i-build April 2019

IN THIS ISSUE:

l SELF-BUILDS l RENOVATIONS l EXTENSIONS l CONVERSIONS April 19 Issue 57 Download the free app to your tablet or mobile. Search 'i-build'

WHAT ARE THE KEY FACTORS FOR THE FUTURE GROWTH OF THE SELF-BUILD MARKET?

20+

Ocean-inspired accessories to fall hook, line and sinker for.

HOW MUCH DO YOU KNOW ABOUT CLAY TILES?

COVER STORY:

MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE Uncover a house that’s full of secrets

DAZED ABOUT GLAZING?

FROM RUIN TO RESTORATION

Should you stick with double glazing or chose triple?

How a dilapidated property got a muchneeded facelift

BUILDING ON THE BRINK

Discover a light-filled house hanging from a cliff

+ SPECIAL FOCUS: l PAINT l SMART HOMES l BI-FOLDS l SHOW PREVIEWS

Make your dreams a reality

17th - 19th May Fri & Sat: 9am - 5pm, Sun: 9am - 4pm Free Parking. Swindon M4 Junction 16

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“A wide range of quality exhibitors” “Our visit to the NSBRC ticked all the boxes” Visitors to the NSBRC Show - October ‘18

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OR £12 PER PERSON ON THE DAY OF EVENT

67,000 sq ft exhibition space Over 250 exhibitors Live demonstrations Learn from experts and self builders Meet architects and designers Theatres with free seminars FREE parking The home of Self Build Custom Build & Renovation

National Self Build & Renovation Centre

Welcome to the April issue of i-build

www.i-buildmagazine.com

Editorial:

Paige Smith

paige@mixedmediainfo.com

Hannah Woodger

hannah@mixedmediainfo.com Print & Digital Advertising:

Sam Ball

sam@mixedmediainfo.com

Grant Jeffs

grant@mixedmediainfo.com Print Design Manager:

Jack Witcomb

jack@mixedmediainfo.com Digital Design Manager:

David Perry

david@mixedmediainfo.com Production Assistant:

Philip Coyle

philip@mixedmediainfo.com Accounts:

Jackie Dearman

jackie@mixedmediainfo.com Managing Director:

Sam Ball

sam@mixedmediainfo.com

In this month’s issue of i-build, three really is the magic number as we treble our breathtaking case studies to help inspire you on your journey, no matter where your plot is. The first of our stunning self-builds is situated in the leafy borough of Hackney, where a run-down property was transformed into a bright and appealing family dwelling. Turn to page 10 to see the completed homage to Hackney house.

Next, i-build travels an hour and a half out from Montreal to explore a home that is literally hanging from a cliff. Discover this unique project on page 16. Finally, to round off i-build’s case study spectacular, we arrive at the Abercorn Chalet, nestled in the vales of the Eastern Townships, near the Vermont border. The aim of the project was to create a unique living experience through architecture, embodying contrasts of harmony, open spaces and cosy areas. Turn to page 22 to see if you think they achieved this brief.

@ibuildmagazine

Barham Court, Teston, Maidstone, Kent ME18 5BZ T: 01622 232723

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

Elsewhere in this issue, i-build takes a look at how to add the finishing touches to the interior and exterior of your self-build project. From a comprehensive guide on clay roof tiles from Roof Stores on page 28, to a lookbook based around the Dulux Colour of the Year on page 30 and on page 36 we’re covering the great debate – double or triple glazing? There’s something for everyone.

It is with great sadness that I announce this issue as my last. It has been a delight guiding you through your self-build journeys and I wish you all the best for the future.

I hope you enjoy this issue. Don’t forget, if you’re coming to the end of your self-build and would like us to feature your home as inspiration for other budding house-builders, then please do not hesitate to get in touch. Alternatively, if you’re about to embark on your self-build journey and would be keen for us to document your progress, do get in contact.

Paige paige@mixedmediainfo.com

www.mixedmediainfo.com

Editor’s picks

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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 editors hands. In the absence of an agreement the copyright of all contributions, literary, photographics or artistic belongs to Mixed Media Information 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.

Welcome Note

i-build

Benefits of owning a Clearview wood burning stove: See page 43 Schueco brings light and life to any home: See page 44 Create a hassle-free kitchen or bathroom with the new Granite & TREND Transformations website: See page 45

44 Image © Maxime Brouillet Cover story: Be inspired by this month’s innovative project.

See page 22.

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Contents

i-build www.i-buildmagazine.com

April 2019

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16

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22

06

36

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In this issue: Desired Designs

08

Viewpoint

10 16

22

ON THE COVER

A look at the latest innovative products and styles for your new home.

ON THE COVER

AMA Research highlights the strong disconnect between the number of available sites and where people want to build.

Urban Sanctuary Rural Retreat

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ON THE COVER

Discover how Loud. Architecture & Interior Design Founder, Kate Clare, paid homage to Hackney’s industrial history in a property transformation.

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ON THE COVER

In spite of being a highly desirable location, a piece of land an hour and a half from Montreal, had never been built on due to its steep cliff.

Uncover how a house was built to ensure it blended in with the hill and caused as little disruption as possible to its stunning surroundings.

Impressive Innovation

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RCI

ON THE COVER

Are you considering using clay tiles on your selfbuild roof? This month, Roof Stores gives you the lowdown on everything you need to know before you commit.

i-build

ON THE COVER

With the warmer months approaching, the Sash Window Workshop discusses the benefits of timber bi-folds and why you should consider them for your self-build project.

Smart Homes

ON THE COVER

IN THIS ISSUE:

l SELF-BUILDS l RENOVATIONS l EXTENSIONS l CONVERSIONS

Download the free app to your tablet or mobile. Search 'i-build'

WHAT ARE THE KEY FACTORS FOR THE FUTURE GROWTH OF THE SELF-BUILD MARKET?

20+

Ocean-inspired accessories to fall hook, line and sinker for.

HOW MUCH DO YOU KNOW ABOUT CLAY TILES?

Want to incorporate smart home technology into your project? Loxone has put together a list of 10 top tips to help you on your way to creating a smarter self-build.

i-nterior

COVER STORY:

MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE

ON THE COVER

Do you know what the Dulux Colour of the Year is for 2019? Find out what hue has been picked and how best to use it in your self-build.

Glass & Glazing

ON THE COVER

Roof Maker uncovers five tips to help you decide whether you should go for double or triple glazing.

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i-DIY

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Product Spotlight

ON THE COVER

Explore the innovation of Laurent Guez, Designer and Partner at Tux Creative. His aim was to create a unique living experience through architecture, embodying contrasts of harmony, open spaces and cosy areas.

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April 19 Issue 57

06

A look at how to use the ‘don’t move, improve’ philosophy to maximise light and space in your kitchen. i-build rounds up the latest innovative products in the marketplace, designed with your self-build in mind.

Uncover a house that’s full of secrets

DAZED ABOUT GLAZING?

FROM RUIN TO RESTORATION

Should you stick with double glazing or chose triple?

How a dilapidated property got a muchneeded facelift

BUILDING ON THE BRINK

Discover a light-filled house hanging from a cliff

+ SPECIAL FOCUS: l PAINT l SMART HOMES l BI-FOLDS l SHOW PREVIEWS

Subscriptions: You can subscribe to receive i-build each month free of charge at i-buildmagazine.com/subscribe

LIVING WITH NATURAL AMBIANCE

New! The Bi-Fold Door in timber & timber / aluminium Wood as natural building material gives your bi-fold door its individual character. As part of our bi-fold door family the latest product innovations guarantee best energy-efficiency, barrier-free accessibility, weather tightness and the highest security standards.

Create your own natural light-flooded living space with a warm feel. solarlux.co.uk

T +44 (0) 1707 339970 marketing@solarlux.co.uk

Desired Designs

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3 Image ©Jan Constantine

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Dive in Fall hook, line and sinker for this ocean-inspired trend and have a whale of a time decorating your self-build.

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ith an emphasis in 2018 on how our habits are damaging the earth’s oceans, 2019 sees humanity pay tribute to the world that lies beneath us. This homage has made its way into interiors, where we’re seeing an onset of spaces displaying fantastical imaginings of aquatic life. From accessories featuring our new amphibious friends to scalloped furniture that’ll make you feel like the jewel of the ocean, the items in this selection will help you create a space that resembles a mermaid’s haven. Dive deep into this trend by incorporating all things curved, wavy and ocean-inspired throughout your self-build and celebrate everything you can find under the sea.

Add quirky pieces that don’t look too gimmicky such as scale-like wallpaper and shells in an array of muted colours. If you’re feeling really brave, take the plunge and integrate some more obvious fishy finds as the focal point of your self-build.

The selection of sea-inspired pieces shown here are just a drop in the ocean of what’s available, so you’re bound to find something to ensure your self-build is shipshape in no time.

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1. DIY origami fish lantern, Red Candy, £59

2. DIY origami jellyfish lantern, Red Candy, £62

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3. Cresta grey velvet shell chair, Artisanti, £853

4. Pearlescent mermaid tail plant pot, Yellow Octopus, $19.99

5. Coral ametist table lamp, Hurn & Hurn, £26

6. Sienna teal velvet shell chair,

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AUDENZA, £499

7. Scallop print cotton cushion, Cult Furniture, £28

8. Ceramic crab, The Contemporary Home, £19

9. Shell decoration, Guru-shop GmbH, €7.90

10. Painted wooden fish, Guru-shop GmbH, €14.90

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1. Gold octopus four candle centrepiece, £33.50

2. Gold octopus wine bottle holder, £28

3. Octopus bookends, £52 4. Octopus tentacle brass

Desired Designs

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candle holder, £59.95

4 2 3

Audenza Audenza is an award-winning online homeware boutique; created to add edge, style and interest to the homes of interesting people. Selling a fabulously quirky selection of homewares which ooze character and scream fearless style. Think iconic, bold and statement furniture, accented with eclectic, eccentric and ever so slightly kitsch accessories.

i-build loves...

1. Mixed brown turret shell round wreath, Gisela Graham London, £18 2. Shell wine cooler, Annabel James, £89.95 3. Shell lamp, Guru-shop GmbH, €59.90 4. Shell wall light, Besselink & Jones, £745

Worth shelling out for Wave goodbye to a boring interior with these shell accessories.

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1 3 3

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Viewpoint

Availability and price of land remains key factor to the future growth of the selfbuild market The latest self-build market report from AMA Research, highlights the strong disconnect between the number of available sites and where people want to build.

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he number of applications for self-build projects in the Home Counties and the South West is relatively large when compared to the number of available sites. In areas such as the Highlands, Northern Ireland and the North East, the number of sites available are notably higher when compared to the number of applications. Throughout the UK, there are significant variations in the level of self-build demand and available plots to facilitate this demand.

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The significant growth in house prices in the UK has enabled mature self-builders to self-fund their projects through a number of means by using their savings, revenue from property sales, remortgages or other types of loan. However, council planning systems are being viewed as one of the biggest constraints for self-builders for allocation and granting planning permission for small sites.

Over the next four years, the future prospects for the self-build market remain positive but relatively modest with self-

build volumes rising slowly. AMA Research’s forecasting takes into consideration key drivers such as lack of consumer confidence due to the uncertain economy, continuous constraints in the planning process and a relatively constrained mortgage market.

The information was taken from the Self Build Housing Market Report UK 2018-2022 by AMA Research, which is available to purchase now from the below website.

www.amaresearch.co.uk

HAND CRAFTED BESPOKE SECONDARY GLAZING the clear choice for feature windows

You don’t have to compromise on warmth or security to keep your home’s feature windows looking stunning.

We can help you gain all the benefits of modern glazing whilst preserving the character of your home.

As specialists in listed properties and historic houses, our expert craftsmen are skilled in creating glazing solutions for even the most unique feature windows, regardless of shape or size.

Our bespoke secondary glazing: Is made to measure and virtually invisible Prevents draughts and improves thermal efficiency Provides noise insulation Can be fitted to all types of windows, included listed feature windows Is easy to maintain

Telephone us on 01384636365 to arrange a free no-obligation survey

www.stormwindows.co.uk 9

Urban Sanctuary

Industrial influences When London-based architecture studio, Loud. Architecture & Interior Design, was approached to transform a run-down property in Stoke Newington, its Founder Kate Clare jumped at the chance to not only bring the property’s construction and design into the 21st century, but to also pay homage to Hackney’s industrial history.

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he Victorian-era property located in the centre of the leafy green borough of Hackney had been left in ruin for a number of years, requiring dire need of modernisation to transform the space into a bright dwelling with captivating design features for a young, growing family.

An extension was added to both the rear and side of the property to align with the neighbouring property’s extension and was angled from the neighbour’s wall back to meet the house in a sympathetic way.

Speaking of the build, Kate Clare, Managing Director at Loud. Architecture & Interior Design said: “Our brief was to design a property that had a hard appearance on the outside, which was in keeping with the dark extensions that have been erected along the rear elevations of Kersley Road, whilst also creating a softer more playful feel inside that maximised the amount of natural light available.”

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Urban Sanctuary

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Urban Sanctuary

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Urban Sanctuary

Urban Sanctuary The thermally broken dark grey doors blend into the charred timber cladding of the extension to create a visual unity when the ontrend Crittal-style steel doors are closed, whilst also being a nod to Hackney’s industrial past.

This manufacturing influence can be seen throughout the exterior and interior of the home, delicately balanced by the influx of soft lighting that inundates the property to offset the bold dark appearance of the rear facade. This was achieved through the specification and installation of windows and rooflights throughout the extension to not only maximise as much natural light into the property as possible, but also provide adequate ventilation.

In total the project took eight months to complete, with Kate and the owners working closely together throughout the entire process to create a unique family home designed to meet the wide ranging needs of modern day life. The contemporary, quirky interior touches add a sense of the owner’s personality, from the chequerboard encaustic entrance tiles to strategically placed pocket doors to capitalise on all available space.

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Kate concluded: “This was a really unique project to work on and it was a pleasure to be part of transitioning the home from a tired, dilapidated property into a modern, fun family home. It was essential that we offered a balance between the harsh materials and style of the industrial influences, which was perfectly offset by the abundance of natural light and nature inspired designs.”

www.roof-maker.com

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Urban Sanctuary

Rural Retreat

Thinking outside of the box This light-filled house, an hour and a half from Montreal, is literally hanging from a cliff as its name, Dans l’Escarpement, implies in French. It is located on land pertaining to an estate started over a hundred years ago and known for its remarkable landscapes and pristine lakes.

All images © Maxime Brouillet

I

n spite of this highly desirable location, this particular piece of land had never been built on due to its steep cliff. The clients commissioned the architects to design their house in such a way that it would blend in the hill and cause as little disruption as possible to its surroundings.

To keep the house’s imprint on the ground to a minimum, the architects designed the house around two concrete ‘boxes’, the first one, vertical, and the second one, horizontal. A totally glassed-in volume was anchored to both. The main entrance and the owners’ private suite are on the upper level of the three-storey volume. One level down, one finds a small office/library area, adjacent to the kitchen dining area. The lowest level of this vertical box features a sauna/spa facility.

The one-level horizontal box was set a few metres away from the first volume. Planned as guest accommodation, it gives direct access to the forest floor and connects to the sauna/spa area from the outside.

The intermediate level is the true heart of this house with its windowed walls opening up to the surrounding forest.

The living/dining area expands outdoors with a terrace built on the roof of the guests’ suite.

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SECTIONS

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Rural Retreat

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Rural Retreat

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Rural Retreat

Rural Retreat

FLOORPLANS

The prevailing material used inside is mahogany, selected for its enduring qualities and for its rich hues.

In the living/dining area, floors, ceilings, beams, window frames and kitchen cabinets are all finished with this rich dark wood recalling the trees just beyond. With light constantly shifting, interiors and exteriors seem to mesh.

Keeping within the same colour palette, Corten steel was introduced for the fireplace and for outdoor sheathing.

Exposed concrete was used extensively on exterior walls; symbolically, it refers to the huge boulders, which are characteristic of the territory.

Access to the house is via a metallic gangway stretching from a concrete garage near the parking area. As one progresses on the light bridge structure, particularly on a misty day, there is a sensation of going towards a tree house floating in mid-air.

www.yh2architecture.com

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Rural Retreat

Impressive Innovation All images ©Maxime Brouillet

A playful rural industrial aesthetic Nestled in the vales of the Eastern Townships, near the Vermont border, the Abercorn Chalet is the brainchild of Laurent Guez, Designer and Partner at Tux Creative. His aim was to create a unique living experience through architecture, embodying contrasts of harmony, open spaces and cosy areas.

F

rom the road, the house looks like a modest contemporary cottage.

However it actually consists of four large interconnected modules with several offset facades, each containing ample windows that overlook an in-ground pool and a garage/workshop. “The group of structures is reminiscent of a farm, with a central courtyard and outbuildings,” says Guez.

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When opposites attract Opposites are freely expressed here, particularly in the choice of materials – wood, concrete, corrugated steel or chequered steel plate and industrial metal. The raw character of such materials complements the architecture, which expands through a succession of volumes and perspectives, giving it “a warm personality, a playful spirit and plenty of soul,” Guez adds.

Impressive Innovation This progressive discovery ploy also applies to interior spaces. The arrangement of the windows, which allows you to glimpse the action between the modules, the contribution of a footbridge, light from pierced ceilings and a minimal amount of doors integrate this approach. Guez explains: “I wanted to create a spacious and discreet living space where every piece affirms its character and encourages an interconnection, strong and intuitive.�

Conventional rooms revisited The master bedroom has some surprising features.

Crossing the walk-in and the bathroom leads to the bedroom, an approach that reimagines the codes of convention in favour of the experience.

Another example of revisited rooms are the guest rooms. Being temporary living spaces, they do not have shelving or cabinets, therefore placing all the emphasis on the view outdoors.

Even the size of the doors are non-conventional, one being reworked to an 11ft height, is found near another that is six feet tall. †

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Impressive Innovation

Impressive Innovation A professional playground In the kitchen, rather than a standard complement of cabinets, the space is organised around two functional islands, recalling a restaurant kitchen. The layout showcases cookware, cookbooks, seasonings and ingredients stored in wooden baskets.

This arrangement encourages play and exploration. Located at one end of the house, the kitchen is surrounded by windows.

Carefully calculated angles of view encourage users to contemplate the patio, garden and, in the distance, the region’s valleys. It is an approach that produces a sensation “of being both on the sidelines and in the heart of the action,” says Guez, who developed his vision with Architect Guillaume Kukucka.

Industry, barns and campgrounds “I have never seen a project like this one” is a sentence Guez has heard many times among his stakeholders and suppliers, voluntarily chosen locally. “They were very proud and motivated to participate in the creation of the residence.”

“Think of a pig barn,” he would tell them with a laugh, trying to shock them while pointing out the project’s rough and fun sides. The interior use of traditional exterior cladding, like corrugated or profiled sheet metal, painted black or gold, disrupts reference points and induces a sensation of being outside, in another place, while actually being inside. “You get the same effect when camping, where you feel as though you are part of nature and yet are protected.”

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Impressive Innovation

Impressive Innovation The fireplace also showcases an industrial spirit, with dimensions to match, while the sinks and bathtubs, both salvaged and purchased second-hand, are fully restored to life.

The northern orientation of the lot and certain other constraints led to the optimisation of the building’s positioning, and to a clever arrangement of the windows – including the skylights – to favour the entry of light, according to the hour of day, the seasons and lives being lived inside the house. “I analysed the trajectory of the sun, and I also modelled its reflections on the sheet-metal walls. As the hours go by, the light creates interesting shadows and animations,” he says.

Future projects Inspired by architecture, functionality, suspense novels, stories, and Escher’s drawings of improbable constructions, Guez reconciles lightness and humour with rigor and rationality.

With the team at Tux, a Montreal-based agency serving a North American and European clientele, he plans to apply the principles and creative approach of Chalet Abercorn to future projects of exceptional residences, hotels and leisure.

“This home represents the sum of my professional experiences, my childlike gaze, my studies at the Ensaama School of Art and Design in Paris, and my travels. It embodies simple but powerful ideas.”

www.tux.co

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RCI

A guide to clay roofing tiles Clay roof tiles remain as popular as ever, adding a beautiful finishing touch to the roof of any home. Roof Stores’ clay roof tile guide will tell you everything you need to know about clay tiles. From durability and weight, through to cost, read on for a comprehensive insight into clay tiles.

C

lay tiles have been in use for thousands of years, with early remnants of their use found as far back as 3000 BC. That they are continued to be used today is quite remarkable and aside from the strong protection they provide, one of the primary reasons they remain so popular is because of their aesthetic appeal.

Right across the Mediterranean, clay tiles are the preferred choice. They also add a naturalistic appeal to historic and more traditional properties in the UK. The terracotta

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colour is most commonly associated with clay tiles, although they also come in other shades including white, brown and orange.

The iconic colour of the tiles can be maintained for decades, and any additional colour bonded to the clay will not fade or peel over time due to the high temperatures used in the kiln. Manufacturers are confident enough about this to offer a 50-year warranty on the durability of the colour.

In terms of shape and design, clay offers great flexibility and manufacturers are able to supply clay tiles to meet almost any requirement. From

low to high pitch roofs they can incorporate a range of different styles to emulate other variants of tile to match existing designs and materials.

How much do clay roof tiles weigh?

Clay tiles can weigh between 30 - 65kg per m² depending on the brand you choose, making them lighter than their concrete counterparts.

This is also an important point to remember when taking into account rainwater retention over sustained periods. An absorption rate of

RCI are maintained are over time, along with the replacement of damaged tiles and an annual roof clean to remove mould and algae.

What is the minimum roof pitch for clay tiles?

6% means they take in less water than concrete tiles and the extra weight will have no impact on the support structure underneath.

How long do clay roof tiles last?

There are three stages to the lifespan of clay tiles. Firstly there is the manufacturer’s warranty which will typically last for 30 years. Of course, they are being cautious with this estimate as it is well known in the industry that clay tiles will usually last for at least twice as long as this. In many cases, clay tiles will remain intact beyond 60 years and have been known to remain on some historic buildings for centuries.

These estimates are based on average weather conditions that will expose clay tiles to normal levels of rain, sun, sleet and wind. It should be noted that in more hostile environments their durability may be shorter.

Their lifespan also depends on how well the tiles

First of all, let’s explain what a roof pitch means in regards to the roof structure of your home.

This element of the design is to ensure the roof covering remains watertight by determining the lowest possible angle at which it can be laid.

For many years 20° was recommended as the minimum pitch for clay tiles but this has decreased in the modern era down to 15°. Anything lower than this angle is rare and although there are specific products that can go lower, 15° is the most common minimum angle for clay tiles.

As an example of this, Sandtoft’s 20/20 tile can be laid on pitches as low as 15°. It also uses an interlocking mechanism that makes it easier to install and is half the weight of concrete tiles and 40% lighter than traditional clay tiles. This has a knock-on effect on the underlay structure which will also require fewer battens, cutting costs and completion times further.

How much do clay roof tiles cost?

This section is intended to provide you with an idea of the level of pricing for clay roof tiles which can range from: £0.42 per tile to upwards of £20 for more specialised products.

As with any renovation or building project, a balance between aesthetic appeal and costeffectiveness has to found. It is extremely rare to find a project with no limit to its budget, so spending wisely and purchasing clay tiles that add value to the building design is always important. Aside from their protective attributes, clay tiles may be used for specific builds by homeowners or developers, but while clay tiles are always more expensive than concrete, there are options available to minimise the cost difference.

Clay tile cost options Machine made clay tiles will on average cost only 10% more than concrete tiles and this difference is likely to reduce further as the manufacturing process continues to become leaner.

Handcrafted tiles are not quite as man-made as the title suggests. While more expensive than machine-made clay tiles, technology is still involved in manufacturing until they are fired in the kiln before a hand-finish is applied to produce an authentic look.

The third option – and the most expensive – are handmade tiles. While the cost is higher, the natural rustic appearance these tiles offer is simply unbeatable. If your budget can extend to using these, or the aesthetic appeal of the property is of more importance, then handmade clay tiles are a must.

www.roof-stores.co.uk

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Show Previews i-build

The benefits of timber bi-fold doors Bi-fold doors run along a simple track and are hinged to fold open.

They are a popular choice for external back doors in both new-builds and period properties.

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uring the warmer months, bi-fold doors are perfect for entertaining.

One of the biggest benefits is that they help remove the barrier between the garden and indoors, creating more open space. For larger properties, bi-fold doors can provide you with a completely unrestricted opening, something you cannot achieve with other external doors.

In the winter months they allow you to look out onto your garden from the warmth of your home.

Increased light Bi-fold doors can behave as a wall of glass, allowing maximum sunlight to enter the room through the glass panels. For smaller spaces with few windows, bi-fold doors can transform the room, allowing a large amount of light inside and creating the illusion of the room being more spacious.

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Flexibility and practicality By folding and stacking neatly to one or both sides when open, bi-fold doors are often more practical than sliding doors.

Bi-fold doors provide greater flexibility than French doors, allowing you to open the doors as much, or as little, as you like. If required, you can also choose to include an access door providing you with quick, easy access by allowing one section of the door to open independently.

Why timber?

Timber doors often have a longer lifespan than other materials. Timber is also very energy efficient due to it being a naturally insulating material. This helps protect your home from the cold weather during the winter months.

Assuming the timber is from a sustainable source, it will be also be more environmentally friendly than other materials. Wood used from sustainable forests means that trees are planted

to replace any that are cut down. Look out for FSC, or equivalent accreditations, to check that the timber is from a sustainable source.

Installing a timber bi-fold door When installing a new bi-fold door, there are a range of different timber, glass, ironmongery and finish options that you can choose from.

Accoya is a popular timber choice due to its high stability and being very durable. Different types of glass can offer different benefits. As bi-fold doors are likely to have glass lower than 1.5m from the floor, they will require safety glass which is designed to reduce the risk of accident.

If you are replacing an existing bi-fold door you may wish to replicate your current door.

A specialist bespoke timber door company should be able to help you achieve this.

www.thesashwindow.co.uk

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i-build

Smart Homes

Top 10 tips for your smart home self-build Loxone has put together a list of 10 top tips to accommodate smart home technology into your self-build project.

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hen it comes to smart home technology, there are both wired and wireless options available, but if you have the opportunity to future-proof your home from the start then you should considering the following:

1. Allow enough space It’s important to ensure that you and your home are well-prepared for the future – Loxone recommends that you allocate 20% of the space in your distribution board as a reserve for future expansion when planning your electrical installation.

2. Plan for renewable energy sources Whether you are considering solar panels, a heat pump or just a simple boiler, Loxone recommend that you install cable conduit to locations such as your loft and the rear of your house to accommodate future technologies.

Consider adding energy meters at this stage to monitor consumption.

3. Think switches Switches should be in easily accessible locations.

This doesn’t always have to be next to doors – how about a switch above the work surface in the kitchen? Some smart switches can even be integrated into work surfaces, furniture or behind tiling. Think about how you would use a room and where it would be practical to install a switch to control the lighting, shading, and multiroom

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audio. You should also consider how many switches you use. One switch can have many functions and less is often more.

4. Consider AV and networking To deal with rising data demands from music and video streaming, Loxone recommends that you install a wired network throughout your self-build, especially in locations where you may have a TV. For maximum flexibility and future-proofing, Loxone suggests that you also run your speaker cables back to a central point for the audio distribution.

5. Control sockets By controlling sockets in key locations, you can stop devices using power on standby when you’re not using them. Not every socket in your smart home needs to be controlled though, Loxone recommends that you use a ring main for the majority. After all, you can upgrade any socket to be switchable with a Smart Socket Air at any time.

6. Use future-proof cable Loxone strongly recommends using a data rated cable such as CAT 7 for all sensors and your network. This will ensure that you are not limited by what you install now in 10 years’ time, but have peace of mind that no matter how technology progresses, your self-build is ready for it.

Alternatively, if you’re going for 24V smart lighting, consider a single cable that carries both power and data. This can significantly reduce installation time.

7. Charge your electric car Fossil fuels are a finite resource. To be prepared for the years to come, Loxone recommends planning ahead by installing cable conduit to your garage or drive so that you can have a charging station for your future electric car.

8. Don’t forget the garden It is all too easy to forget about the garden when you are busy building your house. To ensure you won’t have to sit in the dark, Loxone recommends that you either install a cable conduit or even make an allowance for a separate sub-distribution board. This will allow you to think about garden lights, irrigation and more when your self-build is finished.

9. Sensors are essential Sensors are the eyes and ears of your smart home. To enjoy the smartest features, Loxone recommends a minimum set of sensors that are essential in and around your home. The Loxone Standard includes switches, motion and temperature sensors in every room, as well as window and door contacts. For outside the company suggests wind and rain sensors, as well as door contacts on the garage door.

10. Consult an expert If you’re planning your own smart home self-build, it’s important to work with a smart home expert. They have the necessary skills and know-how for the design, installation and commissioning of a single system that delivers a real smart home; taking care of all the lighting, heating, security, shading, multiroom audio and more.

www.loxone.com

i-nterior

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Sweet as honey The Dulux Colour of the Year for 2019 is Spiced Honey – a rich natural tone that fills the space between caramel and mocha with a warm and understated earthiness.

This versatile shade is perfect for rooms in need of a makeover and works in any space.

Chosen for its versatility, Spiced Honey is said to reflect the positive mood of the moment – what a wonderful thought to be able to inspire positivity in your self-build living spaces. This shade can be calming, warm and cosy, or even vibrant and exciting, depending on the colour palette that it is paired with. It works especially well paired with neutrals and deeps – think beiges and greys, along with earthy reds and dark blues for depth and contrast.

1. Geometric rug, Rug’Society, £POA 2. Isabella Puff, KOKET, £POA 3. Luxe faux fur cushion, Bazaar Group, £16.99

4. Luxe faux fur throw, Bazaar Group, £69.99

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Use i-build’s moodboard to find inspiration for home accessories and soft furnishings that will match, complement and enhance the new shade of the moment, allowing it to invoke a modern, understated charm in the home. Opt for earthy shades to create a harmonious look, or darker accessories to set off this beautiful colour.

Dulux says this wonderful shade can create a soothing place to think, a cosy place to love or a vibrant place to act. With this in mind, how will you decorate your self-build with Spiced Honey?

5. Carpet pebbles, KSL LIVING,

8. Kelby Lounge chair,

€988.99

Cult Furniture, £189

6. Dulux Colour of the Year 2019 -

9. Vintage stacking chair by Remploy,

Spiced Honey

Scaramanga, £45

7. Ishino table by Walter Knoll,

10. Bergère bed, Plinio Il Giovane,

Chaplins Furniture, £POA

£POA

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Roofglaze

Lighting, by nature.™

Let the light into your home and living spaces with

Glass & Glazing

Double glazing vs triple glazing: making the right choice If you’re looking to replace your windows, picking windows for your self-build project or plan to have a rooflight installed, it can be difficult deciding whether to choose double or triple glazing. Each carries their own benefits, so it’s more down to personal preference, as opposed to a right or wrong answer.

Read on as Roof Maker uncovers five tips to help you decide whether you should go for double or triple glazing.

What is triple glazing?

Triple glazing is exactly what it sounds like – it contains three panes of glass within a sealed frame, as opposed to the traditional two found in double glazing. In between the panes of glass you’ll find air, or insulating gas such as argon.

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Triple glazing is most popular in cold climates, such as Scandinavia. However, they’re growing in popularity across the UK, as many people are looking to reap the benefits from them.

High insulation levels Both double and triple glazing will help to keep heat in the house; but with its extra layer of glass, triple glazing goes one step further.

To determine insulation levels, you can compare something called a Ug-value – the lower the Ug-value, the better insulated the window is. As a benchmark, a brick wall has a Ug-value of 2.0; whereas double glazed windows are 1.2, and a triple glazed window is 0.6.

If you’re looking to keep as much heat in your house as possible (helping to slash those energy bills), then triple glazed windows are the way forward. That’s not to say that double glazing isn’t effective at keeping heat in – it’s just that it doesn’t do it as well as triple glazed windows.

Temperature control It’s not just cold weather that homes across the country are trying to combat: come summer, many are prone to what is known as the greenhouse effect. This is particularly common in houses with south or west facing windows, where the sun shines in, making the room unbearably hot.

Solar gains in glass can help to reduce this heat, through temperature control. You can determine how well a window is at this with its g-value – the lower the percentage, the more effective the window is at controlling the temperature.

If you suffer from increasingly hot rooms in the summer, then triple glazing may be the ideal choice for you. Whereas double glazed windows have a g-value of 73%, triple glazed windows are between 35-63%.

Both double glazing and triple glazing offer unique benefits when it comes to costs, but it’s a question of how much you’re willing to initially invest.

The installation cost for double glazing is lower, but if you can pay the initial higher price for triple glazing, then you can reap the financial benefits later. Research has shown that if you replace single or old double glazed windows with triple glazing, you could cut your energy bills by 50%.

However, it’s important to take the rest of your house’s insulation properties into account, when working out the cost. If your home is old and poorly insulated, triple glazed windows won’t be as effective at cutting your energy bills.

If your home is already well insulated, or you will be taking steps to improve it, then cost-wise, triple glazing carries real benefits, as you won’t have cold spots (areas where heat is lost), like you would with double glazed windows. This will keep hot air trapped in, allowing you to use your heating less, and save money.

Glass & Glazing

Costs

Condensation Condensation occurs when there is a drastic difference in temperatures. For houses that are well insulated, this is a contrast to the cold patches that double glazing creates, where heat escapes. That contrast can cause interior condensation.

Triple glazing on the other hand, reduces the likelihood of condensation. Because it has a higher Ug-value, it means that there is less of a temperature difference between the glass and other areas of the house.

If your home is prone to condensation already, then this can be an important factor to take into account, especially as in the long-run, it can cause issues to window frames and paintwork. As condensation is caused when there is moisture in the air, activities like showering, cooking and drying your clothes inside can all be contributing factors.

Glass thickness As triple glazing is naturally thicker due to its third pane of glass, this carries both advantages and disadvantages, which should be taken into account when deciding between the two.

Thicker glass means your home is more secure, as it’s harder to break. It’s also more effective at blocking out noise – making triple glazing ideal if you live by a main road.

There is a downside to this however – triple glazed windows are heavier than double glazed. If you live in an older building, you’ll need to consider this, as the weight could potentially cause damage to your wall.

When comparing the two, triple glazing appears to be building on the benefits of double glazing. However, each carry their own advantages and disadvantages, which is why it can be difficult deciding between the two.

www.roof-maker.co.uk

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i-DIY

How to maximise light and space in your kitchen With the changes in lifestyle and the cost of buying a new home outweighing the cost of renovating or extending a property, it’s not surprising that the ‘don’t move, improve’ philosophy continues to strengthen.

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enovation priorities for homeowners are to improve the design, functionality and energy efficiency of their home and ultimately increase the resale value of the property.

The heart of the home With homeowners placing the kitchen and dining room as the heart of family living, multi-functional open living spaces are a must-have for new-builds and renovation projects.

Modern homeowners are now looking for large, bright and airy cooking areas, where the family can interact and spend quality time together.

If you’re considering a kitchen extension, you’ll need to request planning permission and think about how your spaces will flow. Create distinct areas for cooking, dining and socialising and use a central island to divide the room.

A kitchen extension will increase the overall square footage of your home and, ultimately, the value of your home.

Let the light in When extending a house to the rear, there is the danger of the extended area becoming dark and gloomy as it is isolated from the outside.

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Rooflights can provide the perfect solution for bringing more light into a room as they provide up to three times more natural light than standard windows.

Rooflights not only dramatically increase the amount of a daylight in a space but they can also become the centrepiece of your kitchen, especially if installed above a dining table or kitchen island, creating a more dramatic effect.

What type of rooflight should I choose?

There are plenty of factors to consider when choosing a rooflight. Selecting the right size, shape, glass and rooflight type is a crucial step to maximising the light, space and energy efficiency in your kitchen.

Rooflight design If you are looking for a modern look and feel, flatglass rooflights are the perfect solution.

With fixed, opening, single or multi-section options available, a flatglass rooflight with a contemporary, minimal framework design will enhance your kitchen space and increase the energy efficiency of your property.

Fixed flatglass rooflights are an attractive and cost-effective option. With a sleek and modern design, you can enjoy sky views all year round.

Hinged or sliding flatglass rooflights are the best solution to increase not only daylight but also natural ventilation into kitchens. Installed above the cooking or dining area, ventilation rooflights can be opened at the touch of a button and will allow in fresh air, removing any unpleasant smells from your kitchen space.

If you prefer a more traditional, classic design or are restricted by the listed status of your property, a lantern-style rooflight will complement your period property perfectly, adding height and visual drama to the interiors.

Rooflight size Consider balancing the size of your rooflight with the look and feel of your kitchen. Large rooflights are more appropriate for larger spaces and are vital for letting in daylight towards the centre of the room. If space is limited or if you live in a period property, consider installing smaller rooflights, that will complement the space and allow in the right amount of light and sunshine, without overheating the room.

Rooflight glazing With different types of glazing available, you can select either double or triple glazed options for improved thermal performance, glass with solar control that absorbs the heat and reduces the need for air conditioning.

When installing rooflights over cooking or dining areas, the type of glass selected is of the utmost importance. When choosing the type of glass for a rooflight, National Association of Rooflight Manufacturers (NARM) recommends that the inner pane should always be laminated glass, unless a stringent risk assessment has been undertaken which shows that use of a toughened glass inner pane does not give any additional risk to those below rooflights.

Create your dream kitchen When you are planning your new kitchen extension project, consider your lifestyle needs and tailor your vision accordingly.

Seeking the advice of professionals, such as architects or kitchen designers might be useful, as they can offer practical solutions and help you to stay within your budget.

www.roofglaze.co.uk

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Show Preview

Meet the Grand Designers Kevin McCloud will be joined by some of the most memorable Grand Designers from the latest series of Grand Designs, alongside some of Kevin’s top 20 Grand Designers from over the past 20 years of the TV series, including the very first home-designer to appear on the show, Tim Cox.

Inspiring interiors

Reasons to visit Grand Designs Live Grand Designs Live, proudly sponsored by Anglian Home Improvements, is gearing up for its biggest and most inspirational show yet.

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hether starting out on your first renovation, building a new home, redecorating a room, looking for build ideas for a small space or simply looking for inspiration, here are the top reasons why you need to book your ticket now.

Meet Kevin McCloud Based on the Channel 4 TV series, this exciting event will be presented by Design Guru Kevin McCloud who will be on hand to offer top expert advice as he leads educational seminars and dynamic debates.

Experience a live build with U-Build Visitors can watch a build take place, using the U-Build concept as developed by Studio Bark with help from Structure Workshop and Cut and Construct. This revolutionary construction

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process provides a robust and affordable self-build solution, which can be assembled by a small team, as demonstrated in Grand Designs: The Street.

Visitors can watch as the construction grows each day, and take part in assembling components to be used in the final build.

Invaluable inspiration Be inspired by over 500 brands, across five different sections covering build, kitchens, bathrooms, gardens and interiors. Discover RIBA architects, building suppliers, kitchen and bathroom designers as well as unique bespoke designs and original pieces of artwork plus much more.

Get expert advice The popular Ask An Expert service, will offer free 30-minute consultations with specialists across a range of home-improvement areas, from finance to self-build and everything in-between.

Find inspiration for your own Grand Designs at new features Design Discovered and Under the Stairs. Design Discovered will champion Britain’s exciting wealth of emerging design talent, showcasing five emerging enterprises, who have been given bursaries to tell their stories at the show; to exhibit and sell what they make. The five designers have been chosen by Barbara Chandler, Design Editor of Homes & Property at the London Evening Standard, who has a long track record of fostering new UK design talent. While Under the Stairs will see eight interior designers showcase bespoke installations, using a commonly neglected area in the home – the space under the stairs, giving visitors the opportunity to browse and pick up inspirations for their own mini grand designs.

Visit the Upcycling Hub In line with its green agenda, Grand Design Live will also premiere this all-new area of the show focused on the art of upcycling. Giving visitors an insight into the craft of upcycling through live demonstrations, as well as showcasing artisanal pieces not yet on the high street, available for purchase.

Discover Kevin’s Green Heroes Handpicked by Kevin himself Kevin’s Green Heroes for 2019 will make their debut to the show, giving visitors the chance to discover the very best eco-innovations of today; including EO Acoustic, Air-Ink, ecoBirdy, HyO Cup, Mapuguaquen, Poppy Pippin and Vlisco Recycled Carpet Studio.

This May’s edition of Grand Designs Live is set to be one of the most exciting, engaging and informative to date.

www.granddesignslive.com

RESTORING AND REPLACING TIMBER WINDOWS AND DOORS Providing tailor made solutions for your project

Conservation Area and Period Property Specialists

01344 868 668

www.sashwindow.com

Product Guide

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DRU announces updates to Spartherm wood fire inserts range DRU is the official UK distributor for the German designed and made Spartherm range of wood stoves and wood fire inserts.

o support the marketing and distribution of the Spartherm brand in the UK, DRU has announced a streamlining of the inserts range, to be followed by a new UK brochure and promotional campaign from April 2019.

Spartherm wood fire inserts are available in front view, 2-sided, 3-sided and tunnel versions. They are all Eco Design ready, with high energy efficiency and many sophisticated functions that make them suitable for traditional or contemporary homes. They are of particular interest to architects and interior designers, who are looking for high-end, high specification fires and stoves.

One of the principle distinguishing features of Spartherm wood fires is their manual or automatic vertically sliding door mechanisms, which provide easy access to the interiors of the fires in order to replace the logs and for cleaning and maintenance.

The new wood fire inserts range is now divided into the Linear series, which has door handles that are an integral part of the frame and the Design series, in which the handle is a separate, detachable component for a more seamless finish.

Another unique feature of the Spartherm inserts range is the exclusive S-Thermatik NEO app for smartphones and tablets. When combined with the fire’s operating system, the app enables the user to remotely control the air flow in the fire and the temperature in the home using a simple graphic display.

Other features of the range include an air wash system to keep the glass clean, a soft-close concealed door-locking mechanism, a user-friendly air slide and a simple hinged ash tray.

The new Spartherm inserts brochure will be available in both printed and interactive digital versions, along with informative videos to use in dealer showrooms.

In addition, selected Spartherm wood stoves and fires will be displayed on the DRU stand C35 at Hearth & Home, the UK’s premier fireplace trade show in Harrogate, 9 to 11th June 2019.

www.drufire.com info@drufire.com 0161 793 8700

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The benefits of owning a Clearview wood burning stove Clearview Stoves is a leading manufacturer of exceptional wood burning stoves. It has been designing, manufacturing and distributing from the heart of Shropshire since 1987. It has a range of stoves to suit every situation, whether for small or large rooms, or modern or traditional properties. Many stoves have a boiler option and the larger ones are capable of running a central heating system.

Product Guide

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ood burning stoves can reduce heating costs and environmental impact. Clearview’s stoves are clean burning and easy to maintain with a wonderful view of dancing flames behind crystal clear glass. Their unique design provides excellent controllability and are so efficient, frequent cleaning is unnecessary. We are all aware of energy price rises and the ongoing issue of the effects of global warming, so anything that can be done to reduce our reliance on gas, electricity and oil to heat our home will be welcomed by many of us.

Wood is a renewable and sustainable energy, especially when sourced from managed woodland.

Clearview believes this so passionately that it plants and maintains its own forests and has developed a range of timeless, high performance, eco friendly wood burning stoves. The environmental benefits of burning wood are gaining wider and wider support. Burning wood cleanly only releases the same amount of CO2 to the atmosphere from a tree as when it is left to rot. So using it to heat our home means less fossil fuels are used, fewer emissions and a healthier planet.

A Clearview wood burning stove is the focal point to any room. Offering glowing, flickering flames and a cosy warmth. It’s a cliche but nonetheless true, that the soft glow of a fire is the perfect setting for an intimate conversation. It’s the place where friends and family can talk and laugh in comfort and somewhere to let the imagination run free.

Clearview has highly qualified staff to provide guidance and advice on all aspects, from helping to choose the right stove to expert installation.

Visit one of its beautiful showrooms in Ludlow, Stow on the Wold or Whitchurch to find out more and discover how easy it is to install a wood burning stove and the simple joys of using one.

www.clearviewstoves.com 01588 650123

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Product Guide

Schueco panoramic sliding doors bring light and life to any home When planning a new home, apartment, refurbishment or extension, one of the main priorities is to ensure that the interior is filled with light so that it becomes a warm and welcoming space for family and friends.

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arefully designed glazing is obviously the best way to achieve this, hence the increasing popularity of installing large-scale, glazed sliding doors in kitchens and living areas where, when fully open, they also create a wonderful new dynamic by blurring the boundary between house and garden.

But as with any home-related purchase, the product you’re buying needs to be fit for purpose. In the case of sliding doors, points to watch out for are the rigidity of the sliding vents, the ease with which they open and close, how well they are insulated and the level of security they offer.

Insisting on quality at every stage – in design, manufacture and installation – is the best way to ensure that you get a product that provides a complete, long-term solution. Which is where the panoramic range of sliding doors from Schueco scores.

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Designed and engineered in Germany using quality aluminium profiles, but fabricated and installed in the UK by Schueco’s national network of partner companies, a Schueco sliding door allows customers to buy with confidence.

Included in its range are Panoramic Doors which – as the name suggests – are designed for large openings: as an example, the size of the leaves in the Schueco ASE 67 PD door can be up to 3.5m high by 3.2m wide and a typical installation might include the use of two, three or four leaves.

Rollers positioned in the middle of the moving vent distribute the weight evenly, minimising friction and ensuring that vent always move smoothly. Depending upon the level of insulation required, the vents can be double- or triple-glazed.

Importantly, the Schueco ASE 67 PD offers homeowners not only simply stylish aesthetics and easy-action opening and closing, but also the advantage of minimal sightlines – its outer frame is completely concealed within the building structure – which result in huge areas of clear glass.

The ASE 67 PD door comes in two different options with different outer frames. The slimmer of the two options – which has a 57mm frame – is especially suitable for use in renovation projects: it offers a lower overall frame cost, but without any reduction in the excellent levels of sound insulation (up to 46 dB).

A completely flat threshold eliminates the possibility of tripping and yet the door still delivers watertightness to 300 PA and wind resistance to Class C3. The deeper 90mm option offers even greater weather resistance with watertightness to 600 Pa. Both versions have a very slim central mullion of 31mm and can accommodate glass widths ranging from 36 to 49.6mm. There is a choice of locking options, one located in the central meeting stile and one located on the side, but both offering the high level of security that gives customers peace of mind.

www.schueco.co.uk/slidingdoors mkinfobox@schueco.com 01908 282111

Bring the outside in with Folding Doors 2 U

A new pioneering facility on Abacus’ website allows a trade customer to create, design and order a bespoke wetroom shower tray in minutes. This can be done by logging into the dealer log-in portal’s home page in the usual way. Delays over CAD design are an old, painful memory and customers will receive a quote instantly. The process involves choosing a drain type, a tray depth and size, and then the location. A quote is produced immediately; this can be saved or orders can be placed then and there. With super quick delivery, the new system is designed for today’s customer demands.

Bi-fold doors or folding doors are high on the ‘must-have’ list for anyone improving their home or adding a new extension due to their ability to instantly change your living style by providing an unobstructed opening onto your patio or directly into your garden.

FD2U timber bi-fold doors are manufactured from engineered timber to ensure structural stability and to help prevent twisting or warping. The range is available in standard eucalyptus hardwood with European oak also available to special order. All folding sliding doors are factory finished with either RAL colour paint finish or translucent stain finishes.

www.abacus-bathrooms.co.uk enquiries@abacus-bathrooms.co.uk 0345 850 5040

www.foldingdoors2u.co.uk 01621 834123 sales@foldingdoors2u.co.uk

Osmo protects premium shepherd huts

Product Guide

Create and order a bespoke wetroom shower tray in minutes with Abacus

New website shows how a kitchen or bathroom can be transformed in one day

When Norfolk-based hut builder, the English Shepherds Hut, was looking for a product that would enhance the exterior of its bespoke huts, the company turned to Osmo UK to provide it with a hardwearing, weather resistant and aesthetically pleasing wood finish. Protection of exterior wood is of the upmost importance as the colour can fade after harmful UV rays damage the lining within the wood. With this in mind, the English Shepherds Hut applies Osmo UV-Protection-Oil Extra 420 to the huts. The active ingredients are perfectly blended in order to reduce algae and fungal decay and provide optimal protection during winter periods.

Don’t start over; makeover. That is the message from Granite & TREND Transformations. New website granitetransformations.co.uk offers all the homeowner or landlord needs to know about a hassle-free, money-, time- and planet-saving new look in the kitchen or bathroom. Whether it is a new worktop; or appliances; or doors; or sink space; or tiles and splashbacks, Granite & TREND Transformations will make design dreams come true with a wide range of materials, colours and finishes to choose from. For inspiration, the super-slick website houses a gallery showcasing the kitchen and bathroom ranges, and associated products; along with before-and-after shots of real-life transformations.

www.osmouk.com 01296 481220

www.granitetransformations.co.uk 0808 149 5914

Helping with historic windows

Award-winning sliding door system

Storm Windows is a family-run company dedicated to supplying owners of listed, classic and historic buildings a solution to their problems of thermal efficiency and noise insulation. This is achieved with its unique system, where all fixings are hidden behind slim aluminium extrusions. All Storm secondary glazed units are individually manufactured by hand, with specialist shapes created by its extremely skilled engineers enabling it to mimic the unique features of primary windows. Due to the nature of historic windows being ‘out of square’ the company’s handcrafted techniques and accurate surveying to tight tolerances allow it to manipulate the aluminium extrusion to replicate the idiosyncrasies of the original window.

Designed with incredibly narrow 20mm sightlines, theEDGE2.0 is an award-winning sliding door system that provides the ultimate combination of performance, effortless usability and aesthetic appeal. With such slim intermediate frames and large glass panels, the system is perfect for transforming homes, filling rooms full of natural light whilst breaking down the boundaries between inside and out. The technically advanced system is available in an almost infinite range of configurations, sizes and options, with every door system handmade to the exact specifications and requirements of your extension, renovation or self-build project.

www.stormwindows.co.uk 01384 636365 sales@stormwindows.co.uk

www.idsystems.co.uk/theEDGE20 01603 408804 info@idsystems.co.uk

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Product Guide

FIRE DOOR HARDWARE As important as the door

A fire door is an essential part of a building’s passive fire protection system. A critical component of every fire door is the hardware on it.

At ZEROplus we have been independently fire testing door hardware for over 20 years, to be able today to offer an extensive range of tested products.

Seals Hinges Locks Euro Cylinders Lever Handles Door Closers Letter Plates

Bespoke timber windows and doors Established in 1994, The Sash Window Workshop specialises in the manufacture, installation and repair of timber windows and doors.

The Sash Window Workshop offers a wide range of services, including new timber windows and doors, with a supply and fit, or supply only service; new sashes into existing window frames; draught proofing and overhaul; secondary glazing and re-glazing existing timber windows.

All new joinery is made to order in the workshop in Berkshire using the latest in computer operated machinery, alongside the eye for detail of the company’s traditional craftsman.

The quality of timber and joinery construction methods is of paramount importance to the lifespan of the product.The Sash Window Workshop uses Accoya or durable hardwood for its external facing timber. These high quality timbers are reasonably forgiving of any subsequent lack of maintenance or neglect, combining minimum maintenance with maximum lifespan.

The Sash Window Workshop’s specialist team of craftsmen and installers are experts in their field and the company will work with you to ensure they provide a tailor-made solution to meet your requirements.

The company understands the importance of providing outstanding customer service, reflected in its five star Trustpilot rating and Which Trusted Trader membership.The Sash Window Workshop are also FSC Certified and FENSA registered.

The company has previously collaborated with many different homeowners, builders, architects, contractors, interior designers and developers and has worked on a wide range of properties; from small individual flats, to large projects.

www.sashwindow.com info@sashwindow.com 01344 868668

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Door Stays Vision Frames Louvres Door Viewers Flush Bolts Panic & Emergency Exit Hardware

FIND OUT MORE AT: WWW.ZEROPLUS.CO.UK ZERO SEAL SYSTEMS LTD: 01785 282910

Lock technology Lock technology Lock technology you can trust you can you can trust trust

Integrate with exisiting access Integrate with control, Integratealarm with and exisiting access intercom systems, exisiting access control, alarm and plus much more control, alarm and intercom systems, intercom plus muchsystems, more plus much more

Fully tested intelligent Fully testedcontrol technology Fully testedcontrol intelligent and multi-point intelligent control technology locking systems technology and multi-point and multi-point locking systems locking systems

Keypad

Fingerprint Scanner

SmartTouch Sensor

Keypad Keypad

Fingerprint Scanner Fingerprint Scanner

SmartTouch Sensor SmartTouch Sensor

Contact our specialist team today www.smartsecure.co.uk Contact our specialist team today Contact our specialist team today Email: sales@smartsecure.co.uk www.smartsecure.co.uk www.smartsecure.co.uk Tel: 01733 393330 Email: sales@smartsecure.co.uk Email: sales@smartsecure.co.uk @_SmartSecure Tel: 01733 393330 Tel: 01733 393330 @_SmartSecure @_SmartSecure

SmartConnect App for door monitoring SmartConnect App for door monitoring SmartConnect App for door monitoring

LEVATO MONO

Porcelain paver system and coordinating internal tiling Surface 360, formally The Deck Tile Co, has 150+ colours and finishes in their Levato Mono 20mm porcelain paving tile ranges. Plus create a seamless visual transition between internal and external spaces with coordinating interior 10mm porcelain tiling.

For both residential & commercial use.

Ideal for balconies, roof terraces, garden decking and piazzas.

Various sized 20mm thick porcelain tiles.

An eternal zero maintenance product offering massive over-life savings.

INTRODUCING OUR NEW WEBSITE: WWW.SURFACE360.CO.UK

Timber, stone & cementitious effects.

‘Floating floor’ – installation over single ply membranes.

Height adjustable/slope correcting support system: 9mm - 550mm.

Lightweight – 45kgs per m2.

Highly abrasion and stain resistant.

Highly slip resistant: R11 A,B&C. High load bearing.

Impact resistant.

Completely non porous.

Frost proof.

BIFOLD DOORS ADD THE WOW FACTOR Allow natural light to flood into your home with a contemporary aluminium roof lantern or bifold door from our range complete with solar control double glazing. Standard and bespoke sizes available at affordable prices.

Add the wow factor to your home extension or self-build.

sales@foldingdoors2u.co.uk

01621 834123

www.foldingdoors2u.co.uk