i-build September 2017

IN THIS ISSUE:

l SELF-BUILDS l RENOVATIONS l EXTENSIONS l CONVERSIONS September 17 Issue 38

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

20 +

inspiring indigohued furniture designs and accessories to illuminate your interior

BACK TO BASICS: SELF-BUILD MORTGAGE GUIDANCE WHY BUILD TO THE PASSIVHAUS STANDARD?

COVER STORY:

REAP THE REWARDS 100% of Scottish self-build's heating and hot water provided by ground source heat pump

+

BLAST FROM THE PAST

THE ALL-GLASS TREND

AN I-BUILD EXCLUSIVE

One couple’s old powerhouse is taken on a journey back to its previous usage

A breathtaking contemporary home that is naturally lit throughout the day

Nicolas Tye explains how rooflights can offer self-builders a home bathed in natural light

SPECIAL FOCUS:

l PLANTS & TREES l ARTWORK l EXTENSION ADVICE

LEVATO MONO porcelain paver system Transform any outside space with LEVATO MONO Porcelain paver system from the Deck Tile Co. Ltd. The system offers flexibility and choice for even the most challenging of applications - from roof terraces and balconies with multiple falls to patios and restaurant piazza’s where wear resistance is key.

With many finishes and formats available, the 20mm pavers combine incredible technical properties with uncompromising aesthetics and thanks to the intuitive height adjustable and slope correcting facility on the support system, it is possible to cover most waterproof membranes or uneven sub-surfaces.

20mm porcelain pavers 40x80 45x90 60x60 75x75 80x80 30x120 40x120 60x120 ‘Floating floor’ – installation over single ply membranes Eternal product - zero maintenance required – offering massive over-life savings

Highly abrasion and stain resistant Highly slip resistant ; R11 AB+C Lightweight – 45kgs per m2 High load bearing and impact resistance Timber, stone & cementitious effects Completely non porous

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e: info@thedecktileco.co.uk

Ideal for balconies, roof terraces and piazzas, for both commercial and residential use Frost proof Height adjustable/slope correcting support system ranging from 9mm up to 550mm

www.i-buildmagazine.com

Editor:

Welcome Note

i-build

Welcome to the September issue of i-build One recurring request from many of today’s

with the ability to fabricate two very different but

rebecca@mixedmediainfo.com

self-builders is the necessity for a build flooded

highly energy-efficient schemes. Find out more

Editorial Assistant:

in natural light. As one of the most appreciated

about the energy efficiency of Paul Withey’s fourth

commodities a home can possess, light-filled

barn conversion on page 24, while on page 18

spaces have been a self-build and home

the Young family talk i-build through the rewards

renovator favourite for many years.

they have reaped through the Government’s

Rebecca Kemp Paige Smith

paige@mixedmediainfo.com Print & Digital Advertising:

Sam Ball

sam@mixedmediainfo.com

Michael Abrahams

michael@mixedmediainfo.com

Hayley Perry

hayley@mixedmediainfo.com

Alongside the configuration and geographical positioning of a house, there are many additional factors that must be taken into account to achieve a maximum level of natural light within

Print Design Manager:

a self-build. An essential consideration is the

Jack Witcomb

component from which you will obtain your

jack@mixedmediainfo.com Digital Design Manager:

David Perry

david@mixedmediainfo.com Production Assistant:

Sofia Franchi

sofia@mixedmediainfo.com Accounts:

Charlie Ivy

charlie@mixedmediainfo.com Managing Director:

Sam Ball

sam@mixedmediainfo.com Pear Platt, Woodfalls Farm, Gravelly Way Laddingford, Kent, ME18 6DA T: 01622 873229 F: 01622 320020

natural light. For many, this element may come in the form of either a sun tunnel, solar tube, large expanses of floor-to-ceiling glazing or rooflights. On page 40, Nicolas Tye underlines just how roof window solutions can optimise natural daylighting in a way that conventional glazing can struggle to achieve.

Besides reducing energy bills via natural daylighting, there are many alternative ways to minimise utility fees, and ground source heat

Renewable Heat Incentive scheme. Continuing our energy-efficient-focused issue, on page 34 Mrs Holst talks to i-build about her specification of Tesla’s rechargeable lithium-ion battery stationary energy storage product, Powerwall.

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

Rebecca

Editor rebecca@mixedmediainfo.com

pumps shouldn’t be disregarded. For our two featured self-builders this month, this renewable

@ibuildmagazine

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ibuildmagazine

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heating solution has equipped both home-builders

Editor’s picks www.mixedmediainfo.com

Dr Michael Benfield talks about IT and business innovations from beyond the housing sector: See page 54, Flooring Megastore assists with all self-builders' flooring queries: See page 52, Weberhaus introduces readers to its World of Living: See page 50.

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52

Cover story: Scottish couple opt for ground source heat pump.

See page 18.

54

50

3

Build your energy efcient healthy home

6th - 8th October 2017 Fri & Sat: 9am - 5pm, Sun: 9am - 4pm Free Parking. Swindon M4 Junction 16

The Big Green Home Show “If you are considering a new build, renovation or an extension, the Big Green Home Show is the place to start. It’s all about gaining inspiration and knowledge” MORE INFO & FREE TICKETS AT

WWW.NSBRC.CO.UK

OR £12 PER PERSON ON THE DAY OF EVENT AND USE PROMO CODE: I-BUILD MAGAZINE NSBRC_BGHS_IBuild_221x279_FP_Advert.indd 1

Test the latest eco technologies Heating & Renewables advice Guided educational tours Live demonstrations Real life case studies 220 exhibitors & experts Meet architects & designers The home of Self Build Custom Build & Renovation

National Self Build & Renovation Centre

26/07/2017 11:50:36

Contents

i-build www.i-buildmagazine.com

September 2017

30

24

42

14

06

40

18

In this issue: Desired Designs

ON THE COVER

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

14

Viewpoint

16

Contracts & Legalities

18 24

ON THE COVER

The Passivhaus Trust explains why building to this German standard is favoured amongst the selfbuild community.

ON THE COVER

36

ON THE COVER

Derry and Susan Young explain why they opted for a ground source heat pump for their self-build.

Sustainable Living

Fourth-time barn converter Paul Withey also turned to a ground source heat pump solution for his sympathetic barn conversion.

30

Doors & Windows

34

Renewable Technology

ON THE COVER

Water End House has enabled its homeowners to take in the picturesque surrounding views.

ON THE COVER

Mr and Mrs Holst’s decision to include a Tesla Powerwall within their restoration for their old powerhouse is a symbol of its previous utilisation.

ON THE COVER

Structural Systems

40

Rooflights

42 46

IN THIS ISSUE:

l SELF-BUILDS l RENOVATIONS l EXTENSIONS l CONVERSIONS

i-build looks at the latest trends from the bathroom industry.

38

The Mortgage Advice Bureau goes back to basics for all those new to the world of self-building.

Rural Retreat

Bathrooms

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

September 17 Issue 38

06

20 +

inspiring indigohued furniture designs and accessories to illuminate your interior

BACK TO BASICS: SELF-BUILD MORTGAGE GUIDANCE WHY BUILD TO THE PASSIVHAUS STANDARD?

TFT Woodexperts discusses the quality and suitability behind timber materials for self-build projects.

ON THE COVER COVER STORY:

Exclusively for i-build, Architect Nicolas Tye explains how high-end rooflights can offer self-builders a home bathed in natural light.

i-build

REAP THE REWARDS 100% of Scottish self-build's heating and hot water provided by ground source heat pump

+

BLAST FROM THE PAST

THE ALL-GLASS TREND

AN I-BUILD EXCLUSIVE

One couple’s old powerhouse is taken on a journey back to its previous usage

A breathtaking contemporary home that is naturally lit throughout the day

Nicolas Tye explains how rooflights can offer self-builders a home bathed in natural light

SPECIAL FOCUS:

l PLANTS & TREES l ARTWORK l EXTENSION ADVICE

ON THE COVER

This month’s i-build centres around home extensions.

i-nterior

ON THE COVER

Matisse Ghaddaf of high-end art consultancy, Atkya, reveals how to successfully inject effective artwork into your self-build’s blank canvas.

48

i-scape

50

Product Guide

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

Japanese knotweed guidance and searching for a tree surgeon are the two prevailing topics within this month’s landscaping advice section. i-build rounds up the latest innovative products in the marketplace, designed with your self-build in mind.

5

Sub-brow DesiredEyebrow Designs

2

1

3

4

5

Image ©Urban Road

Iridescent indigo

6

7

In previous years, indigo was an economic natural dye extracted, predominately, from the genus Indigofera.

This distinct colour derives from India and it’s reported that the oldest fabric dyed indigo dates back 6000 years.

T

his historically significant hue may have been associated with a budgetary recognition in earlier years, however, today this rich hue can be found in the most high-end interior schemes. It’s been reported by Dulux that blue is in fact the world’s most admired colour. This stems from our natural environment; where we feel most comfortable. We are submerged in the colour blue. From the tranquil tints of the troposphere to the shimmering shades of the sea, when we feel the pressures of everyday life we retreat to a more organic territory. The visual impact that psychologically-enhancing colours such as blue can have on our mindset has been scientifically proven within the interiors industry, and introducing this tranquillising tone into your home can help you to create your very own haven where you can de-stress and unwind after a hard day’s work. Sited opposite red on the colour wheel, blue evokes opposing emotions to this alarming colour and can help you instil peace into your self-build’s interior.

6

9 1. Duke cocktail chair indigo, Swoon Editions, £299.00

8

2. Triangular indigo rug, Modern Rugs, £99

3. Linea Midnight Garden Sapphire vase, House of Fraser, £38

4. Indigo linen cushion, Barefoot Gypsy, £46.18

5. Percy loveseat in pacific quilted velvet, sofa.com, POA

6. Kirkby Design Arcade cushion – indigo, Sweetpea & Willow, £63

7. Mortimer modular chair shadow indigo, MADE.COM, £239

8. Lockley Pouffe – Large,

Sweetpea & Willow, £1670

9. Katie Alice vintage indigo tankard mug indigo spot, Creative Tops, £12

10. Winston three-seater, indigo, Swoon Editions, £1299

10

1. Savoy Chair, £770

2. Rockingham, £3239

3. Duresta Amelia sofa, £3900

4. Duresta Amelia chair,

Desired Designs

1

£2330

4 2 3

Darlings of Chelsea Darlings of Chelsea is an award-winning designer sofa brand specialising in luxury, hand-crafted sofas, with most handmade to order in the UK. Style, comfort and quality is at the heart of what the company does and, with its exclusive designs, customers are guaranteed to recieve something as individual and unique as them. Discover the latest collections from Darlings of Chelsea at www. darlingsofchelsea.co.uk or visit one of the firm’s stores in Fulham, Ash Vale, St Albans or Birmingham.

i-build loves...

Indigo tableware Indigo tableware can inject a Mediterranean style to your eating regime. Artisan ceramics, blue coasters and textile placemats will offer you and your dining guests a perfect laid-back environment in which you can enjoy some home-cooked delights, sneaky snacks and well-deserved beverages.

1

4 2

3 1. Blue denim table mat, Pignut, £4.95 2. Naturals, set of four blue glass coasters, Creative Tops, £14

3. Tide bowl ocean, iDecorate, £35.39 4. Marimekko Weather Diary mug, Abode Living, £14.50

Image ©Adobe Living

7

Desired Designs

Stylish side tables Used well, side tables can make a space function better and add a bit of fun and intrigue to any self-build room.

1

Image ©Essential Home

4

Contemporary and chic

Bringing the outdoors in

This side table is the perfect way to introduce a little exposed raw material into your self-build's decor. The sleek minimalism of this table, along with the interesting shape, is the perfect way to add some chicness and intrigue to any room. Contrast the solidity of the concrete by adding some textured fabrics for a contemporary effect.

This eye-catching side table is carefully crafted in Indonesia from teak wood and finished with a decorative and unique branch stick base. This square side table will add a unique twist to any room. Why not place it in your conservatory and bring a little bit of the outdoors inside. (www.puji.com)

(www.ovohome.com)

5

2

3

Pretty in pink

Quirky gem

This table is a fantastic example of great craftsmanship. This style direction takes on the simplicity and minimalism of the Nordic Bloomingville look perfectly ensuring that this sweet pink table is guaranteed to break up the monotone of a room. Add some gold or silver accessories on top to add a touch of sophistication.

Full of Asian-chic charm, this Thai Drum side table will be a quirky addition to any selfbuild's room. With its distressed, antique green finish and beautifully intricate carvings, this side table looks like a genuine vintage souvenir from Thailand’s colourful history. What a stunning furniture gem and a great talking point.

(www.idecorateshop.com)

(www.sweetpeaandwillow.com)

6

Refined romance

Metallic masterpiece

A central piece to any space, the contemporary design of the Yasmine table will have everyone talking. The sultry silhouette is fashioned from tailored glass and mounted on a solid wooden base. Classic lacquer and luxurious plated aluminum intermix arching back and forth to reveal each colour’s respective dominance in the design.

If you want to immerse yourself in the beauty and glamour of the 1920s, this side table is the personification of the Art Deco style. With its geometric pattern and glass finish, this table offers the illusion of space.

(www.covethouse.eu)

8

(www.frenchbedroom company.co.uk)

Aluminium

Eyebrow

Traditional and modern gutters, pipes and hoppers come in a comprehensive range of aesthetic styles, materials and colours to suit all buildings and budgets.

Sub-brow

We have a style to match yours

For more information please call 0113 279 5854 or email info@rainguard.co.uk

GRP

Cast Iron

Copper, Zinc & Stainless Steel

w w w. r a i n g u a r d . c o . u k 9

Desired Designs

Timeless beauty Not just a practical home accessory, the right clock can also make a statement about your style and taste.

Image ŠAmaroni Home

1

4

Minimalist design

Bold and vibrant

The design of this wall clock combines the startlingly simple lines reminiscent of the classic wall clock with high-quality marble, creating a simple but extremely stylish timepiece. The matt green face and lacquered brass hands paired with the use of natural, honest materials make this decorative clock uncomplicated and elegant.

This fun but stylish clock is made from a durable nickel finished metal. Instead of numbers, this quirky clock features 12 sleek rays to assist with time-keeping and is a homage to the sun dial approach to telling the time. This unique timepiece will definitely get your friends and family talking when they see it and promises to withstand the test of time. (www.black-by-design.co.uk)

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

2

5

Cool copper

Unique

Bring a touch of designer interior style to your self-build with this shiny and bold wall clock in a copper finish with chrome clock hands.

This modern timepiece would look great on a kitchen wall, especially when complementing other copper interior accessories against a bright white wall.

This clock-cum-wall hanging is handmade to order making each one unique. To arrange the clock, simply loosen the back and arrange the sticks how you want them, then tighten. There are so many ways to display the sticks making this clock the accessory that really does keep on giving.

(www.tch.net)

(www.etsy.com)

3

10

6

Mondrian inspired

Corner clock

Inspired by Mondrian’s geometric style, this clock is made of ultra-strong, digitally-printed highpressure laminate. The vertical design, alongside the graphic art and bold colours, give this clock an elegant personality that is both classic and ultra-modern. The unusual shape adds to the intrigue that this clock is bound to bring to any room in your self-build.

This clever corner clock that slots in between two walls, allows you to maximise the potential of your home. This timepiece is a fantastic style statement in any room with its clean lines and minimalist aesthetic which work together to create a visual powerhouse.

(www.creativando.nu)

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

T: 01622 790 356 W: flooringmegastore.co.uk

Homebuilding & Renovating Show Preview

OFFICIAL SPONSOR

All the inspiration, ideas and products you need to create the home you want The London Homebuilding & Renovating Show, proudly sponsored by Everest, returns to ExCeL, London, from the 22nd to 24th September.

W

as your goal this year to finally do that extension?

Are you halfway through updating your interiors?

Maybe you’ve been dreaming of building a secure, sustainable house from scratch? A visit to the London Homebuilding & Renovating Show at ExCeL London this September will give you practical help to turn your plans into reality.

Over three days, you’ll be able to talk to architects,designers, legal experts, craftspeople and self-build specialists – not to mention suppliers of everything from flooring and roof tiles to heating and storage solutions. The show’s

full of the freshest, most inspiring ideas and more than 350 exhibitors ready to guide you through the latest products and innovations.

750+ free one-to-one advice sessions Bring your plans and questions and get tailored solutions in a 15-minute free one-toone session at the Advice Centre. Meet selfbuild and renovation experts such as Charlie Luxton from More 4’s Building the Dream and Julia Kendell, who is best known for interior design expertise in DIY SOS, as well as, architects, planners and builders.

350+ exhibitors Whatever the product, there’s nothing quite like seeing it in real life. Only then can you get a feel for the quality and picture it in your home. The Homebuilding & Renovating Show brings together thousands of the freshest ideas from suppliers, all in one space.

35+ educational masterclasses Smart, secure, sustainable – whatever you want your project to be, masterclasses can help. They’re short sessions jam-packed with detailed advice on specific talking points, all from the brightest minds in the world of home-building and renovations.

24 in-depth daily seminars Join us in our two theatres for in-depth sessions that give practical answers to common questions.

The Self-Build Theatre plays host to specialist talks on every aspect of self-builds. While in the Home Improvement Theatre, leading designers, architects and planners will be covering topics ranging from interior renovations to building extensions. Each seminar is 30 minutes long and all are designed to leave you full of ideas.

www.homebuildingshow.co.uk/ibuild

ETS

TICK

As a friend of the show, i-build has 500 pairs of tickets to give away. To claim your two free tickets and save £36* visit homebuildingshow. co.uk/ibuild *Saving based on two standard door price tickets. Offer expires when all 500 pairs of tickets have been redeemed or 3pm 21st September 2017 whichever is soonest. Children 16 and under go free.

Top: The Homebuilding & Renovating Show brings together thousands of the freshest ideas from suppliers Left: You’ll be able to talk to architects, designers, legal experts, craftspeople and self-build specialists

12

Viewpoint

Why your self-build dream house should be a Passivhaus

Great acoustics: the super-insulated walls and high-performance windows create a peaceful and soundproof environment. This means that you’re protected from unwanted noise outside, and you can make as much noise as you want without disturbing the neighbours.

Superior indoor air quality: a Passivhaus provides constant clean, fresh air which helps to make you feel alert. Purified air keeps pollutants out so never feels stuffy. You can always open the windows to let nature in.

All shapes and sizes: there is no restriction on what a Passivhaus is built from. Timber or masonry, contemporary or period, a Passivhaus can easily sit in any context, from tight urban infill sites to rural plots. As can be seen by several global examples, one size does not fit all – and buildings must work with their surroundings and take local climate into consideration.

Performance guaranteed: the Passivhaus seal of approval guarantees certainty of performance.

All certified projects undergo a rigorous quality control process that requires independent testing.

Buildings must be built with care and attention to detail is key, which all helps provide proven performance. A high-quality build means you will require less maintenance and should have a building that will withstand the test of time.

The Passivhaus standard is one of the fastest-growing energy standards in the world, and often dubbed the gold standard of energy efficiency and indoor comfort. There are currently over 65,000 Passivhaus buildings worldwide. Here, the Passivhaus Trust explains why all selfbuilders should be striving for the Passivhaus standard.

P

assivhaus buildings provide a high-level of occupant comfort while using very little energy for heating and cooling.

Heat losses are drastically reduced (by up to 90% compared to a standard home) that you hardly need any heating at all. They are built with meticulous attention to detail and undergo a rigorous certification process which guarantees building performance that goes well beyond the requirements of current Building Regulations. In a UK climate, they are typically super-insulated with minimal thermal bridges, draught-free construction and high-performance openable windows. A highly efficient mechanical ventilation and heat recovery unit provides constant clean, fresh air.

The concept originated in Germany just over 25 years ago as a product of researching why low-energy buildings weren’t performing as well as predicted. The first Passivhaus in Darmstadt, Germany, was built in 1996, as a prototype and is still standing.

14

What are the benefits?

Low energy bills: a 90% reduction in energy for heating equals savings from year one, getting better and better over the life of the building.

The amount of energy used is so minimal that the building is shielded from ever-increasing fuel prices. The standard champions low-tech simple solutions that prioritise a high-quality fabric-first approach. It needn’t break the bank, it’s simply a better-quality building. Help is also at hand in the form of specialised mortgages.

Warm in winter, cool in summer: it is not just energy that is taken into consideration in the Passivhaus Planning Package (PHPP) design tool; comfortable temperatures are maintained whatever the weather. There are no draughts, no cold spots, no mould and no condensation, no matter where you are in the building. Use of good design, shading and detailed calculations should keep you cool right through the summer.

Image ©Keith Hunter

Viewpoint

Case studies Below are examples of bespoke Passivhaus designs that respond to their sites across the UK. Whilst they all differ in location, construction type and architectural aesthetic, they all have the following in common; they all meet the key Passivhaus criteria:

Primary energy demand

≤ 120 kWh/m2. yr

Space heating/ cooling demand

≤ 15 kWh/m2. yr

Specific heating/ cooling load

≤ 10 W/m2

Airtightness

≤ 0.6 air changes/hr @ n50

Lansdowne Drive, London – the first certified Passivhaus in Hackney utilised structural cross-laminated timber (CLT) for a speedy construction on an urban plot located in a London conservation area. Winner of the 2016 UK Passivhaus Awards Urban category.

Mayfield Passivhaus – an existing landscaped garden was integral to the new contemporary home that replaced an existing traditional bungalow in East Sussex.

Hampshire Passivhaus – redevelopment of a tight urban brownfield site in Emsworth created a contemporary new home with creative courtyard solutions that overcame privacy issues and met the Passivhaus standard.

Tigh na Croit, Gorstan, Scotland – set in the rural highlands of Scotland, this Passivhaus draws inspiration from its vernacular and is a modern take on a Scottish bothy. Winner of the 2016 UK Passivhaus Awards Rural category.

You can find more Passivhaus projects in the 2016 UK Passivhaus Awards, which were dedicated to small and beautiful self-builds.

The most successful and cost-effective way of achieving Passivhaus is by incorporating the standard before your designs are complete. Organising a team that shares your sustainable aspirations is crucial because delivering a successful Passivhaus is a team sport! Get started with your Passivhaus project by downloading free guidance. If you are looking for something more technical, check out the Passivhaus Trust’s free publication, ‘How to build a Passivhaus’. Search the trust’s knowledge base or attend an upcoming Passivhaus event.

Why should your self-build dream house aim for Passivhaus? The feedback from people who have already done it is that it really works! High quality, low energy and the best indoor comfort and wellbeing.

Top left: Lansdowne Drive, Tectonics Architects Left: Tigh na Croit, HLM Architects Top: Mayfield Passivhaus, James Galpin Above: Hampshire Passivhaus, Ruth Butler Architects Right: Mayfield Passivhaus, James Galpin

www.passivhaustrust.org.uk

15

Contracts & Legalities

There are now more lenders in the market who will consider a self-build mortgage

Funding your self-build project If you’re planning a self-build, whether a first-timer or an experienced hand, you’ll need funding in place to drive your home-building project through its various stages, and the chances are that at least part of that funding will come in the form of a mortgage, says Rachel Pyne, Operations Director at BuildLoan.

E

nsuring a sound financial plan is in place is undoubtedly key to the success of any self-build project, but when it comes to a residential development project there are more issues to be taken into consideration than with a traditional purchase.

Buying and paying for your land, cash flow, build costs, construction type, planning permission, affordability and where you’ll live during the build can all have an impact on your finance.

Mortgages for self-build differ from traditional residential mortgages as with a self-build mortgage, the money is released in stages as the build progresses, rather than drawn down as a single amount on completion. There are two types of self-build mortgages, advance stage payment mortgages and arrears stage mortgages.

With an arrears stage payment mortgage money is released in the traditional way, which is after each stage has been completed, whereas with an advance stage payment mortgage funds are released before each stage, improving cash flow and enabling materials to be purchased when needed to ensure an uninterrupted build flow.

There are now more lenders in the market who will consider a self-build mortgage, though with different self-build criteria, so it makes sense to speak to a broker who can look at your project individually and find the right finance to suit both your project and your personal circumstances, matching cash flow requirements with key build stages ensuring adequate funding is available at each stage.

16

So far this year, three lenders have introduced new advance stage payment products.

Any lender providing you with finance for your project will insist that you have adequate insurance in place before releasing funds to you and it’s important that you make sure you have adequate protection in place.”

Top five tips for choosing a self-build mortgage: 1. Firstly, don’t rush it. With a self-build mortgage, you may well need to put down a deposit of at least 15%, so make sure you have as much as possible saved before your project begins and take into account a healthy contingency just to avoid sleepless nights.

2. Understand your build process and choose a mortgage to suit your needs. Generally speaking, your first loan payment on a self-build mortgage will go towards paying for the land on which you are going to build. Further tranches of funding may be made once the foundations have been laid, and then once the property has been built up to the point where the property is ready for the roof to be constructed (or if where the frame has been erected in the case of timber frame construction). The last couple of payments usually come in when the property is wind- and watertight, when the interior walls have been plastered, and finally when the entire home has been completely built – or you taking the benefit of an advance stage payment mortgage, the last stage will be released to complete the property!

3. Plan, plan, plan. Within your mortgage application, you will need to provide a plan detailing how you will go about building your own home. The plan will need to provide the lender with enough information about what the project will cost and how the project will proceed and reassure them that providing a mortgage for the project will be a sound investment.

4. Be clear on payment stages. Most self-build mortgage providers release money after a stage of the project has been completed, so the bulk of the risk normally lies with you.

However, some lenders provide the money at the beginning of each stage, enabling you to provide cash up front to buy the materials and hire the required skilled labour in advance.

5. Project management is crucial. Whether you choose to engage a professional project manager or manage the build yourself is up to you. But you will need to be realistic about the time needed to self-manage and make sure you can commit to doing so. Whenever your project reaches a stage that requires a mortgage payment, a property valuer will usually visit the building site to check the work has been completed and is on track with the project plan, so you need to make sure that the build is on track and that work is completed to the required standard.

www.mortgageadvicebureau.com

plan every detail, every fitting, every fixture‌

‌exactly how you imagined it Design your dream home and build a beautiful life with WeberHaus, German house builders since 1960. From start to finish creating your home is a truly personal and enjoyable experience. Our bespoke, luxury homes are custom designed, lovingly crafted, perfectly engineered and beautifully built.

Call our UK sales office for more information on 01727 867900

weberhaus.co.uk

Rural Retreat

Unearthing renewable heating in the Scottish Highlands Derry and Susan Young have built a stunning five-bedroom property in the picturesque Scottish Highlands featuring a ground source heat pump and solar thermal to provide 100% of the property’s heating and hot water needs.

T

he Youngs started looking for a site for their self-build project back in 2012. After two potential plots fell through, in 2014 they fell in love with a plot of land near Craigellachie in the heart of whisky country.

Derry said: “We wanted to create a place where we could both live and work in what we considered to be one of the most beautiful places in the world. The house is 240m above sea-level in a field looking south over the River Spey valley which is famous for salmon fishing.”

SITE AT LONGCROOK, ARCHIESTOWN – GROUND FLOOR PLAN

1 WC

CBD

SHOWER BEDROOM 5

FAMILY ROOM

DOUBLE GARAGE

HALL

LOUNGE

DAY ROOM

1 KITCHEN

DINING ROOM

UTILITY

2

PLANT ROOM

KEY 1 Manifold 2 Heat pump 18

It only took 12 to 14 weeks to get planning permission as the plot had already been approved for building works. Derry and Susan had plans to build a large, luxurious home encompassing five bedrooms over two wings, all with en-suite bathrooms. With some tweaks to the proposed positioning of the property and a revised layout, they were able to go ahead. The ambitious build was completed in spring 2017 and Derry and Susan moved in during July.

Choosing renewable heating Because of its remote location Longcrook was off the gas grid, so Derry was looking for renewable heating options having rejected oil as too environmentally unfriendly. Right at the start of the project, he got in touch with Plumbing & Renewables, conveniently based in Moray. The company initially looked into a biomass system for him, however, to make it cost-effective the pellets would have to be delivered in bulk, and this required the building of a seven-tonne pellet store.

Plumbing & Renewables then considered a ground source heat pump system. Ground source heat pumps are extremely energy-efficient, delivering high fuel cost savings and producing low CO2 emissions. Ground source heat pumps also benefit from a generous tariff via the Government’s Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI)

Rural Retreat Top left: It only took 12 to 14 weeks for the Youngs to get planning permission Top right: Because of its remote location Longcrook was off the gas grid Right: It became clear to Derry that a ground source heat pump was the greenest and most cost-effective option available Below: Derry and Susan had plans to build a large, luxurious home encompassing five bedrooms over two wings

scheme in comparison to the tariffs available for biomass and air source heat pumps. The RHI offsets the additional cost of a renewable heating system compared to traditional fossil fuels, allowing homeowners to recoup a substantial income. It became clear to Derry that a ground source heat pump was the greenest and most cost-effective option available.

Derry approached Kensa Heat Pumps, a UK-leading ground source heat pump manufacturer and supplier. The local power company was unable to supply a three-phase connection to such a rural plot, but helpfully Kensa has a range of heat pumps with high outputs suitable for larger properties on a single-phase connection, such as the 21kW Hybrid which blends refrigerants to deliver efficient space heating and hot water temperatures to 60°C. As this was Plumbing & Renewables’ first experience of installing a ground source heat pump, it was able to take advantage of Kensa’s MCS Umbrella Scheme.

Effectively a ‘one-stop shop’ for installers, under the MCS umbrella scheme, Kensa takes responsibility for the sizing, specification and commissioning of the system. This allowed Derry to continue to use his preferred installer, Plumbing & Renewables, to gain valuable experience and the project to receive the MCS accreditation it needed to qualify for the Government’s Renewable Heat Incentive scheme.

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Rural Retreat

Far left: To extract the heat, a series of pipes is buried in the ground in trenches to a depth of 1 to 2m

Rural Retreat

Top: The plot at Longcrook had lots of land available which was perfect for the slinkies

Middle: Typically consisting of coiled pipe, 1m below the surface, the ground temperature remains a fairly constant 8 to 10°C all year round Below: The heat pump unit, cylinders and pipework are neatly housed in the property’s garage which serves as a plant room

A spokesperson for Plumbing & Renewables said: “We found Kensa extremely helpful and knowledgeable throughout the whole process. They offered expert advice on the sizing of the heat pump and technical guidance on the installation and commissioning. Unlike many other manufacturers, Kensa offers a range of high output heat pumps on a single-phase connection, which was exactly what was needed.”

The heat pump unit, cylinders and pipework are neatly housed in the property’s garage which serves as a plant room.

Plumbing & Renewables also specified three solar thermal panels to boost the hot water capacity of the system. These are mounted to the roof of the house and means that 100% of the property’s heating and hot water needs are now provided by renewable energy.

How it works A ground source heat pump extracts solar energy stored in the surface soil and converts this to a higher temperature for use in a building’s heating distribution system. To extract the heat, a series of pipes is buried in the ground in trenches to a depth of 1 to 2m. Typically consisting of coiled pipe, collectors of this nature are referred to as ‘slinkies’. 1m below the surface, the ground temperature remains a fairly constant 8 to 10°C all year round. This makes it an excellent renewable heat source for ground source heat pumps.

The plot at Longcrook had lots of land available which was perfect for slinkies. As Derry approached Plumbing & Renewables early in the planning phase of his project, this meant that the installation was able to fit in with the build schedule, minimising disruption and reducing digging costs.

He also had his own ground-works contractor who was able to undertake the digging of the slinky trenches and Plumbing & Renewables laid 750m of pipe under the grounds at the south of the house.

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Rural Retreat

Ground source heat pump tips for self-builders 1. Peak load Ground source heat pumps should be sized in accordance with the peak heating load of the building. Heat pumps are low-flow temperature devices, therefore it is important that the building is insulated as much as possible. If the building is not insulated sufficiently then the heat pump will have higher running costs – and you may require a bigger (more expensive) heat pump to deliver the heat required.

2. Heat emitters To get the most efficient operation from a heat pump it is important that the outlet temperature for your heating distribution system is kept as low as possible – this lends itself well to underfloor heating. The underfloor heating company should design the layout of pipes and work out the thermal resistance of the floorcovering to establish the optimum running temperature.

3. Hot water

Derry said: “My advice to anyone considering using a ground source heat pump is to ensure that your home is well-insulated and built to the best possible specification that you can afford. The aim is to get the heat load down as low as possible so that the heat pump will operate more efficiently. Also make sure your heating distribution system allows the heat pump to work as efficiently as possible.”

Derry worked with Excel Scotland, a bespoke luxury house-builder covering north east Scotland, to design and plan the project to a high specification. The house is well-insulated with underfloor heating downstairs and radiators upstairs, also installed by Excel Scotland. The underfloor heating has a large heat emitting area and helps to increase the performance of the ground source heat pump.

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The finances Derry said: “I did go over the initial budget with the build as I ended up going for higher specification fittings and fixtures as I saw things I liked the look of. However, I had expected this to be the case and so I kept my budget fairly dynamic, continually amending it along the way.”

Thanks to the renewable heating systems installed at Longcrook, Derry benefits from the Government’s Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) which provides him with seven-year quarterly payments based on the deemed energy consumption of the renewable technologies. Plumbing & Renewables estimates that the payback from the ground source heat pump will be in excess of £20,000 over the seven-year period with an additional £3000 from the solar thermal, plus the associated fuel cost savings.

www.kensaheatpumps.com

Kensa’s new Evo Series ground source heat pumps can provide hot water to a comfortable 60ºC. Where there is an exceptional hot water demand, High Temperature Twin Compact models are available to deliver hot water to 65ºC. Typically, the higher the hot water production, the lower the heat pump efficiency. However, Kensa’s innovative Hybrid range, as featured in Longcrook, blends refrigerants, allowing high hot water temperatures to be reached without compromising on efficiency.

4. Location A ground source heat pump is a very robust piece of kit capable of operating for long hours. Traditionally, they can be considered noisy if located near bedrooms, therefore an external location such as custom-built shelters, outhouses and garages should be considered. Kensa has recently developed the new Evo Series, a ground source heat pump with significantly reduced noise output.

Above: Thanks to the renewable heating systems installed at Longcrook, Derry benefits from the Government’s Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive

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Sustainable Living

An investment in knowledge pays the best interest When Paul Withey took on his fourth barn conversion project in the rural area of Attleborough, he thought he’d be restricted to an oil boiler for his four-bedroom barn’s heating and hot water. However, after investing his time into researching renewable heating solutions, he found the solution to be a ‘no-brainer’.

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aul’s choice in a 100-year-old small storage barn near Attleborough, south Norfolk, proved perfect for another renovation project. Commenting on what drew him to the derelict build, Paul explained: “Although the barn was in a rather poor condition, the main reason why I chose this one was because of its location, and I could see the potential it had. I have converted three barns during the last 30 years and have enjoyed the renovation of them all, but this one was particularly a challenge.”

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The vision Paul continues: “One of the stipulations of the planning consent was that we had to keep the same format and layout of the original barn.

However, my initial vision for the project was to keep the barn as a ‘barn’ and not transform it into a modern dwelling, so this wasn’t too much of an inconvenience – also, my vision was to enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the one-acre plot. In terms of appearance, having renovated three barns in the past I knew what I wanted both aesthetically and from the configuration of the build.”

Left: One of the stipulations of the planning consent was that Paul had to keep the original layout of the barn Right: The 100-year-old barn was in a poor condition, and Paul chose it because of its location

It took Paul one year to gain planning permission for his Norfolk barn conversion. From start to finish, Paul project managed the conversion himself; hiring a highly experienced builder he had worked with on his previous conversions. Paul initially hired an architect to assist with his project, however, after permission had been granted he managed the project by himself.

The build programme took about nine months and was within the timeframe that Paul had envisaged. He explains: “The conversion was completed in October 2015 and we moved in during November 2015. We came across a few complications throughout the build process, but I have to say the biggest difficulty was that the original barn walls were clay lump which made it very challenging. We approached material and product specification with great difficulty at times.

Sustainable Living GROUND FLOOR PLAN (PROPOSED) NORTH ELEVATION

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WEST ELEVATION

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Low running costs

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One product that Paul and his builder were both certain on at the specification stage was a ground source heat pump.

As well as a stunning aesthetic, Paul’s barn conversion now benefits from year-round heating and hot water at low running costs, thanks to a ground source heat pump installed by renewable heating expert, Finn Geotherm.

When Paul set about converting his barn into a sympathetic four-bedroom home, he thought the rural location meant he would be tied to a conventional oil boiler for heating and hot water. However, following a recommendation from his architect, he began to investigate ground source and quickly realised it provided the ideal alternative. With Government funding available under the domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) scheme, opting for a ground source heat pump system was even more attractive.

Finn Geotherm specified and installed a Lämpöässä Vmi11 ground source heat pump with integral 480 litre thermal store to meet all of the 3000ft2 barn’s heating and hot water needs. The system was installed with a secondary return to provide almost instant hot water, and a water softener added due to the hard water area.

EAST ELEVATION

The new rules for Building Regulations made it challenging but my builder was aware of most of them.

“In terms of materials, the project was a timber-framed building. At first, I was a little hesitant to use this type of building material but in the end I was glad I did.

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KEY 1 2 3 4 5

Snug Kitchen Dining area Living area Entrance lobby

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Plant room Closet Bedroom two Hall Bathroom two Bedroom three

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Wardrobe Bathroom one Bedroom one Parking bays Wood store Store

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Sustainable Living

By involving Finn Geotherm during the planning stages of the project, Paul was easily able to incorporate a plant room for the heat pump inside his home and get the required 700m of ground loop laid in his garden before any landscaping took place. The heat pump connected directly into the barn’s underfloor heating circuit.

“I can’t speak highly enough of my heat pump system and the service I’ve received from Finn Geotherm,” comments Paul. “Our home is constantly warm throughout – there are no cold spots and every room is always warm. We’ve had two winters with the system now and I have been very impressed with both its performance and the running costs. Our heating and hot water bills are significantly less than we were used to paying for oil-fired heating in our old house and we don’t have the additional hassles of ordering deliveries to make sure we don’t run out of fuel. The RHI payments really made the choice a no-brainer. Our system will have been paid for by the RHI in seven years and during this time – and for years afterwards – we are receiving all our heating and hot water at an extremely low cost.”

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Sustainable Living

“I can’t speak highly enough of my heat pump system"

Impressive interior Paul’s conversion houses a very large (136m2) open-plan room consisting of a lounge, dining area, kitchen and sitting room area.

There are four bedrooms altogether – one with a walk in-wardrobe – two large bathrooms, a plant room and a glass link between the main living rooms and the bedrooms and a cloakroom.

Commenting on the interior, Paul said: “The open-plan lounge and dining area are my favourite rooms within the house. The open plan gives it a nice free and airy feel. It is also very ‘familyfriendly’ because wherever you are in this open-plan area, you can communicate with each other rather than being shut away in another room. For example, when preparing a meal, you can be in the kitchen while talking to someone else in either the lounge area, the sitting room area or the dining room area. I also love the large glass front to the lounge and dining area.

1: Paul thought the rural location meant he would be tied to a conventional oil boiler for heating and hot water 2: A water softener was also added to Finn Geotherm's system due to the hard water area 3: The Lämpöässä Vmi11 ground source heat pump was installed with a secondary return to provide almost instant hot water 4: Thanks to Finn Geotherm's system, Paul's home is constantly warm throughout 5: Paul’s conversion houses a very large (136m2) open-plan room consisting of a lounge, dining area, kitchen and sitting room area

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Sustainable Living

“Overall, what I love about the build as a whole is the open plan and its wonderful location. Also one of the best decisions I made was to invest in the Renewable Heat Incentive scheme by opting for a ground source heat pump system for all my heating and hot water.”

Final thoughts When asked what the local community think of his build, Paul responded: “Although the barn is in a nice secluded location, those people who do live nearby think that it is a wonderful renovation. The build responds excellently to its neighbouring surroundings, as you can see from the photos, and the finished article is even better than I ever thought. If I were to do it again, I can honestly say that I wouldn’t do anything differently.

“If I was younger, I definitely would undertake another conversion, but at my age I don’t think I would do it again. My advice for others is if you haven’t any experience at this type of work make sure you get a good architect and a builder who have done this type of work before because it is so different from a normal house build.”

www.finn-geotherm.co.uk

Top: The build responds excellently to its neighbouring surroundings

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Left: As well as a stunning aesthetic, Paul’s barn conversion now benefits from year-round heating and hot water at low running costs

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Doors & Windows

Through the looking glass

Top: Fixed frameless rooflights and an aluminium framed automated opening rooflight were also installed Bottom: Floor-to-ceiling framelesseffect structural glass was installed on all three levels

Natural daylighting within bespoke homes is a common request from many self-builders. The inclusion of large expanses of glazing brings many beneficial elements for self-builders and home renovators; from reduced energy bills and enhanced wellbeing to opening up to stunning surrounding views.

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or the majority of self-builders, land for development is often found in open countryside complete with visually pleasing vistas, and maintaining these views comes as a top priority for many selfbuilders. This is where the specification of large, monolithic segments of glazing come into play for many self-builders and home renovators.

This was the case for the owners of Water End House, a modern, three-storey home in the historic town of Berkhampsted, Hertfordshire. Surrounded by stunning panoramas, Water End House is sited at the heart of Hertfordshire’s impressive countryside, and sustaining these views was top of the list for the home’s owners.

Natural light The homeowners sought to create a visually stunning, contemporary home that is naturally lit throughout the day whilst providing uninterrupted views of the picturesque surroundings.

With these requirements in mind, glazing specialist, IQ Glass, was commissioned to install architectural glazing elements that suited the homeowners’ needs. Two sets of minimal window sliding doors were installed with fixed glazing on either side to create framelesseffect glass walls.

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No more tile and error...

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Our underfloor heating systems have been extensively tested with Tilemaster adhesives to ensure the best Our underfloor heating systems practice when laying ahave tiledbeen floor.extensively Our underfloor heating adhesives systems have been extensively tested with Tilemaster to ensure the best tested with Tilemaster adhesives to ensure best Tilemaster Adhesive systems have been designed toa work with our timber the floor products, practice when laying tiled floor. removing the uncertainty in a tiled finish in timber constructions.

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Doors & Windows Elsewhere, floor-to-ceiling frameless-effect structural glass was installed on all three levels of the home to create a stunning contemporary design throughout the build. This floor-to-ceiling glazing solution runs down each side of Water End House’s double-height atrium – which links to the living areas and bedrooms within the home.

Jake Randall, Commercial Director at IQ Glass, commented on the all-glass trend: “More and more clients are wanting to create fully-glazed walls to allow natural light ingress into the home with little to no obstruction to views. Structural glass units combined with our ‘minimal windows’ system is the best way to do this as there are very little sightlines shown on the glazing.”

Complementary all-glass solutions An aluminium casement window and two casement doors were also installed. The aluminium doors work as main access to the property and the casement window provides ventilation to the master bedroom.

Fixed frameless rooflights and an aluminium framed automated opening rooflight were also installed to provide natural light into the space without obstructing any light or sky views. Walk-on glass floorlights were installed to provide natural light into the lower ground floor. These were manufactured with a sandblasted finish for privacy and to prevent any injuries.

www.iqglassuk.com

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Top left: The inclusion of large expanses of glazing brings many beneficial elements for self-builders and home renovators Top right: The homeowners sought to create a visually stunning, contemporary home that is naturally lit throughout the day Above: Glazing specialist, IQ Glass, was commissioned to install architectural glazing elements that suited the homeowners’ needs

“More and more clients are wanting to create fully-glazed walls to allow natural light ingress into the home with little to no obstruction to views”

To Create the Most Beautiful Buildings

Custom and Bespoke Self-Builders

 Around 20,000 people will build their own home in the UK this year. That’s less than 10 years ago, and a fraction of what are built in mainland Europe. In Austria for example 80% of people self-build. According to the Building Societies Association, 53% of UK people would consider building their own homes. Even more people add an annex, garage, or garden lodge. You could be one of them.

However, not all self-builders are the same. Nor do they have the same requirements. ‘Downsizers’ may want to contract the building work. ‘Up-sizers’ may want, or need, to do a lot of the work themselves. ‘Home-extenders’ often look for a mix of both.

In almost all cases they want, need, and deserve highly knowledgeable professionals to advise and guide them on design, service integration, material choice, build quality, durability, value and comfort. Whatever your needs, we’d like to help you. Our architects, engineers, timber technicians, skilled craftsmen have countless years’ experience designing, making and building homes, extensions and ancillary buildings for people like you. And in the process they’ve created some of the UK’s best known …

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Renewable Technology

The powerhouse restored Here, Mrs Holst talks to i-build about the restoration of her home, an old powerhouse dating back to the 1900s, and explains why she opted for a rechargeable lithium-ion battery to power her restoration.

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y husband and I live in the old powerhouse; a country house dating back to the 1900s. We have a long history with the house having bought it more than 30 years ago and lovingly restored it. It used to be the turbine and battery house for the estate during the early 1900s, generating electricity using coal and gas supplied from Exmouth dock by day, storing it in batteries for use at night. It was revolutionary at the time.

“Now, I feel that the house and its power story has really come full circle. We had our solar panels installed last January by a local company called Callidus, but we couldn’t benefit from solar energy at night or when

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the sun went behind the clouds. At night, we were still drawing energy from the grid which seemed to be a waste as we had already sent power back into the grid in the day. There had to be a more efficient way to use the energy I make at home – in fact, the answer was 100 years ago on this very site – a battery. They have changed a little in the last century, of course.

“The building that was built to accommodate the batteries back then is long gone, as it was too far gone to renovate. But for twice the storage than a whole building of batteries supplied back then, Tesla’s Powerwall is mounted to an outside wall and measures around a metre high.

Renewable Technology “The real appeal was to use the free energy we make at a time when we need it. Storing our solar energy in a Powerwall seemed the obvious way to go. In the eight weeks since installation, our home’s energy has totally changed. It’s summer and we are now running 96% of our energy from solar. I think I am addicted to the app. When I wake up, I have a look to see how much energy we used the previous night. It’s great to see the amount of power stored in realtime. I’ve been playing with it to see how fast the battery is draining – how much energy we are using basically – hoping to stop me using any appliances or lights unnecessarily. In this way, it’s helping me use less energy too so the obsession is a good thing!

“Although, to be honest, the monitoring is just a bit of fun as the main reason I like the Powerwall is that it all runs automatically. I don’t have to do anything. It’s managing it all; storing what I don’t need during the day so I can use the stored solar power day and night; no maintenance or work required at all.

“I love the fact that we have restored the powerhouse to a modern symbol of what it used to be. Powerwall and solar allows us to generate our own electricity and recreate history, today.”

“The real appeal was to use the free energy we make at a time when we need it” Above left: In the eight weeks since installation, the home’s energy has totally changed Bottom left: Tesla’s Powerwall is mounted to an outside wall and measures around a metre high Above: The couple have restored the powerhouse to a modern symbol of what it used to be Top right: Mrs Holst uses the app to track how much power is stored in real-time Bottom right: Powerwall and solar allows Mr and Mrs Holst to generate their own electricity and recreate history

www.tesla.com/en_gb/powerwall

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Bathrooms Lighting

Trendsetting bathroom styles With its brands AXOR and hansgrohe, the Hansgrohe Group brings form and function to water with taps, showerheads and shower systems. Here, i-build reflects on the trendsetting themes that the brand sets for bathroom design.

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hen it comes to the latest bathroom styles, today’s consumers are more confident to mix old with new to create a look that is uniquely theirs and more difficult to label as a certain style.

The ‘modern minimal bathroom’ is still popular but this has been warmed up with the addition of texture and colour to add depth and interest to a scheme. This is manifested in the rise in demand for the AXOR FinishPlus with their range of soft metallic colours like red-gold and brass in a choice of polished or brushed finish.

Minimal controls offer maximum comfort and intuitive operation to enhance the modern bathroom, like the ‘Select’ push on/off mixers, showers and controls from hansgrohe and AXOR, including the new hansgrohe RainSelect – an intuitive and convenient control unit for overhead showers with adjustable spray modes. With a sleek silhouette, the shower control unit opens up space for more freedom of movement in the shower and features generous, 70 x 70mm switches which make selecting shower settings a tactile experience.

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The modern bathroom also requires greater comfort and safety and new products such as the hansgrohe Unica Comfort shower bars are multifunctional and practical as they can double as grab handles and have been certified for stability

by TÜV Süd, a leading German organisation for technical service, certification and training.

There has also been resurgence of the ‘classic bathroom’. More traditional collections like AXOR Montreux, in colours other than chrome, and Metropol Classic in chrome and gold are coming into their own as they create a luxurious, classic feel. A mix and match of finishes and materials are becoming popular so, for example, a tap can have a brass body but with granite or wooden handles. A mix and match of styles too, so pairing modern basin mixers with traditional basins, or traditional tap designs in modern colours.

The ‘luxury bathroom’ is also now a notable style with plenty of colour and decoration.

Luxurious materials that add texture, such as crystal, etched glass and wood, are also being incorporated into bathroom brassware. The AXOR Starck V basin mixer is a perfect example of a statement product that makes a real talking

Bathrooms Lighting

point in the bathroom. It celebrates water by delivering it in a whirling vortex, and also uses precious materials like gold or red-gold finishes and spouts in a choice of ceramic, bevel-cut or diamond-cut glass. There is also a profusion of bespoke designs and decorative patterns: definitely not minimalism but a strong move towards the ‘maximist bathroom’. The overall effect is a feeling of opulence.

The experience provided by bathroom products must also match-up to the ‘luxury’ expectation, so the bathroom is as much an oasis to be enjoyed as it is aesthetically pleasing to spend time in. New developments in showering like the revolutionary PowderRain spray from AXOR deliver this with its silky rain shower that envelopes the skin; there are a variety of shower head models available with this new spray manufactured from the highest quality metal such as the new AXOR 350 overhead shower and the stunning ShowerHeaven 1200 delivering the ‘wow’ factor in abundance. These products can also be delivered in a variety of opulent finishes such as red-gold, polished brass or black chrome.

The trend for ‘eco-friendly bathrooms’ and the demand for sustainable homes has risen with consumers conscious that water is not free. Mixers and showers which have EcoSmart technology installed do not look any different to products which do not have it installed so you can be eco and stylish. EcoSmart technology reduces water consumption by up to 60%, saving water heating costs, energy and precious water.

This is done with the help of an aerator which is added to the inside of the mixer. In the case of showerheads and hand showers, there are especially crafted versions with totally different internal technology, in order to ensure that the performance and appearance of the products are not compromised whilst still delivering amazing water savings. The flow of water is limited to 5 litres per minute as standard on basin mixers, although this can be reduced further should the need arise. Indeed, the pioneering AXOR Starck Organic basin mixer was created with both a 3.5 and 5 litre per minute settings as standard. A flow of around 9 litres per minute is easily achieved with EcoSmart showers, without sacrificing the performance or experience.

The water is enriched with air, creating a soft and voluminous water jet.

Above left: The bathroom is as much an oasis to be enjoyed as it is aesthetically pleasing to spend time in Bottom left: Minimal controls offer maximum comfort and intuitive operation to enhance the modern bathroom Above: The ‘modern minimal bathroom’ is still popular but this has been warmed up with the addition of texture and colour to add depth and interest to a scheme Here: Mixers and showers which have EcoSmart technology installed do not look any different to products which do not have it installed

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Structural Systems

Left: Ask your contractor or timber merchant whether their staff have undertaken timber grading training, covering the species you intend to use Below: Wood science, properly applied, helps decision-making on the best species or process for any situation

Doing the knowledge With building materials prices ever rising and constructors’ margins being squeezed, the quality and suitability of timber materials for self-build projects has never been more critical, writes Jim Coulson, Director at TFT Woodexperts.

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nsuring self-build costings run to plan means eliminating problems by ensuring your professionals have sufficient expert knowledge of the materials they are specifying, and by better understanding timber’s properties.

Oak, as a typical example, has historical associations with strength and longevity. The majority of builders and architects should know enough about oak to understand that minor cracks appearing along the length of a beam are part of the natural inclination of oak to ‘check’ a little as it dries. Oak, when sawn, air-dries at the rate of around one year per 2 to 3cm of board thickness; and during this process its sap gradually evaporates and a degree of shrinkage happens. A crack across the grain, however, is a different matter, and it will fundamentally affect the strength of the beam.

Too often, TFT Woodexperts gets called in when things have gone wrong. The grading of timber (or more accurately, lack of grading knowledge) is one of the problems on which we get asked to give an expert opinion. The many commercial timberproducing tree species have different grading rules, depending upon their required appearance, or their structural safety. The significance of these grades cannot be understated for self-builders, both when considering which timber should be used and when installation actually takes place.

Ask your contractor or timber merchant whether their staff have undertaken timber grading training, covering the species you intend to use. This should help you to get the outcomes

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you desire. At Woodexperts, we teach many companies’ staff: a sound knowledge of what can and can’t be expected in terms of structural performance is vital.

From extensions to new-builds, understanding how wood behaves in given situations avoids costly problems. For example, landscaping timbers used in ground contact should be treated to Use Class 4; preferably with a 15-year desired service life. Plywood uses are even more critical to understand. The gluebond within the plywood sheets is intended for different uses, internally or externally. Complex

projects need much deeper knowledge. We were called on recently to advise on a timber species suitable for joinery for a refurbishment on a Caribbean island. It may look like paradise, but the island has tropical storms, and woodboring insects abound. We needed to specify the right timber, with properties fit for the purpose.

We eventually took the project right through, overseeing the manufacture and installation of the windows and doors.

Wood science, properly applied, helps decision-making on the best species or process for any situation. Ask your timber merchant if their staff have Level 4 Wood Science & Timber Technology qualifications because they’ll be more likely to give you reliable advice. And if in doubt about materials, design or quality, or if you’re trying to track down what’s caused a wood problem and need an expert witness, wood technology consultants are here to help.

www.woodexperts.com

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Rooflights

When it comes to rooflights, don’t compromise In 2001, young Architect Nicolas Tye bought a barn conversion in Bedfordshire, then took 12 months out to renovate it. 16 years on, Nicolas Tye Architects (NTA) is a prosperous practice with 20 staff – and that barn conversion is its award-winning headquarters.

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oday, NTA is noted for its distinctive style, emphasising space and natural light, and a subtle mix of Asian and Scandinavian influences – trademarks perfectly complemented by the premium-quality rooflights manufactured in the UK by Leicester-based Roof Maker. Writing exclusively for i-build, Nicolas Tye explains how high-end roof windows can enhance your living space, and offer that much sought-after sense of space and light.

“The question architects get asked the most is the same one that house-builders and design experts have been grappling with for hundreds, if not thousands, of years – how do you take a building with a roof and four walls, that’s almost completely closed off from the outside world, and inject it with a sense of spaciousness and natural light?

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“To some, it might seem like a stupid question, with an incredibly obvious answer – add in more windows. But conventional glazing has its limitations. By their very nature, windows are on the outside of a house. In smaller properties, this isn’t as much of a problem – there isn’t much interior space that’s not within a few feet of a window. But in larger, more complex properties, or unusually-shaped ones, it’s a different story.

“This is the great strength of rooflights, roof lanterns and other roof window products – they let natural light penetrate deeper into a building. By introducing it from above, they can light spaces in the property that conventional windows can’t reach.

“Strategically positioned, they can maximise the amount of natural light entering the home. They can be situated in such a way that they follow the path of the sun, ensuring that, wherever it happens to be in the sky, there’s always an area of the property that’s benefitting from it.

Below left: Rooflights, roof lanterns and other roof window products let natural light penetrate deeper into a building Left: By introducing light from above, rooflights can light spaces in

Rooflights

Far left: Conventional glazing has its limitations

the property that conventional windows can’t reach Middle: Strategically positioned, rooflights can maximise the amount of natural light entering the home Below: Rooflights can be situated in such a way that they follow the path of the sun

“They can also help optimise ventilation in the home. If openable rooflights are installed in the right place, they can improve airflow through the building, preventing overheating in the summer months.

“The clients I see are often eager to incorporate as much roof glazing as possible – and with conventional rooflights, this can be an issue. Many brands are very limited in terms of the sizes they can achieve – which means that large numbers of individual roof windows have to be crowded into small spaces to get the desired effect, which looks cluttered and isn’t cost-effective.

“This is the key advantage of the kind of bespoke rooflights manufactured by Roof Maker. They can be produced to huge sizes with only the slimmest of frames, thereby letting in an abundance of natural light with fewer products – and they’re among the highest specification roof window products available in the UK. “This is another crucial consideration that I’m always keen to impress upon my clients – with rooflights, the specification matters. The roof window market is dominated by brands that are household names, and that perform well enough in certain contexts, but aren’t built to last.

“The seals on cheaper rooflights are subject to fail – leading to internal condensation, and an ugly ‘misting’ of the window itself. In worse cases, they can leak.

“Roof Maker products, on the other hand, are designed and manufactured in the UK, and come with an unprecedented 20-year seal warranty, a 10-year guarantee against discolouration, cracking, shape deterioration and component failure, and a one-year guarantee on any motors, switches, climate control units or other electrical items within the product.

“Where conventional roof window products often offer poor thermal performance, leading to substantial heat loss, and, in the winter months, higher energy bills, Roof Maker’s windows achieve U-values of just 0.6, among the lowest available anywhere in the UK. “Very often, when clients come to me, it’s to realise a vision that’s been years in the making. My advice to anyone embarking on an ambitious home improvement project would be the same as the advice I’d give to my own customers – when it comes to light and space, don’t compromise.”

www.roof-maker.co.uk www.nicolastyearchitects.com

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i-build

Kitchen extension project checklist Here, experienced home extensions building expert, Ryan Abell – Director and Site Manager at Abell Building Services – shares his checklist for keeping track of a kitchen extension project from start to finish.

Prepare your materials

Planning permission

Kitchen extension schedule

Like you would before you start a DIY flat-pack project, make sure that you have everything that you need. Just like with a wardrobe missing a vital packet of screws, not having a key component like mortar mixture or enough bricks ordered can slow everything down.

Once you have undertaken your research into style, configuration and materials and have decided where your extension will be (i.e. at the side or at the back of your property), make sure that you have the relevant planning permissions in place if they are required.

Materials list

Architect’s drawings

Tasks should be carried out in this order: Footings and foundations Damp proof coursing Installation of drains Floor foundation structure – usually concrete External wall building Internal wall building Structure of the roof building Roof covering installed Installation of windows Installation of doors Any carpentry Plastering of walls Installation of electrics Installation of plumbing Installation of skirting boards Window sills Tiling Painting.

Bricks Mortar Windows Door (if applicable) Concrete Flooring Electric components Plumbing components Skirting boards Tiles Paint The kitchen fittings themselves Utility and white goods.

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You will need an architect’s drawing to make sure that your extension will end up looking exactly how you want it to look, with the features that you want included.

Choosing a builder Make sure your builder has experience in kitchen extensions and ideally, see if they can project manage the kitchen extension themselves. This will save you having to get different contractors involved at different times, which can turn a six-week project into a six-month project.

www.abellbuildingservices.co.uk

Here, Refresh Interiors discusses the most common mistakes homeowners make when undertaking a home extension and offers its top tips for a straightforward process.

i-build

Tips and tricks

otherwise planners can make you knock it down. Planning permission isn’t always required for all developments, and in most cases you can extend your home with a single-storey rear extension up to 4m. Work closely with planning professionals to ensure regulations are adhered to so there are no nasty shocks later.

Follow all regulations and make sure that you consult with neighbours and get party wall agreements in place.

Wasting existing space. Make sure when designing an extension that you are utilising all existing space and not wasting areas. Work with your builder and planners as to how best to make use of space. Perhaps moving some existing internal walls will create extra rooms with your extension.

Always do your research before hiring a builder.

Make sure they are a reputable company and ask for references. Most builders are happy for you to view previous work and speak to their clients.

have become more popular and often work out cheaper and can be built quicker than traditional brick and block extensions.

Compare builders carefully – don’t just compare by the cost. Compare previous projects they have completed. Have they worked on a similar size or type of build before? Is there any specialist, complicated or unusual aspects to your extension that they have experience of dealing with before?

Common mistakes:

Stage payments – only work with a builder who offers stage payments, i.e. payments only made once certain stages of works are completed. Never pay lots of money up front.

Always make sure you have the correct permissions in place. Never commence a build without planning permission or make any major adaptions to approved plans without getting the correct permissions in place,

Do consider timber frame extensions. They

Be realistic as to what can be achieved within your budget. Work closely with your professionals as to what you can achieve with your budget. Perhaps cutting back on fixtures and fittings will allow budget for more expensive items such as bi-fold doors.

Set a realistic deadline for completion on works with your builder. Reasonable delays can happen and can be out of control – e.g. extreme weather, however, make sure you set a realistic timeline with your builder and hold them accountable.

Getting carried away with fixtures and fittings. Internal finishes can really push up the price of the build and blow a budget. Keep an eye on costs and work to find alternatives if it doesn’t fit within budget.

When undergoing a very large extension, or major works, living on site can cause major stress. Where possible, it can be best to live off site until the major works are completed.

Be aware of light. Adding a large extension to the rear can sometimes darken other rooms. Think about adding natural light. Use of VELUX roof windows or glass skylights can make beautiful features.

www.refreshinteriorsuk.co.uk

“A staircase in an extension has a duty to perform; both form and function. Functionally, it provides a means of travelling between levels – simply between floors of the newly-extended building or, more usefully– providing a physical connection between levels of old and new.

“A bespoke staircase, sympathetically designed to work with, or in the extension itself, should provide the aesthetic link between old and new. For example, a staircase in a contemporary extension to a period property might share elements of timber or forged metalwork present elsewhere in the house,” – Richard McLane, Design Director at Bisca.

www.bisca.co.uk

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i-build

Opting for wood?

Here Laura Keily, Head of Marketing at Accsys Group, answers your questions on using wood for home extensions.

01 Why is wood a viable option for a home extension project?

Wood is an extremely viable option for a home extension project since it is a low-maintenance option and easy to coat with a protector for a refined finish.

In order to preserve the life of a home extension, we would recommend utilising a non-toxic, acetylated wood which will resist rot, defy the elements and stay strong for decades to come. Alongside such benefits, acetylated wood is incredibly sustainable since it is 100% recyclable, sourced from FSC-certified forests and is CO2-negative over its full life cycle. In general, wood is a natural insulator due to the air pockets within its cellular structure. This means it is 15 times better than masonry materials, 400 times better than steel and 1770 times more advanced than aluminium, reducing household energy needs (Makeitwood.org, 2017).

02 What advice would you give to those opting for a wooden-built extension?

All images ŠDaniele Petteno

We recommend opting for a material that is green and ecological and that will also add to the value of a home. The 50-year guarantee that comes with employing Accoya can be passed onto the new occupiers if selling the home. An acetylated wooden-built extension will also demonstrate complete stability and durability over the years ensuring it can withstand all weathers. Additionally, wood is a much quicker installation process compared to PVC and aluminium and can be constructed all year round in most climates, making it a more viable option.

03 Are there any aesthetically-led trends you are witnessing?

We have noticed that consumers are opting for wide cladding boards when choosing Accoya, which does seem to be a recurring trend. Painted coating also lasts much longer when applied to Accoya and, as mentioned, the material is incredibly low maintenance to preserve, ensuring painted coats retain their quality and colour over the years.

04 What are the possibilities when working with wood?

Wood is much more versatile than you might think and offers a lot of design freedom, as well as being naturally aesthetically pleasing. There is a high demand for innovate timber designs alongside designs that are strong, beautiful and original. With a varied range of applications towards wood, the only limitation is your imagination.

www.accoya.com www.danielepetteno.com

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i-nterior

Selecting high-end art pieces Art – the right piece of carefully selected fine art – has the power to transform a house into a home, to add life and character to blank walls and empty inner spaces. But if you are new to the world of art, how do you go about selecting the perfect first piece, the linchpin of your home’s individuality? Matisse Ghaddaf of art consultancy, Atkya, elaborates.

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new home is a seductive blank canvas to an art consultant like me – empty walls and corridors waiting to receive an injection of personality that the artworks you select will give them.

So, where do you look, what should you spend and how can you know what will suit your home best?

The secret to finding the ideal statement piece starts with the responses you give to the following four considerations – audience, space, textures and colours, and purpose.

‘Audience’ relates to the question of who the artwork is actually for? Is it a personal audience of you or family only, or should the piece shout ‘look at me’ to all who visit your home?

‘Space’ considers the size and functionality of the room your artwork is to occupy and enliven, along with its architecture and light sources, so the canvas, sculpture or other work can radiate the importance you assign to it, elevating its surroundings and not competing with them.

‘Textures and colours’ looks at what else occupies the space – the walls, flooring and furnishing – that must also be factored into your selection process. Your standout piece must work in the space where it is placed. Ignore its surroundings and watch a stunning piece fade into the background, its impact dulled by competing influences.

And finally, ‘Purpose’ asks the dual questions of aim and aspiration – what is your reason for wanting a statement piece in the first place, and is there anything about your preferences and personality that could help to identify that perfect piece?

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01 What do you like? Even if your fine art purchase is primarily an investment decision you still have to like what you buy for your home. So, it makes sense to research your preferences, to make a shortlist of your favourite artists, to visit exhibitions and galleries to surprise yourself by viewing new genres and mediums in order to challenge your perceptions to decide what will work best for you.

Look Book: Artwork & Sculptures

i-nterior

These four considerations are often just the starting point of a far more detailed assessment of home and owner to determine just the right shortlist of pieces.

Fine art comes at a price. Therefore, to ensure that you are making the right decision from an aesthetic and investment perspective it’s important to consider three further things:

Art is an expressive form. Many may wish to adorn their selfbuild in colourful, abstract hanging pieces, while others may prefer the subtlety of a more delicate piece.

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02 What do you know? Some believe you need to become an art expert to find just the right piece, but once again this is a matter of preference. Understanding an artist, their works and the value of their pieces can help you to make good investment decisions, or to distinguish the original from the prints, but then again there are professionals who could help you with that.

03 Where can you find it? Some of my favourite places to spend a lazy Sunday afternoon are art fairs, such as the Affordable Art Fair in Hampstead, London, auction houses like Christie’s where individual pieces and entire collections can be found, local galleries and even pop-up venues that occasionally have some surprises to offer. Then again, as a self-builder, you are likely to have looked for guidance from professionals throughout the process – an architect with the same vision as yourself, maybe an interior designer or even a landscape architect to perfect your new home inside and out – instructing an art consultant has similar logic attached to it, someone who can help you to make the right purchase to make your new home uniquely yours.

There is no hard and fast rule when it comes to finding the perfect artwork for your new home, but my tips for a fine art novice would be to know your budget so you don’t get too carried away, start with a single standout piece for your home and see how that sits before considering the collection that may later evolve from it, and finally, that fine art should always enhance a space, not compete for attention with a clutter of varied furnishing and decor. Good luck in your search.

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1. Sunny Day, Artfinder, £7511.97 2. Sunny Winter, Artfinder, £1104.85 3. Wild Dog ceramic sculpture, Sable & Ox, £1950 4. Etude 116, Artfinder, £3107.39 5. Ring Tailed Lemur and Twins ceramic sculpture, Sable & Ox, £2160

6. Baby White Rhino, Sable & Ox, £3000

www.atkya.co.uk

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i-scape

TOP FACT

Japanese knotweed is a Schedule 9 species under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, making it illegal to plant or allow it to spread into the wild.

Japanese knotweed, the alien invader Introduced in the 19th century as an ornamental plant, this species’ spread across the country has been astonishing. Now thought to be present in every 10km2 of the UK, this plant is a common sight along railways, roadsides, waterways, derelict land, parks and gardens.

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t gets everywhere, and this is partly down to the plant’s ability to regenerate from small fragments of rhizome, the plant’s root system. A piece of rhizome the size of a fingernail can give rise to a new plant, and this ability, combined with human interference, has allowed for its dramatic spread.

Its appearance can be attractive. Young shoots quickly develop within weeks to bamboo-like stems with purple specks and obvious nodes, growing up to 3m in height. The lush green heart-shaped leaves, which grow to around

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14cm long, are alternate, forming a ‘zig-zag’ pattern along the stem. In late summer, the plant produces clusters of small creamy-white flowers, which stand out from the dark green leaves. After flowering, in late autumn, the plant naturally dies back and remains dormant over winter, losing its leaves to reveal the dead, dark brown canes which remain standing through winter.

Chemical control of this plant takes dedication and patience, with repeat applications of herbicide over a number of years to ensure that

the plant is properly eradicated. This approach may not always be suitable, for example, within development areas.

An alternative to chemical treatment is mechanical excavation of the plant and rhizome system, which can extend up to 7m laterally from surface growth and to depths of 2 to 3m. Excavated material can be dealt with in a number of ways, including: disposal to licensed landfill, burial on site in sealed geotextile cells, transfer on site waste management areas for further chemical control, or screening of excavated material to remove the rhizome.

Japanese knotweed is a Schedule 9 species under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, making it illegal to plant or allow it to spread into the wild. If removed from site, waste containing knotweed is classified as ‘controlled waste’ under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 and will require to be disposed of appropriately at a licensed facility.

www.jksl.com

i-scape

Find the right arborist for you Here, the Arboricultural Association offers its advice on hiring a tree surgeon for your self-build site.

Stage 1: ask for a quote A reputable arborist will always give a positive response.

1. Are you insured?

If the answer is yes, please show evidence of insurance – Employers’ Liability & Public Liability (recommended minimum of £5m).

2. Do you work to a British Standard?

If yes, which one?

Should be BS3998: 2010 ‘Tree Work – Recommendations’.

3. What qualifications do you and your staff hold? (ask to see copies) Compulsory: they must have NPTC/Lantra Awards** certificates for chainsaw use.

Recommended: certificates for other skills and machines. Arboricultural knowledge, e.g. national certificates and diplomas in arboriculture.

4. Will you provide a written quotation?

If no, reject the contractor.

5. Are you a member of a professional organisation?

Membership does not guarantee work standards but does show a degree of commitment.

6. Can you provide me with the phone number of a referee who can show me some of your work?

If yes, follow up the reference.

Stage 2: choosing the quote that suits you When you receive your quotations, check they include the following before deciding which one to accept: Reference to BS3998: 2010 ‘Tree Work – Recommendations’.

Clear and full details of the work to be undertaken (the specification).

What will happen to the timber and brushwood?

What will happen with the tree stumps?

Whether VAT is included.

Who will be responsible for obtaining permission if the trees are protected?

What steps will be taken to protect you and your property (the risk assessment)?

Be aware that there may be a limited quote validity period.

Stage 3: consumer protection If problems arise you can get help and advice from industry bodies such as the AA, ISA or TrustMark. * Obtain more than one quote, ideally three. ** NPTC and Lantra Awards are national organisations that assess competence of people using chainsaws and other arboricultural equipment. Competent arborists will be able to show you an A4-sized certificate or plastic ID card if requested.

www.trees.org.uk

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Product Guide

The wonderful World of Living Imagine a world where every detail of your dream home comes to life around you. Where you can perfectly craft each and every aspect to your taste. Welcome to the WeberHaus World of Living.

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ocated at the WeberHaus factory in Germany, the World of Living is a space completely dedicated to designing your own home.

A showcase of the very best in German engineering and exquisite craftsmanship.

Where you truly can build your home, just the way you imagined it.

A pioneer of prefabricated housing, WeberHaus prides itself on considering everything so you can have the homebuilding experience of a lifetime. Get your creative juices flowing and let your inspiration run wild to create the home you’ve always dreamed of. The World of Living features show homes, a ‘Hall of Creativity’, a glimpse into the WeberHaus factory and even a ‘Universe of Time’, a curated history of home design through the ages.

Village of show homes The first point of call is the show homes, enabling you to experience what modern, personalised living feels like first-hand. Stroll through the village of full-scale vibrant self-build house designs to help you find inspiration for your own prefabricated home. Immerse yourself within the innovative designs and fabulous features to distinguish the home you’ve always imagined.

The only limit is your imagination; from style and layout to spaces and brand name fixtures.

WeberHaus’ luxurious prefab house designs can be expertly tailored to your unique tastes.

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The Hall of Creativity It’s all about the personalised and finer details when it comes to creating a truly bespoke home. Feel all the fixtures and fittings, from full kitchen models to individual taps, door handles and window frames; everything is all under one roof and ready to be explored! WeberHaus experts are available to answer all of your questions, as well as offer modular homebuilding advice. If you’re an eco-warrior then there’s a specialist for that too, providing insight on the energy-efficient technologies which make WeberHaus homes so eco-friendly.

you contemplate those architectural desires, children can revel in WeberHaus’ prodigious play area and tree house. All intended to offer you an enjoyable and relaxing home-building experience like no other.

chris.drury@weberhaus.co.uk 01727 867900 www.weberhaus.co.uk Above: Located at the WeberHaus factory in Germany, the World of Living is a space completely dedicated to designing your own home Below: Feel all the fixtures and fittings, from full

The WeberHaus factory

kitchen models to individual taps, door handles and

Be sure to get a glimpse of the state-of-theart production facility next, where your home will begin to take shape. Observe the highly skilled WeberHaus craftsmen working their magic, creating some self-build showstoppers.

For over 55 years, WeberHaus has been one of Germany’s leading prefab house-builders, and a visit to the WeberHaus factory is your opportunity to watch the process firsthand. Injecting cutting-edge technology and finessing those finishing touches, this factory is the start of where your dream home becomes a reality.

window frames; everything is all under one roof

Time to relax The World of Living encompasses lush park areas, a beautiful and tranquil lakeside terrace and the popular Pacific Time restaurant. While

and ready to be explored

Self-building oneor or more building one more properties to sell or rent? perties to sell or rent?

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Product Guide

few minutes reading our genuine reviews from genuine customers on Trustpilot’s site.

You will see how much we care about our reputation and, because our reputation means so much to us, it translates into our customers experiencing the easiest flooring purchase they could ever make.

Flooring world credentials True, we’ve been around the block a bit. With 30 years in the trade, we deal direct with all of Europe’s manufacturers. With countless factory visits under our belts, we know how every product is made and we can articulate the pros and cons of them all. This means we can quickly assess your situation and identify the most suitable products for you and your budget.

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What sets Flooring Megastore apart from the rest?

We’re a cheery bunch of flooring nerds. We save you money. We execute a highly professional installation and make the whole process easy.

It really is that simple, but few are capable of carrying out this straightforward process.

We supply and install for both residential and commercial projects of all sizes and can even produce your very own bespoke carpet.

Whether online or in store, you will find unparalleled, diverse product choice, easy-tounderstand expert advice all wrapped up in supreme customer care.

Uncompromising quality, permanently low prices, we’re the flooring gurus.

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Buying flooring isn’t perhaps the most exciting purchase, but get it right and it will completely transform any interior. Here, Flooring Megastore explains further.

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he good news is not only are we flooring experts in helping you make the right choice, but we will make your flooring choice more affordable.

Product portfolio We can go toe-to-toe with any ‘pile it high, sell it cheap’ retailer – that’s easy. With thousands of pounds worth of flooring products kept in stock, we buy in bulk from Europe’s major manufacturers. However, our real expertise is our diversity of products. We offer inspirational, niche floors that you simply won’t be offered elsewhere. So, before committing your order, come and pick our brains.

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Carpet, wood flooring, luxury vinyl tiles (LVT), laminate flooring, cushion vinyl, carpet tiles, safety flooring and artificial grass. All supplied directly from the manufacturers – no costly layers in our supply chain.

What does our huge stock commitment mean to our customers? Well, because we stock our underlays and carpets in depth, it means we buy keener – considerably keener – than the average high-street retailer, in fact.

Supreme customer care We reckon we’re pretty damn good, but how do we back up our self-proclaimed ‘flooring guru’ status? Trustpilot, that’s how. Spend a

Above: With 30 years in the trade, Flooring Megastore deals direct with all of Europe’s manufacturers Top: Flooring Megastore installs for both residential and commercial projects of all sizes

Product Guide

Gismos, gadgets and good design Here, Professor Dr Michael Benfield, talks to i-build about IT and business innovations from beyond the housing sector.

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n the early ‘noughties’ I ran a seminar for constructing excellence on Safety by Design, followed a few years later by one on Designing Out Waste. The purpose in mentioning them is to emphasise the fact that, despite new products and updated regulations, like those dealing with high speed electronic communications networks (Approved Document ‘R’), the house-building industry has made little progress so far this century.

Back then I argued for buildings to be designed via partnerships that embraced site constraints, programmed out risk and ensured good, immediate and ongoing communications with present and future stakeholders. I pointed out that to do so required design teams who not only knew their legal duties and responsibilities, but who understood how the job would be done.

In turn, this meant grasping the logistics, getting to grips with handling and temporary works, as well as embracing snagging and maintenance along with the lifetime risks of the building in construction, in use and decommissioning.

While today it’s pretty easy to specify IT-related products for any building, doing so efficiently remains a major challenge.

Homebuyers and renters alike remain more concerned about the cost and speed efficiency of new home construction, their comfort, running and maintenance costs.

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Communication is key Designing with partnering in mind emphasises communications, the importance of avoiding delays and the need to programme out errors.

It also recognises the need to know what stocks and other industry-standard materials are readily available, how jobs will be done in practice and the need for a better and fuller understanding of the building and manufacturing tasks involved.

Grasping the totality of the logistics involved was seen then, and remains today, of major importance. Getting to grips with transport, ‘right first time’ and ‘continuous improvement’ processes were, and are, obvious candidates for expanding the horizons of the design team. Equating the notion of ‘lifetime costs’ with the avoidance of delays and the need to programme out errors, along with a sound knowledge of materials, processes and procedures remains vital. Although accepting that good design avoids waste, then and now many professionals – used to a more relaxed regime – found and find this an unpopular constraint. Few it seems are ready even now to accept responsibility for, and bear the cost of, any waste caused by them.

Improving delivery Whilst moving with the times to incorporate all that is best and wonderful and time-saving and comfortable, and desirable in any building design

we undertake, manufacture or build, I still find myself shouting at the wind for fundamental shifts in professional attitudes. However, the winds of change are blowing and I do detect small shifts. As construction moves off site into the factory these will greatly improve efficiency, quality and affordable delivery of all levels of social and private housing.

www.benfieldattgroup.co.uk info@benfieldatt.uk 01291 437050 Top: Homebuyers and renters alike remain more concerned about the cost and speed efficiency of new home construction Above: Prototype Build inside factory. As construction moves off site into the factory these will greatly improve efficiency, quality and affordable delivery.

DuPont Plantex GroundGrid ensures the stability of gravel driveway design When Outerspace undertook a project to completely strip out a large residential front garden, removing a traditional linear block-paved drive and side lawn, the landscaping expert knew it needed a high-performance solution to give structural stability to its elegant new design.

Plantex GroundGrid proved to be the answer to ensuring both the integrity and minimal maintenance of the gravel-laid renovation.

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he previous narrow approach and parking space had become a problem for the large extended family that owns the house.

They wanted ample driveway space, together with the smart look of gravel, while keeping a planted barrier of mature shrubs at street front for both privacy and greenery.

The client was keen for a solution that was smart and attractive while offering easy upkeep. Outerspace came up with a landscape design that met all key criteria and gravel was the desirable covering for the inner circle.

A firm foundation was needed that would prevent excessive movement and therefore gravel loss, especially as a great deal of manoeuvring would be taking place over the surface. In order to create stability and help keep the gravel layer in place, an advanced system with a robust structure and sufficient depth was required, so that the base would not become easily exposed.

Terrey Maufe of Outerspace explains: “We found the ideal solution in Plantex GroundGrid, which allows the gravel to be separate and yet held together, so decreasing the chance of it being moved or exposed.”

www.plantexpro.dupont.com 01438 734000 gary.norris@dupont.com

The Grade II Listed building located in Manchester City Centre is being refurbished to provide office space, retail and leisure facilities. Constructed in 1905, the interior walls had accumulated a thick build-up of dust, dirt, polish and even nicotine residue, all of which needed to be removed. Following trials of various products, Remmers’ Arte Mundit Eco was selected as it is a self-vulcanising cleaning paste designed for thorough, water-free removal of residues and soiling on a wide range of substrates. The Arte Mundit Eco was applied using a 4" brush and left to ‘set’ overnight. The set rubber-like material was then removed by hand the following day.

Product Guide

Hanover building unveiled by Remmers

www.remmers.co.uk 01293 594010 sales@remmers.co.uk

The durable waterbased alternative to oil eggshell paints Ideal for joinery items such as furniture and panelling, Teknos Futura Aqua 20 is a semi-matt, waterborne urethane alkyd-based interior and exterior paint. Suited to professionals requiring a hand-applied brush finish that flows easily with few brush marks, it provides a very low sheen topcoat and incredibly durable surface. Teknos Futura Aqua 20 is environmentally-friendly with low VOC levels and can be used for a wide range of applications, it is also suitable for use outdoors. The paint is easy to apply by brush, roller and spray, which makes the application effortless. The surface is dust-free after one hour and through-dry after two to three days.

www.teknos.com 01608 683494 sales@teknos.co.uk

FEIN’s new cordless range is better than ever Power tool manufacturer FEIN has revamped its entire range of 12 and 18V drill/drivers and impact wrench/drivers for greater precision and power. One of the biggest improvements to the range is the addition of detachable heads to switch rapidly between drilling, tapping and screwdriving applications with the FEIN QuickIN interface. In addition, the new accessories improve precision as the tapping adapter prevents the thread drill from slipping. Another big development is the launch of FEIN MultiVolt which helps tradespeople work for longer by enabling 18V tools to be operated with any FEIN lithium-ion battery between 12 and 18V.

www.fein-uk.co.uk 01327 308730 sales@fein-uk.co.uk

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Grand Designs Live Preview

Left: Kevin McCloud, joined by a whole host of industry experts, will provide a wide-reaching range of informative seminars Below: The ever-popular ‘Ask an Expert’ service returns with experts offering free advice in every field

Grand Designs Live returns to Birmingham for 13th year Grand Designs Live, proudly sponsored by Anglian Home Improvements, is set to return to Birmingham’s NEC from 11 to 15th October. This unique event promises to break down the conventional limitations to home-building and offers visitors a chance to discover the latest innovations, explore current trends and preview unseen products.

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nce again hosted by Grand Designs’ guru Kevin McCloud, the show will play host to a series of unique, educational and interactive features over five days. Kevin, joined by a whole host of industry experts, will provide a wide-reaching range of informative seminars at The Grand Theatre, sponsored by Airflow.

The ever-popular ‘Ask an Expert’ service returns with experts offering free advice in every field, from financing projects, to architecture, interiors and much more.

With over 400 exhibitors making their way to the NEC, there will be something for everyone across the six different sections of the show covering Build, Kitchens, Bathrooms, Technology, Gardens and Interiors.

Kevin McCloud, design authority and Presenter of the Channel 4 TV series, will be bringing his expertise in the design industry as well as his distinctive style and approach to the event. This season’s Grand Designs Live is set to be one of the most informative, exciting and engaging home improvement and design exhibitions to date.

Karen Stylianides, newly-appointed Editor of self-build magazine Grand Designs, says of the show: “Grand Designs Live is the ultimate event for anyone considering a renovation, self-build, conversion, extension or home update project.

There’s a wealth of ideas, expert tips and the latest innovative designs all under one roof. It’s a truly unmissable source of inspiration and advice.”

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Alongside these amazing features, the show offers an array of other great attractions, including: The Kitchen Advice Centre, sponsored by Miele Book free 30-minute consultations looking at all aspects of kitchen planning and development.

The Live Kitchen, sponsored by Miele For cooking buffs, the Live Kitchen is a must-see feature, with top chefs hard at work showing audiences how to prepare delicious meals, and take advantage of kitchen appliances in live demos.

Kevin’s Green Heroes Each year Kevin showcases the most innovative and useful eco-friendly gadgets and products on the market. His handpicked selection reveals the latest trends in green technology and shines a light on new directions in product design.

Grand Room Sets The theme will be brought to life by pioneering interior designers in this inspirational installation. These innovative rooms will showcase products which are accessible to visitors and are from British retailers, manufacturers and designers.

www.granddesignslive.com

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Grand Designs Live takes place from 11 to 15th October 2017 at Birmingham’s NEC. Book free weekday tickets or £9 weekend tickets (saving up to £11) online at granddesignslive.com using code IBUILD17 or call the booking hotline on: 0844 854 1348. T&Cs apply.

T&Cs – offer valid on standard admission tickets only and must be booked in advance before midnight on 10th October 2017. Free weekday tickets valid on any one weekday between 11 and 13th October 2017, subject to limited availability, tickets allocated on a first come-first served basis. £9 weekend tickets carry a £1.70 transaction fee and the saving is based on door rate ticket prices.

Calls to the hotline are charged at 7p per minute.

100% Design Preview All images ©Theo Cohen

100% Design 2017 – a guide to this year’s show 100% Design, one of the UK’s largest trade show for builders, architects and designers, returns to Olympia, London, in the burgeoning design district of West Kensington, from 20th to 23rd September.

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ow in its 23rd year, 100% Design is the commercial cornerstone of London Design Festival, showcasing leading national and international brands, manufacturers and designers across five design areas: Design & Build, Interiors, Workplace, Kitchens, Bedrooms & Bathrooms and Emerging Brands.

Design & Build, the largest section in the show, is specifically tailored to the building community, featuring a materials showcase, alongside the latest surface innovations, technology and home automation, presented by exceptional brands and suppliers.

Exhibiting this year will be Sky-Frame, the world-leading Swiss sliding window system manufacturer, which will launch its new SkyFrame Inline support post, and Italian sliding door pioneer Ermetika, which will showcase its new acoustic sliding doors and fire rated invisible swing doors.

Look out for UK-based exhibitors, including rainscreen cladding manufacturer Domus Facades, which will launch a new support system at 100% Design, and London-based commercial floor and wall tile supplier Grestec Tiles, whose expansive Diesel range of porcelain, ceramic, natural stone and glass tile collections meet a wide range of architectural specifications.

Many brands are utilising natural materials in response to a growing demand for homes and

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buildings that demonstrate harmony with the natural world. One notable innovator in this field to keep an eye on is green systems specialist Mobilane, presenting a range of living walls.

Coming to the show for the first time this year is Timbertherm, with its wooden floor heating and will be joined by Italian electric power solution developer Vimar, which will be showcasing its new ‘total look’ Eikon control plates at the show.

Each year, 100% Design adopts a theme which is reflected across its installations, features and talks programme with industry leaders, who will discuss professional development and the future of design.

This year’s theme is Elements, which considers everything from design basics, development process, to the component parts that make up a product. Leading Design Journalist Max Fraser, who has been appointed as the show’s Content Editor for 2017, is producing features and installations responding by the theme.

From the talks programme, a BIID Interior Design Masterclass with Susie Rumbold is promising to be a highlight. It will focus on new trends in interior design and is scheduled for Saturday 23rd September.

Last year, 100% Design attracted over 27,000 visitors, bringing together builders, architects, designers, retailers and developers with an impressive combined spending of over £3.9bn.

www.100percentdesign.co.uk

Make sure it’s in your London Design Festival calendar this September and register here: https://registration.n200. com/survey/02waekz809l07

Top: Each year, 100% Design adopts a theme which is reflected across its installations, features and talks programme with industry leaders, who will discuss professional development and the future of design Above: Last year, 100% Design attracted over 27,000 visitors, bringing together builders, architects, designers, retailers and developers

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