i-build December 2016 by Red Hut Media Ltd

IN THIS ISSUE:

l SELF-BUILDS l RENOVATIONS l EXTENSIONS l CONVERSIONS December 16 Issue 29

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20 +

CHARLIE LUXTON TALKS BUDGET, FABRIC-FIRST AND LAND SUPPLY

festive finds to spruce up your self-build this Christmas

HOME AUTOMATION: ESSENTIAL GUIDANCE FOR TAKING CONTROL

COVER STORY:

Perfectly packaged Prefabricated build ticks all the boxes for one couple in search of their dream home

LOW ENERGY RETREAT

MAINTAINING ROOF LIGHTS

Learning lessons with sustainable, eco-friendly self-build

+ SPECIAL FOCUS:

Hints and tips for looking after your roof windows

ALTERNATIVE FINANCE

An explanation of peer-to-peer funding for developers

l RENEWABLE TECHNOLOGY l LIGHTING l VENTILATION

Delivering British architecture with German technology Hanse Haus is a premium German supplier of turnkey, pre-manufactured ultra-high efficiency homes. Founded as a carpentry business in 1929, it now erects some 400 timber frame homes annually Europewide and has been active in the UK since 2006. To talk to us about your individual requirements, contact us using the details below. Hanse Haus Email info@hanse-haus.co.uk Telephone 0800 302 9220 www.hanse-haus.co.uk

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Welcome Note

i-build

Welcome to the December issue of i-build If you’re in the early stages of planning your self-build, let me ask you this: who would be in your dream team? An architect, planning consultant, structural engineer, Building Regulations expert…? For many, I assume, if funds permitted, you would have on board as many trades and specialists as possible. But for a rare few self-builders, sometimes the vision is so strong that often this negates the need for a specialist designer or engineer. This was exactly the case for Sue Eakers with Low Down House. After countless years searching for a plot, Sue had built such a clear picture of her home in her mind that when she finally came across the perfect site, she didn’t even need to enlist the help of an architect. To read more about Sue’s experience, turn to page 18. Meanwhile on page 14, Architectural Designer and TV Presenter, Charlie Luxton, explains why investing in a good architect is money well spent. There are surprisingly very few experienced architects out there that specialise in the self-build sector, but he stresses that although you will pay a premium, it’s worth factoring them into the budget. Elsewhere in this issue, David Brown at Folk2Folk explains how peer-to-peer finance is supporting property developers, Philip Elliott advises

homeowners how to build a solar-powered home without forking out for solar panels and Kensa Heat Pumps unveils the tricks to installing ground source heat pumps in historic builds. As always, our pages are bursting with design inspiration for those of you who are nearing the completion of your home. This month, we’re capturing the essence of Christmas, as many of you will have set a goal to be in your new home in time for the festive season. From wreaths and garlands through to decorative accessories, these items will be sure to fill your home with comfort and joy. I hope you enjoy this issue. Don’t forget, if you’re coming to the end of your self-build and would like to offer your home as inspiration for other budding house-builders, please don’t hesitate to get in touch at the usual address. Alternatively, if you’re just beginning your self-build journey and would be keen for us to document your progress, do get in contact.

Editor in Chief hannah@mixedmediainfo.com @ibuildmagazine

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Editor’s picks Pear Platt, Woodfalls Farm, Gravelly Way Laddingford, Kent, ME18 6DA T: 01622 873229 F: 01622 320020

CRL’s Venturous Builds campaign: See page 12, A Year in Profile with Hanse Haus: See page 44, leading hardware from AGB: See page 54.

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Cover story: Prefabricated build from WeberHaus ticks all the boxes for one couple in search of their dream home. See page 26.

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Contents

i-build www.i-buildmagazine.com

December 2016

In this issue: 06

Desired Designs

Viewpoint

Contracts & Legalities

ON THE COVER

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

Architectural Designer and TV Presenter, Charlie Luxton offers some top tips for self-builders. ON THE COVER

David Brown, Managing Director of Folk2Folk, explains how peer-to-peer finance can offer support.

Sustainable Living

ON THE COVER

Sue Eakers unveils the design decisions behind her eco-friendly, new-build home, Low Down House.

Impressive Innovation ON THE COVER

Lighting

Renewable Technology

John and Jodie McAllister reveal how choosing a prefabricated building made their dreams become a reality. How self-builders can incorporate solar technology as part of their scheme, without the use of solar panels. Kensa Heat Pumps explains the tricks to installing ground source heat pumps in historic builds.

Doors & Windows

Ventilation

Architects/Designers

i-nterior

ON THE COVER

VELUX discusses the importance of repairing, maintaining and improving your roof windows. Wendy Thomas, Product Manager at ventilation manufacturer Nuaire, explains why fresh air is the key to a happy, healthy home. lapd architectsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Trevor Avery talks to i-build about the trends in self-build design and budget tips. Take control of your home with these hints, tips and product inspiration for home automation.

i-build

i-scape

Product Guide

i-build offers guidance and inspiration for when you come to specify your self-buildâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s masonry.

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

Before you embark on your self-build, it may be that you have a legal obligation to preserve the trees on site. i-build explains more. i-build rounds up the latest innovative products in the marketplace, designed with your self-build in mind.

Desired Designs

1 3

Have yourself a merry little Christmas

‘The most wonderful time of the year’ is quickly approaching and for many self-builders this will be the first festive season spent in their new home.

or those of you that have recently completed your self-build journey, or are finalising finishing touches, this Christmas will allow you to reveal all of your hard work to your friends and family. Many of you will be the go-to hosts for this Christmas season and will be looking to create the perfect festive setting for you, your friends and your family. Whether you’re half way through your self-build, at the start of your journey or have recently completed your self-build, you’ll be familiar with the endless, imperative selections and decisions that you have had, or will have, to consider. With an endless array of Christmas decorations, chinaware and accessories to scroll through, Christmas decorating may prove a difficult time for decision-making. Here, i-build offers some inspiration to adorn your self-build’s interior with that festive feel – creating an idyllic venue for your self-build’s first Christmas.

1. Christmas red berry round

large wreath, £39.50, The Farthing

2. Holly, ivy and berry cluster, £4, B&Q

3. Nordic Christmas wooden LED star light, £28, Talking Tables

4. Christmas poinsettia trug, £30, Interflora

5. Snow-tipped garland with berries and cones, £29.99, Wyevale Garden Centres

6. Silver cone garland,

£18, The Contemporary Home

7. Stocking with ribbon tree design, £14.99, Wyevale Garden Centres

8. Botanical Christmas plates, £4.50, Talking Tables

9. Rannoch tree, 2.1m, £99.99, Dobbies

10. Christmas tree linen cushion cover by V Living, €13, DaWanda

1 1. Floral fun Christmas pudding, £40 2. Luxury hand-tied bouquet, £130 3. Magical Christmas gypsophila door wreath, £95

4. Holly, berry and blue thistle

Desired Designs

chair back, made to order

Interflora Flowers are a great way to add a pop of colour to your self-build’s Christmas grotto this year. Intermingling with the aroma of a freshly roasted turkey, sweet-smelling flowers will add a fresh fragrance to your home. With a wide variety of festive floral arrangements available, from elegant chair backs to traditional Christmas wreaths and floral centrepieces, Interflora has numerous arrangements to ‘wow’ your guests this year.

A festive welcome Supporting a traditional approach to Christmas decorating, Christmas wreaths will add a joyous greeting to your self-build’s entrance. With such as diverse selection available, from magical mistletoe to eucalyptus and Christmassy cones, there is a Christmas wreath to suit every self-builder’s festive style.

1. Sprout wreath small heart, £15, The Contemporary Home

2. Eucalyptus and cone Christmas wreath, £15, The Contemporary Home

3. Mistletoe wreath, £28.95, Rigby & Mac 4. Snow tipped wreath with berries and cones, £29.99, Wyevale Garden Centres

Desired Designs

Tantalising texture Winter is the perfect season to add a touch of texture to your self-build’s interior. From knit to cashmere and mohair, there’s a texture for everyone. 1

Put your feet up

Wrapped up

This sturdy footstool with a removable British sheepskin cover is hypoallergenic and naturally fire-retardant. This unique, contemporary piece complements modern and period interiors alike.

Annabel James’ mohair throws will add a touch of glamour to your self-build. Luxuriously sleek and sourced from the fleece of an angora goat, these throws are available in gunmetal, blonde, natural and squirrel grey.

(www.black-by-design.co.uk)

(www.annabeljames.co.uk)

Classic cashmere

Chunky knits

Rigby and Mac’s merino cashmere grey check throw is perfect for curling up on the sofa on a cold night’s eve. Made from 5% cashmere and 95% merino wool, this 180cm wide throw is perfect for injecting a touch of texture into your self-build's interior.

Sweetpea & Willow’s knitted Nomad stools are a great way to add a chunky texture into your self-build’s scheme. Like little cotton balls, these small delightful stools are perfect for the winter months. (www.sweetpeaand willow.com)

(www.rigbyandmac.com)

Modern and subtle Made in the pine tree-filled region of Central Mexico, reste’s diamond wool blanket is produced from the highest quality, softest wool. Natural, undyed and untreated, this blanket is woven on a vintage Swiss power shuttle loom. (www.reste.co.uk)

Vivacious velvet A sumptuous seat, a lavish footrest, an opulent bench or a luxurious foot end, the possibilities for The French Bedroom Company’s Chesterfield Bench are endless. Upholstered in soft grey velvet, with deep buttoning, the bench is the epitome of luxury. (www.thefrenchbedroom company.co.uk)

. Put your feet up

Desired Designs

A Scandi Christmas The traditional festive pine green and royal red theme may not be to everyone’s taste. So here’s some inspiration for those Scandi-loving minimalists. 1

Starry-eyed

Light up

Black by Design’s SIRIUS Juliet LED Christmas light is perfect to add a touch of the festive season to your self-build’s interior. With pearly white and silver lights, the Juliet is perfect to create a cosy, romantic ambience.

This pinecone-shaped light, in seasonal snowy white, is guaranteed to make a gorgeous addition to your Christmas tree. The collection from SIRIUS brings together classic Christmas shapes to create a range of wonderful festive bauble and garland LED lights.

(www.black-by-design.co.uk)

Simplicity

Sophisticated silhouettes

Made from 220gsm paper, this Nordic star, by AtNo67, is the perfect playful piece to add to your scheme. Hanging from a window or leant against a wall, it can be beautifully styled with branches of evergreens to achieve the ultimate Scandi Christmas theme.

B&Q’s regal stag silhouette will add a touch of class and elegance to your Christmas decorations. Ideal for minimalists, this silhouette has eight multifunctional light settings, allowing you to choose your lighting ambience.

(www.atnumber67.co.uk)

(www.diy.com)

Cuddle up

Rustic and natural

Perfect for cosy nights in by the fire, this Icelandic grey undyed rug/throw is perfect to add a Scandi touch to a Christmas interior. Produced from natural, undyed eco sheepskin, this grey rug/throw can be used to drape over chairs or lay elegantly on the floor.

This natural twig star reveals a beautifully lit large star when the LEDs are switched on. The star hangs from twine and can be decorated with colours and ribbons to enhance festivity. A perfect addition to the Scandi theme, this star would look perfect hanging on a door as a wreath alternative.

(www.theswedishwoodenhorse.com)

(www.livelaughlove.co.uk)

IT’S NOT EASY BEING GREEN

When you’ve specified quality material throughout your project, why stop at your rainwater system? The NEW SL range, gives you all the quality of aluminium with it’s lightweight, corrosion resistant and low maintenance properties without blowing the budget.

And of course it’s 100% recyclable!

SL R

ang

Easy Fix. Available in 100mm and 75mm Dia. Pipe and 125 x 100mm MOG or 125 x 75mm HR gutters.

www.rainguard.co.uk For more information call 0113 279 5854 or email sallyann@rainguard.co.uk

Campaign

CRL shines spotlight on the winners of Venturous Builds CRL is delighted to unveil the winners of its Venturous Builds campaign – an inspiring new web series that will showcase Britain’s inspiring self-builders and developers and their construction achievements.

self-builders and developers who, against the odds, have dared to dream big and have created the homes of their dreams.” The Venturous Builds web series is hosted by English Designer and regeneration expert, Wayne Hemingway. Commenting on the winners, Wayne Hemingway said: “My wife and I designed and built our own home 19 years ago when our kids were young and it has been a truly life enhancing experience ever since. “Designing and building your own home is about getting something you really want, rather than getting a house someone else has designed or settling for what’s on the market. The winners of CRL’s campaign clearly knew what they wanted when it came to their home and they clearly are revelling in the results. “Venturous Builds celebrates fantastic selfbuilt homes and shows it’s about the spirit of getting on and doing it. It is truly inspiring to witness the people and the love of what they have achieved at the end of the process.” CRL does not shy away from arranging insurance for unusual projects, including new builds, complete or partially-completed builds, timber frame constructions, prefabricated properties, mixed-use projects, conversions and insolvent properties. The construction insurance expert recognises that every opportunity is different. With CRL, there is no set criteria – just an appetite for adventure.

Venturous Builds’ winners are:

contemporary, family eco home, a renovated Grade II Listed mansion and a custom built, eco timber house have been selected by the structural defects insurance specialist as being truly venturous of spirit. The campaign, which saw CRL launch its logo into space, aimed to inspire those who have dared to be venturous, brave and unorthodox to share the details of their venturous builds. Winners’ projects will be filmed and will be featured on the online show. The first episode of Venturous Builds is now live on the CRL YouTube channel: https:// www.c-r-l.com/venturous-builds-winners-mr-

roy-austin-family-eco-home CRL’s CEO, Steve Mansour, said: “We’ve been blown away by the quality of all of the entries we’ve received for our Venturous Builds campaign. You’ve proved that the UK has some truly venturous self-builders and developers. Thank you to everyone who entered. “However, we were looking for the one-offs, the inspiring, the ingenious construction projects to feature in our Venturous Builds web series. Our three winners clearly demonstrate they have the courage, determination and an unwavering belief in their ability to create something truly unique. “Venturous Builds celebrates the pioneering

Roy Austin – Rosedene, Redruth, Cornwall – a modern family eco home with special features to meet the needs of Roy’s disabled son. Berkshire Homes – Holme Hall Manor, Cliviger, Lancashire – a beautifully-renovated Grade II Listed mansion, which has been sympathetically converted into 10 stunning apartments. Barbara Fischer-Clark (Stommel Haus) – Heartwood, Aboyne, Aberdeenshire – a custom built, energy-efficient timber eco house that harnesses all the latest energy-saving technology. For more information, please contact CRL.

www.c-r-l.com customer.service@c-r-l.com 0800 772 3200 Top left: Holme Hall Manor is a beautifullyrenovated Grade II Listed mansion which has been sympathetically converted into 10 stunning apartments Far left: Rosedene in Cornwall is a modern, family eco home with special features to meet the needs of the owner’s disabled son Left: Heartwood in Aberdeenshire is a custom built, energy-efficient timber eco house

home sweethome homesweet AW outlined.pdf home AW outlined.pdf 4 27/05/2016 4 27/05/2016 09:21

CMY C

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09:21

Viewpoint

Build your dream Charlie Luxton first opened his eyes to the world of architecture at the age of 13. After contemplating a career in sculpting, architecture took over and Charlie took off to the Royal College of Art to undertake his Masters degree. Here, Charlie explains where his passion for sustainability stemmed from and offers his top tips for self-builders.

What do you believe is the biggest challenge for self-builders today? Skills. The market is small, actually 10% for the UK and higher in Scotland and Wales. In England, approximately 5-7% of new houses are self-built. So, the biggest challenges are the planning system, talented skills, the fact the network is underdeveloped and land supply – which is probably the biggest challenge for self-builders. Everything is set up for large-scale house-building. Eight house-builders deliver 60% of UK houses, which isn’t healthy in my mind. There’s not enough competition and house-builders are too focused on land banking, planning and profit.

What did you learn during your time filming Building the Dream? A lot about people’s amazing stamina, ambition and drive, and that ordinary people can do pretty extraordinary things. These people are normal people, not earning a packet, doing everything they can to build a home and they throw themselves into it with such energy, stamina and ability and I’m amazed; I’m constantly amazed. Building a building is really hard and they do it; they get a building.

What is the most outstanding example of a self-build that you have seen? One that springs to mind is a cottage extension in Cornwall completed by a couple called Andrew and

Vicky. Andrew did an amazing job, his extension was really well-built and was of a great quality. He then went on to build a project for us, Tara and Dimitris’ house. I designed the house and oversaw everything and Andrew built it beautifully, he did a really amazing job.

What advice would you offer those considering undertaking a self-build? Budget, budget, budget – like location, location, location. Be realistic with your budget. Commonly, people do not give out the precise figures and sums for their self-build; they bend the truth slightly and don’t add in all costs. If you get stuck halfway through a self-build and run out of money, that’s absolutely the worst thing you can do – just don’t put yourself in that situation!

What do you believe has been the biggest innovation in the self-build market? The Conservative Government will be launching a self-build register which will require the local councils to assess self-build demand in their area. This is the same level of protection they have for social and general housing. What the Conservative Government are doing – slowly, but it will gain momentum – is they’re now saying as a local council you will have to supply land for people to undertake self-builds. That will be the single biggest change in the self-build market in generations.

Top: Good architects are really, really helpful and can bring an enormous amount to your project Above: Charlie Luxton first opened his eyes to the world of architecture at the age of 13 Above right: You should prioritise the things that aren’t going to change and assign as much resources to these as possible Right: There is no right or wrong material to use and there are no right or wrong ways to use them

Viewpoint

So many people want to take on a self-build; if a survey was to be taken, 60%, or over 50%, of people would like to undertake a self-build project. This is because land gets snapped up by the big developers who get planning permission. We’ve made the bar so high to get planning permission, that the only people who can get it are those with very deep pockets and this will change the entire playing field.

What advice would you offer to those when hiring an architect? Get a good one! If they cost more, pay the fees. Fees are some of the best money you’ll spend on a self-build and if they’re bad, it’s the worst money you could spend. Good architects, and there are some out there – but not as many as you’d hope – are really, really helpful and can bring an enormous amount to your project. My advice is to, one, be very careful about the one you select and, two, take your time; make sure you get along with the architect. Don’t go for the cheapest; all that means is less time will be spent on your self-build. You’re going to have rough and smooth roads; it’s not all plain sailing. Listen to what your architect has to say, work with them and talk to them.

What self-build projects are you working on currently? A personal project of mine currently on the go is being used as a trial. I like to trial things out on my own project and, if it’s successful, use them on clients' projects. It’s a two-bed, ‘annexy’ house with all pre-cut timbers; so the timbers were delivered to site pre-cut and it was assembled on site, like giant Lego. It’s a wooden structure, covered in wood with wood fibre insulation and

timber cladding and it was quite affordable, at around £1200 per square metre. We took the idea that you don’t have to fully prefabricate timber frame. In my opinion, sometimes it’s good. Every time you cut a piece of timber, it slows you down, whereas, factories have the software to maximise efficiency of cut – in around five to six days, two people can have the frame up.

Where do you think it’s important for self-builders not to make compromises? Fabric; when we design buildings we use a ‘fabric-first’ approach. We try and get the floors, walls and roof as high-specification as possible

in terms of sustainability, then everything else in the building can be compromised, because, over the years, things will change. A boiler’s life cycle is around 15 years, a bathroom is around 10 years and, lastly, the walls will last as long as the building is standing. You should prioritise the things that aren’t going to change and assign as much resources to these as possible. Secondly, and this goes back to the architect, self-builders really need to think about thermal modelling. This is used prior to construction where self-builders can optimise and analyse the way their self-build will work thermally and to deal with overheating, which becomes a big problem with highly-insulated buildings. This way self-builders will know how their self-build will perform before it’s built and can adjust the design to benefit from natural sunlight as they need it.

Do you believe there is a ‘best’ building material for a self-build? There is no right or wrong material to use and there are no right or wrong ways to use them. I tend to try and use non-VOC compounds. Try and use as much low-carbon, low-cement content concrete, these are really important, basic things everyone can do – try not to use exotic materials that may contain toxins. People are often too focused on “what should I build from?” It all depends on the building and its location; nothing is right or wrong, it’s all about where you use it and that’s where an architect, project manager or builder will really help.

www.charlieluxtondesign.com

Contracts & Legalities

Left: For those building the properties, developers are increasingly experiencing issues with accessing the funds they need at the time they need them Below: To date, UK P2P platforms have lent over £8b in total with over £3.5b going to various businesses, including the property development sector

Brick and clicks David Brown, Managing Director at Folk2Folk, a peer-to-peer lending company, explains how peer-to-peer finance is supporting property developers.

s a nation of home-builders, our love of bricks and mortar is second nature, but for those building the properties, developers are increasingly experiencing issues with accessing the funds they need at the time they need them from the traditional banks. We are seeing a rise in reports highlighting how banks are reducing the lending they provide to property developers to de-risk their balance sheets. From 2014 to 2016, the level of funding from banks to property developers has more than halved, falling from just over £32b to just under £15b. This means property developers are now turning to alternative sources to access funds so they can carry on building. Fortunately, the rise of peer-to-peer finance (P2P) and online alternative lenders is helping to plug that gap. P2P finance is enabling property developers to access the right level of flexible finance to stay in business, at the same time delivering a risk-adjusted return to individuals that choose to invest and lend funds through P2P platforms. P2P finance over the past decade has fast become a mainstream way for businesses to access the finance they need as banks become increasingly unwilling or unable to provide capital to property developers. As the birthplace of the sector, the UK is one of the most advanced and diverse alternative finance markets in the world. To date, UK P2P platforms have lent over £8b in total with over £3.5b going to various businesses, including the property development sector.

Platforms in the UK offer a variety of different types of finance. These include secured loans from Folk2Folk to bridging finance, unsecured business loans, specialist property development loans and invoice trading from other platforms. In most cases providers, like Folk2Folk, can act much quicker than traditional banks by being more flexible in their application approach. By combining an online application with a more holistic personal approach, by considering the property asset as security, the applicant’s business history as well as the reputation of the applicant through professional service checks with solicitors and accountants, platforms are able to provide a decision in a matter of days with funds following

a few weeks later. This is much quicker when compared to the banks, which can take weeks for a decision and then months to release the funds. The combination of speed, flexibility, personal approach, the competitive rate and better level of customer service means property developers are increasingly thinking P2P first and bank last. Additionally, the Government and industry bodies are very supportive of creating a diverse mix of funding options for businesses, as we will see mandatory referrals from banks to alternative providers come into force to provide finance solutions to SME customers they are unable to help. This increasing level of collaboration between the banks and alternative providers is very much welcomed, as the main aim should always be on helping the business customer access the right finance for them. We believe this will ensure that UK businesses, such as property developers, can get the right finance that suits their requirements to enable them to get on and build. We encourage all property developers out there that might be looking for finance to do their research on the types of loans offered by alternative providers, as they do vary on LTV rations, loan terms and funding levels available. In most cases, we believe business can get a great deal through lenders like Folk2Folk due to the simple, fast and flexible approach we offer compared to their traditional bank or going through a broker.

www.folk2folk.com

The real beauty is what you don’t see The quality of a Schueco glazed system isn’t just on the surface. German engineering means sliding doors with concealed frames and narrow central joins. Windows have slender profiles. Façades offer ultraslim mullions and transoms. Entrance doors deliver unbeatable security. Yet all come with insulation that can be up to Passive House levels. If you’re looking for a system that is clearly better, there’s only one name on the frame. www.schueco.co.uk

Sub-brow Eyebrow Sustainable Living 18

School of thought Sue Eakers had always wanted to build her own home. After fruitless years plot searching, by chance she came across the old school house in a conservation area in Bradninch, Devon, which had been granted planning permission for a two to three-bedroom, single-storey eco house.

Sustainable Living

n December 2009, we purchased two properties from the Bradninch Town Trust,” explains Sue. Low Down House is in the old school’s garden, sold as a separate building plot with planning for a single-storey, eco house of approximately 1900ft2. The approved design was for a contemporary-styled bungalow with eco features comprising an open-plan kitchen/dining/living space, three bedrooms – with one en-suite – a bathroom, utility room and rear courtyard sitting in approximately 0.16 acres with shared access. Although planning permission had been granted for a two to three-bedroom, single-storey eco house, Sue had to seek planning permission to change the roof from green to PVC and the exterior wall cladding from cedar to slate. She also wanted to include a garage/workshop within her plans, but she could not agree on a design with the conservation officer. She explains: “After submitting 17 garage designs, I agreed to their directive, but never built the garage. The process trailed on for seven months and was holding up the main build.” The self-build would be semi-sunken with the west side attached to a retaining wall. The north and west side of the house are set against the walls; it’s as if the building has been reversed into the space and then hunkered down – hence the name Low Down House. “Many in the town have no idea that there is a house in the old school garden,” comments Sue. Access to the property is severely restricted by existing buildings either side of the drive entrance, at approximately 2.8m. This proved difficult to bring materials on site and was always a challenge, as Sue explains: “The entrance to the drive is a gap between two historic town buildings, the guildhall and the former police house, followed by a sharp turn and a steep rise. Instructions given to companies to send small vans often failed, resulting in a lot of ‘handballing’. On the day the insulation sheets arrived, in the largest of articulated lorries with a forklift on the back, the driver declined to use the fork lift and sat in his cab while we unloaded – by hand, from the street, in the rain – 300 full-size sheets to carry over the last 200m.

Images © Chris Biele

Left: The self-build would be semi-sunken with the west side attached to a retaining wall Above: Sue has always had solar PV and in planning an all-electric house, generating electricity was a must

Sub-brow Eyebrow Sustainable Living

“The pumping of the 30 tonnes of liquid concrete for the thermal wall had to take the same route. It took a lot of pressure to push the concrete up the hill, past the school house and up into the proforma shuttering. When the shuttering was full, there was still 200m of hose full of concrete to empty out – it just kept flowing. Luckily, the excess concrete was able to be shovelled into the back wall.” The footprint and some of the design features, which came with the site’s planning permission, were along the lines Sue had in mind: “I had a clear vision of the home and therefore did not require an architect, just a Building Regulations specialist and a structural engineer. The main contractor had undertaken the work on the old school house and his team were trusted and willing to attempt techniques they hadn’t used before. “I wanted a home that was energy-neutral; geometric lines, easy-to-clean, lots of daylight and warm – somewhere that would suit the finishes I had in mind.” From the original plans, Sue removed many elements, to ease the budget and make the house more workable. The self-build's concept is centred around angles, including exterior and interior walls, the peninsula cooking area, the room divider – made of salvaged timber – and even the lights are at oblique angles. “I dropped the original sedum roof, as this was too much hassle – the birds eat it! This also avoided the additional build strength that would have been needed to bear the weight. I went for a commercial Fatra roof, as I had seen it used on a school in Cardiff with standing seams. I also dropped the en-suite – a single-person bungalow doesn’t need three loos. This allowed for a bigger bathroom with a walk-in shower and a larger master bedroom with more light and storage.

Sub-brow Eyebrow Sustainable Living Above left: Sue designed the house with angles, including exterior and interior walls Left: From the original plans, Sue removed many elements, to ease the budget and make the house more workable Above: The house is flooded with natural light, holds the heat and has lots of circulation space Right: Sue included a variety of design features into Low Down House’s scheme, including pocket doors, Velfac windows and bi-fold doors

“Space allocated for an outside courtyard was reclaimed – which would have been a cold, north-facing sink hole, as no provision had been made for a plant room – and believe me, the systems in this house needed a lot of space!” Sue specified insulation double, or more, than the Building Regulations requirements to the walls, floor and roof. She explains: “My thinking was that once generated, ‘heat’ would be kept. I wasn’t aiming for a ‘Passive house’, but when the air permeability test was done, it was 2.49m3 and SAP ratings were 94/96.”

These results made Exeter-based provider of heating and insulation, Timóleon, which supplied Sue’s underfloor heating, mechanical ventilation heat recovery (MVHR) and air source heat pump, very happy. Timóleon helped Sue to achieve her ambition of creating her new home, with a very low level of environmental impact and running costs, resulting in a property with high standards of indoor air quality and comfort. Low Down House not only includes an Omnie 7kW air source heat pump (ASHP) – delivering domestic hot water and warmth via Timóleon’s

Omnie Foilboard Floating underfloor heating system – but also an Omnie Compact 185 heat recovery unit (HRU), supplying pre-warmed air throughout the house. Timóleon’s Omnie equipment managed to fulfil all of Sue’s design intentions, as she explains: “I wanted to build a home that was as low energy as possible and to take a responsible approach to the specification of its building services, so that it would not only provide peace of mind for myself in terms of future running costs, but also make a positive contribution in respect of concerns over carbon reduction and our energy security.”

Sustainable Living Right: Timóleon helped Sue to achieve her ambition of creating her new home, with a very low level of environmental impact and running costs, resulting in a property with high standards of indoor air quality and comfort Below: The doorways are wide and wheelchair access is possible, the walk-in shower can cater for a chair and the three entrance steps are 1.6m wide to allow for, in time, a lift to be added

Sue has always had solar PV and in planning an all-electric house, generating electricity was a must. However, to fix an array to the single-ply PVC roof caused some ‘head-scratching’ for Sue, as she explains: “As the roof material could not be screwed into or punctured, the solution was to fix the 12 panels to ‘trays’, which are weighed down with breeze blocks.”

Design features Low Down House is more than 66m from a fire hydrant, so a sprinkler system was needed with an 800 litre reserve tank. “This is for peace of mind as I understand that no one has ever died in a property with sprinklers,” explains Sue. “Although on mains water, I’m not connected to the mains sewage and have a self-contained Rewatec sewerage solution, saving the charge from the water company.” With the idea of using ‘commercial’ materials in a domestic setting, Sue included a variety of design features into Low Down House’s scheme, including a thermal mass spine wall, made from poured concrete with some textured wood finish, a metal fabricated hearth – from her time spent designing industrial kitchens – for the wood burner, Altro Whiterock wall cladding for the wetroom and kitchen walls, Altro safety cork flooring, pocket doors, Velfac windows, bi-fold doors and precoloured render.

“The major design element would be the internal concrete wall, visible in the main rooms,” explains Sue. “I chose cost-effective fencing planks for a textured section in the living area and intended for the remaining concrete to be plastered, but when the shuttering was taken off, I liked the plain finish, so all the poured concrete is exposed. I ‘filled’ the holes left with bracing bolts with ash wood bungs, for a quirky feature.” The house is flooded with natural light, holds the heat and has lots of circulation space. The external render and the interior painted walls are a light grey. Inside, the paint finish has a different effect in every room as it picks up from accent colours and the concrete. Wicanders’ cork flooring, from Spain, has mellowed and provides sound proofing and warmth underfoot. The windows have an internal wood finish, which links to other wood features, including the mahogany shelves in the main room, salvaged from a school, and beams from the school house. Sue also put thought into how her home would provide for her as she got older. The doorways are wide and wheelchair access is possible, the walk-in shower can cater for a chair and the three entrance steps are 1.6m wide to allow for, in time, a lift to be added. Low Down House is singlestorey, but there are two levels, the rooms at the back are set lower, to prevent light blocking from adjacent homes.

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Sustainable Living

Above left: Sue wanted a home that would suit the finishes she had in mind Left: Sue’s concept of a self-build wasn’t only the desire to have a home built to her personal specification, she also wanted to experience the process and be immersed in all aspects

Sue’s concept of a self-build wasn’t only the desire to have a home built to her personal specification, she also wanted to experience the process and be immersed in all aspects, to ensure her vision was realised, so she project managed the build herself. “The opportunity to take voluntary severance with Cardiff Council was offered and taken. I’d say I enjoyed 95% of the build. The people that worked on the build were diligent and took great pride in building a unique home. “My job in Cardiff involved working with architects refurbishing and building schools. Each time I liked something, I noted the specification and asked about the supplier and costs. For the day-to-day materials on the

Sustainable Living Top centre: Sue chose costeffective fencing planks for a textured section in the living area Left: Altro Whiterock wall cladding was specified for the wetroom and kitchen walls

build, the main contractor selected these and showed me them before purchasing.” Sue wanted the build to “take as long as it needed”, and didn’t set a timescale for the build. She enthuses: “I knew that the main contractor was in demand and it would be completed in a sensible time, in order to move on. Work started on 27th July 2014 and my first night’s sleep in my new home was 27th July 2015 – however, the landscaping and the drive took a further couple months. “I set a budget using quotes and costs learnt from a school house conversion; the main contractor included the majority of items, but finding one supplier for the

Above: The major design element is the internal concrete wall, visible in the main rooms

renewables wasn’t easy. There was a glitch when the main contractor’s quality surveyor advised of a £14k error (and not in a good way). We agreed to take the hit 50/50. To balance the budget, I dropped the planned brise soleil and changed a few finishes. The budget was £302,000 for everything, including landscaping and turfing the total came to £306,000 and I claimed £3000 back in VAT, so was only £1000 over budget.” Sue’s vision has certainly been realised with the design of Low Down House. She concludes: “From waking up that first morning, it was like coming home. It was great fun and a very rewarding process. For those contemplating undertaking their own self-build, I would advise to start with a detailed budget; include everything from planning fees to charges for waste, if in doubt of a cost make a generous guess – don’t leave things out. If possible, be on site every day; builders need decisions all the time and any delays will stop the momentum and if the builders have to make the choices, you may not like them!”

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Impressive Innovation

Made to order Living in Dublin, John and Jodie McAllister wanted to create their dream home in the city they loved, making their idea of urban living in their own uniquely-designed home a reality. Choosing WeberHaus enabled them to make this dream come true.

ohn and Jodie McAllister lived in a beautiful Victorian house with lots of charm, but also with many of the drawbacks typical of this style, including poor insulation and a cold and draughty living environment. When they began to consider moving on they decided to realise their dream of building their own home rather than buying an existing house. As an architect and an interior designer, they knew exactly how to bring their vision to life. John explains: “As designers, we were keen to see how we could improve our own living environment and be able to advise our clients better from our own experiences.”

Prefab versus traditional The McAllisters had the chance to acquire land from large adjoining gardens where they lived in Dublin and, once they had secured the site,

they began to investigate their options. Rather than pursuing a traditional build, the idea of a prefabricated build was the most appealing. “We wanted to be sure that our new home would work in terms of performance,” John comments. “Factory-built houses are more controlled and less susceptible to weather conditions, so you can more or less guarantee your finish and insulation.” The couple researched several providers and settled on German, luxury prefabricated homes supplier, WeberHaus. John continues:“The deciding factor for us was the flexibility and quality that WeberHaus could offer. It wasn’t an entry-level option, but we wanted to design 95% of our home ourselves and WeberHaus was able to achieve everything we wanted.”

The WeberHaus experience John’s own architectural expertise meant that he could go to WeberHaus with his plans and work alongside the company’s designers to finesse them. The couple visited the WeberHaus HQ in Germany twice to see the factory in action and experience the company’s “World of Living” show park. This vast complex allows customers to see what WeberHaus can offer and to choose the final fixtures and fittings of their new homes. John went on: “It was a fantastic experience to see the huge array of materials and finishes available and to be able to go through all of the details with the WeberHaus team.”

Impressive Innovation

Construction Although WeberHaus offers a fully project-managed solution including full internal fit-out, the McAllisters decided to go for the shell solution so that Jodie could use her interior design skills. Once planning permission was in place and the couple began working with WeberHaus, the entire process – from initial conversations to the completion of the build – took only seven months. Once the 12 lorries carrying their new home arrived on site, it took only a few days for the house to be constructed – wind and weather-proof. John says: “After months of preparation, it was very exciting to see it all erected so rapidly and efficiently by a team that clearly knew exactly what they were doing. Compared to a traditional construction where the walls, roof, floors and so on can take four or five months, it was extraordinarily fast! Once the shell was up the crew remained on site for around five weeks to finish the rendering and cladding, which minimised disruption for the neighbours.”

The design The McAllisters knew what they wanted from their new home not just as designers, but also as homeowners. “We wanted something dramatic, lots of room height and a conceptual design from the inside out. A contemporary building using natural materials,” John explains. “As an architect and interior designer involved in residential work, we feel a responsibility to reduce our carbon footprint as much as possible, so we chose a design and materials to reflect that.”

Above left: The house is built from natural, highly-insulating, sustainable wood, ‘green’ cement and mineral wool fibre insulation comprising up to 85% recycled glass Far left: The McAllisters decided to go for the shell solution so that Jodie could use her interior design skills Above: Once the shell was up the crew remained on site for around five weeks to finish the rendering and cladding Left: John and Jodie took care to incorporate numerous ecological features into their home

Impressive Innovation

As a result, their new home features three different roof forms sheltering nearly 280m² of living space; a combination that was deliberately chosen by John to achieve contrasts that match those between the plaster facade and weather boarding. Nestled among the surrounding gardens, the many floor-to-ceiling windows offer a view of natural greenery in the city centre. “In a sense, the garden comes into the living room and the living room goes out into the garden,” John comments. This effect is also maximised in the master bedroom, with a glass balustrade outside the floor-toceiling window to maintain the view and open up the room. Jodie notes: “We’re in the middle of the city, so it’s lovely to feel that you’re not hemmed in.” Daylight floods the living and dining area from two sides, as well as through the skylight, thereby creating a different lighting effect depending on the time of day. Even in the basement, a great deal of light penetrates the inserted glass element directly by the staircase that leads to the lower floor. The basement flat has a separate entrance and forms a self-contained unit with three rooms, plus kitchen and bathroom. Planning restrictions meant that the house could only be two storeys high, so the basement provided an ideal solution.

Impressive Innovation Sustainability John and Jodie took care to incorporate numerous ecological features into their home. “We can take a bath with a clear conscience,” says Jodie, “because the house has a rainwater harvesting system as well as heating via the solar system.” The house is built from natural, highly-insulating, sustainable wood, ‘green’ cement and mineral wool fibre insulation comprising up to 85% recycled glass. Energy-efficiency is managed by super-insulation, airtightness and a heat recovery ventilation system, as well as deliberately large south-facing windows coupled with smaller north-facing windows. John notes: “Without being too scientific about it, we have halved our energy bills since moving into our new home.”

A beautiful life The McAllisters now enjoy a superior living environment in their WeberHaus home. John remarks: “The best part of the whole experience, apart from the quality of the build, is the living experience. The way all the light and spaces flow together and the fact that it is so well insulated and airtight means that we enjoy a constant temperature throughout and aren’t always pulling jumpers on and off!” The kitchen is the heart of the McAllisters’ home and the layout means that it’s easy to access from anywhere in the house. The children

have also enjoyed the experience and love the new house as much as their parents. “The children thought the unusual nature of the build was great and, in particular, love the laundry chute!” Overall, the McAllisters are thrilled with their new home and were delighted by the whole experience. John concludes: “WeberHaus is very thorough and ensured that every aspect of the design and build process was managed. They were professional, quick to respond, and any subsequent minor details were addressed swiftly with no problems. We enjoyed everything from start to finish and now we have the home we dreamed of.”

Above far left: In the master bedroom, a glass balustrade outside the floorto-ceiling window maintains the view and opens up the room Far left: The couple wanted something dramatic, lots of room height and a conceptual design from the inside out Above left: Daylight floods the living and dining area from two sides, as well as through the skylight Above: John and Jodie took care to incorporate numerous ecological features into their home

www.weberhaus.co.uk

Lighting

Left: You can increase the functionality and attractiveness of a decking or patio area by introducing solar-powered floor lighting Below: With solar security lights and floor lighting, you can be sure your lighting is always ready to go

The affordable solar-powered home Philip Elliott, Marketing and E-Commerce Manager at We Sell Electrical, explains how self-builders can incorporate solar technology into their new homes, without using solar panels.

hen the UK Government slashed the Feed-in Tariff by 65% in January 2016, many people thought that this would spell the end of domestic solar. While the significant reduction in the financial rewards for installing solar panels on a domestic property didn’t affect pre-existing installations, it made it much harder to justify the cost-effectiveness of new installations. Certainly, it’s now difficult to make money from using solar technology on your roof, however you can still save money by using it in other locations around your home. Solar technology is advancing at an impressive rate and it’s now possible to light your garden and ventilate your loft conversion by harnessing the power of the sun. The reasons for renewable energy generation and use won’t go away; the consumption of fossil fuels continues to cost us and the environment. The average household could spend anything from £61 a month (for small houses/flats) to £125 (for large houses), according to UK Power. Bills aside, the extensive use of fossil fuels by humans is not sustainable and supplies will run out at some point; in the meantime, emissions are seriously damaging the environment and destroying it for future generations. Whether you’re building from scratch or renovating your existing property, there’s never been a better time to look at ways to power your living space through the sun’s rays.

How does solar energy work? When using solar-powered lights, chargers or panels, we are using photovoltaic cells to turn the energy from the photons that make up sunlight into electricity that can be used around the home and in outdoor spaces.

Solar lights Solar technology is the ideal way to power outdoor lighting, which is extensively used throughout the year and often withstands tough weather conditions. Both of these factors mean that battery and mains power are unpractical solutions. Solarpowered outdoor lighting usually features a small individual solar panel that generates power during the day, which is then used at night. By incorporating these products into your outdoor space designs, you will save money on your electricity bills and reduce your carbon footprint.

Solar decking lights You can increase the functionality and attractiveness of a decking or patio area by introducing solar-powered floor lighting. Available in circular and square formats, these products are a cost-effective and environmentally-friendly outdoor lighting option, you’ll only pay for the product and then they will power themselves. In addition, you are likely to be enjoying your outdoor space most during the summer and

this is also when your solar-powered lighting will be at its most effective.

Solar security lights You need to be able to rely on your security lighting to work at the right moment! You can ensure that your lighting is always ready to go, save money and reduce ladder use by installing solar-powered security lighting. These lights are powered by a small, attached solar panel; once you’ve installed them, they’ll power themselves with no need for wiring into the mains or for batteries.

Solar-powered vent fan If you’re considering a loft conversion or the addition of a garden room to your property, you will want to consider the ventilation of these areas. The circulation of fresh air is important for the health of a building and its inhabitants. A solar-powered vent fan will prevent problems such as overheating and damp without adding to your electricity bills. Installed into the roof of a loft or garden room, the fan will be powered by sunlight throughout the day and can be manually switched on or off. Sunlight is a free source of renewable power that won’t run out any time soon. Therefore, it’s always worth making use of it wherever possible and looking out for new technological advancements which will enable you to save money while improving your home and further reducing your carbon footprint.

www.wesellelectrical.co.uk

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The UK’s ONLY permanent visitor centre for self builders, custom builders and renovators 3 The National Self Build and Renovation Centre is open 6 days a week and is the must-visit destination for anyone creating their own home. 3 Our aim is to inspire, educate and provide impartial advice as well as showcasing products and services from a wide range of selected exhibitors to support you through every step of your project. 3 NSBRC visitors can explore three permanent houses, view cut-away foundations, oors, roofs, septic tanks and more in our superb educational journey. Our exhibition area features over 200 suppliers offering the latest building products and technologies. 3 Our calendar of shows, events and courses cover a wide range of topics and themes. NSBRC_I-Build_Mag_Oak_Frame_Ad_191x122.indd 1

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Renewable Technology

Left: The newly-converted 17th century church harvests free heat energy from the ground for its Kensa ground source heat pump Below: Ground Sun worked closely with the architects and the builders on this project, making recommendations about underfloor heating and insulation to ensure the heat pump would work as efficiently as possible

The tricks to installing ground source in historic builds This renovated 17th century church in rural Wales may give some the chills, but thanks to modern energy-efficiency measures and a ground source heat pump from UK manufacturer Kensa Heat Pumps, its owners are toasty warm by harvesting free energy from their grounds, which also attracts seven years of quarterly income through the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) as a big treat on the side.

he rural off-gas location of the site made a ground source heat pump the ideal solution. Naturally, the church required extensive energy-efficiency improvements to ensure the project’s suitability for a ground source heat pump. Kensa partner installer, Ground Sun, worked closely with the architects and the builders on this project, making recommendations about underfloor heating and insulation to ensure the heat pump would work as efficiently as possible and to satisfy the client’s desire for a sustainable, energy-efficient home. Thanks to the energy-efficiency measures installed, the heat loss for the building was reduced to c.30W/m2. Typically, buildings of this nature – prior to fitting modern energy-efficiency measures – would expect a heat loss of 100-120W/m2. This would mean the project would have been looking at a 24kW heat pump rather than an 8.5kW High Temperature heat pump. Following the energy-efficiency improvements, a Kensa 8.5kW High Temperature Single Compact heat pump was chosen to provide all the heating and hot water for the 274m2 property.

It was also important to get the heat loss for the building lowered, as there was only enough ground to install 3 x 50m long slinky trenches to accommodate the 8.5kW heat pump. The trenches were dug by the builders on the project and filled with a total of 900m of PE32mm slinky pipe. The MCS accredited renovation qualifies the client for quarterly payments from the Government’s Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI); these payments will continue for a seven-year period. The client commented: “When we decided to convert an empty and near-derelict former church in Powys to be our future home, we had a number of prerequisites. “We wanted the conversion to be sensitive to the original building. We also wanted its future as a domestic dwelling to be sustainable and as environmentally-friendly as was practical. “For heating and hot water, we investigated using a ground source heat pump connected to underfloor heating and hot water generation. Opting for a Kensa system recommended and to be installed by Ground Sun was easy. They

impressed from the outset with their depth of knowledge and obvious enthusiasm for sustainable energy. “Ground Sun worked very closely with our builders and made recommendations about underfloor heating technology and insulation, in order to maximise the efficiency and effectiveness of the system. They were both reliable and neat in carrying out the installation and the after-sales service has been second to none. They advised and assisted on registering the system with Ofgem to access funding from a Government’s Renewable Heat Incentive scheme. “One year on, we have a beautiful home which is comfortably warm throughout the cooler or cold months, but is able to retain its cool interior at the height of the summer. Hot water is constant and plentiful. It almost feels magical to be able to flick a shower on each morning without having to rely on gas or electric central heating boilers. “The system is intuitive to use and easy to adjust seasonally, if required. The guaranteed funding for seven years, which we have accessed is a considerable bonus, virtually paying for the cost of all the heating and hot water system. Needless to say, the running costs of the ground source heat pump are negligible compared to more traditional systems. We cannot recommend Ground Sun and this form of energy too highly.” Brian Connell, Director at Ground Sun comments: “The Kensa heat pumps are uncomplicated, robust and no-nonsense; ideal for this size of job. Their heat pumps have proven to be robust in operation over the years.”

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Doors & Windows

Maintaining and improving your roof windows As a nation, we spend as much as 90% of our time indoors and as a result, the quality of air in our homes and the health of our indoor climate is becoming increasingly important.

aximising levels of daylight and the flow of fresh air is key to a healthy and happy home; installing roof windows is one of the most effective ways to achieve this. Roof windows considerably increase levels of daylight in the home, providing up to twice as much daylight as a facade's windows. They are a great source of heat in the winter months and are incredibly energy efficient to ensure little heat escapes. In order to ensure you continue to benefit from your roof windows, it is important to look after them.

Grant Sneddon, Product Manager at VELUX, gave us his top tips for ensuring your roof windows are kept in the best condition.

Keep them clean Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to keep your roof windows clean and pay them as much attention as you would your normal windows. Whatever window cleaning products you are using, be sure not to apply too much product to the glass. Immediately remove the product with a damp cloth to avoid streaks and buff for a sparkling finish.

Doors & Windows

Condensation If your roof windows are in rooms with high levels of humidity, such as bathrooms or kitchens, condensation can form on the inner pane of the window. While the VELUX white polyurethane finish is perfect for humid rooms, as it is completely moisture resistant, it’s important not to let condensation build up as you can run the risk of developing a problem with damp. Condensation can be minimised by installing a radiator directly under the window, or by simply airing the room regularly, especially after running hot water or cooking.

Protecting your roof windows When maintaining your roof windows, think about the outside as well as the inside – especially during the winter months. Leaves and debris can build up in the drainage channels around the window so once a year, try to clear this out as best you can to avoid debris building up and blocking the passage of water. In the event of heavy snow or thick ice, try to remove this as soon as possible from the roof window, again, to prevent drainage channels becoming blocked.

Updating your roof windows When embarking on a renovation project or building a new extension, it’s important to update furniture and incorporate new designs to make sure the look and feel of a property is in tone with the rest of the space. Above left: It’s important to update furniture and incorporate new designs to make sure the look and feel of a property is in tone with the rest of the space Far left: Whatever window cleaning products you are using, be sure not to apply too much product to the glass Above: For all the tools and kit needed for general up-keep, invest in a surface repair kit Left: VELUX has introduced white painted roof windows as standard, a perfect match to a contemporary interior

Updating your roof windows should also play a part in this. Following demand for a brighter and more modern living space, VELUX has introduced white painted roof windows as standard, a perfect match to a contemporary interior.

General up-keep For all the tools and kit needed for general up-keep, invest in a surface repair kit. You can use this to sand down any scratches with the correct grain size and finish with a lick of top coat to keep the frame looking shiny and new and keep hinges and locks lubricated at least once a year using a specially formulated grease. Getting the most out of your roof windows and ensuring they last requires proper maintenance and care. From replacing air filters, repairing a scratch or updating your window with a coat of paint, it’s best to seek advice on the best products and how to use them.

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Inex is the comprehensive online specification portal for interior and exterior design professionals. To support the fast-paced lifestyles of our audience, all Inex content is pushed via the stylish and easy-to-navigate app for smart phone and tablet users. The Inex app is a vital portal for accessing information on the move.

Below far left: Nuaire has considered air filtration as an important enhancement to its MVHR range, and recently launched the new Q-Aire Carbon Filter Below left: An alternative to MVHR that still ventilates the whole home is continuous mechanical extract, or MEV

Build your happy, healthy home Wendy Thomas, Product Manager at ventilation manufacturer Nuaire, explains why fresh air is the key to a happy, healthy home.

t may be invisible, but fresh air is a critical component in any self-build project. Installing ‘adequate means of ventilation’ is a requirement of Building Regulations, so without meeting minimum ventilation rates set out in Part F, your build won’t be signed off by the building controller. However, ventilation is more than just a tick in a box. As important as your heating strategy, the right ventilation strategy will keep your home comfortable, but it will also protect the fabric of your home for the life of the building. Bringing in a constant supply of fresh air will keep every part of your house condensation-free, can save energy and will dramatically improve your indoor air quality.

Why we ventilate The drive towards building more energyefficient homes has encouraged builders to significantly increase the airtightness of their dwellings in a bid to meet Building Regulations and ensure low energy bills in the longer-term. However, building airtight properties without adequate levels of ventilation can, and does, have a negative impact on indoor air quality, and that’s an issue that needs to be highlighted. By sealing up our homes to keep valuable heat from escaping, we effectively seal in the moisture produced by everyday activities like washing, drying, bathing and simply breathing. The average family produces up to 10 litres of moisture per day, and, if this moisture

Ventilation

Left: It may be invisible, but fresh air is a critical component in any self-build project

isn’t extracted, the high levels of humidity encourage condensation which leads to mould growth and an increase in dust mites. These airborne allergens can trigger and even cause asthma and lead to other respiratory problems. Also trapped within the indoor air are the pollutants produced by burning fuels; cooking; using cleaning, beauty and DIY products, and smoking. Added to these nasties are the external pollutants that enter the home via open doors, windows and natural leakage points – including pollen and, in many parts of the UK, harmful radon gas. The ‘drying out’ period for new-build homes can increase both moisture and pollution levels for many months. A recent report from the Royal College of Physicians revealed some alarming statistics on the impact of indoor air pollution on our health. It states that indoor air can be up to 50 times more polluted than outdoor air, containing up to 900 potentially dangerous chemicals. This increases our chances of developing serious illness, including lung cancer and heart disease. So in the transition towards airtight building methods and energy improvements, adequate ventilation is now more necessary than ever. Choosing the correct ventilation strategy for your home will not only keep it free from condensation and mould, it will ensure your indoor air quality is at an optimum level: fresh and free from pollutants.

Most effective methods of ventilating your home If you’re planning a self-build project, remember that there isn’t a 'one-size-fits-all' solution for ventilating a home. The most efficient strategy will be based on the size and layout of your home, as well as how you plan to use it. The most energy-efficient and effective method of preventing condensation and cleaning up your indoor air is whole-home ventilation. A continuously-running mechanical system is ducted throughout the home, extracting stale, moisture-laden air from all the wet rooms. A continuous mechanical supply and extract system with heat recovery, or MVHR, will help you save energy and offers the best levels of controllability. An MVHR system combines supply and extract ventilation via a balanced system where the incoming air is filtered to

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Ventilation

Right: Within the self-build market, a somewhat lesserknown method of whole-house ventilation is positive input ventilation or PIV Below right: The PIV strategy works by providing a continuous supply of fresh, filtered air into the house through a fan mounted in the loft

improve air quality. It works by transferring heat from the humid extract air into a heat exchanger. This heat is used to pre-heat the incoming, fresh air which is ducted to habitable rooms. It does not mix the air, but simply takes the heat and uses it for the incoming, fresh air. Our MVHR systems offer some of the highest available thermal efficiencies, so a typical system will recover up to 95% of the heat being extracted, offering homeowners significant energy savings combined with very low running costs. The ability to pre-heat the property when needed, and to utilise free summer cooling, gives homeowners the flexibility they now require to continue saving energy through the changing seasons. This kind of intelligent control is very appealing right now. Within our MVHR range we offer options for wall, loft and ceiling-void installation, in sizes that have been designed to ventilate all types of properties, so the MVHR system is only as powerful as is needed. An alternative to MVHR that still ventilates the whole home is continuous mechanical extract, or MEV. Today’s MEV systems are easy to install and require little energy to run. Nuaire’s MEV has a lower-profile and can be mounted in any orientation, which helps make installation easier. It can also be installed at either first or second fix stages for extra flexibility. A low-watt motor provides highperformance ventilation which will keep your property free from condensation. Within the self-build market, a somewhat lesser-known method of whole-house ventilation is positive input ventilation or PIV. This strategy works by providing a continuous supply of fresh, filtered air into the house through a fan mounted in the loft. The gently warmed air enters the home through a ceiling diffuser, creating a positive pressure effect that reduces humidity levels and forces out air pollutants, improving indoor air quality and helping to minimise the entry of harmful radon gas. Nuaire invented the strategy back in 1972 and today PIV is a trusted alternative to MVHR and MEV which, due to its BBA certificate, still meets Building Regulations. Its ease of install and low running costs are hugely appealing to self-builders.

Prevent polluted air entering your property While bringing fresh air into the home is the essence of ventilation, the quality of the outside air must be taken into consideration. Air pollution has been much discussed in the media this year. A report from Royal College of Physicians has revealed that up to 50,000 early deaths each year are the result of poor air quality. Nuaire has considered air filtration as an important enhancement to its MVHR range and recently launched the new Q-Aire Carbon Filter. This simple solution provides increased filtration of the air brought into homes via MVHR systems, so is perfect for properties built in urban, industrialised areas. It filters harmful carbon dioxide as well as nitrogen oxide, and helps to reduce noise within the duct.

Getting it right from the start Getting design advice early on from your ventilation manufacturer can help you navigate your way painlessly through Building Regulations. They can give you advice on compliance and the best design of your ducted system to ensure optimum performance. Approved Document Part F and Part L1A are the sections affecting ventilation and the conservation of fuel and power. Part F dictates which methods or ‘systems’ should be used, and recommends ventilation rates for each room based on intermittent extract and continuous extract systems. It states that fixed mechanical ventilation

and controls must be correctly commissioned by a competent person. Part L1A dictates that all new-build homes must achieve a minimum level of energy efficiency, and gives a minimum level of heat recovery efficiency that an MVHR system should achieve, which is more than 70% efficiency. Building Regulations can seem complicated, which is why the free design services offered by Nuaire and many other ventilation manufacturers can be particularly helpful. Aside from meeting regulations, getting advice early on can help you avoid pitfalls and ensure you make the right choice in your ventilation system and its layout within your home.

www.nuaire.co.uk

Architects/Designers

Here: Limiting the ‘wow’ elements of your design both enhances them and keeps a check on your budget Below: Trevor Avery is the Director of lapd architects

A bit of advice Trevor Avery qualified as an architect in 1995 and progressed to associate level in a general practice. It became apparent to Trevor that the service offered to custom and self-build clients at that time could have been better, so he opened his own practice, lapd architects, to address this. Can you please give us a description of your professional career? I have worked for a number of architects and urban design practices geographically, from Oxford and as far as India, applying building conservation and urban design skills and learning about the riches of history and culture. In 2005, I formed lapd architects with Opinder Liddar and we explored the holistic nature of what architects do by carrying out our own development projects and offering a construction service to build out the projects we designed. This gave us a unique insight into the whole process of a project that has ultimately fed into the ideology at lapd; how we care for those we work with and understand the process from a variety of viewpoints.

How did you come to specialise in the self-build market? From its start, the core of what lapd does has focused on residential projects and those wishing to build their own homes. The National Self Build and Renovation Centre became aware of this and invited us to be part of what they were trying to achieve. We were surprised that the architect profession was poorly represented in this market and discovered that most members of the public

did not understand that an architect is ideally placed to help and guide them through the process and resolved to address this. We are pleased that we were able to encourage RIBA to become a part of this and architects are now a regular fixture offering free advice at the centre. Through just doing what we do, we have won awards for ‘Best Self Build Architect’, ‘Sustainable Design’, ‘Technical Innovation and Housing Design’ from RIBA, RICS, LABC and Build It. We are also a member of The National Custom & Self Build Association (NaCSBA).

What has been your most notable self-build project to date? There have been a number of high-profile, awardwinning projects, but we take most pleasure in providing solutions to enable clients to achieve their vision and seeing how this can make a difference. This can be as humble as a new garden room to contemplate life in, or a lifetime’s ambition to create a contemporary, sustainable dwelling.

What have you witnessed as a main concern for today’s self-builders? Finding a suitable building site for their new home and financial borrowing to achieve this. It is good to note that both appear to be improving.

Also, a client knowing when they may need help; this is probably the most expensive investment a client will ever make. Employing an architect ensures that what you build will not be a series of compromises. We see so many people at shows where the design produced by others is not right for them or beyond their budget. If it is not right, then it will not be right when it is built!

What do you think is the greatest challenge for self-builders today? There are so many products and systems in the marketplace that it can be a very confusing and contradictory place. How can so many different ways of achieving the same thing exist and each be the best?

How do you approach a self-build project? What does the client want to achieve in an ideal world? Our skill is in advising and guiding how the client can get there in reality. This is all tempered with the opportunities of the site, construction budget, planning issues, the ability of those building it and the list goes on.

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Architects/Designers

What advice would you offer self-builders when it comes to budgeting? The ‘it will be alright on the night’ system never works. We use contractors’ pricing software to give the best guidance we can and keep a track on tender prices for projects. Divide out the project into trade work stages; groundworks, external walls, first fix joinery, roof structure etc, to understand how the overall cost is apportioned. Make sensible allowances for fittings and fixtures, it is easy to get quotes for kitchens and bathrooms. Always include a contingency of circa 10% on top of all costs, you will need it. Limiting the ‘wow’ elements of your design both enhances them and keeps a check on your budget – a win-win situation.

What advice would you offer to those self-builders currently plot searching? Your local authority now has a responsibility to keep a register of those wishing to carry out a self-build project and to address this need through planning approvals. Register as soon as you can. Serviced building plots are becoming more available, the Graven Hill project at Bicester, Oxfordshire, is one. They are rolling out plots that have the infrastructure already installed.

www.lapdarchitects.co.uk

Have you witnessed any self-build design style trends recently? Sustainable technologies are becoming more common and the market is producing more affordable options.

In your view, what do you believe is the best material to build a self-build from and why? Self-build or custom build now include those laying the bricks themselves to where a main contractor takes responsibility. The construction method will depend on which route is taken. For those carrying out much of the building work themselves, we would encourage systems where the building is modularised as much as possible; timber frame/SIP. Where a main contractor is employed, we would tend to move towards a more traditional form of construction as this generally ensures best value.

Above: Self-build or custom build now include those laying the bricks themselves to where a main contractor takes responsibility Right: There are so many products and systems in the marketplace that it can be a very confusing and contradictory place

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Year in Profile

Year in Profile: Hanse Haus Hanse Haus has positioned itself as a prominent, authoritative voice during recent Government discussions on the future of UK housing

Leading the way Hanse Haus was founded over 85 years ago back in 1929 by Carpenter, Herrmann Wandke, initially as a joinery workshop, which quickly grew to a regionwide house construction company. Since then, the firm has matured into one of Europe’s largest premium suppliers of turnkey, pre-manufactured, super high-efficiency homes. It now erects some 400 homes annually Europe-wide and boasts more than 30,000 completed homes.

aving tested the waters in Ireland positioned itself as a prominent, authoritative its knowledge, the first German package builder in 2004, Hanse Haus set its sights voice during recent Government discussions on to achieve BBA certification. Moreover, the on the UK market. Recognising an the future of UK housing. The company prides company has won the support of several UK increased demand for bespoke, itself on offering a new, environmentally-sound housing warranty providers which is another timber frame homes, the company shortly and efficient alternative able to play a key part in major indication of changing attitudes towards branched out into the UK in 2008. Despite rectifying the UK’s housing crisis. pre-manufactured homes. closing the market in Ireland soon after this, Credited as a pioneer in the industry, Hanse In the coming years, Hanse Haus will look aside from the UK, the company’s current Haus itself lobbies the UK Government via the to further expand within the UK. This will markets are Germany, Switzerland, Northern company’s industry interest group NaCSBA, to involve a short-term plan of investment into Italy, Austria and Luxembourg. grow the self-build market as one solution to the self-build market andciency a medium-term plan Hanse Haus is a premium German supplier of turnkey, pre-manufacturedtheultra-high effi homes. With Germany having reappraised off-site pressing UK housing crisis. Recently, there has of knowledge-transfer from Germany to UKFoundedmanufactured as a carpentry business in 1929,been it now erects some 400 timber frame homes annually Europehousing as an upmarket option considerable success in this area, as the based site personnel, to increase capacity and 20been years ago, Hanse Haus anticipated lower prices. wide andsome has active in the UK sinceGovernment 2006. has recently loosened self-build this change was soon to take place in the UK regulations. Hanse Haus is therefore anticipating as well. Followingyour openingindividual the market in therequirements, a further increase in momentum within To talk to us about UK, and with increased publicity and a change sustainable self-building across the country. contact of usmindset using the pre-manufactured details below. towards homes However, the one thing the company has over the past 10 years, the UK’s adoption has noted is the remaining challenge of land been unprecedented and is forecast to grow availability, which links to planning policy. It Hanse Haus further in the future. also feels the UK has catching up to do on the Email info@hanse-haus.co.uk With changing Government regulations technical certification of timber construction. and the shifting focus from traditional brick Without doubt, the company will look to be Telephone 0800 302 9220 and mortar construction to sustainable preat the forefront of ongoing discussions on this www.hanse-haus.co.uk manufactured alternatives, Hanse Haus has topic. In fact, Hanse Haus leads the way as, to

Delivering British architecture with German technology

www.hanse-haus.co.uk 0800 302 9220 info@hanse-haus.co.uk

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A modern masterpiece

To package or not to package?

Nestled in a garden plot in Gloucestershire, this house stands out for its contemporary design, efficiency and innovation. Boasting timber frame construction and renewable energy sources, Hanse Haus has created a unique marriage of sustainability and style. The interior provides a free-flowing, 180m2 living space. Four of the five bedrooms are situated upstairs, positioned in all four corners of the house. Underfloor heating runs throughout the house, powered by an air source heat pump. This house, constructed from start to finish in just eight weeks, not only fulfils the owner’s dreams, but also stands tall as a testament to the future of energy-efficient construction in the UK.

Package homes, despite their escalating popularity, are still shrouded in mystery. However, a lot has changed since the 1950s and self-build package homes are becoming the go-to choice for design-savvy self-builders. Without doubt, package homes are the fastest method of building a home. Everything is constructed off site before it is delivered, leaving just the record speed assembly by an efficient and experienced team of specialists, which typically takes two to three days. Fast-forward a couple of months and you will be handed the keys to your completed home. Quick construction combined with specialist teams will free up a lot of your time, making the build process as stress-free as possible.

Designing your own home

Sustainable self-builds

Whether you’re design-orientated or a newbie to the thought process, engagement of an architect is a must. Be realistic about how many rooms you need and how they should be arranged. Local planning authorities will have a big say in what you can and can’t do. They may dictate the siting and height of your self-build, alongside the orientation and materials. Also consider if you are planning to stay in your self-build. A house that has been tailored to ‘quirky’ tastes will be harder to sell. If there’s a slim chance that the house won’t be the last, ensure it has appeal for the widest audience.

Focusing on energy consumption and CO2 emissions, water usage, pollution and the health and wellbeing of the owners, homes are beginning to reach for the ‘zero carbon’ target. Ensure to insulate well your walls, floors and roof and, if possible, opt for triple glazing and thermo-insulated windows – all help create higher levels of efficiency. A Passivhaus is the gold-standard of a wider series of standards in Germany focusing on ultra-efficient construction. They are more expensive to construct, but with energy requirements approximately 5-10% of a current UK Building Regulation’s compliant house, the savings through reductions to energy bills can be huge.

Year in Profile

Year in Profile: Hanse Haus

www.hanse-haus.co.uk 0800 302 9220 info@hanse-haus.co.uk

i-nterior

Take control of your home Home automation has become somewhat a ‘buzzword’ among today’s self-builders; more and more we’re testing the limits of what can be controlled while we’re out of the house, and with that, discovering new ways to improve our energy efficiency while making good savings on our bills. Paul Campbell, Founder of Greenvision Energy, explains more.

ome automation gives you the flexibility to have complete control of the devices in your house, and contrary to the notion that it’s only for ‘rich’ people, it’s actually not as expensive as you’d think - in fact, it is a very realistic option for the typical homeowner! Put simply, an automated home is one filled with ‘smart’ technologies that automatically adjust to your lifestyle or can be controlled remotely via mobile apps. Imagine this scenario: you’re on your way to work when all of a sudden you get that niggling feeling that you’ve forgotten to turn something off, a light in the bedroom or the oven perhaps. In your mind you start to retrace your steps and may even contemplate heading back ‘just to make sure’. With home automation, your worry can be quashed with a quick check on your phone or tablet.

However, smart technology goes so much further than that. With the touch of a button you can set your lighting, heating or air-con to come on when you’re on your way home, or set your dishwasher or washing machine to run; convenience at its best! Some home automation systems don’t need your input at all, using Geo Fencing to sense when you are approaching home by connecting to your phone signal and then switching your appliances on. What’s more, ‘smart’ thermostats and radiator valves can actually learn your daily routine and only heat your home – or specific rooms – when you need the warmth. Some can even take into account external factors such as the weather or time of year. Many home automation products are also pre-set with ‘IFTTT’ (‘If This Then That’) technology, which allows you to connect them to compatible websites and apps, personalising appliances to your every need. The sky is pretty much your limit – you can get your greenhouse heater to turn on if the weather

predicts a frost, set your kettle to boil three minutes before your mobile calendar expects a guest or even make the TV turn on every time there’s a breaking news alert in a sector you are interested in. Home automation can also be used to improve the security of your home; many people leave a light on for the entire duration of a holiday, but this facade doesn’t replicate your daily routine and often does not deter potential thieves. An automated lighting system can continue turning your lights on and off, making it look as though you’re home. Not having a light continuously on would also save you money! Other home security products include a camera which allows you to live stream its view to your mobile from anywhere in the world and a motion-activated sensor which alerts you to when your windows or door move or when there is movement in your home. One reason that individuals decide to build their own home is because they have a vision of creating something that is personalised to suit their style. Home automation can really enhance this, while adding a modern touch to any building. The recommendation is always to implement any home automation systems before work is complete; fitting retrospectively will not only be harder, but more costly to do. Depending on what you want to achieve, you can implement various home automation aspects for a just a couple of hundred pounds – and the return on investment is very good, often reaping the rewards within a year or two. It’s also going to add value to your property and make it more desirable to potential buyers if you ever decide to sell!

www.greenvisionenergy.co.uk

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controlling heating and hot water, at home or remotely. Simply lowering your temperatures by one degree is said to cut heating costs by 10% and further savings can be made by simply ensuring that heating is turned off when a property is not in use.

Q: Do I need a strong internet connection for these systems to work? A: Having strong and consistent Wi-Fi is critical for any home automation system. A smart home is only as good as the Wi-Fi network it is connected to, so you need to consider both coverage quality and internet bandwidth to ensure multiple devices and systems can be operated at the same time from anywhere in the property.

Q & A: Where do you start? Julian Synett, Managing Director of Ingeny, the specialist provider of home automation systems, answers your questions. Q: At what point in the selfbuild process should I consider integrating smart technology? A: The planning for any home automation and smart building technology should ideally be initiated at the design stage to ensure that the necessary space requirements and infrastructure are incorporated into any architectural drawings. It is about talking to the right people at the right time, to decide exactly what you want upfront, because implementing a solution further down the line will only create added cost and complexity.

Q: Which automated system am I likely to benefit from the most? A: There are a whole host of domestic electrical systems and devices that can be managed and monitored using home automation, but the most valuable and practical solutions at the

moment seem to be based around heating and lighting. Being able to switch internal and external lights on or off from a mobile device or tablet in or away from home is providing high levels of control, especially when you add the ability to create lighting moods and scenarios, or even simulate occupancy while out or on holiday. The ambient level of heating can also be controlled throughout the home, while individual schedules by area or room can also be created for different situations, occupation or time of the year.

Q: Can automated systems help me save money on my energy bills? A: Yes, properly programmed heating, cooling and lighting automation will certainly help to reduce household energy usage and save money. Even at a relatively simple level, smart thermostats offer an effective means of

Q: I’m not very tech-savvy, how easy are they to operate? A: There are plenty of home automation systems out there that are relatively easy to install and operate, but this very much depends on the level of control you are looking for. It is not necessarily about being tech-savvy or not, but having the willingness to commit time into understanding what you want and how best to achieve it.

Q: If I’m not happy with a system, can I easily remove or replace it? A: This very much depends on the level of sophistication you have gone for. A DIY solution based around a smart thermostat or security system would not be too complicated to remove or replace. But with hardwired home automation across a wide range of systems, it's likely to be costly and disruptive to change, even if you are able use the same cabling and Wi-Fi infrastructure. What this demonstrates is the need to get the design and planning right in the first place, so you are happy with the system from the outset and it meets your individual requirements.

www.ingeny.co.uk

DID YOU KNOW... According to a study by OFGEM, heating makes up over 60% of the £1342 average energy bill. Despite this, 11 million UK homes don’t have suitable heating controls, like thermostats, and instead simply turn the boiler on when they’re cold and off when they’re too hot. Savings vary based on the thermostat model, the type of house, and user schedules, but a product, such as the 3rd Generation Nest Learning Thermostat, predicts annual savings of up to £353.

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SAFE AND SECURE Liam Parker, Managing Director of Quest End – the specialist in property automation, entertainment and control systems – outlines security solutions for smart homes.

hen you consider that over 1300 burglaries are committed every day in England and Wales, coupled with the fact that homes with no security measures are five times more likely to be burgled than those with even simple security measures, securing your property has never been more important. Despite this, just 34% of Brits consider burglar alarms to be an effective form of security (British Crime Survey 2016). For those embarking on a self-build or renovation, it pays to plan security requirements at the project scoping stage. First things first, a smart security system shouldn’t be thought of in isolation, but instead is best when considered as part of a broader home automation solution. A smart security system can be as basic or sophisticated as you wish: from a simple notification that alerts your smartphone if the alarm is activated, through to a more sophisticated approach which incorporates automated door entry or locking, lighting and CCTV, which immediately notifies you if an entry point is breached. You could set it up to make the lights flash and provide an instant view of the security video-feed, regardless of your location.

www.questend.co.uk

The rise of the ‘smart home’ The concept of the ‘smart home’ has grown in popularity as homeowners with busy lives increasingly turn to technology as a quick and easy solution to running their homes more efficiently. Homeowners want to be able to run their homes effortlessly at the click of a button, which is why Origin has partnered with Lutron on its electric range of blinds. The advanced technology of the motor means that Origin’s popular blinds range

can now be controlled and operated using a tablet, smartphone or connected to a home automated system. This can then be programmed to open and close at different times, for additional security and to reduce heat loss throughout the home. The motor also runs on a sophisticated electronic drive system for near-silent operation.

www.origin-global.com

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i-build

Set in stone A property is very much a legacy and many of us are just custodians, but the opportunity to self-build or custom build remains the ultimate goal for many brave pioneers. They are faced with firstly finding a suitable plot, then the even more daunting task of the proverbial blank canvas on design. This is further complicated by the myriad of building product choices from roof tiles to bath taps. Stamford Stone explains more.

aced with such a challenging prospect, the first port of call should be an architect who has a well-trodden track record in custom builds. When Mr and Mrs Harrison were able to purchase the building plot for Garden House, literally at the end of their existing back garden in Rutland Water, they engaged Thomas Wilson Architects of Rutland who were not only relatively local but also had a very impressive portfolio of quality bespoke houses. Architects not only have the knowledge of Building Regulations, which seem to change on a daily basis, but they can also advise on the most appropriate materials on both a technical and, of course, aesthetic basis. Many people approach the material choice from very different angles wishing to scrimp on the outside and blow the budget on a ‘to die for’ kitchen. In all honestly, the average selfbuilder would find it difficult to get excited by roof

tiles, bricks or window frames but this is the fabric of the building and are, in almost all cases, a ‘once in a lifetime choice’. Choosing the wrong building materials will have repercussions throughout the whole of the building’s lifecycle. Whilst it may be possible to rip out a kitchen, making changes to the building’s structure is far more complicated. A cheap brick chosen in haste can only be covered up with either render or cladding, both of which can be very expensive and may not suit the styles of local buildings. Not only will these choices blight the ‘kerb appeal’ of the property, but can also make a vast difference to the value of your finished investment. Whilst very few self-builders carry out the project for financial gain it would be very disappointing to find that the eventual market value might be less than your expenditure. This, of course, is especially important where the finances may be raised against the finished project's value.

i-build

Given that the Garden House’s location is in an area known for its landscape, the choice of materials was heavily influenced by the natural surroundings. For many centuries, Lincolnshire Limestone has been quarried locally and all of the notable public and civic buildings would have contained either Clipsham Limestone or some of the local variations within the Mid-Lincoln Cliff, this being the Oolitic Stone Cliff running from Grantham almost up to the Humber. The Clipsham Limestone quarried from the Upper Lincolnshire Stone Formation has been widely used further afield from one of its most ancient projects, Windsor Castle in the 14th century, via King’s College, Cambridge, to the 2013 award-winning Edward King Chapel at Ripon College Cuddesdon in Oxfordshire. The Clipsham Limestone from The Stamford Stone Company has been used sympathetically by the architects to give a building which is both warm in its appearance and its performance. The solid stone blocks give a vision of solidity and permanence which cannot be achieved with any other material, including stone cladding. The precision cutting by the quarry provides the juxtaposition between uniformity in shape without each piece being identical. The blocks are very much individual in their shade and appearance and will weather and mellow in a relatively short while. Martin Wilson of Thomas Wilson Architects has balanced the building very well by matching up the proportions of the large stone pieces by complementing the stonework with chunky oak joinery. Not only do these bespoke pieces provide architectural features in their own right, they will also, like the stone, mellow with age and

accentuate the ‘natural’ look of the building. Whilst nothing in the history of British building would be more traditional than Limestone and English Oak, the materials have been given a contemporary edge which still requires the highest level of artisan craftsmanship from both the carpenter and the stonemason. Garden House features over 400m2 of Clipsham Limestone used for the walling, heads, cills and dressings. The stone hasn’t just been restricted to the house, but has overflowed into the garden paving and walling enabling the house to sit very comfortably within both of its local and natural surroundings. Very few of us have the opportunity to commission a handmade work of art for display in our lounge but Mr and Mrs Harrison achieved this with a hand-carved solid stone fireplace from The Stamford Stone Company in a complementary Ancaster Limestone. This type of stone has a very close pore structure making it ideal for hand-carving and the fine detail has been crafted with precision by the artisans at Stamford Stone. This unique bespoke piece of stonework is no more expensive than a top of the range mass produced fireplace but it remains a truly individual showpiece which has been specifically designed so that it is in proportion to the location, room size and the wood burner. One of the benefits of working with a traditional family company has been the level of personal input from the client and

Stamford Stone allowing both parties to sit around the table and design a fireplace that incorporates all of the client’s design aspirations to form a truly unique piece of artwork. The finished house has not been without its trials and tribulations along the way and considering the journey took around three years, it is testament to the teamwork of all concerned that the client, the architects and the building contractors remain on the best of terms and are all, quite rightly, very proud of their contribution in building not just a house, but a legacy. Thomas Wilson Architects can add Garden House to their expanding portfolio of projects in partnership with The Stamford Stone Company which has now reached double figures in less than five years.

www.stamfordstone.co.uk Top left: Thomas Wilson Architects has balanced the building very well by matching up the proportions of the large stone pieces by complementing the stonework with chunky oak joinery Far left: The solid stone blocks give a vision of solidity and permanence Above: The Clipsham Limestone from The Stamford Stone Company has been used sympathetically by the architects to give a building which is both warm in its appearance and its performance Left: Mr and Mrs Harrison chose a hand-carved solid stone fireplace from The Stamford Stone Company in a complementary Ancaster Limestone

i-scape

Protected trees Here, Hunton-based tree surgeon, Hunton Arborists, explains what a Tree Preservation Order is and what can be done if a TPO-protected tree is found on your self-build site.

ree Preservation Orders (TPOs) are orders placed on trees and hedgerows in England by local authorities. These prohibit anyone – including owners of the land and hence technically the tree – from doing any work without prior consent with very few exceptions. This does not mean work cannot be done, it just means you have to apply for permission. Once a

tree works application is submitted, the council will make a decision, usually within four to six weeks. Three things can then happen from here: the work is permitted, the work is permitted with conditions or the work is refused. If permission is refused, the best course of action is to ascertain why by contacting your local tree officer. If this does not resolve it then a formal appeal can be made.

To carry out work on trees in conservation areas (CAs), the owner must inform the council of their intention six weeks prior to undertaking the work. The council will decide whether to raise an objection. They can apply for a TPO to be placed on a tree meaning any work carried out will be illegal. We advise that if the council has not returned a decision within six weeks, work should not commence until their position is ascertained. Appeals can be made in the same way as TPOs. With both TPOs and CAs, the responsibility to check if there are any restrictions lies with the person carrying out the works. This applies even if you instruct a company to do the work for you. The contractor and the tree owner can be prosecuted. Reputable tree surgery companies will be well-versed in the rules around TPOs and CAs, but again any doubts should be raised with your local tree officer. This article is for information only and does not constitute legal advice. If you ever have any doubts, you must raise them with the local authority before commencing any work.

www.hunton-arborists.co.uk

Wildlife watch Here: Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) are orders placed on trees and hedgerows in England by local authorities

TREE PRESERVATION ORDER GUIDE There are many questions that will play on self-builders’ minds when it comes to TPOs, such as species protected and what the consequences are if you carry out work on a TPO-protected tree without permission. Here are a few of the facts. Q: What is the purpose of a TPO? Q: Where does the responsibility lie for the maintenance of a TPOA: TPOs protect trees that bring amenity protected tree? benefit to an area – they are especially important where trees are under threat.

Q: What species are protected by TPOs? A: All types of trees are TPO-protected, with the exception of bushes and shrubs. A TPO can protect anything from a single tree through to numerous trees within a defined area.

Q: How will I know when a TPO has been made?

A: Owners remain responsible for trees covered by TPOs – this includes the tree’s condition and any damage they may cause. Again, the authority’s permission will be required if any work was to be carried out.

Q: What are the consequences of carrying out work on a TPO-protected tree without permission?

A: If you deliberately destroy a TPOprotected tree, or damage a tree in a manner A: Your local authority will alert those who likely to destroy it, you could be viable for an may have the right to work on a tree – the unlimited fine. You can also be fined if you cause or permit such work. Other offences homeowner, tenants and neighbours. can lead to fines of up to £2500. Copies of recent TPOs are also available at local planning authorities’ offices. www.gov.uk

Here, Joanna Peacock, Lead Sustainability Consultant at award-winning sustainability consultancy Eight Associates, explains the potential of finding protected wildlife species in trees on your self-build plot. Tree Preservation Orders will be at the top of your checklist when you’ve purchased your self-build plot. However, investigating the potential for protected wildlife species on site is also critical. Certain wildlife – amphibians, reptiles, badgers, bats, birds, dormice, otters and water voles – is protected by legislation which makes it illegal to kill, injure, capture or disturb these species. Investigating the potential for a protected species, and conducting a habitat survey, is essential to gain planning consent. Timing is critical; surveys can only gather sufficient evidence when the species are active and missing the survey window results in delays. The likelihood of a protected species affecting your project depends on the site’s habitat characteristics. For example, if there are existing buildings or trees, be aware of the potential for bats and breeding birds. Both modern and traditional buildings provide roosting opportunities similar to the crevice and tree-cavity spaces. Work with a suitably qualified ecologist who follows all relevant good practice. When the survey results are known, they will help plan the next steps and a mitigation strategy if required.

www.eightassociates.co.uk

Product Guide

A premium finish, at a sensible price

New law helps self-builders get the view they’ve always dreamed of AGB is urging self-builders to declare their intention to local authorities, as a new law forces councils to help them find suitable land for planning permission.

he hardware manufacturer is already seeing real interest from the self-build market in its Imago Lift & Slide system and believes that the recent changes to the law will lead to further growth as ambitious self-builders seize the opportunity to create their dream home. Under the Housing & Planning Act 2016, which came into effect in July, local authorities have a duty to meet demand for self-build and custom house building by providing planning permission for appropriate plots of land. “With the Housing & Planning Act now in effect, there’s never been more support from the Government to make a start and find that dream view,” says Marco Zen, UK and Ireland Sales Manager for AGB Hardware. “The level of demand is assessed based on a register that local councils must keep of interest from local self-builders. Anybody thinking of building their own home should tell their local authority and get onto that register. The greater the interest locally, the more help and choice they’ll receive from the council to find their ideal plot of land.” AGB makes Imago Lift & Slide – the leading hardware for timber lift and slide doors – a popular choice for self-builders for its slimline aesthetics and its ability to create large glazing areas that frame the view. “By using Imago, self-builders can achieve superb panoramic glazing cost-effectively, as our lift and slide door system is engineered with fewer components to simplify the construction for joiners,” comments Marco.

www.chooseimago.co.uk 01279 812958 helpimago@agb.it

Polyx Oil from Osmo UK is a premium wood finish, guaranteed to keep wooden surfaces in top condition. Ideal for solid engineered or laminate wood floors, it is a high-quality, waterrepellent and tread-resistant wood finish based on natural ingredients. Available in matt, clear and satin-matt finishes, the Polyx Oil range offers the highest coverage of any oil on the market – 2.5 litres can cover approximately 30m² with two coats. Polyx Oil is also extremely easy to apply. Simply brush onto the wood surface to achieve deep, long-lasting penetration. Another key benefit is that Polyx Oil has a reduced solvent content, making it a much healthier product to use.

www.osmouk.com 01296 481220 sales@osmouk.com

Invisifold wows at Grand Designs Live VBH and Invisifold hosted a stand at the Grand Designs Live exhibition in Birmingham to promote the greenteQ Invisifold Slide & Fold door and window system. Many visitors commented that they had come to the show specifically to look for bi-fold doors and were impressed at the flexibility of Invisifold. VBH staff explained that Invisifold differs from a bi-fold door in that the sashes are all operated independently and that they can also be positioned anywhere across the opening to provide ventilation without having the door fully open. This, along with the realisation that all the hardware is concealed when the door or window is closed, was the wow factor for most visitors.

www.vbhgb.com 01634 263263 sales@vbhgb.com

Vent-Axia launches versatile ducting system Vent-Axia has unveiled details of its new Uniflexplus+ semi-rigid ducting system which is ideal for the self-build market. Offering speedy, simple installation, improved hygiene and greater versatility than standard rigid ductwork, the Uniflexplus+ is ideal for use with VentAxia’s market-leading mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) systems. Uniflexplus+ is a low-profile, easy-to-install system that can be used in a wide range of places, including tight and hard-to-access spaces. This innovative ducting system is modular with few standard components which can be adapted to create solutions tailored to individual projects. All these benefits add up to a versatile ducting system that can be adapted to suit almost any site or application design.

www.vent-axia.com 0844 856 0590 info@vent-axia.com

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