i-build july 2015

July Issue 12

i-build www.i-buildmagazine.com

i-build i-nterior i-scape

MODERN MASTERPIECE

Victorian semi-detached benefits from extension and garden room

ON-TREND ACCESSORIES

Stylish interior design elements that will make your house a home

COVER STORY:

Paradise property

STRUCTURAL SOLUTIONS

Overlooked urban site is transformed into sensational family home

Innovative design overcomes sloping site

EXPERT INSIGHTS:

l FINANCIAL l LEGAL l PRACTICAL l PRODUCT INNOVATION

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Welcome to the July issue of i-build Cover story: Situated on the edge of Hampstead Heath, this new home design includes an unusual floorplan. See page 28.

i-build www.i-buildmagazine.com

i-build i-nterior i-scape Editor:

Emily Smith

emily@mixedmediainfo.com Print & Digital Advertising:

Sam Ball

sam@mixedmediainfo.com

Steve Gull

steve@mixedmediainfo.com

Michael Abrahams

michael@mixedmediainfo.com Studio Manager:

Chris Lilly

chris@mixedmediainfo.com Senior Editor:

Hannah Frackiewicz

hannah@mixedmediainfo.com Production:

Jack Witcomb

jack@mixedmediainfo.com Artworker/Sub-editor:

David Perry

david@mixedmediainfo.com Accounts:

Simone Jones

simone@mixedmediainfo.com Managing Director:

Sam Ball

sam@mixedmediainfo.com

T

he concept of a perfect location for self-building might conjure up images of rural plots amidst rolling hills, but in reality, nearly any location can undergo a self-build or renovation – from a central-city property to a severely neglected and derelict suburban plot. This issue is full of examples of successful homebuilding projects in the city.

An overlooked and unattractive infill site in Hammersmith, London, has undergone an inspirational transformation. Previously a contaminated taxi garage, the space is surrounded by 11 party walls and overlooked by 24 surrounding properties. Architectural practice vPPR took on the challenge of building a four-bedroom home on this difficult site – read about how they achieved this on page 42.

This month’s Impressive Innovation – page 28 – is another new London home that has an interesting design, specifically tailored to function within its plot. The sloping site offered the opportunity for an unusual floorplan, as well as extensive glazing, a skillful cantilevering storey and a breathtaking double-height ceiling.

One of the first hurdles of self-building is finding a suitable plot and gaining planning permission. On page 18 insurance expert Steve Mansour provides guidance on navigating planning permission, and in this month’s Viewpoint self-build finance expert Raymond Conner explains why the recent General Election and subsequent Queen’s Speech was good news for the self-build community.

Included in his response, he says: “The Government re-affirming its commitment to continue to provide self-build and custom-build opportunities and deliver aspirational home ownership under its Right to Build policy is welcome news. Whilst encouraging for those who have strived to find a suitable self-build plot, these measures also create new, affordable home ownership opportunities.” Read about this further on page 16.

As always, we hope you enjoy this issue as much as we’ve enjoyed putting it together. If you are coming to the end of your self-build journey and would like to offer your home as an inspiration for other budding home-builders, please contact me on the usual address with a brief overview of your project.

Emily Smith Editor emily@mixedmediainfo.com @ibuildmagazine

/ibuildmagazine

ibuildmagazine

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

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No responsibility will be taken for drawings, photographs or literary contributions during transmission or in the editors hands. In the absence of an agreement the copyright of all contributions, literary, photographics or artistic belongs to Mixed Media Information Ltd. The Publisher accepts no responsibility in respect of advertisements appearing in the magazine and the opinions expressed in editorial material or otherwise do not necessarily represent the view of the publisher. The Publisher does not accept any liability of any loss arising from the late appearance or non publication of any advertisement.

Kitchen storage by Rational: See page 10

Bathroom furniture by Laura Ashley Bathroom Collection: See page 54

Planters by Ikea: See page 40

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The latest innovative on-trend designs to complement any interior.

Will Tell 12 Time Each issue i-build follows Will Anderson on

i-build

his self-build journey as it unfolds.

www.i-buildmagazine.com

i-build i-nterior i-scape

Desired Designs

Contents

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14

Green Living

16

Viewpoint

28

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Eco-expert Tristan Titeux suggests some simple changes you can make in your home to boost your green credentials.

The Government’s Right To Build initiative is welcome news for self-builders – Buildstore’s Chief Executive, Raymond Conner, explains why.

Contracts & Legalities

Insurance expert Steve Mansour guides you through the complexities of the British planning process.

20

Urban Sanctuary

28

Impressive Innovation

36

Staircases & Balustrades

38

Kitchens & Bathrooms

A Victorian semi-detached benefits from an extension and and coordinating garden.

North London is the home of an inspirational family property that makes the most of natural light and surroundings.

Bespoke staircase expert, Richard McLane presents the key specification concerns for choosing a staircase.

GROHE’s UK Training Manager, Michael Gray shares advice on choosing the right kitchen and bathroom taps for your home.

40 Planting Bring the outdoors in and fill your home with plants

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using clever and quirky interior planters.

42 i-build An infill site has been transformed into a four-bedroom home thanks to innovative ceilings and glazing.

48 42

48 i-nterior Aaron Andrews, Creative Director of The Gifted Few, 52

discusses how interior elements can dramatically transform your home.

i-scape Why you should consider planting flowers that are aesthetic as well as edible.

s: ecreutr S e d Tra ut for o d

e o Look crets’ dott e. u e s S s i e s i d ‘Tra t th sider u o h g throu are the in n be These s which ca ding t d insigh able to bu ! s u r l a e v d il in u self-b

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Desired Designs

Red letter day

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Make every day in your new home important with bold and beautiful red interior accents.

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3 4

6

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he colour red has many powerful cultural associations throughout history thanks to its bold and vibrant appearance. Red was widely used in prehistoric cave art and early civilisations made red dyes from plants and insects to colour clothing. For the ancient Romans red symbolised blood and courage; soldiers wore red tunics whilst generals wore scarlet cloaks and painted themselves completely in red for ceremonial triumphs. In early Christianity red represented the blood of Christ and the Christian martys. Later, in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, this vibrant hue became the colour of socialism, revolution and communism. More recent years has seen red commonly associated with heat, passion, sexuality, anger, love and joy. Whatever your reason for favouring red, its striking and resonant appearance makes it the perfect colour for making a statement.

1. Wooden Tripod Lamp Red, £20, Wilkinson

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2. Orla Kiely Linear Stem

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Cushion, £40, Amara

3. Bush DWFS124R Retro

Dishwasher, £239.99, Argos

4. Swan Vintage Stand Mixer, £199, Littlewoods

5. Red Retro Bread Bin, £15, Tesco

6. Vintage Metal Cafe Stool Red, £85, Dotcomgiftshop

7. Columbo 3 Seater Sofa

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Bed, £595, Habitat

8. Fonteyn Chest of Drawers, £499, Made.com

9. Petal Pink Patterned Cushion, £7, Habitat

10. Orient Sofa,

£3590, Parker & Farr

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Desired Designs

Timeless charm Make a traditional statement with a brown leather sofa or armchair.

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4

Put your feet up

Classic appeal

Footstalls come in a range of styles and fabrics and we love this square Homebody footstool in Walnut Beaten Leather by Loaf. The clean, elegant design comes with pleated corners, weathered oak legs and a five year guarantee. (www.loaf.com)

Whether you’re looking for a classic wing chair or refined side chair, this Parker Knoll Oberon Chair – available from John Lewis – will provide quality and comfort. The high back provides excellent head support, while the legs complement in an antique walnut finish. (www.johnlewis.com)

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Coastal bliss

Personal retreat

Create your own idea of a cosy beachside haven with this range of leather sofas inspired by the timeless beauty of the coastline. The collection

by DFS includes three sofa sizes, an armchair and two footstall designs. (www.dfs.co.uk)

Sometimes you need an armchair that is cosy and comforting. Whether you want somewhere to relax with a morning coffee or shut off from the world with a good book, the Tub chair by Raft is perfect for precious moments of solitude. (www.raftfurniture.co.uk)

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Modern take

Elegant comfort

Thanks to its compact and linear design, the Ciak Sofa is ideal for smaller living spaces. The simple, linear armrest, slightly inclined outward, makes this sofa appealingly retro. (www.natuzzi.com)

A twist on the classic Chesterfield, this button leather chair by Furniture Village oozes classical charm and comfort. (www.furniturevillage.co.uk)

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Desired Designs

Stylish organisation Keep chaos at bay with clever storage designs.

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4

Perfect accompaniment

Perfectionist's dream

Too lovely to keep stashed away in a cupboard, these retro inspired porcelain storage jars come to Berry Red from French design company Atomic Soda.

The rubber sealed bamboo lid makes them perfect for storage of any food item. (www.berryred.co.uk)

An organised kitchen drawer such as this design by Rational will satisfy even the most obsessive perfectionist by keeping everything in its rightful place. (www.rational.de/en)

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Glass act

Walk-in bliss

Glass is a versatile and subtle material that works beautifully within furniture. We love the striking Liber glass sideboard from Tonelli, which has a mirrored base, adjustable feet, comes in four sizes and has optional drawers. (www.gomodern.co.uk)

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Multifunctional magic Is it a seat? Is it a shoe rack?

Furniture brand Loaf couldn’t decide either, so they went for something a bit different in the naming department, calling the piece Whatsit. Regardless of its ambiguous name, we love its industrial edge. (www.loaf.com)

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If you’ve ever dreamt of a Carrie Bradshaw-esque walkin wardrobe, the Willesley Bedroom by Hammonds is perfect for you. Shown here in crisp matt white, it creates a wow factor as well as an abundance of storage. (www.hammonds-uk.com)

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Floating storage MosaiQ is a new wall hanging rail storage system that can sit neatly in the space between kitchen worktop and wall units.

The user can choose from a selection of storage options such as a knife block, shelves, hooks, and kitchen roll holders that all hang from the rail. (www.rational.de/en)

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Sub-brow TimeEyebrow Will Tell

Glass craft Each month we follow Will Anderson as his self-build journey unfolds. This month, Will takes an unusual approach to glazing his Arts and Crafts house.

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his month I’ve been making windows by hand. Yes, making windows! This might sound a bit mad – after all, who builds their own windows these days when you can buy high quality made-tomeasure products, ready to install? Well, maybe I am a bit mad, but nonetheless I’m enjoying it.

Needless to say, I’m not making the windows that matter to our ultra-low-energy specification. These were indeed made offsite: triple-glazed Ecocontract windows supplied and fitted by The Green Building Store last September. But right at the front of the house is the conservatory, an unheated oak-framed room that, more than anything else, defines the Arts and Crafts character of The Orchard.

It sits outside the insulated envelope of the

building so any heat losses here will only be of solar energy harvested during the day through its many traditional leaded windows.

Twenty-five traditional leaded windows, to be precise, which is a lot of windows to make from scratch. I’m averaging about two a day and working weekends to get the job done. For each window, I begin by stretching and cutting the lead ‘cames’ which hold the glass in place.

Then I cut the glass, which is always an anxious task as more than half of the glass I am using is expensive traditional glass, full of ripples and characterful dings. Then I carefully put all the lead and glass together using a jig to keep everything square and in place. All the lead junctions are then rubbed with a tallow candle, which acts as a flux, before being soldered Above: Will has made the windows for the conservatory himself Top right: Will carefully soldering his windows together Left: Last year he took a course in creating stained glass windows

together. Then I cement in all the glass, clean up and polish the lead to a dark, weathered finish.

Installing a window involves heaving it up the scaffold ladder, usually by myself, puttying the external rebate in the oak frame, pinning the window into the rebate with oak beads and screwing everything reasonably tight. As the green oak frame is going to move and twist as it dries, there needs to be plenty of tolerance to allow the windows to move too.

The result is pretty cool and gives the house an extremely unusual ‘kerb appeal’. The design of the first floor conservatory was inspired by a house by Edwin Lutyens, which was itself inspired by tall Elizabethan bay windows, so we are digging deep into English architecture to create a building that paradoxically will be exceptionally advanced in its environmental specification.

I first gained confidence to use lead and glass when I took a stained glass course at the Working Men’s College in London last year.

Since then we have been making a series of stained glass panels that will rise up our double-storey staircase window. In this case, they will sit inside the triple-glazed window that is already in place, so once again we don’t have to worry about heat losses.

If you want to bring a bit of personal character to your project without spending a lot of time and money on training, I would recommend stained glass: it’s relatively easy to learn and you’ll be making your own pieces in no time at all. You can also do yourself a favour if, like us, you don’t get too ambitious with your design and stick to straight lines. Or at least don’t get too curvy: the more curves you have, the more likely you are to shout and curse when the glass fails to break along the line you have carefully scored. But of course that’s also the joy of craft: the more you practise, the more you smile and the less you swear.

www.buildingtheorchard.com

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“I’M GOING.” MARK ATKINS, ARCHITECT

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Green Living

Left: Incorporate eco-paints and upcycled furniture into your home to enhance your green credentials

Eco-products we love: ► Paint from Earthborn: No oils or acrylics means no nasty emissions and high breathability. ► Strawboard bonded with formaldehyde-free MDI glue: This strawboard works like MDF and can be cut to make fitted furniture. ► Recycled glass from Bottle Alley Glass: Based in Yorkshire, this company fuses unwanted and recycled glass bottles into worktops, splash-backs and features in fitted furniture.

would encourage the supply to follow.

Reusing and upcyling furniture is environmentally friendly and will save you money. Visit antique and second hand shops to find one-off gems or take an inexpensive item and upcycle it into something new. The most eco-friendly furniture you can buy is second hand, but if you want to have something new, invest in local craftsmanship. Feel proud to buy furniture created using natural materials grown in the UK and feel honoured to pass it down generations, just like we used to.

Back to basics

Take eco-action Sustainable and eco-living expert Tristan Titeux presents simple things you can do to make your home an eco-haven.

P

eople looking to transform their homes in an eco-friendly way have more options now than ever before. There are many alternatives to mass-produced products that are free from dangerous chemicals and look fantastic around the home.

There are so many things you can do to create your dream eco-home. An easy place to start is to paint your home using eco-paint because it is easily available, cheap and easy for you to apply

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yourself. These paints are made using either plant-based materials such as linseed oil or abundant materials like chalk; these are healthy natural materials that don’t give off harmful fumes whilst also letting your walls breathe, which lets excess moisture out of the walls.

Another great way to up your green credentials is to switch to a renewable energy electricity provider. These source energy from wind and sun rather than coal and nuclear.

Creating a huge demand for renewable energy

I am a big advocate of natural, because I believe that the closer you stay to nature, the better for your health and wellbeing. Think about the manufacturing and processing behind a product – has it been processed to the detriment of the environment?

Another eco-product I love is clay plaster – you can’t get much more natural than mud dug from the ground and put on your walls. There are many misconceptions about clay plaster, but it does not fall off, smell or crack, in fact there are many great formulas that look and work as good as gypsum based plasters. This material has a softer, more natural look and because it is a breathable finish it will regulate the humidity in your home – it will absorb moist air and let moisture back into the room when a space is too dry.

Lastly, make sure anything you buy that has been created using wood has FSC approval.

This certification ensures that products come from responsibly managed forests that provide environmental, social and economic benefits.

www.tristantiteux.com

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Viewpoint

Your Right to Build Raymond Conner, Chief Executive of BuildStore Ltd, discusses why the Government’s ‘Right to Build’ is another appealing initiative for potential self-builders.

M

ay’s General Election and the subsequent Queen’s Speech was welcome news for self-build with the Government re-affirming its commitment to continue to provide self-build and custom-build opportunities and deliver aspirational home ownership under its ‘Right to Build’ policy.

Introduced under the previous coalition government, ‘Right to Build’ sets out to give individuals and community groups the right to self-build by requesting their local authorities make available ‘shovel-ready’ serviced custombuild plots. To spearhead this scheme, back in September 2014 eleven vanguard councils were selected to become the first to offer this new right to their residents, which included operating a dedicated custom-build register to ascertain local interest and demand.

The Self Build & Custom Housebuilding Act, proposed by South Norfolk MP Richard Bacon, followed suit now making it mandatory for all local authorities to establish a register of individuals who have expressed an interest in finding land for their self-build projects and to recognise the desire for

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custom-build housing when drawing up their local plans.

Whilst encouraging for those who have strived to find a suitable self-build plot, these measures also create new, affordable and aspirational home ownership opportunities – with all the benefits and cost savings of self-build – particularly for those

looking to get on the housing ladder or simply wishing to remain living in their local community.

Increased options It’s not just local authorities who are making land available for self-build. Through additional government initiatives and grants, private

Viewpoint Left: An example of custombuilding in Europe Below left: French Field's custombuild site in Cheshire Above: Self-builders discussing their build plans

landowners, developers and nationwide housebuilders are making provision for custombuild plots across the country. Whilst offering huge scope and flexibility in terms of involvement and design, consideration to individual budgets and requirements is met with a range of property options, such as detached, semi-detached and terraced plots.

As a leading provider of homebuilding finance in the UK, we are particularly encouraged by the Government’s commitment to ‘Right to Build’.

With the shortfall in housing stock and projected surge in property prices, this announcement can only perpetuate an increase in demand for those looking to build their own homes. And with custom-build being demand-led rather than speculative house-building, it is anticipated that enabling developers will recognise the financial benefits custom-build offers, thus re-invigorating the housing market and stimulating economic growth.

Accordingly, we anticipate that this government scheme will also give those lenders – who were previously nervous of the risk associated with self-build – the assurity and confidence to enter

the self-build lending market. This can only prove beneficial to those looking to obtain a self-build mortgage as the increase in lenders entering the market will ultimately provide more choice of finance options.

Whether you opt for self-build or custombuild, securing finance for your homebuilding project is no different. As with plots listed on www. plotsearch.co.uk – the UK plot-finding site that lists plots with genuine planning permission – all custom-build sites are presented with planning permissions in place, allowing for a smooth application process.

Tailored finance Choosing the right mortgage scheme is naturally dependant on how you wish to finance your build and how much cash you have in savings. If you choose an arrears stage payment mortgage then you will need sufficient money for a deposit on the custom-build plot of between 15-25%, as well as money to pay for the materials and labour for the early stages of the build. If you do not have sufficient savings then you may decide to sell your current home to release equity before starting your custom-build project.

If you have a relatively low deposit, don’t want to sell your existing house or move into temporary accommodation before your new-build is complete, then an advance-stage mortgage arrangement such as BuildStore’s

Accelerator scheme may be right for you. With 90% borrowing granted to purchase the custombuild plot and 90% borrowing on build costs, this particular scheme ensures that cash flow is not an issue during the build.

As with a ‘traditional’ self-build mortgage scheme, interest is only paid on the funds drawn down rather than the full amount. Additionally, you are exempt from stamp duty if the cost of your custom-build plot is less than £125,000.

With custom-build giving the self-builder flexibility to do as much or as little as desired, and with added benefit of groundworks and services costs met by the custom-build enabler, it is still estimated that completed homes are worth an average 25-30% more on completion than they cost to build.

BuildStore’s Custom Build Homes has now partnered with Custom Build schemes throughout the UK, providing essential advice and guidance on all aspects of custom-build including finance, insurance and warranty schemes.

Whether you choose self-build or custombuild, ensuring you have the right finance for your project is paramount. Take the time to talk to specialist, experienced advisers from the outset so you are clear of what your finances allow and your onward financial obligations.

Useful links: www.custombuildhomes.co.uk www.custombuildregister.co.uk www.buildstore.co.uk www.plotsearch.co.uk

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Contracts & Legalities

Navigating planning permission While building your own home is an exciting prospect, navigating the complexities of the British planning process can be a real turn-off for many prospective self-builders. Steve Mansour, Group CEO at insurance expert CRL, talks you through the process to ease your concerns.

Be organised to lower the risk of potential stress surrounding your self-build planning application

A

s soon as you find your perfect plot, it’s in your best interest to kick off the planning process as soon as you can. Consulting with the local authority’s planning department – either yourself or by proxy – is a great way to determine what you will, and won’t, be able to do. Your local planning department is likely to have some preliminary guidance on their website, if not a full copy of the ‘Local Plan’ that informs planning constraints in the area.

However, councils also offer more formal pre-application advice for a fee, although the cost – and quality – of this can differ greatly from authority to authority. This should hopefully give you a better idea of the key issues that may arise and take steps to sidestep or tackle these as necessary. This guidance can be used to inform your design and when you’re happy with the plans, you can formally submit them for planning approval. This will typically cost under £200, but can differ depending on where your new home is.

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While central government has set a target of eight weeks for planning applications to be assessed, some councils are better than others. You will be able to track the progress of your application through the local authority’s website and find out if any problems have been identified. Local planners are highly risk averse and in some cases it can be worth withdrawing and re-submitting an application that encounters difficulties, rather than waiting for refusal. However, we’d always advise consulting with a professional, if possible, before making any rash decisions regarding your application.

Having your self-build plans refused by a local authority can jeopardise the chances of your project ever coming to fruition in its current form. Given the increasing pressure local planners are under, previous refusals can fuel future ones, making a proposed site untenable in the eyes of the local authority.

You can appeal to the Department of Communities and Local Government’s Planning Inspectorate if you think the application has

been refused out of hand. However, this comes with its own set of complications and you’re likely to have to wait for at least a year for a response after lodging your appeal.

If everything goes smoothly and you’re granted permission without any constraints, unfortunately the paperwork doesn’t end there. You will still need to ensure the project adheres to UK Building Regulations – a code which governs the safety and structural integrity of a proposed building.

Unlike planning permission, Building Regulations are less open to interpretation and your project will succeed or fail based on whether it meets their criteria or not.

Finally, as someone who sees successful self-build projects come to fruition regularly, I hope you are not deterred from building your own home. Constructing your own home is an exciting, and a highly rewarding, project and if the guidelines are followed should be a relatively smooth process.

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Urban Sanctuary

New lease of life After buying a derelict Victorian semi-detached house in West London, a couple employed Timo Haedrich and Chris Wong from architecture studio Haptic Architects to completely refurbish and extend their new home.

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Urban Sanctuary

“The finished space is everything I hoped it would be and more. It is especially great to observe the big skies towards the back through the large windows.”

All images © Simon Kennedy

W

ith a brief to transform the Victorian building into a family home, architects Timo Haedrich and Chris Wong from Haptic Architects set out to completely refurbish and extend this 1870-dated property. The intention was to form a connection between the old and the new, to juxtapose the Victorian craftsmanship and love for intricate detail with modern construction techniques and to create generosity of space and light.

The London property had been extended in the past, however the addition was unsympathetic to the building’s heritage and the new owners found it unattractive and ill-suited to their needs. For this new project the existing Victorian fabric of the building was kept mainly intact, but the existing extension at the rear of the home was cleared, providing the team with more or less a blank canvas to work with.

The project was complete within the predicted timeframe of six months and finished on budget. The extension and garden room has added approximately 45m to the property.

The new extension comes in two parts, with a space added onto the property and a coordinating structure at the end of the garden. The added structure learns from the existing Victorian building’s architectural intent, with well-proportioned spaces, generous ceiling heights and windows that allow plenty of light into the new space.

Timo and Chris have created a modern extension that amplifies contemporary living with large rooms with enhanced exposure to daylight. The extension is an open plan space that is greatly used by the family, combining kitchen, main living room and dining area.

Left: There are two parts to this extension project

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Sub-browSanctuary Urban Eyebrow The interior space extends seamlessly into the garden and connects with the garden studio. The urban garden was large enough to introduce a substantially sized structure at the property’s rear. It provides a secluded space to be used by guests, or acts as an additional space to the main house.

Timo comments: “One challenge this project creates was that a quite substantial part of the existing structure needed to be propped up during construction.

A large ‘goal post’ structure props up the existing home, so that a column free space could be achieved.

“When it came to material specification, we utilised a limited palette of materials and colour with oak and concrete featuring throughout the property to constrast with the white walls and kitchen. These materials have been used and detailed in a variety of ways to provide varying tactile experiences for the family. The extension is clad with slender slats of untreated larch, which will

Above: The new spaces are clad in larch Right: Both parts of the extension benefit from large glazing

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Sub-browSanctuary Eyebrow Urban naturally grey over time.”

The new interweaves with the old, through a continuous concrete element or ribbon, extending from one side of the house – the Victorian living room to the modern kitchen at the rear of the property – integrating fireplace, storage, seating and kitchen.

Original elements have been retained to recognise heritage in the old part of the house, such as the high ceilings, decorative cornice and distressed staircase in the hallway. The new rooms are clean, simplistic and modern, but are not an unsympathetic to the Victorian structure – they are a subtle contrast to the old and

Above: The open plan space integrates dining room and kitchen Below: The garden room is a great place for guests

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Sub-browSanctuary Urban Eyebrow

Urban Sanctuary

Roof plan

First floor plan

enhance the property’s suitability to modern living.

The kitchen is stark and fairly industrial, with sharp corners and smooth white and grey worktops. Natural light pours down onto the worktops thanks to two large skylights, creating a light and airy feel to the much-used space. Poured concrete has been used in the two new structures, which works well beside the white walls.

Colour has been added sporadically and with purpose, such as the single yellow bar stool amid three grey stools at the kitchen breakfast bar. Two small square pieces of artwork are dwarfed in contrast to the two rectangular skylights.

Above: The garden room is a great place for guests Left: There are two large skylights in the kitchen Below: The kitchen looks through bi-folding doors out onto the garden

the outside. Wooden decking is slatted much like the exterior cladding, with wooden garden furniture further complementing the timber-focused design choice.

Mid-century furniture makes an on-trend statement in the garden room, working as a stylish contrast to the concrete flooring. Artwork is a central design aspect

Modern masterpiece The straight-laced, vertical timber cladding to the back extension and the garden studio, gives the volumes a clear monolithic form. The untreated timber slats create a surface, which appears soft, drape-like and tactile, with a subtle three dimensionality.

The extension integrates with the garden and draws a parallel with the garden room. Full height glazing and sliding glass doors draw more natural light into the room and open up the space to connect with

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Respecting heritage

Urban Sanctuary

to the whole property’s neutral palette, especially within the older parts of the home.

Timo adds: “The finished space is everything I hoped it would be and more. It is especially great to observe the big skies towards the back through the large windows. This is my favourite aspect because the expansive glazing allows plenty of light into the kitchen and living areas.”

Haptic is a London and Oslo based architectural studio that was established in 2009. As a practice, their designs are conceptually driven, inspired by nature and formed through a critical, iterative design process.

This design demonstrates a strong emphasis to user experience and feeds into the meaning of ‘Haptic’, which refers to the sense of touch.

“My advice to anyone looking to extend a Victorian property is to respect the existing fabric and try to work with the exciting spaces,” concludes Timo. “I would recommend using as much insulation as possible and try to keep the material palette simple. Looking back, there really isn’t much I would have done differently! Perhaps it would have been good to add a basement.”

www.hapticarchitects.com

Above: The extension benefits from a small fireplace Right: The staircase has been stripped back to expose its natural form

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Impressive Innovation

Paradise in the city On the eastern edge of Hampstead Heath, North London, sits an inspirational new family home within the Highgate Conservation area.

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P

reviously home to a mediocre 1950s house, this sloping site, with its idyllic views of Hampstead Heath and beyond, offered Stanton Williams Architects the opportunity to create something special.

The design concept integrates an unusual floorplan which focuses around making the most of natural lighting and views. The sloping site is taken advantage of by incorporating additional spaces within the lower garden level.

To enter the house, visitors cross a bridge towards the middle level, walking over a stream that tumbles down rockery and plant life towards the garden on the lower floor. This minimal stone and metal bridge allows nature to be retained and sets the new home

Impressive Innovation Architect: Stanton Williams

All images © Hufton + Crow

Key Contributors: Contractor: Restructure JC Ltd sensitively back from the road. The whole structure has been carefully and specifically positioned to preserve mature trees.

The bridge leads into the heart of the house, which works as an entrance hallway, looking down over glass balustrades onto the ground floor below. This design choice means the ground floor – home to the main living space – is able to benefit from double-height ceilings and double-height windows. This volume is especially useful for gaining maximum levels of natural light, with double height and lightweight curtains softening the black window outlines and dark interior elements. The expansive glazing incorporates large sliding doors, helping to further dissolve the boundary between inside and outside.

Above: The ground floor has an open plan layout that benefits from extensive glazing, opening the home out onto the garden

Executive Architect: Tully Filmer Ltd Structural Engineer: Barton Engineers Services Engineer: Skelly & Couch / RJA Consultancy + Management Quantity Surveyor: Stockdale / Jon Sales QS Lighting Design: Speirs and Major Planning Consultants: First Plan Party Wall Surveyor: Millbridge Landscaping: Earth Moves Design Audio Visual: Marquee Home Photography: Hufton+Crow, Edmund Sumner

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Impressive Innovation

r e be af in ord Don't floorplan most your make the and to to tural light ws. of na nding vie u surro

Left: The top floor appears to float towards the impressive views Below: The new property benefits from a swimming pool

Impressive Innovation

: cretsjust e S e Trad aid to ad r

A suspended fireplace hangs down elegantly from the six-metre ceiling far above, accompanied by five large cylindrical statement lights, each element hanging in harmony to fill the voluminous space. Even though the property has an open plan layout, recognisable domestic divisions are kept. A large dark grey corner sofa and dark chaise longue creates a definitive separation in living area from the white sofa and chairs at the opposite end of the open plan room. The division creates defined functions; the dark space makes the most of the fireplace and looks out onto the garden, whereas the lighter area benefits from a television.

Behind the grey corner sofa sits a long dining table, perfect for entertaining guests. To the rear of the property is the kitchen, still within the open plan room, but neatly separated using colour and texture.

The free-flowing arrangement of the home, with open plan spaces and large windows, encourages a feeling of overarching connectivity between storeys, as well as between indoors and out.

In the garden, soft stone paving curves around the house towards a set of stairs that leads to a small swimming pool aligned with the middle level, referring neatly to the nearby ponds on the Heath.

†

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Impressive Innovation

Above: An impressive feature fireplace is suspended from the six-metre ceiling Left: The front door opens onto the middle floor

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Impressive Innovation A fresh lawn extends the width of the property, with careful planting capturing the essence and allure of a tropical paradise.

At the top of the building, the storey cantilevers out from amongst the tree canopies and floats towards the desirable views. There are four bedrooms on the upper level, each with its own en-suite bathroom. This storey benefits from four aligned, yet divided, symmetrical

balconies, all of which can be entered from different rooms to make the most of the view out onto Hampstead Heath at the same time as maintaining privacy.

Material references for the house reflect its natural setting. Cedar fencing and oiled Iroko balconies contrast with the Accoya timber envelope. Painted in dark grey, the timber brings additional texture

Above: Natural sunlight pours down the staircase thanks to large skylights on the top floor

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Impressive Innovation

Above: There are four bedrooms on the top floor Right: Each bedroom has its own balcony that looks out onto Hampstead Heath

and colour to the limestone on the exterior facade.

The crisp and sharp protective exterior layers give way to softer warm interior spaces, with an extensive oak ceiling and floors laid out in limestone and dark oak.

The property is a combination of concrete, timber and glazing. The entire structure has a real sense of engaging with nature. Bronze handrails draw connections with raw elements and the use of different woods echo the mature trees that are central to the property’s position. Thoughtful glazing, including long flat rooflights on the upper level and thin vertical windows towards the back of the home, ensure each storey is showered with sunlight.

The house is designed to be naturally ventilated and well insulated. Details such as skylights placed strategically at various points in the house to bring in further daylight ensure that the family can engage with nature at every possible opportunity throughout the seasons.

Embedded in a unique, rural-like setting, Fitzroy Park House manages to be at once protective and open.

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Sub-brow Staircases & Balustrades Eyebrow

A step in the right direction Richard McLane, Design Director of bespoke staircase expert Bisca, profiles the key specification concerns to choosing a staircase.

U

nless you are a serial selfbuilder, building your own home can be one of the most challenging, stressful, timeconsuming, but ultimately rewarding, projects you undertake in your entire life. At the very beginning you have a blank space, white paper and hundreds of ideas all vying for a place in your property; arranging these ideas on paper to optimise your space and create a home that works for your family is the tricky part.

Regardless of how much it costs, how it looks and what type of property it is going into, there are some fairly standard points to consider when choosing your new staircase.

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Budget: If you have your heart set on a bespoke staircase, it’s always worth allocating a budget for the staircase element rather than lumping it in with main project costs, as basically your budget defines what you type of staircase you can have.

Prices for a complete staircase and balustrade vary from as little as £400 for a DIY store MDF option to a fully bespoke design from specialist staircase manufacturers starting around £20,000.

Space: Consider the space as a whole, not just the hallway or immediate vicinity of the staircase. If you have an open-plan configuration, remember the staircase is on view from other areas of the property. Think about direction of traffic – how do you approach the staircase – would a curved staircase or directional bottom treads be an option?

Time: Don’t underestimate the amount of time it takes to commission a bespoke staircase.

To avoid backing yourself into a compromise situation, it’s worth getting the staircase specialist involved as early as possible to get some layout ideas and outline costs.

Treads: Open treads are a great way to let light into the area, and glass, timber, stone, marble or even Corian are all materials you could consider. Most bespoke staircase manufacturers will try to match existing timber in the property, In terms of trends, brash and bling has made way for tactile and timeless. Innovation in floor finishes has revolutionised timber available for staircase components.

Sub-brow Eyebrow Staircases & Balustrades

Off the rails With balustrades, roughly speaking, you have the choice between glass, timber, steel or plaster. Position, family requirements and budget are all important factors in making the right decision. When obtaining quotes, it’s important to consider any landing or galleries needing balustrades, not just the staircase itself.

Glass is not perhaps the best option if you have a young family – unless you relish the chore of regular cleaning to remove tiny hand prints! Timber spindles will give you a more traditional effect and are a cost effective option, whilst forged or machined steel balustrades can be as simple or as ornate as you desire.

Finally, comparing quotations for any bespoke item on paper is always open to interpretation due to the variable nature of the item and its method of manufacture. It is really worth doing your homework to understand exactly what you are being quoted for so you can make an informed decision.

www.bisca.co.uk

Opposite page: The right staircase will be both functional and aesthetically pleasing Right: Most companies will match the staircase timber to other wooden elements in your home Below: Glass balustrades are a popular choice

Quotation checklist: ► Glass: are you being quoted for standard glass (with a green tint), or premium low iron (reduced tint and superior optical quality)? ► Handrail: softwood or hardwood? Is it of a continuous design or cheaper angular sections bolted together – which can spoil the overall look? ► Treads: type and provenance of timber and finishes all vary in price – make sure you are comparing like for like. ► Glass balustrade fixings: companies offering a 24-hour replacement service and lower cost options usually rely on visible fixings and clips from stock. A carefully designed glass balustrade will not have any visible fixings, unless specified by the client. ► Steel Uprights: ensure all parties are quoting for the same material and the same design. You need to understand the diameter and shape of the uprights, the process of manufacture – machined or forged – and how they will be finished. It’s also worth asking how they will be fixed to the handrail – the cheapest option is to include a ribbon rail top and bottom, but this is not to everyone’s taste and may come as a shock if that is not what you were expecting.

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Kitchens & Bathrooms

W

hen looking for taps for your home, you need products that cater to your needs both in terms of functionality and beautiful aesthetics. With such a vast array of bathroom and kitchen taps available on the market, it is increasingly difficult to specify the correct tap.

Below is a list to help make the specification process easier, both for bathroom and kitchen mixers.

1

Know your water pressure

Look for a bathroom or kitchen tap that suits the water pressure of your home. If you have low water pressure, select a tap which is best suited to work with your water system, allowing the mixer to deliver a powerful stream of water.

Think about the style of the basin or sink 2

Choose a basin or sink style that will complement the tap both in terms of looks and functionality, so no water will splash out of the bowl. Look out for apps that allow you to pair together tap and basin or sink possibilities, or opt for a manufacturer that can provide both options as a package.

Choose a hard-wearing finish that will create a statement 3

Spend time choosing a hard-wearing and stylish finish for your kitchen or bathroom tap. Ensure that you choose a tap that is coated in order to maintain the just bought look, offering easy cleaning and maintenance. This will ensure the tap will remain looking as good as new, as well as cut down future maintenance costs. There are a number of finishes available – from chrome and moon white to supersteel and rose gold – to suit a variety of bathroom and kitchen decors. This gives you the opportunity to match the tap with the overall design of the room for a seamless look.

Opt for a tap that will work for your needs 4

Top tips on tap Michael Gray, UK Training Manager at sanitary fittings expert GROHE, shares advice on what to consider when specifying kitchen and bathroom taps.

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Think about what the bathroom and kitchen tap will be used for in the house. For example, a cloakroom tap will be used for washing hands meaning a small basin tap may be needed. However, a tap used for filling a bathtub will require something more substantial, and there are many beautiful wall mounted and freestanding mixers available for you to choose from.

In the kitchen, filtered water taps are available which produce still, semi and sparkling water on demand – a great option for the eco-conscious.

Filtered water has vast eco-benefits over bottled water, for example the GROHE Blue Chilled and Sparkling system saves up to 61.3% in CO2 emissions.

► Choose a shower that is specially adapted to a low flow system if your home’s pressure is under one bar to guarantee an invigorating showering experience. ► An electric shower is a great option for flexibility, as they are suitable for all installations, being mains fed. Electric showers are also kind to the pocket as they work to a cold water system, only heating water when actually needed. ► Concealed shower valve installations can allow you to choose between three showering options, including wall/ceiling mounted shower heads, hand held showers, side sprays and bath filling options, creating a clean and minimalistic look within the bathroom.

Kitchens & Bathrooms

How to choose your perfect shower

► Exposed installations can easily be upgraded and altered as trends change, and provide both showering and bathing opportunities. ► If you’re looking for a more powerful spray pattern then consider the size of the showerhead being used. Generally, large showerheads deliver a high flow rate but the pressure of the water is less than that of a smaller showerhead. ► With a personalised showering experience growing in popularity, you might want to opt for a shower with multiple spray patterns which you can alternate to suit your requirements.

Likewise, a kettle hot water tap encourages responsible management of energy and water. The hot water tap pours hot water on demand straight from the tap, saving energy by eliminating the need to boil water in a kettle or waiting for water to boil in a pan. With a kettle hot water tap, users will only use the amount of water required when making a hot drink, therefore avoiding water wastage.

showers, as well as basin mixers – offering an easy way to create a stylish bathroom where all elements function perfectly together.

In the kitchen, think about the style of the room and whether it is contemporary or traditional. Then, opt for a tap that suits the theme for a unified and stylish look.

www.grohe.com/uk

Opposite: Freestanding bath taps make a dramatic statement Above: Large shower heads might have lower water pressure than smaller designs Below: Filtered water taps can produce still, semi and sparkling water on demand

Choose a tap with or without a pop up waste 5

Think about whether you need or can use a basin mixer that comes complete with a pop up waste lever.

Pop up waste levers that are located out of the basin or sink and are not submerged by water are great as you have easy access to them without having to put your hand in the water. This is perfect if the bowl is full of very hot water.

Choose a tap that will coordinate with the room 6

If you are looking to create a sleek and coordinated look in your bathroom, find out what shower mixers, accessories and ceramics match your chosen style.

Some manufacturers offer a complete bathroom solution – with matching fixtures for bath and

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Planters

Left: Ikea's SOCKER plant stand Below: Ikea's BITTERGURKA hanging planter Bottom: Boskke's upside-down Sky Planter

Second nature Nurture nature in your home all year round using clever and contemporary planters.

F

rom cleansing the air to aiding concentration, the presence of houseplants is thought to have numerous benefits. Regardless of where you live, or if you have a garden, surrounding yourself by nature has never been easier thanks to affordable, innovative and aesthetically pleasing indoor planters.

Working this botanical interior trend couldn’t be easier. One effective example of a design that defies gravity is Boskke’s upside-down Sky Planter – available from Edited. This recycled plant pot is not only stylish but also enables homeowners to get back to nature without sacrificing floor space. The innovative selfwatering design features a ceramic reservoir to drip feed water to the plant and uses plastic mesh and a locking system to keep soil in place after planting. It even has a green water indicator to point out when your plant needs water and comes with two different lengths of wire and a hook for hanging.

Ikea is another company that is constantly striving to come up with better ways to help nature thrive. This much-loved Swedish brand has a number of clever planter designs that do everything from working as a room divider to self-watering.

Clotilde Passalacqua, Interior Design Leader at IKEA UK & Ireland, shares some expert advice for bringing the outdoors in: “When designing a small space every inch counts so plan carefully.

Make sure the scale of the planting is appropriate

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to the size of your overall space. Decide on a theme and stick to it. A mish-mash of colours and designs makes areas look smaller, whilst focusing on one trend creates the illusion of more space. Lots of people think they need to fill areas with plants, but just a few select pieces will work wonders without overcrowding the space.”

Life on the edge If you have a balcony, no matter how small, there are many clever designs that hang and balance to bring botanical bliss to your home.

Deb Wood, Outdoor Sales Leader from IKEA UK and Ireland, comments: “If you have a paved front garden, or a balcony, you can create a jungle of pots, shrubs and herbs which will turn any space into an outside oasis throughout the summer and in to winter. Different height levels add interest, so if your table and chairs are high then look to include lower shrub plants and decoration. If the main furniture is low invest in climbing plants that will add to the space.”

If you are working within a small space, clarifying your priorities will help with the overall effect – for example, are plants your first love, do you want to sit and enjoy a view or is dining your priority? Clotilde continues: “Design the space with your priority as your focus, and then add other aspects for aesthetic touches rather than trying to fit it all in.”

www.ikea.com www.edited.co.uk

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i-build All images © Ioana Marinescu

Secret vault Innovative use of vaulted ceilings and clever glazing has transformed an urban infill site into a four-bedroom family home.

A

rchitectural practice vPPR has demonstrated how a difficult, overlooked urban space can be transformed into a fully functioning family home. The Hammersmith, London plot was an unattractive infill site – previously a diesel contaminated taxi garage – surrounded by 11 party walls and overlooked by 24 surrounding properties.

Above: The structure's unique glazing is especially impressive at night Below: 11 party walls surround the property Right: The home has a discrete ground floor

Although the plot is greatly overlooked, it has the advantage of being sheltered from the road by the surrounding residential gardens. Several of the 24 neighbours included active members of the Brackenbury Residents’ Association. Detailed residents’ consultations and the incorporation of their feedback into the design led to seven letters of support for the scheme at planning.

Innovative structure The domestic design overcomes the issues of privacy and wall space for windows with a unique roofing solution. The design involved seven pyramids of varying sizes with a vaulted roof light in each section.

The site is a former taxi garage and was designated as contaminated land. All 1.5m of excavated soil had to be tested and carefully disposed of. The garden walls are underpinned rather than demolished. A steel and timber frame spans off the existing walls to create the roof and floor structure. The roof is constructed from plywood over timber joists, covered with insulation and single-ply membrane.

The geometry of the roof appears simple but is in fact incredibly complicated. It was modeled in 3D software, which enabled precise back and forth between consultants to ensure that the huge steel beams were completely hidden in the crisp angled finishes inside and by the roof finishes outside.

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i-build

Eyebrow i-build Sub-brow Due to the complex pyramid design, a neat finish around the edges was crucial. The mechanically fixed Sika-Trocal S system proved to be the optimum roofing solution, with a specialist team of up to three applicators working on the project over a period of five weeks.

Single ply, flat roofing expert Sika-Trocal were contracted

by Ithaco Roofing to supply the bespoke system. SikaTrocal comments: “To enhance the architects’ design and emphasise the pyramid shape of the roof, we supplied the Type S membrane in light grey and slate grey. With aesthetics an important consideration for the complex pyramid design, the specification of Trocal Metal helped to reduce overlaps and provide a neat finish around the edges.

44

Top: The unique project has resulted in a family home Above: The plot was overlooked by 24 houses Above right: Unique glazing allows plenty of sunlight into the home Far right: Each vaulted roof is deliberately positioned in response to the sun's movement

“Each triangular section of the roof relied upon precise use of Trocal discs to ensure a uniform spacing pattern, this was key to help achieve a smooth appearance. Careful mitering was required along the numerous edges of each pyramid, the abutments, upstands and the base of the roof.

“To further complicate the installation, all gutters fell at different angles so each section of Trocal Metal was ordered and numbered to ensure it was used for the correct slope.

All gutter metals required fixing in a particular method to ensure a slight fall for drainage. Upon completion of the pyramid base detail, the correct colour membrane was laid with matching straps and corners, and lapped over or under depending on which face of the pyramid was being covered.”

The vaulted roofs are covered with two tones of single-ply roofing membrane to produce a harlequin pattern, breaking up the large area of roof and greatly improving the outlook, which was previously onto rotten asphalt roofs. Inside the house, the vaults meet at sharp plastered edges, concealing the down-stand beams rather than expressing them.

i-build Each roof pyramid has been deliberately positioned to throw light into different areas of the property, moving around according to the shifting angles of the sun – the morning light floods into the kitchen, courtyard and breakfast areas, while the evening sun illuminates the dining and library areas.

Clever solutions Large courtyards bring light into the bedrooms on the lower-ground floor. The roofs are covered in a striking chequered pattern of single-ply membrane.

Vault-like geometry is repeated obsessively at each scale of the design, forming sculptural chamfered edges to the windows, fireplace and TV wall. The timber floors are laid in a cross pattern that reflects the vaults above them.

A double-height den has access to the garden at the back for the homeowner’s young children to play in. A separate study provides acoustic privacy with a view through to the living space. A big double-sliding pocket door opens up completely, turning the dining room into a loggia in the summer.

† 45

i-build A mechanical heat exchange system and thick insulation make for an energy efficient home. A study allows for working from home or can become a spare bedroom for visiting relatives. The entrance is stepped up to meet flood requirements but these are wide and gentle for ease of access.

Recognised success vPPR Architects recently won the RIBA London Emerging Architect of the Year Award for this project,

46

named Vaulted House.

The RIBA London Award Jury comment: “This house is a sophisticated example of urban infill bursting with clever details, its collection of roofs powerfully articulating the relationship between dwelling, light and sky.”

Ivo Hesmondhalgh, Managing Director of Londonwide Properties PLC, adds: “We have worked with vPPR for several years. They have designed one spectacular house for us and are in the process of designing another.

Above: A sleek, modern kitchen works well within the contemporary space Right: The new design includes a courtyard garden

i-build Their sensitive appreciation of the possibilities and limitations of a site combined enable them to maximise the potential for any site. Whilst their aesthetic is extremely contemporary, they design houses that it would be a pleasure to live in rather than just admire as an uncomfortable work of art.

I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them.�

www.vppr.co.uk

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Eyebrow i-nterior Sub-brow

: Secret Tradeterior styles will

xible st in The be e that are fle as s ed o t h a be t e upd h to b ituation g u o n e al ome s person your h d your . n a s e chang evolve tastes

Perfecting your dream finish When it comes to designing your home, interiors shouldn’t be an afterthought. The choice of furniture, layout of the room, preferred colour palette and accessories can all dramatically transform not only the feel of a home, but also its functionality. Aaron Andrews, Creative Director of homeware specialist The Gifted Few, provides insight into making the right interior design decisions.

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Eyebrow i-nterior Sub-brow Left: Do plenty of research to define your style preference Below: Lighting is an integral aspect of any interior design

Above: Tailor your home to you by displaying pieces that you love

W

hen people first embark on a selfbuild project, they understandably put a lot of time and effort into getting the building and construction plans right. How big?

How many rooms? What materials? While these are of course important factors to consider, often people don’t think about the decor and interior style of their home until the building work is nearly complete.

So, when it comes to interiors, what should you be considering from the outset? And how can you tap into current trends to create a look that won’t date overnight, reflects your personal taste and is adaptable to evolve with your changing lifestyle?

† 49

i-nterior

Prioritise your budget Budget is always going to be a limitation in a self-build project, so it’s important to prioritise what you spend your money on. Furniture is unsurprisingly one of the biggest outlays, and a decent sofa for the living room and comfortable bed and mattress for the main bedroom are always worth spending money on.

You are likely to have an idea of the sort of lifestyle you want your dream home to provide. Perhaps you want to regularly entertain guests or have the whole family round for Sunday lunch or special occasions, in which case investing in a good quality dining table and chairs which will last for years could be a wise move. Or, maybe you work from home a lot, therefore need clever storage and a comfortable area to work in.

If your lifestyle is likely to change over the years – for example if you’ve got young children – don’t spend too much money on furniture and accessories for rooms that are going to need regular updating. Take children’s bedrooms; from toddler to teenager, their needs and personal tastes are going to change a lot over the years. Whether it’s the type of bed they need, the design of wallpaper they want or

Above: The industrial trend is popular right now Below: Don't be afraid of bold patterns

how much space is required for playing or studying, factor the upcoming costs into your budget and ensure the space is flexible enough to accommodate these changes.

Tapping into trends There are lots of interiors blogs, online resources and magazines for you to find inspiration. There are a couple of trends I recommend as a good starting point, as they are unlikely to date too much, are practical and can be updated easily.

The first is the industrial trend. Think pendant lights, large and practical workspaces or dining tables, stainless steel surfaces – great for kitchens – and a neutral colour palette.

There are lots of great examples of loft and warehouse conversions that go all out with this look, but you can pick or choose one or two key features that fit your lifestyle. The beauty of this look is that it works well alongside other styles, such as vintage or bohemian, so if you want to update it in a year or two with different accessories or home furnishings, it can be easily and cheaply done. What’s more, because the colours tend to be fairly neutral, you can introduce one or two other tones to create a contrast. Opt for either subtle pastels or bright neons for a bold statement.

Secondly, mid-century furniture is very popular at the moment – and rightly so. Think about classic chairs such as those designed by Eames, which were incredibly innovative at the time and have set the benchmark for future furniture makers – such items will always look timeless. Always look for reputable manufacturers and retailers when researching classic mid-century designs – there are a lot of imitation products out there, but only a handful of companies licenced to produce and sell the genuine articles.

Colour by numbers Thankfully we’re no longer in an era where the ‘go-to’ hue for wall paint is magnolia. There are several ‘safe’ shades that have been popular for a while now and show no signs of disappearing any time soon; white – fresher and

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i-nterior

makes more of an impact that magnolia or cream, olive greens and soft greys are three to look out for in particular.

People are getting a bit braver with their paint choices too, with very dark greys, midnight blues and aubergine appearing on the walls of more and more homes.

Don’t be scared of such strong tones – they won’t necessarily make your room feel smaller or darker if used in the right way. Think about where the natural light is coming from in the room and choose one or two statement walls.

Art in lighter and brighter tones, as well as mirrors, can break up the darkness and create an interesting contrast too.

There are lots of different brands of paint on the market.

The more expensive ones can be worth the money, as they offer better quality in terms of pigment, reflecting light and giving the desired finish. That’s not to say the more affordable brands shouldn’t be considered though – especially if you think you’re going to want to change the colour of your walls regularly – as their quality has improved considerably over the years and will continue to do so as the manufacturers invest more in research and development.

Wallpaper is also having a bit of a renaissance at the moment. There are some brilliant designs out there and as with paint, there are brands available to suit all budgets. If you’re doing the decorating yourself, don’t be intimidated by putting up wallpaper – it’s surprisingly straightforward, and there are lots of useful tutorials on YouTube if you need a helping hand.

Have fun and go with your heart It’s worth remembering you’re creating your dream house and if you have any grand ideas of how you want a room to look or you’ve spotted a bold trend that you

Above: If you love a wallpaper design then follow your heart and use it Left: Statement artwork will make an impact

love, then go with it. Whether you want a dressing room with flamingo wallpaper and accessories, or a master bedroom kitted out with stag heads and taxidermy, have fun and follow your heart.

While it is advisable to invest in some furniture and home accessories that will stand the test of time, one of the best things about interiors is that they can be updated easily. Paint or wallpaper, soft furnishing such as cushions and accessories like lighting can all be fairly quickly and cheaply changed to update your look.

When creating your home for life, you’ll want to invest some time and money in getting the basic feel and layout of your interiors right. Ultimately though, the best interior styles will be those that are flexible enough to be updated as your home situation changes and your personal tastes evolve.

www.thegiftedfew.com

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Eyebrow i-scape Sub-brow

How to grow beautiful and edible flowers When looking to fill your garden with beautiful flowers, consider plants that can be used to add colour, flavour and texture to your home-cooked food.

: Secret Tradeuy the plant

b If you f growing it o or instead w the plant f ro o g t , s lf h e t mon yours t three ticide at leas of pes k is r e h t e c es redu residu

Left: Hibiscus can be used to make a refreshing tea Below: You can flavour and colour cream soups with Chrysanthemum petals

E

dible flowers can be used within a range of savoury and sweet dishes, as well as cordials, oils and butters. Perfect for this time of year, a wide range of annuals and perennial edible flowers can be grown in the garden from early spring to late autumn.

Home-grown flowers, free from pesticides, are best. If you are looking to buy plants with edible flowers, only use those labelled for ‘culinary purposes’ as these will have been grown in ways that ensure any pesticide residues are at acceptable levels. Shop or garden centre bought flowering plants should be grown on for at least three months to reduce the risk of pesticide residues and only harvest subsequent flowerings.

Herb flowers like basil, chives, lavender, mint, rosemary and thyme impart a more subtle flavour to food than the leaves. By adding sprigs of edible herb flowers like basil or marjoram to oils and butters the delicate flavours can be used over a longer period.

When collecting flowers for eating, there are

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many practical considerations to keep in mind.

Make sure you are able to accurately identify the flower you are hoping to use – if in doubt, don’t eat! It’s best to pick young flowers and buds on dry mornings before the sun becomes too strong; this is when the colour and flavours will be most intense. If you don’t use flowers immediately, place in a plastic bag and refrigerate for a couple of days. Dried or frozen flowers are best used within infusions or cooked.

As a general rule, only use the petals of edible flowers, so discard the stamens, pistil and calyx of large flowers, as well as the bitter ‘heel’ at the base of the petal. Petals of daisies, borage and primroses can easily be separated from the calyx.

Smaller flowers in umbels, like fennel and dill, can be cut off and used whole.

If your plant becomes ridden with insects or disease, it is best to cut the plant back and encourage regrowth as no pesticides are specifically approved for use by home gardeners on edible flowers. It’s best to avoid old, faded

or dusty flowers from roadsides and areas frequented by livestock or dog walkers.

When picking flowers, beware of bees and remove small insects by dipping them in a bowl of cold salt water and dry on paper towel. Those who are susceptible to allergies, especially pollen, should not eat flowers.

For more information and advice on edible flowers visit: www.rhs.org.uk/advice

Bergamot – A strong spicy scent, makes good tea and Monardia didyma compliments bacon, poultry, rice and pasta Chrysanthemum – Petals flavour and colour cream soups, fish chowder Chrysanthemum and egg dishes in the same way as calendula Daisy – Not a strong flavour but petals make an Bellis perennis interesting garnish for cakes and salads

Eyebrow i-scape

Alpine pinks – A clove-like flavour ideal for adding to cakes as Dianthus flavoured sugar, oils and vinegars

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Which flowers can I eat?

Day lily – Add buds and flowers to stir fry, salads and Hemerocallis soups. Crunchy with a peppery after taste but may have a laxative effect. Avoid buds damaged by gall midge Elderflower – Used to make wine and cordials, or place in Sambucus nigra a muslin bag to flavour tarts and jellies but remove before serving. Elderflowers can be dipped in batter and deep fried Hibiscus – Refreshing citrus-flavoured tea enhanced by H. rosa-sinensis rosemary Hollyhock – Remove all traces of pollen and decorate cakes Alcea rosea with crystallized petals Lavender – Flavoured sugar, honey or vinegar can be used Lavandula augustifolia in cakes and biscuits while sprigs compliment roast pork, lamb and chicken Nasturtium – Brightly-coloured, peppery flowers are good Tropaeolum majus in salads and pasta dishes. The whole flower, leaves, and buds can be used or just the petals for a milder flavour Pot marigold – Intense colour and a peppery taste useful in Calendula officinalis soups, stews and puddings. Petals can be dried or pickled in vinegar or added to oil or butter Primrose – Decorate cakes with crystallized or fresh Primula vulgaris primrose or cowslip flowers. They can be frozen in ice cubes Rose – All roses are edible with the more fragrant Rosa roses being the best. Petals can be crystallized, used to flavour drinks, sugar and even icing for summer cakes Scented geraniums – Flowers are milder than leaves and can be Pelagonium crystallized or frozen in ice cubes for summer cordials Sunflower – Blanch whole buds and serve with garlic butter.

Helianthus annuus Petals can be used in salads or stir fries Sweet violet – Delicate flavour suitable for sweet or savoury Viola odorata dishes as well as tea. Use candy violets and pansies as a garnish on cakes and soufflés Tiger lily – Delicate fragrance and flavour enhances salads, Lilium leucanthemum omelettes and poultry, plus can be used to var. tigrinum stuff fish

Use Elderflower to make wine and cordials

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Product Guide

Rest assured Many self-builders have sleepless nights debating whether they can meet the skill levels required for neat and effective brickwork, or whether they should call in the professionals at some considerable expense. However, with the Durisol UK wall construction solution, these worries are a thing of the past. The simplicity of the construction method takes all the stress out of building walls. The Durisol system is manufactured from reclaimed softwood chippings that are mixed with a specially formulated cementitious compound. Units are simply places one of top of another and secured with poured concrete.

www.durisoluk.com 01495 249400 enquiries@durisoluk.com

New energy-efficient models for Smeg’s freestanding laundry portfolio

Style and craftsmanship Designed to provide a luxurious solution for classically styled bathrooms, the Marlborough furniture range from Laura Ashley Bathroom Collection combines timeless styling with expert craftsmanship to great effect.

Featuring a traditional Shaker design, Marlborough units incorporate five piece doors, which have soft close hinges to ensure their quiet closure, and are available in a hand painted cobblestone finish or solid pale oak. Ultra luxurious, the 1000mm freestanding vanity units are finished with honed marble or granite worktops and a vessel basin. Providing generous storage space, they benefit from three soft close drawers and two soft close doors, which come with chrome knobs and handles.

Ideal for slightly smaller bathrooms, the 600mm freestanding basin unit has two soft closing doors. It comes with chrome knobs as standard or white porcelain knobs on request and is topped by a one tap hole ceramic basin.

Complementing the basin units and providing further storage and display space, tallboy units have an adjustable shelf in the cupboard and a reversible, soft close door for right or left hand opening.

The above basin mirror cabinet has a reversible, single sided mirror door and two adjustable glass shelves. Also available is a wood framed backlit mirror with an infrared sensor for touch-free activation and a heated demister pad to keep it clear in a steamy bathroom.

Helen Shaw, Marketing Manager at the Laura Ashley Bathroom Collection, says: “A real modern classic, the Marlborough range is the perfect solution for traditional bathrooms, while also benefitting from features that make it look and feel right at home in more contemporary interiors.”

www.lauraashleybathroomcollection.com 01225 303929 sales@lauraashleybathroomcollection.com

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Multi-award winning appliance manufacturer Smeg has boosted its freestanding laundry portfolio with a raft of new products.

Boasting exceptional energy efficiency ratings, the new washing machines and tumble dryers offer varying capacities and cover a range of price points. Each model features an impressive A+++ energy rating, 16 washing programmes including hand wash, wool, curtains and quick 14 minutes, plus a variable spin speed up to 1400rpm. Other key features include an electronic display panel, 24-hour delay timer, child lock and an extra large 340mm door, which has been designed to make the machines easier to load and unload.

www.smeguk.com 0844 557 9907 customer.service@smeguk.com

Panasonic extends Aquarea range Panasonic has extended its Aquarea range of air-towater heat pumps and now offers one of the widest ranges available on the market today. These super-efficient air source heat pumps are easy to install, simple to control, cheap to run and offer outstanding energy performance. Offering capacities from 3-16kW, whatever the heating and cooling needs for a contract, the Aquarea Heat Pump Range ensures a system is available. Suitable for new-build and refurbishment projects, particularly those in off-gas areas, the systems are cost-effective and environmentally friendly. Designed for homes with high performance requirements, the new Aquarea Bi-Bloc and Mono-Bloc heat pumps provide heating and hot water, whatever the weather.

www.panasonic.eu 01344 853390 uk-aircon-training@eu.panasonic.com

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Inex-online.com Interior and exterior design inspiration

The comprehensive online specification portal for interior and exterior design professionals. Inex takes visitors on a virtual journey, inspiring the design community with the latest news, on-trend products and high-profile interviews.

www.inex-online.com

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