IN THIS ISSUE:
l SELF-BUILDS l RENOVATIONS l EXTENSIONS l CONVERSIONS March 18 Issue 44 Download the free app to your tablet or mobile. Search 'i-build'
20 +
WHAT IS ECODESIGN LOT 20 AND HOW WILL THIS NEW LEGISLATION AFFECT YOU AND YOUR ELECTRICAL PRODUCTS?
Marvellous mirrors to reflect every interior style
DO YOU NEED SOME HELP WITH THE PLANNING PERMISSION PROCESS? AVOID COMMON MISTAKES WITH ARCHITECT YOUR HOME’S TOP TIPS
COVER STORY:
TAKING THE INSIDE, OUTSIDE One couple have designed a contemporary open-plan home allowing them to feel like they’re in the garden even when they’re in the house
RAINWATER SYSTEMS
FRAMING THE VIEW
RAISING STANDARDS
Yeoman Rainguard’s guidance on which rainwater system is best for your project
A look at how rearranging a kitchen was the solution one couple were looking for
British Gypsum discusses the best ways to give your self-build a boost
+ SPECIAL FOCUS: l KITCHEN ISLAND DESIGN
l KITCHEN APPLIANCES l PORCHES
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Welcome Note
i-build
Welcome to the March issue of i-build
www.i-buildmagazine.com
Editorial:
Rebecca Kemp
rebecca@mixedmediainfo.com
Paige Smith
paige@mixedmediainfo.com Print & Digital Advertising:
Sam Ball
sam@mixedmediainfo.com
Grant Jeffs
grant@mixedmediainfo.com Print Design Manager:
Jack Witcomb
jack@mixedmediainfo.com Digital Design Manager:
David Perry
The beauty of building your own property is that
Sticking with the theme of planning precision,
you can do whatever you want with it (within
this month i-build speaks with Jude Tugman,
reason!). This includes, but isn’t limited to, making
Managing Director at Architect Your Home,
it the size that suits you and your family’s needs.
about her top-10 dos and don’ts to help guide
But what happens when you find the perfect
you through the planning permission process
plot, in the ideal location, within budget and it is
because, despite planning permission existing
everything you’ve been searching for but it just
in order to protect the UK’s cherished villages,
has one problem – its size, it’s tiny.
towns and cities, it can still often be the cause of
Well this was the real-life problem of one self-builder, Joe Stuart. The plot he discovered in London was a teeny 9.5 x 4m. However, not
enormous frustration for every self-builder, so hopefully this guide on page 14 will help prevent any unnecessary irritation.
david@mixedmediainfo.com
one to turn away from a challenge, Joe took
Elsewhere in this issue, i-build discovers what the
Production Assistant:
on this task of grand proportions and built a
right rainwater system is for your project on page
compact new-build that squeezed into a limited
46. We look at what kitchen appliance trends you
footprint whilst meeting all regulations. Turn to
should be looking out for with KitchenAid on page
page 24 to uncover how the design engineer
44, and on page 36 Stovax gives some guidance
built a contemporary timber frame structure, on
on space-saving cavity wall gas fires.
the site of a former coffin workshop, and ended
Paige
Sofia Franchi
sofia@mixedmediainfo.com Accounts:
Charlie Ivy
charlie@mixedmediainfo.com Managing Director:
Sam Ball
sam@mixedmediainfo.com
up creating the smallest two-bed residence permitted by London planners.
paige@mixedmediainfo.com @ibuildmagazine
/ibuildmagazine
ibuildmagazine
Download the i-build app for iPhone, iPad and Android. Search 'i-build'.
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Editor’s picks
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Martin Moore reveals what a difference changing the layout of a kitchen can make: See page 32 Finn Geotherm discusses the benefits of adding a ground source heat pump system to your property: See page 38 Lighting Sensations gives its top tips for illuminating your self-build: See page 54
38
Cover story: David Rodgers discusses building his contemporary open-plan home. See page 18.
32
54
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Contents
i-build www.i-buildmagazine.com
March 2018
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52
44
32
06
30
36
In this issue: Desired Designs
ON THE COVER
A look at the latest innovative products and styles for your new home.
12
Viewpoint
14
Planning Permission
16 18
ON THE COVER
Salvatore Cirasuolo, Director at IntelliHeat, explains what Lot 20 is and how it may affect you. ON THE COVER
Jude Tugman, Managing Director at Architect Your Home, gives her top-10 dos and don’ts to help guide you through the planning permission process.
Contracts & Legalities
Paul Jefferson, Associate at Whiting & Partners, explains what you need to look out for when reclaiming VAT.
Rural Retreat
ON THE COVER
David Rodgers and his wife Elizabeth decided to build on an existing plot of land while living in the bungalow that was already on the site which offered them the opportunity to create a contemporary open-plan home.
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Impressive Innovation
30
Floors, Walls & Ceilings
Joe Stuart talks i-build through the process of creating a compact new-build to squeeze into a limited footprint in London, while meeting all regulations. Sarah White, Residential Sector Manager from British Gypsum, shares some of the key ways you can raise the standard of your self-build project.
32 KBB A look at how Martin Moore rearranged a kitchen to ON THE COVER
IN THIS ISSUE:
l SELF-BUILDS l RENOVATIONS l EXTENSIONS l CONVERSIONS March 18 Issue 44
06
include the stunning views that surround a home.
& Ventilation 36 Heating An in-depth discussion on why you should consider a cavity wall gas fire in your self-build.
Technologies 38 Renewable i-build discovers why an 1800s cottage and barn conversion in rural mid-Norfolk has swapped expensive electric fires for energy-efficient ground source heating from renewable heating expert, Finn Geotherm.
42 i-DIY This month, i-build’s resident handy-man, Grant ON THE COVER
Jeffs, gives his tips on how to build a kitchen island.
44 i-nterior Alexander Smith, Business Development Manager ON THE COVER
at KitchenAid, discusses the top appliance trends you should look out for.
Download the free app to your tablet or mobile. Search 'i-build'
20 +
WHAT IS ECODESIGN LOT 20 AND HOW WILL THIS NEW LEGISLATION AFFECT YOU AND YOUR ELECTRICAL PRODUCTS?
Marvellous mirrors to reflect every interior style
DO YOU NEED SOME HELP WITH THE PLANNING PERMISSION PROCESS? AVOID COMMON MISTAKES WITH ARCHITECT YOUR HOME’S TOP TIPS
COVER STORY:
TAKING THE INSIDE, OUTSIDE One couple have designed a contemporary open-plan home allowing them to feel like they’re in the garden even when they’re in the house
RAINWATER SYSTEMS
FRAMING THE VIEW
RAISING STANDARDS
Yeoman Rainguard’s guidance on which rainwater system is best for your project
A look how rearranging a kitchen was the solution one couple were looking for
British Gypsum discusses the best ways to give your self-build a boost
+ SPECIAL FOCUS: l KITCHEN ISLAND DESIGN
l KITCHEN APPLIANCES l PORCHES
Subscriptions: You can subscribe to receive i-build each month free of charge at i-buildmagazine.com/subscribe
46 i-build With an abundant choice of rainwater systems ON THE COVER
on the market it’s difficult to know which one is right for your home. This issue, Yeoman Rainguard gives its advice on choosing the correct product for you.
48 i-scape Discover how a porch will enhance your property ON THE COVER
and add instant kerb appeal.
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Desired Designs
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Image ©Maison Valentina
Mirror, mirror on the wall Mirrors are so much more than just a functional item. They are now a design element that can be the making of an interior scheme. To be honest there isn’t much a mirror can’t do for a design dilemma.
J
ust like windows, mirrors add light and depth to an interior, luckily though, unlike windows, you don’t need to rebuild your whole home for the mirrors to allow more light into your chosen room, instead you can just use mirrors as ‘decorative windows’ that could be placed in any spot you wish. It is also important to remember that mirrors have a unique ability of being able to both reflect and accentuate their surroundings, which can often be a striking design feature. Mirrors can become the perfect focal point of any room. It doesn’t necessarily need to be a be a large wall mirror to make an big impression, even a small mirror in bold framing, or an unusual shape can have a huge impact. So why not have some fun with the functional accessory and reflect the splendour of any room in your brand-new self-build with a carefully placed mirror.
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1. Antler mirror, Decorative Mirrors Online, POA
2. Brass mirror, BRABBU, POA
3. Marie Therese mirror, Boca do Lobo, POA
4. Venice mirror,
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Maison Valentina, POA
5. Antique gold Double Cactus wall mirror, Persora, POA
6. Addicta mirror 1, KOKET, POA 7. Serpentine mirror, Covet House, POA
8. Handwoven dark rattan
Sunburst mirror, Oh What’s This, POA
9. Angel Wings antique silver mirror, Artisanti, POA
10. Gold Quatrefoil wall mirror, The French Bedroom Company, POA
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1. Glenn square wall mirror, £1235 2. Spring mirror, Galotti & Radice, £815 3. Glenn wall mirror, £1235
Desired Designs
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4. Emerald Magnum wall mirror, £2300
4 2 3
Chaplins Chaplins lives and breathes modern design. Through its commitment to detail and its insatiable pursuit of excellence, the company has forged a close partnership with many top designers and brands, meaning it is the perfect place to find the mirror of your dreams.
i-build loves...
Go around in circles Sleek and stylish, these beautiful circular mirrors will bring a touch of elegance to your surroundings as well as show off your individual style.
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1. Stella mirror, KOKET, POA 2. Bronze gold Twig mirror,
Decorative Mirrors Online, POA
3. Glance mirror, Boca do Lobo, POA 4. Circles mirror, Orchid Furniture, POA
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Desired Designs
Chic ceramics After designing and building the kitchen of your dreams, you need to make sure your plates don’t let you down in the style stakes. It's time to throw out your old, chipped china and replace it with something that’s going to make a statement.
Image ©The Curious Department
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Simply beautiful
Scandi style
This simple range of Poppi white ceramic plates with uneven black dots, is sure to make an eye-catching statement on any dining table. The simple colour scheme ensures that these plates will work with any table setting and will be used over and over again.
This collection takes pride in the ancient Japanese craftsmanship that’s used to design each piece. A mixture of high-quality materials and simple details makes these plates a gorgeous addition to any household. This style direction takes on the simplicity and minimalism of the Nordic look that is so popular currently, perfectly.
(www.abodeliving.co.uk)
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(www.idecorateshop.com)
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Whirlwind of colour
Elegant addition
Soothing colours are spun across each beautiful plate in the Savona collection. Light teal and soft grey add a whirlwind of colour to the table, paired with white to create a clean finish. Offering paredback dining with contemporary character, Savona is made of strong Portuguese porcelain and is a comfortable choice for casual occasions.
In this collection, each plate is handcrafted and unique in its colouring, meaning every plate will have slight variations in form – designed to enhance the beauty of the piece. The patterning that this range displays is random and each piece is unique making them simple, elegant plates that will always be a talking point at dinner parties.
(www.creative-tops.com)
(www.thedesignhunter.com.au)
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Marvellous marble
Jungle fever
The beautiful thing about the marble design on these porcelain plates is each one is slightly different, making the range look really beautiful when arranged together. Made from glazed porcelain, this range will look really stunning on a display shelf too when they’re not it use.
This range of flamboyant, colourful and graphic-designed plates will bring the heat to any kitchen. The bright colours of these pieces means they are too gorgeous to be hidden away, so why not have them out in a display cupboard or hung on a wall as a finishing touch.
(www.idyllhome.co.uk)
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(www.lesjardinsdelacomtesse.com)
Always in tune with your style a comprehensive range of rainwater systems to accommodate all types of buildings and budgets
Choose from modern, traditional and heritage rainwater systems, available in Aluminium, GRP, Copper, Zinc and Stainless Steel.
For more information please call 0113 279 5854 or email info@rainguard.co.uk
Aluminium
GRP
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Copper, Zinc & Stainless Steel
w w w. r a i n g u a r d . c o . u k
Desired Designs
Drink up A drink trolley is a fun and functional piece of furniture that every home needs – but don’t worry if you’re not fond of a few drinks, they’re super versatile too!
Image ©AUDENZA
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Art Deco
Outdoor opulence
The striking Stirling bar trolley is your perfect party partner, with ample room for drinks, mixers, glasses and an ice bucket. In keeping with the ongoing trend for all things Art Deco, this entertaining essential features a toughened glass top and base with an industrial-style antique finished frame.
This luxury vintage-style Verdi Garden tea trolley is guaranteed to add a little wow factor to your summer get-togethers. Perfect for your afternoon tea parties, simply pop your pot of tea and selection of scones and sandwiches on this handy wheeled butler tray and join your friends and family on the lawn.
(www.atkinandthyme.co.uk)
(www.cuckooland.com)
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Bold as brass
Sublime slimline
This round brass and marble drinks trolley is an absolute stunner. But you don't have to like a tipple or two to have a trolley like this – whether laden with your favourite drink or simply adorned with a decorative item or two, this brass and marble drinks trolley is a sure fire statement piece.
This elegant, slimline, circular brass trolley is made from solid antiquated brass with glass shelves. Not only is this a gorgeous functioning bar cart, but it is also perfect as a decorative piece in the living room or a side table in the dining area or bedroom.
(www.audenza.com)
(www.home-lust.com)
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A contemporary counter
Show-stopping statement
This sturdy and contemporary piece of furniture, consisting of two steel trays, ash wood uprights and steel wheels, can be used as a side table, coffee table, bedside table, tea table as well as a drinks trolley, and the simple Scandi style of the piece means it will look great in any interior.
Make a statement when entertaining with this beautiful flower-shaped bar trolley. Crafted from iron and finished in brass, with a marble bottom shelf, and strengthened glass top shelf, this truly is a show-stopping piece of furniture that could be mistaken for a gorgeous piece of art.
(www.black-by-design.co.uk)
(www.atkinandthyme.co.uk)
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Eyebrow Sub-brow
T: 01622 790 356 W: flooringmegastore.co.uk 11
Viewpoint
What is Ecodesign Lot 20? Lot 20 is a new Ecodesign legislation which came into effect on 1st January 2018. It mandates that all electric space heaters and electric radiators comply with a set of minimum efficiency guidelines, and use enhancing features. Here Salvatore Cirasuolo, Director at IntelliHeat, explains how this legislation may affect you.
T
his new legislation from the EU 2015/1188 is set to bring about the biggest shake-up in electric space heating to-date. 1st January 2018 heralded the largest upheaval the electric heating industry has experienced in decades, with new energy efficiency regulations coming into play that will likely
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change the landscape of available products and manufacturers. Lot 20 states that: “All local space electric heaters manufactured for sale in the EU after 1st January 2018 which use electricity, or liquid fuels, must comply with a minimum efficiency standard. This includes electric radiators, electric underfloor heating and electric and gas fires.�
Viewpoint
What does this mean? In very basic terms, from 1st January 2018 all electric space heaters sold in the UK must meet a set of minimum efficiency standards, this means that at the very least all heaters will have to incorporate intelligent room temperature controls to minimise wasted energy and comply with Energy-related Products regulations (ErP).
What are intelligent electric heating controls? Intelligent controls managing the running times of your electric heater will incorporate three key features: 24-hour or timer control This could be an integrated programmer, or as with the latest Cali I-Sense, a Wi-Fi-connected, internet-based smartphone app controller. Thermostatic control Accurate room temperature measurement by an electronic digital thermostat. Smart start control V27, open door or window recognition, presence detection technology reduces wasted energy when a thermostat detects a drop in temperature, and the use of presence sensors to enable the heater to automate heating cycles. Essentially, Lot 20 demands that all electric space heaters sold after 1st January 2018 must incorporate intelligent room temperature controls to minimise wasted energy.
Why is compliance to become mandatory and how does that benefit you? The EU Commission and the UK Government has recognised that the lack of efficient controls on electric heating has, for the past decade, been contributing to wasted energy and poor heating efficiency. As such, this directive provides a legal framework to force manufacturers of electric heating products to meet a series of efficiency requirements which IntelliHeat has been designing into its products for a number of years now. Half of the energy used in our homes is used in the form of heat; as such, this legislative change will ensure first, that you as a consumer benefit from the assurance that the electric radiators you purchase, from 1st January 2018, will deliver improved efficiency in your homes. And second, that carbon emission targets are improved across the UK by minimising the amount of energy wasted through inefficient and poorly controlled domestic heating systems.
ELECTRICAL PRODUCTS AFFECTED Electric 'commercial' local space heaters Electric 'storage' local space heaters Electric 'fixed' local space heaters Electric 'portable' local space heaters Electric 'underfloor' local space heaters Electric 'radiant' local space heater.
www.intelligentheat.co.uk
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Planning Permission
The dos and don’ts of planning permission Although planning permission exists in order to protect the UK’s cherished villages, towns and cities, it can often be the cause of enormous frustration. Complete with an often thorny application process and uncertain outcomes, planning permission is nevertheless the golden ticket needed to build on your dream home, from a prospective kitchen extension to a longed-for basement conversion.
H
ere Jude Tugman, Managing Director at Architect Your Home, gives her top-10 dos and don’ts to help guide you through the process that every self-builder must partake in.
Do
1. Accept that you won’t be able to predict the outcome With so much investment, energy and time at stake, homeowners understandably want certainty, but the reality is that the planning process for a home renovation can be unpredictable. Schemes and drawings you might think should be perfectly acceptable can be rejected, while others you’d imagine having problems may sail through. Exacerbating things further, it’s difficult to get any certainty before you go through the time and expense of an application. First things first, it is essential to accept it can be an uncertain process. Make sure you allow sufficient
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time for your project to not go through first time, just in case. If your timeline is tight, you will without a doubt feel frustrated if your plans are pushed back eight weeks or so. Try to be as flexible as possible, and expect the unexpected.
2. Get acquainted with local policy To get the best chance of approval, I would definitely recommend swotting up on your local policy and design guidance, which will be published by your council. Every local authority has heaps of planning policy, often supplemented by useful guidance documents on such things as ‘residential extensions’. Though it often makes for fairly dull reading, these guides do outline the parameters against which your scheme will be assessed. If your design doesn’t keep in line with such a policy, you may want to think again, but often it’s not so clear-cut and it’s about making a case and defending your choices. Planning departments put a great deal of effort into writing these policies and may be unimpressed if you submit a scheme that has obviously been prepared with no acknowledgement to published guidelines.
Planning Permission 3. Chat with your neighbours Speaking to your neighbours in advance of a planning application, both from the perspective of good manners and the fact that you’ll be living next door to each other for the foreseeable future, is always a good idea. However, the notion that an objection from a neighbour will be fatal to your application couldn’t be more wrong. Neighbour opinions can only flag up issues of policy that the planning officers will almost certainly be scrutinising anyway. Plenty of applications go through in spite of significant neighbour objections and, conversely, some schemes get refused that have significant local support. The reality is, it often makes little difference.
4. Gather sufficient information Most planning departments will not accept an application if they feel insufficient information has been provided so it’s always best practice to try to ensure as much as possible is included. A set of clear drawings of the ‘existing’ and ‘proposed’, with accurate dimensions, a scale bar and north point, and a location plan is fairly basic. Even if you’re only changing one floor of a house, the planners will generally want all the floorplans, elevations and so on.
5. Employ an architect to help An architect’s knowledge and experience is invaluable; as well as offering design expertise, they can also add value to your home project in many other ways, including providing guidance and negotiation help with planning and permissions. Though they can be expensive, they don’t have to be.
Don't
1. Blame the officer If your first application is refused, it seems easy to blame the planning officer responsible. The reality is that planning officers only follow and implement strict planning policy, so often it’s the policy that’s being ‘unreasonable’, not the officer. It is often the case that planning officers will love the designs and vision of an application, but due to restriction in policy, they are forced to reject it. So don’t jump to blame the officer – try taking a closer look at your local policy first.
2. Try to be clever There seem to be so many theories about the best way to ‘persuade’ planning that your scheme is acceptable. A common idea is to go in with a scheme that pushes the boundaries further than you want on the basis that you’ll be able to negotiate with planning back to where you wanted to be in the first place. Others think they can ‘sneak’ things through unnoticed, putting in a bland application and then building something more. In my experience, none of these games tend to work, at best; causing delays and frustration and at worst; enforcement. So the best strategy is to go in for what you want and what you believe you can justify in the light of policy.
3. Write anything off Many people think that nothing can be done to a listed building and there’s no chance of getting anything through in a conservation area. Neither of these is true. The key is working with an experienced designer, who can work with the parameters within which your home is constrained, and being open to other ways to achieve what you want.
4. Forget you have just three years! An often overlooked fact is that once you receive your planning permission, you have to start implementing it within three years. Long gone are the days when developers started projects by merely erecting a fence and digging a hole in the hope that a much later start would also retain the validity of the permission. Today, you have to demonstrate to the council that you’ve made what’s referred to as a ‘meaningful start’ on construction, so don’t hang about!
5. Start work anyway Starting work before receiving your permissions is highly risky and potentially very costly. Worryingly, a survey carried out by Architect Your Home found that 17% of interviewees had started work or were planning to start without investigating whether they needed permission. A planning breach in itself is not illegal and the council will often permit a retrospective application where planning permission has not been sought, but try to avoid it if you can – refusal to comply with consequent council enforcements could result in prosecution!
www.architect-yourhome.com
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Contracts & Legalities
Self-builder VAT reclaims get the detail right A recent tax tribunal case highlighted the point of completion of a newbuild project in relation to self-builder VAT claims. It noted that it is not necessarily the date on the Certificate of Completion which represents a building project as being finished. Here Paul Jefferson, Associate at Whiting & Partners, explains what you need to look out for.
T
he certificate can be granted where the dwelling satisfies the Building Regulations so as to qualify as being habitable, notwithstanding that, say, the driveway, paths or boundary fences may have not have been completed. Some persons reside in a new house while such outstanding works are done. The fact that they have not been done does not stop the certificate being issued. Such a certificate does not certify that the entire building works have been completed, only that the dwelling has been constructed so as to be habitable in accordance with the Building Regulations. A Certificate of Completion can be issued in respect of a dwelling house when the dwelling house satisfies the criteria in the Building Regulations.
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The case also guided on wrongly charged VAT. HMRC declined to repay the VAT shown on an invoice issued for the supply and fitting of materials. The supply and fit of the disputed materials should have been zero-rated, rather than standard-rated. Only VAT that has been properly chargeable can be reclaimed. The timing of the completion of the project would impact on the chances of a claim being made having obtained corrected invoices and a refund of the incorrectly charged VAT. The VAT on a property transaction can be costly and it’s important to ensure you receive the correct advice. Whiting & Partners have a wide experience in assisting with such transactions and are well placed to provide guidance to complete claims correctly.
www.whitingandpartners.co.uk
Are you prepared for HMRC’s taxation shake-up? Politics may be in a mess but HMRC Customs will resume its drive to Making Tax Digital. Whiting & Partners, active in the East Anglia for 90-years, can advise on everything you need to know about your impending MTD requirements. Computerised Bookkeeping records
Whiting & Partners, Greenwood House, Greenwood Court,Skyliner way, Bury St. Edmunds, IP32 7GY bury@whitingandpartners.co.uk www.whitingandpartners.co.uk 01284 752313
Quarterly and annual electronic submissions to HMRC Cloud accounting is the key Are you prepared? If not contact our nearest office for advice.
The GDPR deadline is fast approaching. 25th May
2018
Are you ready? Come along to our FREE Seminars.
Bury St Edmunds | Ely | Godmanchester | Kings Lynn | March | Mildenhall Peterborough | Ramsey | St. Ives | St. Neots | Wisbech
www.whitingandpartners.co.uk
Rural Retreat
Bringing al-fresco living indoors David Rodgers and his wife Elizabeth fancied an outdoor living style and self-building on an existing plot of land, while living in the on-site bungalow, offered them the opportunity to create a contemporary open-plan home in 2016.
T
his open-plan design connects the house to the rest of the garden and allows plenty of natural light to flood in. To increase their quality of life, they erected the property with eco credentials, lowering their heating bills and doubling the current value of the dwelling. “We were looking for a piece of land to build a spacious new home in South Yorkshire as it had been a life-long dream to embark on our
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own project having previously built extensions and doing renovations. We finally came across a local bungalow with space in the back garden, which seemed perfect for our plan. We had previously lived in the area and were happy with its setting; it’s close to the school I teach at, is within driving distance from my wife’s school and it allowed us to self-build a property within the existing premises. We purchased it in October 2012 for £405,000 and lived in the existing
dwelling for about two years, while waiting for planning permission and saving money for the building works. The project itself took 13 months to build from breaking ground to moving in – a reasonable timeframe,” concludes David. The goal was to fit a 200m2 house onto the existing plot of land with one special requirement: “The property had to look like a bungalow even though it was a house,” comments David.
Rural Retreat
The Rodgers worked with Transform Architects to ensure that they made the most out of the space available and created intimate settings for each of the properties. The ingenious solution which allowed the new house not to overlook their existing bungalow was to create a site-specific asymmetric design with a prominent roofline, where the front of the house is one and a half storeys tall and the south-facing rear is a two-storey place. Shortly after, planning was approved for a four-bedroom property which David’s two older boys, Oliver and Sam Rodgers, could live in until they were ready to leave home. The process kicked off in December 2014, after lots of consultations with their architect and was completed in early 2016. David goes on to explain the building stages: “Although I was working full-time, I managed the construction process from start to finish. I was getting up early doors to speak to the builders, then after doing a day’s work at school; I was picking it up with them in the evening to plan the next day and sort out the materials required. I made use of all the evenings, weekends and holidays to do any work around the house, make my mark and save money through DIY jobs like raising and painting the walls, building the roof, handling the interior woodwork, installing made-to-measure doors, tendering etc. It’s a timeconsuming process but is well worth it in the end as you gain ultimate control. There were no real challenging aspects of the build, we just wanted something different.” The house now has a garage, a snug room, utility space and a 9 x 7m open-plan kitchen and living area, which is the heart of the property. Upstairs, they’re enjoying the comfort of four bedrooms, a large dressing room and three en-suite bathrooms. To design the layout of the new house, they sat down with the architect and shared their preference for outdoors. With this in mind, the main living space was designed to allow plenty of light in. The house echoes an al-fresco living style through floor-to-ceiling windows, double-height glazed panels and sliding doors to connect the house with the garden. There’s also a contemporary cantilevered staircase which combines oak with glass to invite light to flow from one level to another. In addition, the first floor has nine rooflights and 3.3m-high ceilings.
Main: The property had to look like a bungalow even though it was a house Inset: David wanted a lot of glass downstairs so they could feel like they were in the garden while still being indoors
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Rural Retreat
Everything was oversized to feel like a natural environment. Although it’s very engineered, it’s meant to be lived-in too, as the practical aspects were placed high on the couple’s agenda. David says: “I like being outdoors. I wanted a lot of glass downstairs so we can can feel like we're in the garden while still being in the house. It now feels like a conservatory inside, which is perfect for us. At night, when we leave the doors open and put the lights on, it’s just like being out in the open. We worked closely with an architect on the build but the landscaping was all mine – the structure of the garden is quite traditional with a contemporary twist. There are beech and lavender hedges, as well as lots of fruit trees and places to sit and admire everything. We also have a pond – I was never going to have another one but one day I had a rush of blood with my mini-digger!”. To be sympathetic with the environment, the builders were tasked with using traditional materials. At the exterior, they worked with reclaimed stone and monochrome slate. Eco features are prevalent as well. All the windows are south-facing to gain as much solar power as possible. The masonry construction has high levels of insulation and a mechanical ventilation system was installed as well to provide fresh air into the household. David adds: “We wanted an eco house but not because of its credentials. We chose sustainability for the quality of living it could offer. We created a superinsulated house and instead of installing solar panels and investing money into making energy, we invested into saving energy. We currently require heating only on the ground floor and haven’t made use of any radiators so far during the colder months.”
“I like being outdoors. I wanted a lot of glass downstairs so we can be in the garden while still being in the house. It now feels like a conservatory inside, which is perfect for us. At night, when we leave the doors open and put the lights on, it’s just like being out in the open.”
- David Rodgers, homeowner 20
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Rural Retreat
2 01: The house now has a garage, a snug room, utility space and a 9 x 7m open-plan kitchen and living area, which is the heart of the property 02: The glass covering the house makes it feel like a conservatory inside, which is perfect for the couple 03: At night, the pair leave the doors open and put the lights on to make it feel like they're out in the open 04: The main living space was designed to allow plenty of light in. The house echoes an al-fresco living style through floorto-ceiling windows, double-height glazed panels and sliding doors to connect the house with the garden.
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Rural Retreat In total, David and Elizabeth spent £300,000 on the house, which was right on budget. This is now worth £750,000, which is more than double their investment. The existing four-bed bungalow on site is now rented out to international students who go to the school where Elizabeth teaches. Although this house currently suits their needs, when thinking long-term, David ponders: “We have built all our lives to be able to move up the property ladder and in five years’ time, we might do it all over again. “The property is everything we hoped for and more. It’s so easy to live here, with the air quality inside, the comfortable living temperature, having everything tidy and away and a spacious place to live that is flooded with light – there isn’t really anything we’d change. We would do the whole thing again at the drop of a hat – we are both inspired and bitten by the building bug. We’re actually looking for new land as we speak,” enthuses David. “If you’re looking to self-build, just do it! You’ll need to give up a couple of years of your life but it’s so worth it!”
www.homebuildingshow.co.uk
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Above: David did all the landscaping for the property himself Right: The front of the house is one and a half storeys tall and the south-facing rear is a two-storey place
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Urban Sanctuary
Impressive Innovation
Small but perfectly formed Small may be beautiful, but it isn’t always easy. In fact, creating a compact new-build to squeeze into a limited footprint in London, while meeting all regulations (and the high expectations of a design engineer building his own home) was a challenge of grand proportions for Joe Stuart of Warehome.
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ccupying a plot of just 9.5 x 4m, the house is a contemporary timber frame design using structurally insulated panels, on the site of a former coffin workshop in east London, and is the smallest two-bed residence permitted by London planners. “I had been working in London, and unable to find anything that seemed worth buying for the ever-increasing prices,” explains Joe. “Being quite a practical and hands-on character, and having a passion for architecture, I thought I would look into the possibility and viability of building my first home instead.
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“After researching for a much larger live-work project with a couple of friends, I took the estate agent to one side to see if he had something more in my price range. My reply to his question about my budget of ‘Let’s start from zero and work our way up,’ made him roll his eyes but did persuade him to pass his friends’ details on who were selling a little coffin workshop.” Space seemed to be the biggest challenge for this particular project, but Joe was determined to create a home for Lina and himself that would live up to all of their requirements. He explains: “We wanted to create a light, warm, quiet and considered space that we could make our own – a clean canvas for our evolving styles and tastes over the coming years. Additionally, we both
This property is the smallest two-bed residence permitted by London planners
Impressive Innovation
Space seemed to be the biggest challenge for this particular project, but Joe was determined to create a home for Lina and himself that would live up to all of their requirements
wanted the opportunity to work from home, so we designed the house to contain flexible office spaces that can be adapted as our family grows. After getting the basic needs in place and considering how each of us use different rooms and spaces, we carried out workshops with our friends and family to get their feedback. After all, we love having people around, so we wanted to create a space that they could enjoy with us. “Due to the complexity of this plot, the revised and final planning permission took longer than expected. After acquiring the land in September 2012, I only secured the final planning permission in May 2015 for various reasons. This did seem to have a silver lining though as it allowed me to save more money, whilst also making the most of London’s inflating house prices.” The build took 23 months to complete but this included a five-month delay due to initial contractor mistakes. “I was keen from the outset to build this house to Passivhaus standards,” explains Joe. “It was something that seemed achievable with some extra scrutiny over the details and a consideration for how this would impact our living. The design of the build fulfills the prerequisites for Passivhaus, from energy requirements and airtightness. Physical tests have proven this standard already, so we are looking forward to completing the process to get full certification.
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Impressive Innovation
“I had always planned to manage the project but after my initial basement contractor falling at the first hurdle, it became paramount. With spiraling costs, I needed to focus on keeping the project true to its brief whilst negotiating for materials and services. This subsequently meant leaving my more-than full-time day job to focus solely on the build. “I did all the architectural work on the project, but I did manage to work alongside a Passivhaus Consultant, Colin Potter, who helped to analyse the build and to ensure I was designing to the energy requirements. Additionally, some of my other architectural friends have endured countless detailing discussions – so a special mention to Mario, Brian, PJ and Ollie as a start! “In addition to keeping the energy demands of the build down, I was keen to look at more efficient and sustainable solutions. This introduced me to phase change heat storage as well as the simplest move that all households can do: we moved to a 100% renewable energy provider. The interesting thing is that this can have a lower carbon footprint than installing your own renewables! So regardless of the efficiency of the home, homeowners can ensure whatever energy they are getting comes
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from hydro, or wind power, for example.” Apart from elegant aesthetics and ensuring a sense of light and flow in a restricted space, safety and sustainable performance were also key considerations. “The ground floor is finished in a clean white render whilst the upper floors are wrapped in a vertically orientated cedar cladding. This has been designed as an open rainscreen for added visual depth and helped by a waterproof and UV-resistant breather membrane behind; Tyvek UV Facade. We also used the Tyvek FireCurb membrane at the lower level for extra fire safety, especially whilst completing the build. All of these membranes have been taped and sealed in order to keep the house protected from external factors. “The triple glazed windows are framed with black projecting reveals, and a large bespoke quad-glazed skylight opens out onto a secluded roof terrace. “Internally, the clean white palette allows for fitted furniture and belongings to set the tone, acting as a gallery for our evolving style. Open, airy stairs create a vertical connection to all the floors both visually and for the function of airflow. Built-in storage maximises the usable space and ensures a clutter-free aesthetic.”
Impressive Innovation Choosing the best products for the project Undertaking the kind of thorough research one would expect from a design and engineering professional, Joe says: “I chose the best products and combinations available. In short; with a great deal of research. In reality; I spent hours investigating and discussing products and materials with suppliers and other design professionals. Constantly questioning the reasoning for the choices to ensure the decisions were made on the back of the information gained, not because of a lack of it. This was instrumental in the development of several products and designs used in this house that are revolutionary. I needed absolute reliability when it came to quality and performance. This may be one of the smallest two-bed houses in London, but it will always be one of my most important projects, and an example of what my practice can achieve. “Of course, with the benefit of hindsight, there are many things I would do differently. If I hadn’t learnt some new tricks along the way, it really wouldn’t have been worth the effort! But there are also a lot of things I would keep the same, and that is really pleasing to know.
The clean white palette allows for fitted furniture and belongings to set the tone, acting as a gallery for the couple's evolving style
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Impressive Innovation “I would do the whole thing again without a shadow of a doubt. I think it's everything I hoped for and more. From a personal side, this house has already given Lina and I so much that we weren’t expecting. It was a real journey of discovery for us as a team and a couple, and so we have a real sense of achievement and satisfaction to complement our new home. I would recommend that everyone undertakes at least one project like this for themselves. But, for now, we will enjoy this one for a while, whilst I work on my clients’ projects to keep the buzz going!”. Joe’s advice for anyone thinking about taking the plunge is: “Do it! Don’t be scared, but be prepared. Research, and then research some more. Be bold, be true to your own wants and needs, and challenge the status quo. It is your home that you are building not anyone else’s. Take advice from others, but use your own judgement as to whether you will follow it. And, most of all, have fun! Because if you’re not enjoying the journey, the result will never be as good!”.
www.dupont.co.uk
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Open, airy stairs create a vertical connection to all the floors both visually and for the function of airflow Built-in storage maximises the usable space and ensures a clutter-free aesthetic
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Floors, Walls & Ceilings
Aiming higher than the regulations: a guide for self-builders Internal partitions are an essential component of your building fabric but they are often overlooked in the excitement of picking kitchens, bathrooms and decorative finishes. However, the decisions made now about these crucial construction elements will last a lifetime, so it’s worth choosing wisely. Here Sarah White, Residential Sector Manager from British Gypsum, shares some of the key ways you can raise the standard of your self-build project.
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elf-building offers the unique opportunity to create a custom-designed home that goes way beyond the ’norm’. The reasons for choosing to embark on a selfbuild are often complex and varied, but for most people it’s because they’re looking to build their forever home – a home that will grow and adapt with them and their family over time.
Improve acoustic performance by up to 15 dB In some areas, such as acoustics, the requirements set out by the Building Regulations are fairly low and the minimum level you should be building to. In England and Wales, Approved Document Part E – Resistance to the Passage of Sound, governs the acoustic standards for sound transmission around the home, and the necessary 40 dB (decibels) of sound reduction is easily obtained by most standard constructions. The question, therefore, should not be whether the proposed plans satisfy the regulations but rather do they satisfy your own expectations in your dream home? The beauty of self-building is that it allows you to design a home that’s tailored to your individual lifestyle – which includes turning the TV up to full volume if you want to or shutting out the rest of the world for some relaxation time. Taking this into consideration right at the initial design phase will allow you to create an enhanced acoustic design that meets your exact needs and exceeds Building Regulation requirements. For example, unless you live on your own, chances are you will be disturbed by noisy feet in the rooms above at some point – particularly if you have boisterous children, whose rough and tumble play can be heard throughout the house. What’s more, noise from living rooms and kitchens can easily seep through to bedrooms on the next floor.
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Upgrading the internal floors is the best way to minimise this disturbance and can be achieved easily, especially if it is specified at the design stage of the build. For timber floors, simply adding a resiliently mounted ceiling with acoustic plasterboards and acoustic insulation can result in a 15 dB improvement over the Building Regulations, which is a significant increase in performance levels. In order to help improve acoustics between adjacent rooms, you can upgrade the building fabric of internal walls. Some typical areas where this would be effective might be between an en-suite bathroom and adjacent bedroom or utility rooms that connect directly onto living spaces. A simple way to enhance internal walls is to upgrade to a 70mm metal stud and use a double layer of acoustic SoundBloc plasterboards and acoustic insulation, which is worth considering in any of the situations above. It’s also important to consider the location and performance of doors, as well as flanking paths and electrical sockets, as these can all amplify sound transmission.
Stronger, tougher walls Choosing the right plasterboard is a major decision that can have long-lasting consequences if not carefully considered right at the beginning of the project. No one wants damaged walls in their once-in-a-lifetime property and with the inevitable knocks and bumps that everyday life brings, it’s essential to choose durable products to keep your home looking fresh and new – particularly in busier areas such as the kitchen, hallways and the walls that accompany staircases.
Choose the right finish Another important decision is which plaster to choose for the skim finish on the internal walls and ceilings. There are a number of high-performance products available that do a lot more than just provide a flat surface for your chosen paint or wallpaper, so it’s worth having a discussion with your contractor about the other options available. When taking on the many challenges of selfbuilding a property, it’s easy to understand why the specification of the walls, floors and ceilings can be lost among the never-ending list of things to do – but ultimately, these are crucial structural elements that should be given careful consideration to achieve the high-performance levels expected from a customdesigned home. Choosing to take a fabric-first approach, by investing in materials that allow self-builders to achieve higher standards than the Building Regulations, is the best way to create a more durable forever home.
www.british-gypsum.com
An important decision is which plaster to choose for the skim finish on the internal walls and ceilings
Floors, Walls & Ceilings
It’s essential to choose durable products to keep your home looking fresh and new – particularly in busier areas such as the kitchen and hallways
A simple way to enhance internal walls is to upgrade to a 70mm metal stud and use a double layer of acoustic SoundBloc plasterboards and acoustic insulation
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KBB
Finding the view The owners of this house moved to Jersey when they retired, buying an impressive chateaux-style property with exceptional views across the splendid bay. The kitchen however, situated at the back of the house, was shut off from that view. To remedy this, the layout was changed entirely, moving a staircase and replacing the rear wall with an orangery extension, opening the space up to the sea and sky.
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am Baker at Martin Moore had designed the homeowners’ previous kitchen in England and came to Jersey to see the new space and take a brief. The clients asked her to create an inviting new kitchen with soft styling and a light, coastal feel. It also had to have a built-in bar area for weekend entertaining. Inspired by its setting, the colours throughout this kitchen are determinedly soft and natural, from the American black walnut island to the aged limestone floor and antique mirror glass
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behind the cooking zone, which is defined by a generous mantel. The cabinetry too is painted in rich neutrals – with a splash of stunning sea blue on the full-height cupboards which conceal the fridge and freezer. There is a strong sense of this kitchen having always been there. The same blue, a gentle reference to the seaside location, is picked up inside the twin glazed cupboards, highlighting carefully chosen pieces of china and glass displayed inside. The cabinetry is perfectly suited to the house. Decorative detailing is minimised, letting
the quality of the traditional cabinetmaking, the timber and the other materials in the kitchen shine through. Window treatments and upholstery have also been kept to a minimum to maintain focus on the coastal views. Jersey’s warm climate means that the AGA is switched off for several months of the year. Back-up is provided by eye-level built-in ovens and a pair of two-zone induction hobs which flank the AGA to maintain symmetry. A Quooker boiling water tap and a warming oven were other must-haves, as were the two
KBB dishwashers; one serving the kitchen and one, located within the island, serving the separate bar area. There are three different sink areas, one on the island and the other two within the long L-shaped run of cabinets, which houses many of the kitchen essentials in a carefully planned array of drawers and cupboards. Work surfaces throughout are in Caesarstone, contrasting the marble-veined colourway on the island with the tonal hue on the perimeter cabinets. There are subtle contrasts in the cabinetry colours too. Situated halfway between the kitchen and the comfortable seating area, the bar area is a luxurious,
flamboyant centrepiece. The tall cabinets for glassware and bottles have mirror-backing and special glass shelving imbued with LED lighting, making the whole area sparkle by night. The L-shaped bar – which defines the area – has beautiful American walnut top and wall cladding, matching the kitchen island and giving a ‘gentlemen’s club’ feel. Specially fitted-out cupboards hold bar equipment and accessories.
The colours throughout this kitchen are determinedly soft and natural, from the American black walnut island to the aged limestone floor The cabinetry is painted in rich neutrals – with a splash of stunning sea blue on the full-height cupboards The AGA is switched off for several months of the year Eye-level built-in ovens and a pair of two-zone induction hobs flank the AGA to maintain symmetry
www.martinmoore.com
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Show Preview
Tickets on sale now for the Ideal Home Show The Ideal Home Show is back at Olympia, London, for spring. Taking place from 17th March to 2nd April, the UK’s biggest home event features more than 600 exhibitors under one roof.
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dvance ticket prices for the Ideal Home Show, which is sponsored by Zoopla, start from as little as £12, so step into a world of ideas and inspiration as the show celebrates its 110th anniversary. From kitchens and bathrooms to bedrooms and basements; fixtures and fittings, gardens and the latest in-home renovation, expert advice, hands-on workshops and demonstrations, you’ll find it all here at the show. The Show Village presents the legendary show homes, and for 2018 these are focused around a spectacular open-water lake. The Innovation Home, connected by British Gas, is a typical Victorian home reimagined for contemporary living. A huge cantilevered extension takes the living space out over open water and incorporates a stunning water feature. The Live-In Beach Hut is the winning design from a competition judged by English Designer, Wayne Hemingway MBE, in conjunction with Waveney District Council. It’s an innovative beach hut, which can provide overnight accommodation, just yards from the sea.
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The Waterside Garden Pods reinvent the concept of ‘garden rooms’ and sit within the show’s futuristic garden display area. Throughout the show’s 17 days, household names take to the Super Theatre with presentations from gardening experts, talks on future home trends, information about buying and getting your foot on the property ladder, creating a calming space to live, home renovation, outdoor rooms and much more. New for 2018 is the Renovation Advice Hub, where expert advice is available from the best in the industry: interior designers, architects, garden designers and landscapers. The service can be pre-booked online prior to the event, and is free-of-charge. The Feel Good Stage is another new addition for 2018, where visitors can learn what to eat, how to stay fit and gain access to expert advice from leaders in the industry. Also new this year, the Homewares section features an exclusive selection of cleaning and houseware products for this year. Visitors can also explore the Good Homes Magazine room sets, showcasing inspirational designs for various rooms.
For those who fancy a break from homes and gardens there’s always the relaxing environment of the Pamper Lounge, the Ideal Champagne Bar and the Beer Garden. Premium tickets are on sale, entitling visitors to giveaways and refreshments including a glass of prosecco. Late-night Thursday entry tickets are also available. Moreover, for those interested in the latest gastronomic delights, the Eat and Drink Festival is back for its second year running alongside the show. Visitors to the Ideal Home Show receive free access to the festival, where artisan food producers and top brands join to create a unique experience, celebrating the very best on offer in the world of food and drink. With street food vendors and mixologists as well as modern cuisine experts, it’s an unmissable opportunity to see, hear and taste all the latest trends.
www.idealhomeshow.co.uk
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Heating & Ventilation
Getting thrifty with space: convenience with a cavity wall gas fire
As a self-builder, it’s likely that you will be looking for ways to save space, or make building as easy as possible while you undertake your project. An easy and convenient heating solution may be high on your priority list, and nothing says convenience like a gas fire.
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as fires offer versatile aesthetics and instant heat – making them attractive to any self-builder. Cavity wall gas fires make installation even simpler, minimising both the footprint of the fire in the room as well as the building work.
What is a cavity wall gas fire? A cavity wall gas fire features all the benefits of a full-depth gas fire, but with the added ability to be installed in the internal leaf of a cavity wall. Full-depth gas fires tend to require either an existing chimney breast, or a faux chimney to be built in order to house the appliance. Whilst they offer a great level of adaptability, sometimes the space required for their installation is not viable.
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The cavity wall fire solves this problem as it can be installed in the internal leaf of the cavity wall due to its more shallow firebox, allowing the fire to neatly integrate with the rest of the room, whilst maintaining the integrity of the floor space. This means that cavity wall fires can be entirely housed by the cavity wall, only requiring non-combustible fireboard to be fitted about the fire itself. With the fire completely sealed from the room, the air needed for combustion is drawn from the exterior of the property through the outer pipe. Simultaneously, the inner pipe removes the fire’s combustion gases. This kind of chimneyless installation allows almost any home to enjoy the rolling flames of a gas fire whilst not affecting the floor space at all.
Some fires are partial cavity wall fires. Still maintaining a slim firebox, these fires are recessed almost entirely within the internal leaf of the wall leaving only a small protrusion of 75mm in the room. A shallow studwork surround can be built to accommodate this additional depth, but this fire barely leaves a footprint in your living space.
Minimise the building work Cavity wall gas fires are already very convenient when it comes to their installation – but some offer even less building work and can be installed against a flat wall, and housed entirely using an innovative surround.
Fitting your fire Having chosen your cavity wall gas fire, you will next need an engineer to fit it. All gas fire installations must be carried out by a registered Gas Safe engineer. The Gas Safe Register is the official list of gas businesses who are registered to work safely and legally on boilers, cookers, fires and all other gas appliances. By law, all gas engineers must be on the Gas Safe Register.
All gas fire installations must be carried out by a registered Gas Safe engineer A cavity wall gas fire features all the benefits of a full-depth gas fire Cavity wall gas fires are an ideal addition to any home as they exude both style and convenience
Heating & Ventilation
Cavity wall fires can be entirely housed by the cavity wall, only requiring non-combustible fireboard to be fitted about the fire itself
All registered engineers will carry a Gas Safe ID card with a unique licence number and validity dates. You can check that your engineer is registered by entering their ID number on gassaferegister.co.uk. Gas engineers will often have a range of qualifications that allow them to carry out specific types of gas work. It’s important to check what work they are qualified to do before you use them.
Controlling your fire from your sofa Available with a variety of fuel effects, lining choices and frame designs, a cavity wall gas fire suits many interior styles and can often even be controlled with a programmable thermostatic remote control. This allows you to programme the fire to turn on at specified times and temperatures and control the fire from the comfort of the sofa. Whether your concern is saving space, ease of installation or minimal building work, a cavity wall gas fire is an ideal solution, exuding both style and convenience.
www.gazco.com
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Renewable Technologies
Ground source saves on heating costs at barn conversion An 1800s cottage and barn conversion in rural mid-Norfolk has swapped expensive electric fires for energy-efficient ground source heating from renewable heating expert, Finn Geotherm.
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Renewable Technologies
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he four-bedroom detached cottage and barn conversion in North Elmham, Dereham, was renovated by homeowner Dave Nobbs. With a combination of open fires and electric heating, the cottage was expensive to heat and often had cold pockets in the rooms. Dave was keen to move away from the volatility in price and supply of fossil fuels. Having researched renewable heating options, he contacted Finn Geotherm regarding a ground source heat pump system after seeing an installation the company had completed on another local period property. Finn Geotherm specified and installed a Lämpöässä Vmi 14 ground source heat pump which incorporates a 480l thermal store. The new system now provides all the heating and hot water, running off a 900m ground loop laid in the garden. By involving Finn Geotherm during the planning stages of the renovation and barn conversion, Dave was able to allocate an area of his garage for the plant room and ensure that all of the pipework was connected neatly into the heating circuit for the main house during the build. As a taxi driver, working at all hours during the day and night, the system is ideal as it ensures the house is always warm whatever time Dave gets home. “I wanted a heating system that was sustainable and energy-efficient while ensuring my home would also always be warm,” explains Dave. “I am very pleased with my ground source heat pump. Finn Geotherm made the installation process as easy as possible, and by talking to them at the early stages of my renovation project, we were able to identify the ideal place for the plant room. The running costs are significantly less than fossil fuels and with the added benefit of Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) payments, it will pay for itself in just a few years.” The installation is benefiting from the Government’s seven-year Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) scheme, a Government financial incentive which rewards people for opting for renewable heating.
www.finn-geotherm.co.uk
Main: Dave was keen to move away from the volatility in price and supply of fossil fuels Inset: Dave was able to allocate an area of his garage for the plant room and ensure that all of the pipework was connected neatly into the heating circuit
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Show Preview
Here: The Ask the Expert zone will provide 15-minute consultations via interactive sessions with some of the UK’s leading property specialists
The National Homebuilding & Renovating Show returns to drive Midlands’ property expansion Latest figures released by the National Custom & Self Build Association reveal that 33,000 people have already signed up to the Right to Build register since October 2017, which means that at least half of the demand for serviced plots will have to be authorised by October 2019. To support more people in their desire to build homes in the region and inspire remodelling projects, the National Homebuilding & Renovating Show is returning to the NEC, Birmingham, from 22nd to 25th March.
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ver four packed days, visitors will benefit from more than 500 exhibitors and 16 free daily seminars and masterclasses in the extended venue. The event is a best-in-class marketplace for all the latest products and services provided by specialist companies in industries ranging from kitchens; bathrooms; doors and windows; heating; energy efficiency; architecture; design; financial services; planning permission and much more. Aside from providing advice and guidance, real case studies will be at the show to discuss the dilemmas home-builders faced during their self-build/renovation experience, helping visitors with similar problems. On site, visitors will be able to book bespoke consultations with celebrity experts who present their favourite TV property
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programmes. Charlie Luxton, Sustainable Architectural Designer and Presenter of Channel 4’s ‘Best Laid Plans’, will be on-hand to discuss homes of the future, new architectural ideas and eco living. Julia Kendell, Interior Design Expert for BBC’s ‘DIY SOS The Build’ and ITV’s ’60 Minute Makeover’, will also be there to meet with visitors and talk about trendy interior adaptions and offer inspiration to anyone who wants to revamp their home. The Advice Centre, a drop-in hub for oneon-one impartial guidance, is open to people who are interested in running ideas past property specialists with years of experience in their field. This show area will see the return of the Ask the Builder zone, where visitors will be given tips on locating approved construction workers from members of the Federation of Master Builders.
Visitors who are interested in free one-on-one appointments with chartered specialists from RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects) will want to stop by the Ask the Architect area, which will cover a wide array of topics such as extensions, new builds, internal alterations and much more. For objective tailored advice, the Ask the Expert zone will provide 15-minute consultations via interactive sessions with some of the UK’s leading property specialists. Visitors will be able to talk through their plans with Michael Holmes, Director of Content and Product Development for Homebuilding & Renovating magazine; Jason Orme, Editorial Director of Homebuilding & Renovating magazine; Mariana Pedroso, Interior Designer and Architect; Hugo Tugman Chair and Founder of Architect Your Home; Tim Pullen, Eco-Expert of Homebuilding & Renovating magazine; Bob Branscombe, Building Expert of Homebuilding & Renovating magazine; Allan Corfield, Self-build Expert of Homebuilding & Renovating magazine and Sally Tagg, an expert on planning permission. Across the four days, Oakwrights Design Consultation and The Potton Lounge will be offering free consultations with members of their design teams. They will help visitors envisage, create and deliver their own tailored new home from scratch. Attendees who are interested in these consultations can pre-book an appointment on the event’s website. The show app is also available for download on Android and iPhone. The app will facilitate consumers visiting the venue, having the option of scheduling and sending alerts for key seminars and masterclasses, browsing through the list of specialists available at the Advice Centre, and accessing the latest offers and travel information. Standard tickets are £12 in advance or £18 on the door (children under 16 go free).
www.homebuildingshow.co.uk/national
THE MULTI-AWARD WINNING
KENSA EVO SERIES
17kW
MODEL NOW AVAILABLE FOR PRE-ORDER
IS NOW AVAILABLE IN A NEW 17KW MODEL.
REFORMED FOR INSTALLERS
TRANSFORMED FOR END USERS
SMART EVOLUTION
HEATING REVOLUTION
Installers of the new Kensa Evo ground source heat pump benefit from simple installation guided by unique intelligent controls and diagnostics, backed-up by unrivalled technical support, maintaining Kensa’s installer-led tradition established in 1999.
End users of the Kensa Evo ground source heat pump benefit from enhanced efficiencies via the Renewable Heat Incentive and running cost savings, and appreciate its style, superior acoustic performance and exceptional reliability and durability.
Unique intelligent controls and diagnostics Unrivalled technical support Simple to install Plumbing flexibility
Up to ErP A++ Maximised Renewable Heat Incentive income Minimised running costs 60°C hot water Superior acoustic performance
MODELS: 7, 9, 13 & 17kW For more information on the Kensa Evo
call 0845 680 4328 or visit www.kensaheatpumps.com/evo
i-DIY
You will need:
A guide to building your own kitchen island A kitchen island could be the finishing touch your self-build needs. Not only does it offer an extra surface for food preparation, it can also provide storage if you’re a bit tight on space, somewhere stylish to eat and can be used to divide an open-plan room into distinct areas.
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f this sounds like an addition you want to add to your kitchen, here Grant Jeffs, i-build’s resident handy-man, gives an easy guide on how to build one for yourself.
Step one Create a ‘mock-up’ of the size of the kitchen island to visualise what space the new island will take up. Either by marking out the floor with tape or perhaps using furniture of a similar size to give you some perspective – make sure there is ample room for a walkway, no less than 1200mm.
Step two Once you have confirmed you are happy you have enough space, you’re ready to look for kitchen units, plinth, worktop and handles.
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Step three Most standard carcases will have adjustable legs or feet. This is hugely important due to making sure the units sit level – if they are not, it will impact the worktop later on in the construction of the kitchen island.
Step four Typically, a kitchen island will be bigger than a normal 600mm-deep kitchen unit and will sometimes have an overhanging worktop for seating. However, dependent on your budget you can create any size island of your choice! It is important to consider the worktop you wish to use and the cost involved. There are many different types of materials on offer, including granite, hard wood, quartz and glass, just to name a few.
Hand tools - hammer, drill, screwdriver Tape measure Coloured tape Level G-clamps
Step five Place the base units into position allowing enough room below the unit to accommodate the plinth. If you are using more than one unit, fasten them together with screws.
Step six Once you are happy the units are level and in the correct place within the kitchen, it is time to fit the worktop and plinth.
Step seven Place the worktop on top of the base unit. Once you’re happy with the placement and have measured the overhang is even, you can secure the worktop to the unit. It will depend on the material of the worktop as to what fittings are required. For example, if it is wood, small 90° brackets can be fitted to the underside, if it is stone, a strong glue may be used.
Step eight Most plinths will be fitted with ‘plinth clips’ which are brackets that attach to the legs of the base units. A simple click on and off system is most common and easy to fit.
i-nterior
Top trends for kitchen appliances Those who are serious about food look for kitchen appliances that provide professional performance, artisan quality and iconic design. The kitchen is the concert hall of the home and the distinctive and iconic design of appliances has never before been so important.
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ppliances are integral to every kitchen. Major cooking appliances now feature the very best in design and feature high-quality materials, which evoke style and elegance in the kitchen. Here Alexander Smith, Business Development Manager at KitchenAid, discusses the top appliance trends you should look out for.
2. Distinctive design and colour in the kitchen Stainless steel is synonymous with the professional kitchen as it is functional, hygienic and durable. Stainless steel has recently been modernised by going black. Black has been in focus in 2017 and remains a hot trend for the coming year as it offers an iconic and contemporary appearance.
3. Professional performance 1. Built-in appliances Kitchen design has changed and a neat, horizontal, bank of appliances is sleek and easily creates a focal point in the kitchen that is highly functional. Growth of the large cooking appliance market, in 2017, has largely been driven by sales of built-in cooking appliances1 that blend seamlessly into the kitchen. This has been reported as a result of the continued trend of open-plan living and a peak in consumers’ interest towards image and design1.
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Research has found that a quest for ‘premiumisation’ remains a big trend in the UK, with consumers continuing to favour products that demonstrate their success2. Technology drives this demand, as consumers are willing to pay for products that will provide them with more for time, security and health2. Manufacturers are subsequently motivated to research and develop innovations in the kitchen, to provide the very best results that offer the consumer more time and health benefits2.
Healthy living has been identified as a megatrend by market analysis. Growth in income, hectic lifestyles and an increased desire to consume more fresh food are all driving factors contributing to the trend3. Until now, only the world’s finest restaurants had the capacity to cook using the sous-vide method. Today, sous-vide cooking at home is possible thanks to a series of appliances, a musthave for high-end kitchens. Sous-vide cooking addresses the healthy living mega-trend and meets the needs and desires of those who are passionate about food and cooking. Sous-vide cooking allows the consumer to prepare their own healthy, gourmet meals at home.
i-nterior 4. Multifunctional appliances The size of new-build houses are significantly decreasing, with research finding that the average new-build house now measures 958ft², a decrease of 97ft² since 20034. Careful planning, in combination with the right products and appliances, can really help designers and architects achieve a workable kitchen in any space. The size of the kitchen does not reflect the user’s passion for cooking. There are a raft of appliances that meet the highest technological standards on the market, providing the user with highly professional cooking appliances with tremendous functionality.
Passport: Large cooking appliances in the United Kingdom (Euromonitor International, Dec 2017) 1
Passport: Premiumisation (Euromonitor International, Sept 2017) 2
Passport: How will the healthy living megatrend impact the appliances industry? (Euromonitor International, Dec 2017) 3
http://www.housebeautiful.co.uk/lifestyle/storage/ news/a792/the-uk-europe-hoard-clutter/?zoomable 4
www.kitchenaid.co.uk
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i-build
The right rainwater system for your project With an abundant choice of rainwater systems on the market there is certainly no problem in finding the right, aesthetically pleasing, products for your self-build project.
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ith an array of materials, profiles, sizes and colours; there will certainly be a style to match the design of your property.
Tick all the boxes Aesthetics, though important, should not be the only thing that is considered when selecting gutters and downpipes. The environment the system is going to be fitted in (conservation or heritage area), water flow from the roof, rainwater harvesting, snow load and lifecycles are an example of some of the considerations which should be taken seriously to
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ensure you have a rainwater system which will work efficiently and last for many years to come.
Guarding against the elements After all the hard work, decision-making and expense that will go into a self-build project it would be wrong to cut corners when it comes to installing a rainwater system. This piece of kit will protect your property from the ingress of water, guarding the structure against damp and water damage. Procuring a durable rainwater system that will withstand the great fluctuations of
weather, (that comes with living on the British Isles) yet adds to the design of the exterior of the premises, is paramount. A system that will not crack or discolour when the temperature rises. One that can withstand a heavy snow load if required without becoming misshapen and which is also the right size to take the water flow from your roof.
Systems that show their metal One extremely durable option would be a metal rainwater system offering properties which can overcome the issues mentioned above.
Aluminium Available in an attractive paint or mill (raw) finish, aluminium rainwater systems complement both the traditional or modern house. The range of gutter profiles, pipe shapes and sizes along with a choice of colours and ornate accessories such as ear bands, will help to tailor this product to the character of your dwelling. A deep flow gutter is available to cope with high volumes of water flow from the roof, avoiding overflow and splashing (online guides can be found to calculate flow rates from roofs, or a reputable supplier will be able to advise you). The gutters will also be strong enough to accommodate heavy snow loads – though the addition of extra fixing brackets in areas of concern is recommended. Look for an aluminium product which offers a joint clip fixing method on the gutters. It doesn’t require mechanical fixings or welding joints making it both quicker and easier to install. Offering 30 years of maintenance-free service, this UV-stable system is also 100% recyclable.
Cast iron This classical rainwater system which has been popular since the 1700s is acceptable for use on listed and heritage buildings. A heavier material than aluminium, cast iron offers the same durable properties with a 40year or more life expectancy, however, a small amount of maintenance such as repainting can further extend this. A range of traditional gutter profiles, decorative ear bands along with the addition of stylish rainwater hoppers can certainly ensure that the feel of old and historical buildings are reflected in the use of a cast iron rainwater system. 100% recyclable, cast iron when oxidising produces iron ashes which, being carbon-based, aid the growth of green and planktonic life helping to counteract the effects of global warming.
Copper, zinc and stainless steel These materials are chameleon-like, changing patina over time; adding depth and colour to the rainwater system. A great choice for structures that are timber clad, oak framed or indeed garden houses whose exteriors also change colour as the wood ages, adding to their beauty.
The attractive patina caused by oxidisation also functions as an exceptional, natural defence against the elements, making them a good choice of material to be used on coastal properties where erosion by the salt in the atmosphere can be a concern. Copper gutters and downpipes have proven durability having been used successfully for many generations offering an almost unlimited life service. A natural truly sustainable and 100% recyclable material, copper also acts as an algaecide and fungicide helping to keep moss and lichen growth to a minimum, proving to be a maintenance-free system. It’s also a great choice for those wanting to harvest rainwater. A zinc or stainless steel rainwater system will bring a contemporary feel to self-build projects, again having outstanding durability and requiring minimal maintenance. These rainwater systems are made from lightweight materials and do require a little more care to be taken when delivering and installing, with the use of gloves at all stages a necessity.
i-build
With an assortment of materials to pick from, metal gutters and downpipes allow style and function to collaborate nicely – as a quick overview below shows.
Seek advice Sometimes there is more to selecting a rainwater system than meets the eye and, so that your gutters and downpipes don’t let you down, take time to do a bit of investigation into what’s available. There are plenty of shows and exhibitions specifically for the self-build and renovation market around the country throughout the year, which showcase the latest in building materials. Experts will also be on hand at these events to offer advice. Online blogs and websites can be a great tool as people divulge successes and pitfalls, the rights and wrongs of their own projects. However, for fool-proof advice and information on the right rainwater system for your particular project, why not seek out a reputable manufacturer and supplier. They will have an experienced team on hand who will be able to discuss options with you and let you have samples of products, materials and colours. Some of these companies offer free site surveys or take-offs from architect drawings that they can then turn into an itemised, easyto-understand quotation. Take advantage as these helpful services will help to ensure that you get the rainwater system that is befitting of your prized home.
www.rainguard.co.uk
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i-scape
Add instant kerb appeal to your property Darren Hook, Managing Director of The Porch Specialist, discusses how porches can instantly boost your home’s kerb appeal. † 48
Beautiful Buildings Begin with
Timber Frame
SIPs
CLT
Glulam
Green Oak
Post & Beam
Components
Choose a fully Bespoke service, a Trusted Brand, or Materials Only
Post & Beam System for Traditional Style Fast Build Learn more…
Specialist Timber Frame division The Timber-Frame Self-Build Kit Home SIP’s, CLT, Glulam, Green Oak, etc. System – gives you creative power Learn more… Learn more…
Bespoke & Standard traditional oak trusses for unique vaulted ceilings Learn more…
Google or Click on a Logo, ‘Phone, or Arrange to visit our factory for a FREE Consultation
Specialist Designers, Engineers, Manufacturers, Builders, Merchants Benfield ATT Group, Castle Way, Caldicot NP26 5PR – 01291 437 050 – www.BenfieldATT.uk
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i-scape
i-scape
P
orches are a doorstep must-have for homeowners prone to either fumbling for house keys at the bottom of their bag or juggling with the shopping after a weekly trip to the supermarket. They can be a real benefit at any time of year, but they can also prove to be a great asset for a home’s overall aesthetic. Generally speaking, you won’t require planning permission if your porch falls within a certain criteria. However, if it exceeds 3m2, is 3m above ground level or is within 2m of any boundary or highway, then planning permission must be sought. For listed buildings or those within conservation areas, it is worth seeking professional advice or consulting the guidelines in your official documentation. Acting as the main exterior element to a building’s facade, a porch is constantly subject
to the forces of nature, therefore, the material’s longevity and durability is key. If you’re looking for a timeless addition to your property, then an oak-framed porch carries many advantages. Unlike other materials, green oak ages beautifully, developing a stunning silver patina. As the material dries out and loses its moisture content, the joints shrink to create an exceptionally strong and stable structure. An oak frame porch itself is incredibly quick to assemble and can even be carried out yourself if you possess a good level of DIY knowledge. Depending on the style of your property, you may wish to incorporate more detail into the design of your structure, such as a high brick plinth. This can easily be accomplished yourself or with the help of a local builder.
www.theporchspecialist.com
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i-scape
Enhance your property with a portico, porch or door surround In the 18th and 19th centuries, porticos first became a feature of houses for both aesthetic and practical reasons – whilst providing welcome shelter from the elements, they also offered architects the opportunity to embellish an otherwise perhaps rather dull entrance, uplifting it to much grander proportions.
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oday, the benefits and opportunities provided by porticos are being appreciated by self-builders and those wishing to enhance or restore an existing property. Whilst there are many standard porticos available, reputable manufacturers will also offer the option to custom design porticos to suit your requirements. Whether you are looking for a traditional, classical or contemporary style, a portico can be designed to be as elaborate or refined as your build requires. A smaller alternative to a portico is a porch. Similar to a portico design, a porch features column structures supporting an entablature to provide an elegant entrance and shelter from the elements. It often has a smaller footprint than that of a portico. For many people, a portico or porch isn’t an option due to location and space constraints.
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In these instances, a door surround provides the perfect solution. There are a wide variety of designs available to accommodate many property styles from the contemporary and elegant to the traditional and ornate. Constructed from half columns or pilasters supporting small entablatures, a door surround is suitable for both interior and exterior use. This sort of simple design would look equally at home in both a more traditional or classical location. When choosing an entrance for your property, it is important to consider the material in which it is manufactured in. Traditionally carved stone was used to provide a material that would weather naturally with the property. There have been more imitations of stone than any other natural building material. This persistent emulation has been for reasons of economy, availability and fashion.
Today, cast stonework is often used increasingly by architects, designers and self-builders as a substitute in the applications where quarried stone is difficult, timeconsuming and expensive to employ. Haddonstone is a unique form of cast limestone with a surface texture similar to Portland stone. The material matures and weathers like natural stone yet, piece for piece, usually costs significantly less than quarried stone. The company also offers door surrounds in a TecLite material that can be retrofitted without masonry skills. Whether you are enhancing an existing property, restoring an historic building or building a new property, there’s a range of porticos, porches and door surrounds for every property style.
www.haddonstone.co.uk
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i-scape
Product Guide
Kensa Heat Pumps expands the multiaward-winning Your lighting Evo Series solution
Kensa Heat Pumps has added a new 17kW model to its multi-award-winning Evo Series of ground source heat pumps.
The 17kW Evo is the next step in Kensa’s expansion of the successful product range, which also features 7, 9 and 13kW models. The 17kW Evo is the highest single-phase non-inverter driven ground source heat pump currently manufactured in the UK, and is capable of heating new-build properties up to 500m². Kensa’s Evo Series offers a 15% gain in efficiency compared to previous models, minimising running costs and maximising income via the Government’s Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) scheme. The Evo also features Kensa’s unique custom-built control panel and system manager, the first of its kind developed exclusively for use with ground source heat pumps. Kensa’s announcement comes off the back of a successful year for the newly-launched range, which was recently crowned ‘Heat Pump Product of the Year’ at the National ACR & Heat Pump Awards, and ‘Best Sustainable Product’ at the Build It Awards. Self-builder Bob Pybus said: “During our build project, Kensa launched their Evo Series and we were confident this new piece of kit would fit perfectly with our project. We weren’t disappointed.” Tom Sandell from TWS Plumbing & Heating recently fitted his first Kensa Evo: “It looks really modern and contemporary, but still has the same simple set up as all the other Kensa products.” The 17kW Evo is available to pre-order for summer 2018 delivery.
www.kensaheatpumps.com/evo 0845 680 4328 enquiries@kensaheatpumps.com
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If you are seeking to transform your home in a simple yet wholly artistic way true to your tastes, then consider relighting your home with Lighting Sensations. Here are Lighting Sensations’ top tips: Look at the space you are trying to light and how it might be used. From atmospheric, intimate evenings to energised tasking situations, think about how to provide the right levels of light for all activities which may take place in the space. Plan your circuits carefully and research switching solutions to achieve granular control of your lighting. Distribute the light among different planes sources, levels and to make the lighting more interesting and varied. Light in from the edges as well as out from the centre. Evenly spaced downlights will give you a rather anodyne result, be strategic. Contrasts and shadows create drama and depth, so use them wisely. Think about glare! Downlighting below eye-level, uplighting above. Light onto surfaces for a diffused effect or drop a pool of light over a piece of art to bring movement and colour into the room. Also take things like TVs or computers into consideration when placing lights, as glare on a screen can ruin the viewing experience. Don’t be afraid to ask an expert. Lighting isn’t an easy thing to get right, feel free to give us a call or pop into the showroom for a free, informal chat about the space you are lighting and the options available to you.
www.lightingsensations.co.uk 01223 874434 info@lightingsensations.co.uk
Visit our Cambridge Showroom – see our website for details
Sensational Lighting 012 2 3 8 7 4 4 3 4 i nfo @l i g h t in g s e n s a t io n s . co . u k www.l i gh t in g s e n s a t io n s . co . u k To browse our brands visit: www.thelightunit.co.uk