury; they should be standard. Likewise, the natural space around new developments should be considered from the very start, as opposed to at the end of the build. Not only does this help to create a feeling of connection between existing surroundings and new areas, but also encourages homeowners to get out of their homes and explore the area, in turn, positively impacting wellbeing. It is likely that access to the natural habitats surrounding properties will become an increasingly popular selling point for new-build homes. Open green spaces, pedestrian and cycle paths, community allotments and elevated boardwalks that allow residents to enjoy the local habitats without interrupting them, are all elements that promote health and wellbeing and support sustainable environments. Rather than fall into the background, these aspects should be prioritised in new-build developments.
VIEWPOINT
Similarly, lockdown illustrated the significance of communities and the support that they offer. People are no longer content with living in a property that is purely convenient for work. Instead, quality of life now plays a larger role and access to good quality local amenities is a key part of that. With that in mind, there is a renewed demand for developers and planners to work in conjunction to deliver good quality housing with extra amenities. Community centres, shops, cafes and even local pubs all add to the identity of a place and can make the difference between a lifeless new-build estate and a vibrant community. However, it goes without saying that regardless of whether the property is perfectly located or has access to the best amenities, it is also crucial that the home itself ticks all the necessary boxes. According to Guild Property Professionals, the importance of a home office has jumped from 12% before lockdown to 21% in just a few short months, while open-plan living areas have become even more popular due to the flexibility that they offer. This is where custombuild new homes come in, offering the convenience of a new-build home with the personal touches that buyers desire.
For those who are looking for a home that reflects their personality and lifestyle, without having to embark in a self-build, custom building is an ideal choice. Unlike a self-build project, there is no need for custom builders to be involved in the construction of their home; this is completed for them. Instead, they can focus on the bespoke elements of the build, including the internal layouts and finishes. While custom building is still relatively new to the UK market, a handful of developers, including Graven Hill, are taking the lead in the delivery of this new approach to housing.
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It is clear that the coronavirus pandemic has had a lasting impact on people’s lifestyles and the homes they live in. Therefore, it is essential that the property market sits up and takes note of the last few months and responds with well-made, affordable homes that no longer force people to choose between quality of life and location.
www.gravenhill.co.uk I-B U I L D/ O C T/20
URBAN SANCTUARY
A majestic mansion The Wards from East London had selected existing family land in Havering as the location for their dream home. Their in-depth research into construction techniques led them to pre-fabricated homes specialist, WeberHaus.
S
am and Nicky Ward were fortunate enough to obtain some land from a family inheritance which triggered their journey towards building their dream home, but they had no idea where to start. An evening of watching Grand Designs first introduced the idea of prefabricated homes, and Sam was keen to get involved and learn all about the physics and engineering behind the construction. He commented: “I wanted the most stress-free process possible when it came to building my family home.” Having considered many prefab companies, the Wards initially found themselves drawn to Swedish companies. Still, one visit to WeberHaus’ World of Living in Germany convinced them that leading German, self-build homes provider WeberHaus was the company for them. Sam went on: “We flew down and spent a day with Stefan Weisshuhn, Head I-B U I L D/ O C T/20
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of WeberHaus UK. The experience, friendliness and quality of work were incredible. The WeberHaus team really do make your dreams a reality and are very transparent when it comes to costs.”
The build
Sam and Nicky were extremely impressed with the range of show homes at WeberHaus HQ in Germany. “We were absolutely blown away by the quality of work and the way the whole operation was run. The level of support that the WeberHaus team provided throughout the process was so appealing. Stefan made the whole process easy as he was so supportive and with us every step of the way.”
URBAN SANCTUARY
After meeting with WeberHaus’ UK-based Architect, Nick Blunt, they knew exactly what they wanted and what was realistic at their site on their budget. Sam said: “The team went above and beyond to make us happy and accommodate our needs. We wanted large and unique features, so WeberHaus was the best match to make our bespoke house.” The house arrived on lorries and was watertight within three days. Sam and Nicky went for a fully project managed approach, which was the best option for the one-stop solution they wanted. “The whole process has been so exciting. We truly commend the WeberHaus team from start to finish. They have been there to help out, offer advice and be a friendly face through some tough times. This was the biggest investment of our lives, and we needed people around us that we could trust and know that they wouldn’t cut corners. We lived next door to the site and started at 8am every morning. I was so excited to wake up every morning and get stuck into the project! Each day had its own obstacle, and I’ve made so many friends along the way.”
The house
Sam continued: “I didn’t want a conventional house. I wanted a large, high-end home with unique features to make it ours. This is why we chose WeberHaus; we could truly make a bespoke home with special features to reflect our individuality.” In the porch, Sam and Nicky have some beautiful pillars for a touch of grandeur before entering the house. Once inside, you are greeted by an unconventional but magnificent staircase which is the focus of this superb 2200ft2 two-storey home. “We wanted the downstairs to open up into one huge space, so Nick Blunt came up with an amazing idea whereby the doors for the living room and hallway would slide into the wall. This was much better than including bi-folding doors as you get more space with the doors disappearing into the walls.”
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I-B U I L D/ O C T/20
URBAN SANCTUARY
Sam and Nicky are also very environmentally-conscious and have incorporated a number of ecological features into their home, such as an electric car charger. The house is selfsustaining, and the couple selected wall insulation and a ventilation system that bring the house very close to Passivhaus status. They still want to invest in photovoltaics and plan to do this at a later date. One of the house’s most amazing features, and Sam’s favourite spot, is a hidden viewing platform. “Nick and I worked closely to perfect this, and it’s my pride and joy. When you are in the master bedroom, you can exit onto this hidden platform and enjoy the breath-taking views our house overlooks; open fields and a stunning lake. Any onlooker wouldn’t be able to see this platform, so it acts as our own little private sanctuary.” The house has also been thoughtfully future-proofed with the inclusion of an elevator for seamless movement between floors regardless of age or physical disability. For now, it comes in very handy for moving large or heavy items upstairs and, looking to the future, Nicky and Sam will be able to enjoy their dream home for a long time to come.
Happily ever after
Sam and Nicky set out to build their own home, manage the project themselves and build on existing land within a designated budget, as well as adding some exciting and impressive features to make the house their home. Sam is extremely happy with the whole journey from start to finish. He said: “Everyone at WeberHaus is super-talented and fantastic! We are so happy to be in our forever home and have got everything that we wanted within our budget. This home perfectly fits our lifestyle and encompasses everything that we dreamed of and more. WeberHaus makes sure that its customers are happy and the team goes above and beyond; even if it isn’t their responsibility, they will help you out. WeberHaus’ integrity won us over, and we absolutely have nothing to fault.”
www.weberhaus.co.uk
I-B U I L D/ O C T/20
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URBAN SANCTUARY
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I-B U I L D/ O C T/20
TIMBER FRAME
Home for life
All Images: Mulberry House
Padraig Hurley, Self-Build Manager for Taylor Lane Timber Frame, explains how the flexibility of timber frame construction can enable self-builders to create a future-proof home.
Y
our self-build journey is about far more than the here and now. This is your opportunity to build a home for life. We understand that everyone uses a home differently; your needs as a family with teenage children differ to those of an older couple living alone. With timber frame, you can customise your self-build with some simple design tweaks and product selections, creating flexible spaces that can be adapted and transformed as and when you need them. The golden rule with this, of course, is to get your timber frame supplier onboard as early as possible; capitalise on their expertise and experience. The design stage is critical for fully realising the benefits of working with timber frame, not least offsetting some of the expense of those future alterations.
Future-proof family home
When planning their home, Ben Price and partner, Samantha, wanted the layout to be flexible. As a young couple, they were conscious that spare rooms may later become nurseries or workspaces, and at some point, additional space may be required. Completed in 2019, Mulberry House is currently a four-bedroom house with an open-plan kitchen/diner and I-B U I L D/ O C T/20
integral garage. Working with the timber frame designers at Taylor Lane and project architect, Warren Benbow Architects, the couple futureproofed their layout. Bedroom four/ the study has been designed to be an adaptable space. “We have built in a ‘knock-out’ panel in the wall of bedroom one connecting to bedroom four, next to our ensuite,” says self-builder, Ben Price. “Essentially, this is a doorway; the void has then been filled with a false panel in the timber frame which can be removed at a later date. “If we were then to put a stud wall through bedroom four, we could create a dressing room and walkin wardrobe for bedroom one. The remainder of bedroom four would then be given over to the landing, creating a corridor. “On the back wall of bedroom four, we added another knock-out panel to give access to the integrated garage. We installed attic trusses, so this space could become a room in the roof, meaning that a larger fourth bedroom could be created in the future. “It was important for us that this house would be our forever home. By thinking ahead, and making some simple adaptations, we know it will suit our needs for many years.
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Lift off
As you age and become less active, you don’t want to lose access to areas of your home, or worse still, have to move. With an ageing UK population, it is likely that more care will take place in the home, so it is important that your house can be adapted to suit your changing needs. While a home lift, lifting aid or hoist may not be top of your self-build wish list, it is worth considering them during the design stage to help eliminate costly alterations further down the line. With a home lift, for example, you would need to factor in space where it can be installed at a later date. We would recommend setting aside enough room for a lift which accommodates a carer and wheelchair. Using solid beam trimmers, the timber frame designers can then design in a knock-out panel in the first floor – allowing the lift to travel from the ground to the first floor (or beyond, if required). Your timber frame provider would also need to consider extra loadings when planning for hoists and lifting equipment. If this were to be installed on the top floor of the property, in a bedroom and bathroom, for instance, the bottom chord of the roof truss (which creates the ceiling) would need to be both wider and deeper in order to accommodate this.
TIMBER RENEWABLES FRAME
Living with dementia
Living in your home for longer isn’t just about the practicalities of access, it is also about familiarity. This is particularly important for dementia sufferers. While most people with dementia wish to stay in their home for as long as possible, this can’t always be the case. Moving to a new house after a dementia diagnosis can be challenging though so consider introducing future-proof options instead, such as a wetroom on the ground floor and a downstairs room which can transform into a bedroom, with access to and/or a view of green space. Also, take a closer look at your layout, could it be more flexible? As with Mulberry House, knock-out panels can be built into the wall panels to transform spaces at a later date. Is there clear wayfinding from room to room – would automatic sensor lighting help prevent disorientation at night? Can doorways and corridors accommodate a wheelchair? These are all important considerations. When designing your ground floor, think about the inside-outside transition. Not only is it important to have a view of the outside, but easy access is also critical for mental and physical health. Mulberry House has lots of glazing facing up the field at the rear, with a patio on the same level as the interior to create a fluid transition, for example. It’s important that we create forever homes, a home that we can live in for longer. We all benefit from the familiarity of our domestic space, so while future-proofing may not be high on your self-build agenda now, it will pay dividends later in life.
www.taylor-lane.co.uk
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I-B U I L D/ O C T/20
RURAL RETREAT
The Self-Build Diaries: Brent and Aishling Bryson
Self-builders Brent and Aishling Bryson have been together for almost a decade. Brent grew up on a family dairy farm just outside Banbridge, County Down, and has always wanted to build his very own home on the land. After being gifted a plot by Brent’s family, he and Aishling began devising plans for their very own self-build. That was eight years ago. One wedding and three children later, and the couple have completed the family home of their dreams. Here, i-Build Editor, Rebecca Kemp, talks to Aishling about the recent completion of their very own self-build home.
@ ourweehome_ selfbuild Follow this self-build story on Instagram
We took a break to get married and start a family. It has taken eight years to get to where we are today from where we first started. That said, the actual building of the house has taken 14 months from when the subfloor was laid. Also, COVID-19 did hold things up. I-B U I L D/ O C T/20
RK: What inspired you to embark on your own project rather than buying? AB: Brent has always wanted to build his own home on the family farm; it’s probably the main reason he became a builder.
RK: What was the vision and inspiration behind your new home? AB: We both wanted something simple, and we love the look of old country cottages. We looked at a few different designs and liked the style of a T-shape. I admire how our home surprises people when they walk in and see all the room we have – it looks like a ‘wee, small bungalow’ from the outside!
RK: How did you approach finalising your design brief? AB: We approached our architect with an idea,
and he came up with a design. We just kept tweaking it until we got exactly what we wanted. We have changed a lot of things throughout
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the house as it’s been built; we’ve moved walls and doors etc. Really, that’s the joy of building your own home; you have the freedom to do so.
RK: Why did you choose this plot? AB: We were gifted a piece of land to build on by
Brent’s family. We chose this plot as it was ideal; it had an access lane, was a flat piece of land and provided easy access to electricity and water. Also, we weren’t too far from the main house.
RK: How long did it take to gain planning permission? AB: We did struggle with planning to get the
house on this plot. It took two years with several attempts and an appeal to get the building where we thought it would work best. First, the planners wanted us to build too close to the main home’s garden. Then, they wanted us to build in a different field right next to a road that was a stone’s throw away from the farm. It really didn’t make sense to us, so we appealed and won.
RURAL RETREAT
RK: Were there any challenging aspects to the project and build? AB: Our main challenges were getting planning permission and a self-build mortgage – due to being self-employed. The building of the house itself was straightforward enough – with Brent coming from the building industry and having connections in all the trades.
RK: Did you project manage the build yourself? AB: Yes, we managed the build from the very
start. Brent built the house himself right up to the wall plate; then we brought traders in wherever Brent couldn’t do the work himself. Everything in our home was designed, picked and sourced by ourselves – right down to the tiny details.
RK: Did you work with an architect at any point in the process? AB: Yes, we worked with an architect at the very start of our build to draw up plans and submit to building control. After that, it was all us.
RK: Did you install any renewable systems? AB: Yes, we have installed an air source heat pump, and we also plan to install solar panels in the future.
RK: How long did the project take and was it in the timeframe that you originally predicted? AB: No, we had setbacks with planning and trying to get a
mortgage. We also took a break to get married and start a family. It has taken eight years to get to where we are today from where we first started. That said, the actual building of the house has taken 14 months from when the subfloor was laid. Also, COVID-19 did hold things up.
RK: Did you remain within the original budget? AB: In all honesty, we didn’t give ourselves a budget – we
knew we wouldn’t stick to it! However, we did have an idea of the cost to complete the house. Yet, we exceeded that figure. We decided early on that if something was more expensive than expected and it was something we wanted – and couldn’t be easily changed – then we would hold off doing something else in another room. We didn’t want to omit something because it cost that little bit more – we would always regret it.
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I-B U I L D/ O C T/20
RURAL RETREAT
RK: Please provide an overview of both the interior and exterior finished space. AB: We wanted to keep
the outside as simple as possible with a cottage aesthetic. So, we stuck to two colours, black and white, with just a pop of vibrancy on the front door. We used granite, sand and white cement render that we rubbed smooth – we also rounded the corners and window reveals. The granite sills are complemented by black sash windows and cast-iron replica gutters with spouting rainwater hoppers for an ageing look. Moving inside, we have tried to keep as much of a traditional look as possible. As a practical family house, our kitchen is the heart of the home. Hence, we wanted this area to be a place that we could gather as a family. Here, we added a large island with seating and traditional in-frame cupboards. Again, we needed this space to work for us functionally, so everything has a place and is hidden away. We have a breakfast pantry where I can close the door on the mess in the morning and clean it later – I love it! Our utility is set up to make laundry duties that bit easier (as it’s neverending!). We added in a laundry chute, drying rail, a large counter for sorting clothes and shelving underneath for laundry baskets. We also have plenty of storage (you can never have enough!). Our sunroom, which is just off the kitchen, is probably the most-used area. Here, we wanted the fireplace to be the main feature. This is completed in slate with a rustic beam and stove, and we have tried to integrate traditional elements such as toggle switches and flagstone-style tiles. We’ve also incorporated little details like hand-made window boards and barn doors as well as a one-ofa-kind sink. All this offers our home something different, and we’ve very much added our own stamp to it. I-B U I L D/ O C T/20
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RURAL RETREAT
RK: Is the final property everything that you hoped it would be? AB: We only moved in on
27th August, so we still have plenty to do! But we are very pleased with how everything has turned out so far and can’t wait to see the rest of our ideas brought to fruition.
RK: What is your favourite thing about your new home? AB: Mine would have to be
the kitchen and my downstairs WC. I love my sink! I know Brent’s would be the sunroom. He chose the stone and designed the fireplace, and I think it’s turned out well. Initially, I was worried that all the stone would leave it cold, but it’s the opposite – the room has a cosy feel to it, and I can’t wait to light the stove.
RK: Is there anything that you would have done differently? AB: We have asked
ourselves this, and honestly, we love everything about the house.
RK: Would you do the whole thing again? AB: I wouldn’t. However, Brent would!
RK: What advice would you offer to anyone looking to self-build? AB: Get a good contractor
that you trust and can see your vision. I was lucky that Brent knew what he was doing, but if we were to do a self-build without any building knowledge, I don’t think it would be something we would take on without the right contractor.
RK: What is the vision for the landscaping? AB: We haven’t started with
the gardens yet; however, we hope to have something that we can all enjoy – a nice play area for the kids and patio area for us. We have built an outdoor fireplace into our living room chimney. We plan to construct our patio area around this part of the house – that’s where the sun sets in the evening.
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I-B U I L D/ O C T/20
PAINTS
Getting creative with paint When decorating, painting your walls is an easy way to breathe colour and style into a space, says Natasha Bradley, Lick Home’s Interior Design and Colour Expert.
M
ore recently, I’ve been very excited to see that DIYers, be it trusted old hands with a paint brush or slightly nervous first-time buyers, are now seeing the endless opportunities that paint can bring to a home. Rather than seeing it in the more traditional sense of “just painting a wall”, DIYers are now using paint to fulfil their creative needs. And it’s not just limited to the walls. It sounds like an obvious point, but the first impression of your home, literally starts at your front door, giving visitors a sense of what’s to come, design-wise, as they step over the threshold. Gone are the days when front doors were either dark brown or black, to fit in with the rest of the street. Today, DIYers are embracing colour and using their front door as a reflection of their interiors and also their personality. In some cases, it’s the brighter, the better with hues of pinks, teal and yellow to really stand out and serve as a conversation I-B U I L D/ O C T/20
starter. Inky blues, holly greens and dark greeny greys are particularly popular, usually offset with gold or black steel front door features. When painting your front door, remember that the secret is fully prepping the surface. This means taking the time to remove the old paint first and ensure the surface is as smooth as possible. The hallway has quickly turned into its very own focal point. Traditionally a passage to take you through to the more ‘important’ rooms, today’s halls have as much thought and design put into them as the rest of the house. Here paint can be cleverly used to add colour, pattern and style in a cost-effective and easy way. Consider painting the wooden features in your hallway, such as the skirting boards, wooden panelling, door frames etc. in an interesting colour which complements your style choices. Rather than traditional white, opt for a warm grey (Lick Grey 03) to add interest. If you’re feeling brave, then a statement colour such as black or
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teal can work really well, especially if the colour is reflected in other areas of the space, for example, a picture on the wall, or floor tiles. How to create a statement floor in the hallway is a question that I am asked a lot. Laying new floor tiles, or restoring them, can be an expensive and timely job. Use a stencil and paint to update your floor, with your own creative twist. A geometric pattern in black and white is a timeless option that won’t date and is pretty easy to complete. Just remember to map out your pattern first, rather than just giving it a go. Moving into the living room, and today’s DIYers are embracing colour. Gone are the days of playing it safe with soft creams and magnolias. Instead, DIYers are opting for bold colours, be it painting a statement wall, or all walls, to add a sense of drama. As we move into the colder winter months, don’t be afraid to embrace deeper, more opulent colours, such as Lick Teal 03 or Lick Blue 07, which can actually create a cosy and comforting environment. If you’re not brave enough to go dark on your walls, then why not try something a little different and try painting your ceiling instead. This is not as scary as it sounds and is a great way of adding drama to a room, without interfering too much with the rest of the room’s dynamic.
RENEWABLES PAINTS
A quick and easy way to transform a room is to simply make a feature of the nooks and crannies, which you may not be too sure what to do with. Use an unexpected colour such as a pop of orange (Lick Orange 01) or yellow (Lick Yellow 01) to add visual interest and vibrance to a room. I’ve seen DIYers paint their own geometric shapes and patterns onto walls, almost as a form of art, to instantly add that bespoke creative touch. The bedroom is another space where paint and colour can come into its own. If you’re on a tight budget, then add the final touches to a room using paint. A modern headboard can be created, simply by painting one onto the walls, adding a point of focus to the room. To add style and interest, without making things too complicated, opt for a few shades within one colour, such as soft grey, and use this as your main colour theme. My top tip for the bedroom is to choose colours that are complementary, rather than competing, which can make a space feel cluttered, noisy and unstructured. And finally; the bathroom. A popular trend at the moment is for an all-black bathroom. Rather than getting swept along with the latest colour of the moment, use paint as a temporary way to give a subtle nod to an interior trend. Not only in the bathroom, but throughout the whole house. Upcycling furniture, with paint, is a cost-effective and easy way to try a new colourway, without overhauling the whole room. Remember, paint is a fun and easy way to give something a go. And if you don’t like it, then you can simply start over again.
www.lickhome.com
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I-B U I L D/ O C T/20
I-NTERIOR - WORKTOPS WILSONART
1.
The latest and greatest in kitchen worktop trends Kitchen worktops and surfaces are often what guests notice first when they walk into a kitchen. They can really set the design tone for the entire room, providing continuity and cohesion and helping to tie together all the various elements within the space, so getting it right is essential for success in any self-build or kitchen renovation. Here, Nick Jones, Sales Leader Wilsonart UK & Ireland, the market leader for laminate kitchen surfaces, details the trends taking the worktop market by storm right now and some top tips on how to achieve them in your own project. Natural elements
One of the biggest interior trends that is dominating not just our kitchens and surfaces but all corners of our living spaces is biophilia, which brings our innate appreciation and connection to nature and its positive influence on our wellness into the design of our homes. Bringing natural textures and influences into key living areas helps create a sense of calm, with an interior hideaway that feels far removed from the ‘alwayson’ way of modern life. Since we spend so much of our home life in the kitchen and surrounding living spaces, incorporating wood textures, earthy tones and naturallyinspired materials helps us to feel a reconnection with nature. Using or replicating materials, such as wood or stone, in kitchen worktops I-B U I L D/ O C T/20
are a great way to bring an element of the outdoors into our homes and, as a result, can bring about positive changes to our mood and wellbeing. Placing a natural wood or stone-inspired worktop on a desirable slimmer profile is a fast and easy way to update a kitchen with a biophilic aesthetic. With a square edge laminate product, it is easy to achieve the look of dressed wood with a practical, affordable and easy-to-fit material.
Timeless and luxurious marbles
The enduring beauty of marble has been appreciated for thousands of years and continues to be synonymous with style and elegance. Statement surfaces do all the talking in this trend, but they don’t necessarily have to break the bank. An effective and premium-looking marble surface can now be achieved using laminate, with innovative surface brands interpreting the most contemporary and in-demand finishes in a way that has never been seen before. Laminate options are also a more practical choice for the
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2. demands of the modernday kitchen as they are resistant to heat, stains and the impacts of domestic cleaning products. Larger veining is a more popular trend among larger, open spaces as it looks expansive on worktops and wrapped around islands. For more compact kitchens, smaller veining is the better choice as the intricacies of the design can be better appreciated. Marble is most commonly seen in a statement, classic white but black options are now rising in popularity among those looking to create a more rich colour palette in the kitchen. A seamless and impactful finished result can be achieved by matching the marble finish used on surfaces and islands with the kitchen splashback.
I-NTERIOR - WORKTOPS WILSONART
4.
3.
Scandi-style
The clean and cosy vibes of Scandinavia form the basis of the Scandi-style trend. Inspired by the Danish expression ‘Hygge,’ Scandi-style is an attitude that shuns drudging miserably through long Nordic winters in favour of embracing warmth, cosiness, family and mindfulness. Those notions are realised in light, bright spaces with warm white and grey palettes, soft fibres, pale woods and nostalgic, reclaimed accessories for an overall look that marries rustic farmhouse with mid-century modern. The Scandi-style can be easily incorporated into the kitchen space through worktops that celebrate the appealing look and character of natural woodgrains.
Hygiene
The latest kitchen worktop trends for home renovations and self-build projects are not exclusive to beautiful aesthetics. Unsurprisingly, products that prioritise hygiene in the home are more soughtafter than ever, and kitchen surface brands are now incorporating hygiene-focused technologies into worktops to provide a safer kitchen landscape with which to cook,
5.
eat, work and entertain from. There are now worksurface options that can eliminate 99.9% of bacteria in just 24 hours by using a high-pressure laminate that features resins incorporated into the material during the production process. These resins guarantee the surface a lifetime of antibacterial protection and, as they are completely free from nano-particles, there is absolutely no danger to humans or the environment. Thankfully, these practical innovations do not have to come at the expense of style, and there are anti-bacterial worktop solutions available that perfectly emulate the look and feel of real stone, wood and marble whilst remaining affordable and achievable for all kitchen projects
IMAGES:
1. Bushboard Omega – unburnished grain
2. Bushboard Omega Taros Gris ultra-matt with antibacterial surface
3. Bushboard Omega
Lumiere ultra-matt with anti
bacterial properties 4. Bushboard Evolve Lightning Greystone
5. Bushboard Omega Doux Lime Quartz and Blocked Hex Dove
www.wilsonart.co.uk
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I-B U I L D/ O C T/20
I-SCAPE - LAWN CARE HASKINS GARDEN CENTRES
Haskins Garden Centres’ top tips to help your lawn survive the colder winter months With summer fast becoming a distant memory, it is important that homeowners make plans for the colder season, by ensuring they have the right tools and guidance in place to help their garden lawn survive winter. i-Build has spoken to Alasdair Urquhart, Haskins Garden Centres’ in-house plant expert, to compile his top-tips to ensure your lawns thrive throughout the colder months.
C
ombine cold, wet days with reduced light from overcast skies, and it’s no wonder lawns struggle to look their best during winter. Here are my recommendations on how you can help your lawn get through this tricky season:
1. Start early
During autumn we often experience cooler evenings, warmer temperatures during the daytime and the occasional rain showers. This combination makes for the perfect growing weather. It is important you get ahead now with repairs to your lawn to encourage a speedy recovery from summer damage.
2. Make repairs
Now is the time to rake out moss, thatch and debris to encourage the grass to spread. It’s important you spike the lawn to improve drainage and air circulation. Overseed the lawn to thicken grass coverage and apply a top dressing to improve soil structure and drainage. If carried out early enough in autumn, the lawn will bounce back before winter fully sets in.
3. Remove fallen leaves
A blanket of leaves will make lawns patchy as the grass dies underneath. Ensure to rake them up often or collect with a rotary mower to make a great compost. Using a ratio of 20-part leaves to one-part lawn clippings, fill a compost bin or meshed enclosure and allow to decompose. By the time next autumn hits, you’ll have a beautiful leaf mould to use as mulch for your borders. It I-B U I L D/ O C T/20
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will also encourage garden-friendly wildlife, such as hedgehogs, to overwinter on your plot.
4. Ensure you still mow your lawn
When mild autumn weather extends further into early winter, it prolongs the mowing season. Understandably, mowing the lawn requires more motivation in the colder months but cutting grass encourages it to thicken, allowing it to outcompete weeds. The time to stop mowing is when the daily air temperature regularly drops below 10°C.
5. Don’t fret – all lawns look their worst in the dead of winter Be assured that if you follow all of the above, your preparations will give your lawn the best chance to bounce back with the return of spring.
Haskins has compiled a number of handy ‘made easy’ care guides which are free to download and cover a range of gardening topics, such as year-round lawn care, bulb planting and houseplants. You can find out more information here: www.haskins.co.uk/made-easy-guides.
www.haskins.co.uk
I-DIY - PLUMBING EASY BATHROOMS
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tips to overcome plumbing issues when renovating an old house Lydia Luxford, an experienced bathroom fitter, is Customer Services Manager at Easy Bathrooms. Here, she offers five tips to overcome plumbing problems when renovating an old house.
I
t is no exaggeration to say that what period properties have in character and charm, they lack in plumbing and bathroom systems. Over the years, sanitation systems have evolved hugely, meaning that period properties often have outdated and complex systems hidden behind their walls. Any refurbishment of an old property is, therefore, likely to require significant upgrades of plumbing and bathrooms. And it is not usually a quick or cheap fix. In fact, it is often one of the costliest elements of renovating an old house, meaning it’s important to get it dead-on right from the start. My first tip is to think about your lifestyle and recognise how many bathrooms you’re likely to require – and where you want them. In old houses, a lot of bathrooms are on the ground floor, or at the end
of the house, for example. Most families will require an upstairs bathroom. This forward planning will help you to understand whether you need a new boiler to service additional bathrooms, as well as whether you will need to run pipes through walls – this will ensure that you’re not ripping out freshly plastered walls further down the line. The second tip is to check the pipes. If they are lead, it may be worth getting a professional in to convert the pipework to copper – there are some things which DIY-ers shouldn’t try. Another area of concern is planning permission. If you’re adding showers, it’s a good idea to pre-plan an extension. Old houses are notorious for stone walls and small joists in floors, so coming up with a design where pipework is hidden in new ‘built-in’ areas is a good way to prevent difficult situations.
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The fourth tip is to make features out of otherwise ‘ugly’ boxing in. For example, you might need to build out a wall in the shower area to hide the pipework, but you can make it a feature with some built-in shelves. Or, if you have a freestanding bath where you need the waste to be above floor level, you can build the floor up around it and fit some lighting in the floor to hide the pipework – making it look like a design feature. You can also hide cisterns in the walls for back-to-wall or wall-hung toilets which tends to be a spacesaver and easier for cleaning. Finally, check where the soil pipe is and aim to position your toilet so the waste can go straight out of the wall, meaning you can have a sleek, fully enclosed toilet. Fitting such items in similar locations where you have existing entry/exit points often minimises risks.
www.easybathrooms.com I-B U I L D/ O C T/20
I-BUILD - ROOFING KEYLITE ROOF WINDOWS
Choosing the right roof windows for your self-build Correctly specified and installed, roof windows can improve the aesthetics of your build and provide you with long-term rewards such as improved thermal comfort and reduced energy bills. Here, Colin Wells, Head of Technical at Keylite Roof Windows, looks at the top five considerations. 1. Location, location, location
It’s vital to choose the ideal place to position your roof windows at the design stage. Picking a place with optimum sunlight is great for reducing the need for artificial light, but it’s also important to consider the size of the windows and layout if you’re opting for more than one in a room. How many roof windows you install will have a dramatic effect on the finished aesthetic of the
exterior of the property and the rooms themselves, so it’s important to ensure you’re happy with any plans before the build starts.
2. Thermal comfort
Roof windows are normally installed with a 20mm gap around the edge to allow for adjustments and ease of installation. This gap should be filled in after installation. If this area is not insulated, then this can lead to cold bridging and condensation
on the frame of the roof windows. The gap between the roof and the window creates a cold section all around the frame due to the temperature differential between the outside and the inside. Eventually, this can lead to condensation and mould, which contributes toward heat loss. Although you should always use products that meet with Part L requirements, this is not always enough to guarantee optimum thermal comfort. You should, more importantly, ensure a thermal collar is either part of the product, or that you purchase a separate thermal collar or insulating material after the window is installed to help prevent condensation and mould.
3. Flush finish and top handle
Large expanses of glass and roof windows which allow natural light to flood in are always going to enhance the kerb appeal of a property, but it’s the quality of finish and the extra details that often make a self-build project stand out. If you’re installing roof windows, then it will be important to consider how these align with the whole building envelope. Products that protrude from the building may look cumbersome compared to those with a flush or less obvious finish. Similarly, opening mechanisms are important. When specifying a roof window, consider the opening options and how this will work from both an operational and aesthetic point of view.
4. Breath of fresh air
Another important performance consideration when it comes to specifying roof windows is ventilation and fire safety. As well as choosing the right roof windows to provide you with wellbeing benefits such as fresh air circulation, you can also opt for roof windows with smoke ventilation kits, which automatically open once the ‘break glass’ screen is broken, helping to dilute the smoke to allow for easier egress.
5. Ease of install
Whether you’re fitting yourself or using a trusted trade professional, you should always check that the roof windows you’re specifying have been designed with ease of installation in mind. The gap between as-designed and as-built is often caused by incorrect installation, and this isn’t always the installer’s fault, but is often due to poorly designed products. Looking out for patented design and installation features is a good start.
www.keyliteroofwindows.com I-B U I L D/ O C T/20
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windows not only look good and wear well, but with the option of traditional or modern hardware and highly efficient double glazed units they also help you save energy. Please call or visit our website for more information.
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modern kitchens. The benefits are not just practical; BLANCO’s brilliant
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s a slim and highly efficient thermal multi-foil insulation for use in roofs, walls and floors, Alumaflex is ideal for barn or loft conversions and, in general, timber frame construction. The proven, high-performance product has UKAS accreditation and, thanks to further investment by IPP (Magply), was also awarded LABC certificate No EW 1045 in July. Alumaflex comprises four components in 14 layers which include aluminium foil bubble, aluminised foil, fibre wadding and polyethylene foam. It was assessed by LABC for ‘Energy Economy and Heat Retention’ with the registration meaning Alumaflex is recognised by Building Control for use in England, Wales and Scotland although the product is normally used in conjunction with additional insulation such as PIR or mineral wool, to achieve the required U-value. Manufactured in the UK by IPP, Alumaflex is very versatile and installer-friendly, being initially fixed with stainlesssteel staples, before normally www.magply.co.uk being secured with battens to 01621 776252 create a cavity. john@magply.co.uk
design capability is also apparent in the elegant appearance of
this smart tap. The FONTAS-S II, part of BLANCO’S Smart Tap portfolio,
utilises innovative technology to provide instant filtered water. The tap features a unique pull-out hose and secondary spout dedicated to the
filtered water, eliminating any crosscontamination and water wastage.
www.blanco.co.uk 01923 635200 info@blanco.co.uk
Keller Kitchens embraces sophisticated and stylish matt black trend
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hen it comes to truly beautiful kitchen design, Keller Kitchens
consistently delivers high-quality
and aesthetically-striking options.
This includes embracing new trends; one which is striding ahead is the
matt black finish which adds instant sophistication to the kitchen. In
classic Keller fashion, full flexibility and a huge array of choices are
available from colour and finish to
furniture and handles. Keller Kitchens makes it possible to
incorporate the matt black trend in the best way to suit a
space. Keller Kitchens uses the globally-recognised Natural Colour System (NCS) and
has kitchen designs that are
available in 1950 NCS hues with numerous different finishes.
Marmox Multiboards carry marblemosaics across Cinque Port self-build
Osmo Polyx-oil offers a natural finish
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P
olyx-Oil is a premium wood finish keeping wooden surfaces in top condition. Ideal for solid or engineered wood flooring, it is a high-quality, waterrepellent and tread-resistant wood finish based on natural ingredients. Offering all the professional features of a traditional oil-based finish, Polyx-Oil allows the natural texture of the wood to still be apparent. PolyxOil’s natural components penetrate deeply into the wood to create a micro-porous finish. This allows the wood to breathe naturally. After treatment, the wood is nourished from within and retains its elasticity. It becomes water repellent, stain resistant and more hardwww.osmouk.com wearing. 01296 481220 I-B U I L D/ O C T/20
www.kellerkitchens.com +31 (0) 164 285 106 info@kellerkitchens.com
strikingly modern
residential property in
one of Kent’s most famous
coastal towns is making articulate use of Marmox Multiboards as part of its cladding solution, around both the inside of an
elevated balcony terrace, as well as across the main entrance
elevation. Self-builder Gerald Glover opted to use 35 of Marmox’s
12.5mm-thick boards direct from the manufacturer, together with Marmox 360 adhesive, jointing tape and special metal washers
which combine with the fixing screws. Externally, the Multiboards
are being fixed over a breathable membrane and timber battens at 300mm centres with the use of
the special Marmox sealant, jointing tape and washers ensuring the
creation of a watertight surface.
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www.marmox.co.uk 01634 835290 sales@marmox.co.uk
LEGAL & BUSINESS PRODUCT GUIDE ADVERTORIAL: EARTHBORN
NOTHING WA RMS BE T TER
Earthborn – doing things differently
Earthborn is delighted to introduce The Earth Collection, a palette of five harmonious new paint shades inspired by the natural world, themed around the earth, land, sand, sea and clouds. The Classic Earthborn colour card will remain unchanged for now; instead, a simple bookmark is available displaying real painted swatches of the five new colours.
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he new colours, and the full range of 72 shades on the Classic shade card, are available to buy online now, or from Earthborn’s network of stockists.
Crocky Road
Inspired by the earth, its faintest green undertone lends Crocky Road an easy, earthy quality.
Up Up Away
Inspired by the clouds, Up Up Away is a cool, calm and collected off-white shade.
Grassy
Inspired by the land, this elegant grey-green is reminiscent of misty, mountainous landscapes.
Skipper
Inspired by the sea, this warm denim shade has a casual charm.
Sandy Castle
Inspired by the sand, and the feeling of sunlight on sand dunes to create our own take on cream.
w w w.v a r d e s t o v e s .c o m
With Earthborn, you get no acrylics or oils, but you get high quality and high performance and a full list of ingredients to help you make a more informed choice.
For more information or to view the full range of Varde woodburning stoves visit our website.
www.earthbornpaints.co.uk 01928 734171 sales@earthbornpaints.co.uk
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LEGAL & BUSINESS PRODUCT GUIDE ADVERTORIAL: VELUX | KEYLITE | TOOLSTATION
Keylite Roof Windows triumphs at the BMJ Industry Awards
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or the third year running UK manufacturer, Keylite Roof Windows (Keylite) has scooped the coveted ‘Best Roofing Manufacturer’ award at the 2020 BMJ Industry Awards. The BMJ Industry Awards is established as a key event for those working in the industry, recognising and celebrating excellence in the builders’ merchants sector. At this year’s virtual awards, Keylite retained its title as ‘Best Roofing Manufacturer’, a category it has dominated since the awards began in 2017. Decision-making is placed in the hands of those who know best, with the awards voted for and judged by merchant industry professionals to ensure an authentic line-up of finalists and winners. One area in which building merchants and their customers have recently praised Keylite has been on how well the company has adapted to the challenges of the COVID-19 crisis. Reacting quickly and continuing to support and maintain high service delivery. Keylite’s experienced and friendly team of industry professionals has developed a suite of online tools and resources to support merchants www.keyliteroofwindows.com throughout these 01283 200158 unprecedented times. info@keylite.com
VELUX smart tech roof window upgrade designed to help installers reap the benefits Leading roof window manufacturer VELUX has introduced a new promotion which is set to make it easier for installers to promote the benefits of VELUX INTEGRA to their customers.
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unning until the end of the year, homeowners purchasing VELUX INTEGRA electric and solar-powered roof windows * can receive a free VELUX ACTIVE with NETATMO kit worth £220. This complimentary upgrade will make it easier for installers to showcase the impact INTEGRA windows will have on their clients’ projects. VELUX INTEGRA is an innovative system of roof windows, blinds and shutters that can be controlled with one touch of a pre-paired wall switch, with rain sensors automatically closing roof windows at the first sign of a downpour. VELUX ACTIVE with NETATMO takes the INTEGRA range to the next level, offering total indoor climate control. Smart sensors continuously monitor temperature, humidity and CO2 levels in customers’ homes and adjust their roof windows to create a healthier indoor climate. Windows can even be controlled when customers are on the go, thanks to the VELUX ACTIVE app, which is compatible with voice-controlled virtual assistants such as Apple’s Siri and Google Assistant. The ACTIVE kit can be delivered to the property where the windows were installed and comes ready to fit and with full instructions included. This means that once it arrives, homeowners can install the kit themselves, saving installers time ahead of their next client project. Installers can help customers take advantage of this offer until the end of December 2020, simply by creating a VELUX Rewards account and uploading their invoice. Approved purchases of VELUX INTEGRA roof windows will automatically generate an email with instructions to claim a free ACTIVE kit.
Toolstation’s new season catalogue deals
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oolstation’s new season catalogue offers an extensive range of tools and more with unbeatable deals and prices across top-branded and own-brand trade and DIY products available in store and online. The latest catalogue is packed full of essentials and trade requirements to prepare our nation’s tradespeople and keen home-builders to tackle any task ahead of the seasonal ‘big turn on’ of heating and lighting. From essential electrical appliances and lighting to household heating, the new catalogue includes deals on hundreds of trade-quality brands – including up to 50% off DeWalt power tool accessories, 35% off Drayton heating controls, 20% off Kudox heating and 25% off Kärcher cleaning equipment. These fantastic product deals cover all plumbing, heating, electrical and lighting needs, and will be available in store www.toolstation.com and online until 4th January 2021.
I-B U I L D/ O C T/20
One free VELUX ACTIVE kit will be offered per invoice where a
*
purchase of VELUX INTEGRA electric and solar roof windows
has been made. Terms and conditions apply. See velux.co.uk/ activeupgrade for more details.
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www.velux.co.uk/activeupgrade 01592 778225 sales@velux.co.uk
LEGAL & BUSINESS PRODUCT GUIDE ADVERTORIAL: DRU
DRU launches new Virtuo series of contemporary electric fires
DRU has launched the Virtuo, a revolutionary, realistic electric fire with a unique 3D flame picture and a design and build quality that is the equal of its award-winning gas fires.
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he Virtuo series is based on the design of the DRU Maestro range of high-end gas fires. They are glass-fronted with authentic log fire beds, realistic flames and a selection of front-facing, twosided and three-sided models. The fires can be installed into false chimneybreasts or other architectural features around the home to create complete, contemporary fireplaces.
Unique projection system
Unlike ordinary electric fires, the Virtuo 3D flame picture is generated by a unique projection system that replicates the image of a real log fire, from the tall, dancing flames to the glowing LED fire bed and flying embers. The mirrored Ceraglass interior further enhances the depth of image, and there is even the sound of crackling wood. There are three different flame variations, including special light effects that can be updated. In addition, there is a remote control and an exclusive control app for smartphones and tablets with a timer and thermostat.
Sustainable and efficient
Virtuo delivers a cosy 2KW output or it can be run as a purely decorative fire. There are no ribbons to twist or spindles to squeak, and it is energy-efficient with low running costs. Commenting on the Virtuo launch, DRU UK General Manager, Niall Deiraniya, said: “Virtuo fulfils a real need in the fireplace market. Many householders are moving away from burning fossil fuels towards more sustainable home heating. Virtuo is also suitable for today’s well-insulated properties that do not require an appliance with a high output, but still want the luxury of a beautiful flame effect. “For home-builders and self-builders, Virtuo also makes a very attractive option, as it requires no chimneys, flue pipes or complex construction. Simply plug it into the domestic power supply and enjoy the experience of an atmospheric log fire.” Virtuo is available now from specialist fireplace retailers throughout the UK. For further information, visit the website. www.drufire.com
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