Traditional Homes & Interiors December 2015

TRADITIONAL HOMES

& INTERIORS INSPIRATION FOR PERIOD LIVING

Heart of the home

www.thimagazine.com

A LIGHT ON THE SUBJECT

of your home

Bespoke kitchens, created especially for your lifestyle

Feel Cosy

A look at the mood, style and tone of your home

BE INSPIRED From the ridiculous to the sublime

LEMORE MANOR Rescuing a dilapidated Country House

Winter 2015

ÂŁ3.99

contents November

rangeofoftraditional traditionaland andcontemporary contemporary AArange fires,fireplaces fireplacesand andstoves, stoves,designed designedininGreat GreatBritain Britain- fires, exclusivelyfrom fromCharlton Charlton&&Jenrick.

Jenrick. exclusively www.charltonandjenrick.co.uk www.charltonandjenrick.co.uk 08455195 5195991 991 sales@charltonandjenrick.co.uk sales@charltonandjenrick.co.uk 0845

2 | Traditional Homes

Interiors | www.thimagazine.com

contents November

n ef xf8x 8s tso tv oev e f ifrierlei lni e Boscombe Limestone surround in in Boscombe Limestone surround

Charlton& &Jenrick Jenrickbrands: brands: Charlton www.thimagazine.com | Traditional Homes

Interiors | 3

D LIGHTING

CHR STOPHER HYDE

C

hristopher Hyde has been producing beau­ tiful, handmade lights to complement and enhance the world's most stylish interiors for over twenty years.

Our products adorn properties across the globe from country cottages to Royal residences.

Every light is handmade and fin­ ished by skilled craftsmen using traditional methods and superior materials. The classic designs are appreciated wherever style and quality are important and the lights enhance many of the world's most prestigious interior design projects.

The lighting collections are renowned for their elegance, splendor and artistry; perfect for romantic period buildings and slick contemporary interiors.

Such can be viewed at the mag­ nificent showroom in the Chel­ sea Harbour Design Centre.

In addition to the extensive standard ranges, Christopher Hyde also applies their exper­ tise to creating one-off special designs. Impressive open spaces often require chandeliers to com­ pliment this, (such as in atria, entrance halls and deep stair­ wells), the company will man­ ufacture individually designed lights, tailored to the specific requirements of the customer.

They offer a wide range of finishes, shade making services and customization. Whilst technical support including help with LED energy saving and emergency lighting is readily available.

Christopher Hyde is proud to have supplied brass "Lost wax" cast putti table lamps to The 2

www.thimagazine.com

Lanesborough. The lamps are finished in "Ormolu" gold plate with a Marble base and a full lead crystal bowl. Com­ plete with hand decorated metal k-. shade as shown (Elysee).

Also dis­ played are crystal glass table lamps with brass plinths and details finished in antique silver plate and french gold (Berkeley) which have also been supplied to The Lanesborough.

Along with, hand cast brass traditional wall lights, finished in black and antique french gold as the image shows (St.Petersburg).

........,��=�!!::::�===�

I

Thermostatic Radiator Valves lead the pack HEATING SOLUTIONS

RELAX, IT’S A TERRIER THERMOSTATIC RADIATOR VALVE

British manufactured, with a trusted reputation for hard working reliability, high quality and respected, Terrier Radiator Valves are number one for domestic and commercial use.

Quick and easy to install, dependably robust and built to last, best performing UK sensor. – guaranteed! The first choice for thermostatic energy efficiency – ‘A’ rated and TELL approved.

A range that features options to match all requirements, tastes and budgets, with compression or push-fit connections decorative finishes and now new programmable options.

Innovative colour coded setting and audible click on adjustment for ease of consumer use.

A pedigree you can rely on.

Find your local stockist pegleryorkshire.co.uk Free Phone 0800 156 0010 uk.sales@pegleryorkshire.co.uk

HIGHLY COMPETITIVE

HOMES&INTERIORS TRADITIONAL HOMES&INTERIORS INSPIRATION FOR PERIOD LIVING

www.thimagazine.com

INSPIRATION FOR PERIOD LIVING

www.thimagazine.com

Editors’ Letter REGULAR FEATURES

TRADITIONAL HOMES

& INTERIORS INSPIRATION FOR PERIOD LIVING

Heart of the home

www.thimagazine.com

A LIGHT ON THE SUBJECT The mood, style and tone of your home

Bespoke kitchens, created especially for your lifestyle

Feel Cosy

A look at the mood, style and tone of your home

BE INSPIRED From the ridiculous to the sublime

LEMORE MANOR

Winter 2013

£3.99

Rescuing a dilapidated Country House

PUBLISHED BY: Traditional Homes Limited Crown House John Roberts Business Park Pean Hill, Nr Whitstable Kent CT5 3BJ www.thimagazine.co m Tel: 01227 378390 Publisher: Colin Woolley info@thimagazine.com EDITORIAL: Editor: Vicki Watson editoral@thimagazine.com Art Director: Ian Denby-Jones design@cplmedia.co.uk Production Manager: David Cady production@cplmedia.co.uk Contributors: Alison Brockway, John Griggs, Nick Thompson, Michael Holness, Mary Leslie Caroline Simpson, Sarah Halliday ADVERTISING: Sales Manager: Simon White simon@thimagazine.com

Welcome to the Winter issue of Traditional Homes & Interiors Now that we are officially into winter, we bring to you a warm and cosy feature. Take a look at ‘Snuggle Up This Winter’, pg 66 and ‘Make Your Home Feel Cosy’ pg 84, which we hope will guide you when choosing a new sofa, or perhaps some soft furnishings and accessories for your home.

Keeping on the subject of warmth, take a look at our feature ‘Heating You’re Home’ pg 42, where John Griggs of The Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering talks about different ways to heat your home.

Following on from our kitchen features last month, we are delighted to include a feature on ‘Aga’s and Range Cookers’ pg 50, plus we take a look at ‘Bespoke Kitchen Ideas’ pg 36.

Our Interior Designer, Mary Leslie answers your questions this month on flooring, so if you are torn between choosing carpet for your home, or perhaps a leather floor for something a little different, Mary has the answers, ‘Creating a Beautiful Home’, pg 84.

I am sure you will agree, this month’s issue of Traditional Homes & Interiors is bursting full of useful tips and ideas. Take a look at ‘Let’s Go Shopping’ pg 8, ‘A Little Light on the Subject’, pg 74, ‘Trade Secrets’ where we take a look at The Natural Wood Floor Company, pg 92 & 93, plus our competition page, where you can win a pair of tickets to one of four Christmas Craft Events across the country, pg 95.

Sit back, relax, and enjoy!

Vicki

Subscriptions: 01227 378390 Distributed by: COMAG Tavistock Road, West Drayton Middlesex UB7 7QE Tel: 01895 444055 Although every effort is made to ensure that the content of features in Traditional Homes & Interiors is accurate and correct, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for the veracity of claims made by contributors, manufacturers or advertisers. No guarantees can be made upon the safe return of any unsolicited copy or photographic images. The publisher reserves the right to alter or amend any submitted material that is printed in Traditional Homes & Interiors. All material in Traditional Homes & Interiors is the copyright of the publisher and any reproduction of said material would require written permission from the publisher. © Traditional Homes Limited Competitions, rules of entry: Rules apply to all competitions in Traditional Homes & Interiors magazine. Only one entry per person.

Employees of the publisher and any of the contributors are not eligible for entry. Entries that fail to comply with these instructions will be disqualified. No cash alternatives can be offered in lieu of prizes. Only one entry per household, whether by post or via the internet will be accepted. Competitions are only open to UK residents aged 18 years or INSPIRATION FOR PERIOD www.thimagazine.com over.

Winners willLIVING be notified via email within 7 days of the competition draw. The editor’s decision is final.

TRADITIONAL

HOMES&INTERIORS TRADITIONAL HOMES&INTERIORS Competition entries: Entries to be made via www.thimagazine.com INSPIRATION FOR PERIOD LIVING www.thimagazine.com

TRADITIONAL HOMES

& INTERIORS INSPIRATION FOR PERIOD LIVING

www.thimagazine.com

I Traditional Homes & Interiors I 5

CONTENTS

24

Contents 66

70 6 I www.thimagazine.com

Winter 2013 CONTENTS

10

50 REAL HOMES

EXPERT ADVICE

10 Lemore Manor Estate

22 Create the Look

24 18th Century Farmhouse

34 Create the Look

HOME IDEAS

40 The Sleep Event

Rescuing a Dilapidated Country House From the ridiculous to the sublime

8

Let’s go Shopping

Finding this issue’s best buys

18th Century Stone Farmhouse The Retun of Cool

DESIGN TALK

42 Heating

36 Bespoke Kitchens

50 The Heart of the Home

38 Bespoke Bedrooms

66 Snuggle Up this Winter

60 Front of House

72 Luxury Living Rooms

94 Moorcroft Pottery

74 A Little Light on the Subject

REGULARS

Heating your home this Christmas Aga and Range Cookers

Creating the right impact

Express your individuality

The mood, style and tone of your home

STYLE IDEAS

58

Lemore Manor Estsate

Created Especially for your Lifestyle Traditional Cabinet Made Furniture Doors and windows give the look

One Hundred Years in the Making

5 Welcome

See what’s in store in this issue

84 Make Your Home Feel Cosy

92 Natural Wood Floor Co.

88 Creating a Beautiful Home

96 Shopping Directory

Colours, fabrics and lighting

Mary Leslie answers your questions

Traditional Skills and Forgotten Arts

Where to find all our featured products I Traditional Homes & Interiors I

7

HOME IDEAS Beautiful Buys

Let’s Go Shopping Out and about to find this issue’s best buys!

A selection of Christmas decorations from Home Sense, priced from £2.99

A traditional gold leaf effect 9 light pendant, featuring ornate scroll detail with facetted glass crystal droplets from B&Q

Revel in cool luxury on those misty nights with this stunning colourway from the Arthouse ‘Bijoux’ range. Priced £20.00 per roll from Arthouse

8 I www.thimagazine.com

Cool contemporary colours of aqua and stone, camel and teal... Perfect for the cooler months or for adding a breath of fresh air to a seaside themed home

Beautiful Buys HOME IDEAS

This casual and comfortable Fairmont sofa with fibre filled seat and back cushions, with oak-coloured legs is shown in Fleur Duck Egg. Available from Laura Ashley

This Autonno console table is made of wood and finished in gold leaf, with the top covered in a layer of glass. A luxurious and stunning piece that will add a sophisticated feel to its surroundings.

Available from Ivory Pearl Interiors (Matching mirror, and chair also available separately)

Dobbies Gold Heart Frame £6.00, Mini Glass Bauble in Gold £3.99 for 16 and crackled gold glass heart £1.99 from Tesco Direct

Teal Damask cushion from Asda Home, and Snowflake cushion with hessian front, stencilled with silver snowflakes is from Stencil Haus Designs.

Wykeham in Summer Blue colourway priced around £55.00 per metre - A stunning contemporary damask created by French designer Serge Maury. Available from Lewis & Wood I Traditional Homes & Interiors I 9

REAL HOMES Lemore Manor

Enjoying the Fruits of Their

10 I www.thimagazine.com

Lemore Manor REAL HOMES

Labour

For some people renovating a property can be a stressful experience and one which puts huge pressure on everyone involved.

F

or Ben, Margaret and their family, rescuing a dilapidated country home only served to bring them closer together. The couple, made up of husband and wife team Ben and Margaret and their three children Rosemary, William and Pierce, bought the run-down Lemore Manor estate in Herefordshire six years ago, and after spending months transforming it into the perfect family home, are finally enjoying the fruits of their labour.

Lemore or Lower Moor as it was originally known, first appears in the history books in reference to it being purchased by George Coke, D.D., the Bishop of Hereford in 1640. The Bishop had originally hoped to use the building to replace a small priory that had previously occupied the site, but Lemore soon became a residence for the family to enjoy instead.

The Manor was passed down through the generations of the Coke family until the 1930s. After that it went through various incarnations, most recently being used as a residential care home before closing its doors completely in 2002.

By the time Ben and Margaret discovered Lemore in the summer of 2007, the once grand manor house had stood empty and neglected for five years and was crying out for a touch of TLC. With 15 bedrooms, acres of grounds and huge living areas on the ground floor, this was a project which was definitely not for the faint hearted.

I Traditional Homes & Interiors I 11

REAL HOMES Lemore Manor Lemore Manor’s second sitting room offers views across the rear gardens and its soft neutral colour scheme deliberately echoes the palette of this outdoor space.

12 I www.thimagazine.com

Lemore Manor REAL HOMES

I Traditional Homes & Interiors I 13

His cheeks are as a bed of spices, as sweet flowers: hi

MOORCROFT M

oorcroft, living the passion for RHS Chelsea 2013 as both historic institutions celebrate a centenary of wonder in floral visions.

These designs are inspirations of the Design Studio of Moorcroft as the world famous art pottery celebrates her centenary year in a blaze of colours and superb artistry. You will find all of these designs hidden in a table in Stoke-onTrent City Council’s Silver Medal winning Transformation Garden, and for those that simply want to take Chelsea home with them following

the spectacular gardening celebration as the iconic RHS Chelsea Flower Show reaches its 100th anniversary at the Royal Hospital, these five limited designs are available to purchase locally at the Moorcroft Heritage Visitor Centre, Sandbach Road, Burslem.

Munstead Munstead Wood Wood Limited Limited Edition Edition 50 50 Height: Height: 25cm 25cm

Venetian Venetian Bride Bride Limited Limited Edition Edition 50 50 Height: Height: 17.5cm 17.5cm

Polka Polka Dot Dot Polly Polly Limited Limited Edition Edition 100 100 Height: Height: 28cm 28cm

Colorado Colorado Limited Limited Edition Edition 50 50 Width: Width: 20cm 20cm

Kew Kew Gardens Gardens Limited Limited Edition Edition 100 100 Height: Height: 10cm 10cm

li R

T p C I w ÂŁ 3

s: his lips like lilies, dropping sweet smelling myrrh.

T

ry

living the passion for the RHS Chelsea Flower Show This table, which takes nearly 3 weeks to hand make, tubeline and paint the tiles alone retails for £9,680. Members of the Moorcroft Collectors’ Club receive a 10% discount. discount.Traditional Traditional Homes and Interiors readers will get a free Club Membership for one year with their purchase of this table at a Collectors’ Club price of £8,712. Quote Cluboffer/JunetradH. This offer closes on the 31st August 2013.

Purchase any piece from this Transformation Garden Collection at the Moorcroft Heritage Visitor Centre and receive a signed copy of the new book by Neil Swindells ‘Behind the Glaze’ which gives a fascinating insight into the famous patriarch of the company, William Moorcroft (1872 – 1945) and one year’s membership of the Moorcroft Collectors’ Club (together worth £60). Quote TradHbookoffer13 to activate this offer. Offer expires on the 31stst August 2013

www.moorcroft.com

W. Moorcroft Ltd, Sandbach Road, Burslem, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire ST6 2DQ, England.

Telephone: 01782 820500 Email: enquiries@moorcroft.com

REAL HOMES Lemore Manor This is one of the property’s most breathtaking bathrooms with a large modern shower and a free-standing roll top bath where you can relax and take in the views across Lemore’s adjoining coach house.

Bedroom 10, named after Lemore’s former owner, Bishop Coke, has three picture windows looking out towards the distant Black Mountains and a fully working fireplace to keep guests warm as they enjoy the view.

Visitors to Lemore can take a piece of the countryside back home with them, with a bar of handmade Lemore soap, sourced from a local supplier.

16 I www.thimagazine.com

“The house really was in a sorry state when Ben and I first found it,” said Margaret. ”It was heartbreaking to see a property with so much history and style being left to just rot away. Lemore Manor desperately needed rescuing and we knew we were the ones to do it.”

Ben and Margaret officially became the owners of Lemore Manor in August 2007 and, in just three months of literally working day and night, were able to transform the property beyond all recognition.

Having being used as a residential care home for the best part of the past two decades, the layout and design of Lemore Manor had been completely altered and was no longer functional as a family home.

“The ground floor was made up of

Lemore Manor REAL HOMES

bedrooms and bathrooms with thick concrete ramps running throughout,” explained Margaret. “Almost all of the property’s architectural features had also been hidden and we had no choice but to basically gut the place and start working from the ground up.”

The first priority was to take down all of the temporary partition walls that had transformed the house into a care home and re-open the existing space, including the large entrance hall which had been blocked to create several smaller lobbies.

From there, the Owens worked room by room, stripping the property of its care home identity and exposing its original architecture and design.

“Lemore’s character had been completely whitewashed to create the care home,”

Margaret said. “All of the fireplaces had been blocked, strip lights had been hung in every room and even the doors had been covered with plasterboard.”

One of the couple’s biggest challenges was the artex that covered the ceilings of every room in the house. They had originally planned to sand the artex away but that proved too costly in terms of money and time, with each room taking a week and several sanders to complete.

With regret, the couple chose instead to re-plaster and cover up their unsightly homage to the 1970s, a hardship which was only appeased when they began ripping up the carpets to reveal layers of boarding and eventually the original elm wood floorboards underneath.

Despite the daunting task ahead, Ben and Margaret chose to manage the entire project themselves, juggling busy work and family lives with overseeing every aspect of the restoration works, from budgets and purchasing, to recruiting labourers and setting completion deadlines.

They even moved their family into Lemore’s coach house so they could stay on-site at all times, often putting in 20 hour days and surviving on just two or three hours sleep a night.

“It wasn’t the easiest three months of our lives,” said Margaret .

“It certainly wasn’t the most relaxing. As we were completely committed to Lemore Manor from the very beginning, and once we’d started, there was no way we were going to stop.”

I Traditional Homes & Interiors I 17

Lemore Manor REAL HOMES The majestic Lemore Manor sits just outside the black and white village of Eardisley in Herefordshire.

Throughout the project Ben and Margaret worked alongside their army of local labourers and were actively involved in every aspect of the build, from sanding the floors, to wiring chandeliers and plastering walls, a fact which has give them a real sense of achievement and ownership of this historic country home.

Margaret also took responsibility for all of the interior décor, personally measuring every window and choosing fabrics to create curtains for each. She also picked every paint, opting to use only products from Farrow and Ball, to help create a real sense of togetherness and flow throughout the property.

Much of the furniture featured in the house was also discovered by Margaret herself, with the committed mum of three travelling to a number of local auctions and often buying worn and tired pieces which she took the time to refurbish and restore.

This great attention to detail has served well in bringing together the modern fixtures and fittings that make a family home usable, with the country house colours and design that pay homage to the property’s character and history.

“I was really keen to give a homely, traditional feel to the house, without covering it entirely in antiques,” Margaret said.

The front entrance of Lemore Manor, with the property’s signature golden dog crest visible above

I Traditional Homes & Interiors I 19

REAL HOMES Lemore Manor “At the end of the day, Lemore was never designed to be a show-home and we wanted to make it somewhere that was practical for us to live in but still had a sense of history and stature.”

Margaret and Ben’s biggest triumph at Lemore Manor is arguably the large family kitchen, with a contemporary and welcoming space being created from what was once two ground floor bedrooms. This particular room is very deliberately designed

20 I www.thimagazine.com

to be the hub of the home and offers a place where the family can come together to cook and share the stories of their day.

The dining room, which was also formerly two separate bedrooms, offers a more formal eating space and houses a solid 40-seater table, where guests can relax surrounded by a warming décor of burgundy and aubergine.

Another former downstairs bedroom has been transformed into the Owen’s library room where they can relax together

overlooking the garden, while the former care home kitchen that once occupied the basement, has become a practical games room where the children can relax and have fun with their friends.

Upstairs, each of Lemore’s 15 bedrooms have been stripped and redecorated, with new plumbing and electrics being installed to allow for the modernised en-suite bathrooms. In honour of the property’s history, the bedrooms have also been

Lemore Manor REAL HOMES named after Bishop Coke and several of his predecessors and successors dating as far back as 688 AD. Outside, where there was once overgrown shrubbery, grass and an extremely dirty lake, there is now acres of landscaped gardens, which are flooded with natural light thanks to the removal of the large Leylandii trees which once surrounded the property.

From the very beginning the vision for Lemore was to transform it not just

into a stunning home Ben, Margaret and their three children, but also to create a place where other people could enjoy the experience of a historic country house through renting it from the couple for holiday lets and private parties.

The couple had to overcome a number of unique challenges to make that dream a reality, from the kitchen being delivered to the wrong address, to the fact that the lorries delivering furniture and materials

couldn’t manoeuvre down their long narrow driveway, but they managed to conquer them all with a smile and create a light, spacious and comforting setting, for all aspects of social and family life.

The couple have already received dozens of enquiries from people keen to use Lemore Manor to host their own gatherings and events and the Owen’s are only too happy to share the home they all worked so-hard to create.

The large country style kitchen, fully equipped with the latest modern conveniences, is the hub of the home.

I Traditional Homes & Interiors I 21

EXPERT ADVICE Create the Look

Create the Look

Love at first sight Glass candle holder with heart, £4.00 each from The Contemporary Home

Kensington Knole sofa from Artistic Upholstery

French crested overmantel mirror from The Old Cinema, priced £1,150.00

And So To Bed’s ‘Sage’ is a classic 1920’s bed, shown here in brass with an antiqued finish. Also available in a polished nickel finish. Priced £1,995.00 for a 5 foot, and £2,375.00 in polished nickel

22 I www.thimagazine.com

This Classic Travertine stone floor is available from Floors of Stone

Create the Look EXPERT ADVICE

This Georgian Bone China kitchen is available from Johnson & Johnson Furniture Plc

Traditional or contemporary, the new Laura Ashley 5KW multi-fuel stoves look as harmonious in a farmhouse inglenook as they will in a newly built town house. Priced ÂŁ698.00 from Ludlow Stoves Ltd

Vienna and Vermont bed linen collection from The Fine Cotton Company

Traditional bathroom suite, Londonia range from Pangea Bathroom with brick effect tiles and cast iron slipper bath. Priced ÂŁ2,848.00 I Traditional Homes & Interiors I 23

REAL HOMES 18th Century Stone Farmhouse

From the Ridiculous to the Sublime 24 I www.thimagazine.com

18th Century Stone Farmhouse REAL HOMES

When Monica and Peter moved into their 18th Century Stone farmhouse it was rather like going from the ridiculous to the sublime.

I Traditional Homes & Interiors I 25

REAL HOMES 18th Century Stone Farmhouse

T

he last house they owned was so tiny that, even after being extended, it used to burst at the seams whenever family and friends arrived. Their present home can, and frequently does, handle dozens of party guests without a squeak of complaint and is a home-from-home for their grownup children, Jonathan, Christopher and Gemma. At Christmas, and in early summer when Monica opens her one acre garden up for village drinks, huge numbers of people can be accommodated with ease.

It was this space and potential for entertaining that immediately attracted the hospitable Monica to the house when she first saw it, thirteen years ago. As a born cook, hostess and homemaker, she positively relished the size and number of

In the breakfast area, the table came from a local pine shop. The two, “palm tree,� candlesticks were found at a factory shop, John Jenkins of Nyewood, West Sussex.

The German porcelain tea set came from the Army & Navy Stores.

26 I www.thimagazine.com

REAL HOMES 18th Century Stone Farmhouse Beside the vast inglenook fireplace stand two chairs, which Monica was given “as wrecks” and has since re-upholstered. The sofas and curtains are in a striped fabric

by Sanderson while the coffee table was bought many years ago in Bentalls.

rooms at her disposal. “I knew, as soon as I walked through the front door, that this was the place for us.”

She adds, “I love the beams, which add character without being oppressive, and the rooms are light, airy and perfect for entertaining. For my husband’s birthday, and to ‘launch’ the new conservatory six years ago, we invited a hundred guests, and didn’t feel at all squashed.”

When the house came on the market, it had already been improved quite radically.

“The previous owner, an old lady, had loved the garden but neglected the house. When she died, her son sold it to a developer, who modernised it,” says Monica. Not only did the developers install a new kitchen and bathrooms, but they also took the imaginative step of exposing the boardedup fireplace in the sitting room. “It’s a vast inglenook with a bread oven,” says Monica.

“We just lay logs straight onto the brick hearth and it draws incredibly well.” As the couple had previously renovated their old cottage, at great expense and effort, they were extremely pleased that their new home was clean, warm and immediately able to be lived in. “To walk into a house that only needed redecorating was wonderful,” admits Monica. The only major improvement they had to make was to install a shower in the main, en-suite bathroom and expose the beams in a guest room.

Monica lost no time in stamping her own decorative mark on the rooms, however.

A hands-on type of person, she repainted most of the walls and woodwork herself, including the kitchen and its cupboards. “I love the fact that you can change a room just with a lick of paint,” she confesses. “If I don’t like one colour, I can re-decorate it in a day! Being fairly impatient, I hate spending

28 I www.thimagazine.com

18th Century Stone Farmhouse REAL HOMES

I Traditional Homes & Interiors I 29

REAL HOMES 18th Century Stone Farmhouse

A local builder built the conservatory, using local stone as the house is in a conservation area. All the wicker furniture came from Cargo HomeShop with botanical cushions from John Lewis. To continue the stone theme, Monica chose stone-coloured, ceramic floor tiles.

30 I www.thimagazine.com

18th Century Stone Farmhouse REAL HOMES

“I like white kitchens,” admits Monica, who used brilliant white for the kitchen walls, but warmed it with terracotta floor tiles and units painted in Dulux Farmhouse Beige. The gas and electric range is by Britannia Range Cooker Company. Beside the kitchen door stands a painted chair, which Monica rescued from a tip and renovated.

weeks on a job or waiting for painters to turn up.” As she believes that strong colours are too restrictive in a house, she always chooses neutral walls and floors, keeping the deeper shades for her pictures, books or plants – all items that can be easily changed.

Monica also tackled most of the curtains herself, and, after taking a class in the subject, now undertakes all the upholstery, too. “I particularly like stripping back old, French chairs to show their real beauty,” she says. “I also enjoy doing traditional upholstery and have made all the headboards for the beds.”

As the family had moved from a tiny cottage with smaller rooms, into a more spacious property, much of their existing furniture looked lost. The exception was the antique, dining room table which “we could never extend in our old house, because the room was too small,” says Monica. She is now delighted that, for special occasions, it can be fully opened out in order to seat up to twelve guests.

Much of her other furniture was bought in antiques shops or at auction. “I went to a Chichester auction rooms for various pieces,” she remembers, “and found the

THE PROPERTY

Location: Hampshire Building: Stone farmhouse with medieval origins, but “modernised” in the 17th and 18th centuries.

Rooms: Hall, sitting room, dining room, cloakroom, library, snooker room, conservatory, kitchen with breakfast area, utility room, five bedrooms, four bathrooms ( three en-suite).

I Traditional Homes & Interiors I 31

REAL HOMES 18th Century Stone Farmhouse The extendable dining room table, which is Victorian mahogany, was found at Bourne Mill Antiques in Farnham and can seat up to twelve guests. The dinner service is Fleur de Lys by Spode and the silver cutlery is in the Bead design by George Butler. Walls are painted in Salisbury Stone by Dulux and the curtains were adapted from others found at The Curtain Agency in Farnham.

THE OWNERS Monica and Peter

Occupation: Peter runs his own motor dealerships and Monica is a skilled upholsterer.

Favourite room: “The sitting room,” says Monica, “because it doesn’t have a television set! It also has a wonderful old fireplace, which brings the room alive. Altogether it is a very relaxing, calming place.”

Behind the sitting room sofa stands a fine pine dresser, bought from auctioneers, Strides & Son. pine dresser in the sitting room, which I bought because I felt sorry for it! No-one was bidding and I only paid around £100.

It gives me a real buzz to deal at auction.”

Market stalls in French towns and villages are also a magnet for Monica when she is on holiday. As she freely admits, “I love odd chairs and mis-matched pieces. Nothing too deliberately styled. If I see something I like, I’ll buy it, and I love things that remind me of places I’ve visited.”

The house, especially the generous size of the rooms and the sloping garden, has proved a total success for Monica and her husband. As she explains, “I like having people around me and enjoy entertaining, as it is a good excuse to try out meals on people! This house already had a very friendly feel to it. The vicar even says it is haunted by a friendly ghost! It’s a house that actually needs people in order to make it come alive.”

32 I www.thimagazine.com

Monica re-upholstered the headboard and the chairs herself. The headboard is in a chintz fabric from the Floral Harmony 3 range by Warner Fabrics. Taking her colour cues from the fabrics, she painted the bedroom walls in Dulux Hebridean Mist, from the Calm range.

or call 01777 869 669.

Tel: 01777 869 669 Web: www.revivalbeds.co.uk BEDS

●

BEDROOM FURNITURE

●

MATTRESSES

●

BEDDING

The luxury of beautiful fine cotton bedding is something to relish and enjoy. We offer a comprehensive collection of sheets, duvet covers, pillow cases and other items, with a personal monogram and embroidery service, giving you the chance to create an experience only found in the great houses, hotels and palaces of the world.

View our sumptuous range at: www.peterreed.com

Tel : +44(0)1282 616069

EXPERT ADVICE Create the Look

Create the Look

Love at first sight This Hahn pot rack is perfect for hanging away those bulky pots, pans and utensils and you can even hang herbs and garlic to add a homely feel to your kitchen, from Silvernutmeg

Isabelle bed linen from Dorma

Gothic lantern available from Jim Lawrence

This classic shaker style kitchen in a cream hand painted finish is available from Simon Taylor. Kitchens are priced from around ÂŁ30,000

This beautiful Denbigh chair from Laura Ashley is perfect for a relaxing read

34 I www.thimagazine.com

Create the Look EXPERT ADVICE Townsend extending table and four chairs with two carvers from Furniture Village

As a dedicated woodburner the Dovre 2300CB is equally at home as a built-in fireplace with a sophisticated convection system or in a dramatic inglenook.

Available from Stovax Limited

Timber conservatories and Orangeries built to compliment the property bringing the garden into your home. Bespoke designs

by Cristal Clear Limited

B C Sanitan Belgravia suite from Jacuzzi I Traditional Homes & Interiors I 35

DESIGN TALK Kitchens

BESPOKE KITCHENS Have you imagined walking into a room that has been specially created with your lifestyle in mind?

A

design that has made the most of every inch of available space, with cabinets, shelves and drawers exactly where you want them. With a company that makes truly bespoke kitchen, bedroom, bathroom and study furniture you can achieve these results.

So what is a ‘truly bespoke kitchen?’

The cabinets and appliances will be designed to suit your personal requirements, furniture is made to fill the room rather than trying to fit standard sized units into the space. This is a real benefit as it means you will be able to maximise every available part of the room without having to compromise on the design.

A truly bespoke kitchen looks like furniture rather than units; each individual part has its own personality and makes a statement.

Many companies offer ‘bespoke’ furniture but often they may have restrictions on design, if you find a truly bespoke company they will have no pre-determined sized cabinets so you can have whatever size, style and finish you want.

36 I www.thimagazine.com

‘Why should you choose bespoke, where does it make the difference?’

Many of us will have experienced the disappointment when something that we have hankered for isn’t quite what we expected, maybe it didn’t fit well or the colour wasn’t quite right and you have had to ‘make do’.

This is where bespoke furniture comes into its own its the opportunity to have something really unique and personalised – the furniture is designed just for you, not for someone else and not for the masses, so it allows the chance to have something really individual. Some compare bespoke furniture to buying a suit; there are many suits of varying quality and prices that can be brought ‘off the peg’, but nothing compares to having a tailormade suit, that is made exactly to your requirements and fits perfectly.

Whether it’s the larder with the shelving, drawers and cold shelf influenced by childhood memories, or a dramatic piece of furniture that gives a ‘wow factor, we all have our dreams and aspirations and going the bespoke route allows these to become a reality.

Aside from realising dreams, there are other reasons that bespoke furniture can make a real difference; with period properties where there are uneven walls, low ceilings or very high ceilings, protruding beams or other features that need to be incorporated into a design, there are few ‘standard’ kitchens that will be able to make the most or the space.

With bespoke companies the design will be able to incorporate these intricacies.

Ultimately the difference is in the overall design, look, quality, feel and touch of the finished product. Some mass-produced furniture can look very similar in isolation but when put together as complete pieces of furniture there is no comparison.

‘Planning your bespoke kitchen’

Most bespoke kitchen companies have designers to assist with planning and design.

However, there is some preparation work that is worth doing; It is easy to focus on the ‘nice elements’ first and become wrapped up in the end look and forget some of the practicalities, so ..before starting to look at colours, finishes

Kitchens DESIGN TALK This beautiful white painted bespoke kitchen is available from Chamber Furniture

This beautiful hand painted kitchen in a classic shaker style has chamfer detail on the doors and pillars. A tall, vented larder with wicker baskets, a breakfast bar with wooden top and large wooden knobs was designed and installed by Simon Taylor Kitchens to the client’s exact requirements and styles think about how the kitchen will be used. Will it be an area for preparation and storage of food, a working kitchen or more the hub of the home with a dining area and family room? Consider how often you entertain and whether or not you do lots of cooking? This will be useful in determining how much workspace you will need, what appliances are required and whether or not seating areas need to be incorporated into the design.

Next look at who will be using the kitchen. Are there any special requirements for family members? It is important that the kitchen suits your needs.

Having worked out who will be using the kitchen its time to plan what type of storage is required? – It can be useful to make a list of the type of appliances, utensils, pans, chinaware, glassware and food that are to be stored – is there a need to incorporate deep drawers to accommodate large preserving pans? Does glassware need to be displayed?

Do you need to incorporate space for recycling?

When it comes to accommodating items, whether you have drawers, tall cabinets, wall cabinets or open shelving, think about how you like to store items, do you prefer pull out storage to maximise use of space

and minimise having to bend and reach too much, or perhaps you prefer a traditional larder with cold shelf, baskets, drawers and spice racks. A useful resource is your current kitchen and those of friends and relatives, are there features that you particularly like and would want to incorporate into the new design? Experienced designers will tell you that taking time at the design stage to plan storage definitely saves the frustration of have a gorgeous looking kitchen with nowhere to store anything!

Finally, having built up a plan of what needs to be included in the design, it’s now time to think about the overall look, finish and style of your furniture and appliances.

Spend time in the room, is it light or dark?

Are there any features, such as beams, high or low ceilings, changes in floor levels etc that will have an impact on the design? Bringing all these elements together helps to visualise what the finished style and starts to build up a picture of likes and dislikes. An older property doesn’t have to have a traditional kitchen, if done sympathetically it can make a focal point without detracting from the overall style of the home.

Armoured with all this information your designer will be able to create your plan and the dream can start to become a reality.

This Cherry wood kitchen with shaker style doors is complimented with granite worktops and is completed with Crema Marfil tiles on the floor. Designed and installed by Simon Taylor Kitchens I Traditional Homes & Interiors I 37

DESIGN TALK Bedrooms

The Role of Traditional Cabinet Made Furniture in Today’s World “We can’t solve problems by using the same kind of thinking we used when we created them.” Einstein

Stained and distressed bedroom furniture from Chamber Furniture

38 I www.thimagazine.com

Bespoke bedroom storage from Chamber Furniture

T

here are so many issues in the modern world which warrant concern and we all have an awareness of our impact on the world. Ten years ago would anyone have understood what you meant if you started talking about carbon footprint? In the UK cultural awareness of our environmental impact is advanced beyond that of the United States, but perhaps still behind Australia.

Every aspect of our lifestyle seems to be under environmental scrutiny and how we live in it.

With the current economic climate puts yet further pressure on our choices and this applies to furniture as it does your choice of car or electrical product.

For example awareness of the Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC) approved plantations. With many manufacturers marketing the use of responsibly harvested timbers, from toilet role to MDF used in furniture, is pushed to the forefront of marketing efforts. Does that little green stamp ease your commendable concern? In many cases it should not, we are now more aware of the energy life cycle analysis of everything we use, it is the only true measure of our impact of the goods and services we consume and use.

So for example veneered chipboard or painted MDF with a friendly green tree stamp does not make it an environmentally friendly product.

MDF goes through 3 x 200 degree C high pressure steam mulching processes, with, in many cases formaldehyde with glues and resin, far from green!

A traditional view of ‘buy right once’ holds many truths and offers reductions in our consumption and our carbon footprint. Life cycle analysis can be applied to furniture and how long we use it and keep it. This raises the question over how well made our furniture is,

Bedrooms DESIGN TALK The Maple curved bedroom furniture by Johnson & Johnson Furniture illustrates how traditional materials and contemporary design can be combined to create a classic style bedroom

This beautiful bespoke Wordsworth sleigh bed is available from Heirloom Beds Ltd and will it last a lifetime?

Ask yourself of all the furniture you have bought during your lifetime how much of it will you have in your twilight years? Now ask yourself how much do you think would be traditionally made solid wood cabinet constructed furniture? It is far more likely to offer twilight year service, but why?

Modern production techniques are driven by the need to produce everything more efficiently. Time is money after all and furniture on the high street in far too many cases utilises veneered, man made wood based materials and is simply glued screwed or dowelled and made to look perfect on the surface (beauty is only skin deep). The fact remains as is proven by every surviving antique piece of furniture, solid wood is infinitely stronger, durable, beautiful and even repairable!

This brings us to understanding how we construct solid wood furniture to make it last a lifetime. Many feel a surface split or a warp means the wood used in a piece of furniture poor quality, when in actual fact it makes it wood. All woods are a natural product and as such will always respond to the environmental conditions it is in; swelling, shrinking, splitting, warping are all signs of this. That original Victorian front door that one morning you find is jamming or the Oak beams that are split and warped and all the better for it, it’s a natural occurrence.

This brings us to the traditional methods to reduce the natural movement of wood in our homes, but also how to accommodate it so that you own infinitely stronger, durable, more beautiful, and even repairable furniture.

Starting with the raw timber, it would be dried by either air drying, kiln drying or both, as each timber has specific requirements. This is done to remove water from the timber and

the cellulose structure is drawn closer together, so that it is closer to the humidity level of your home. In many cases the timber is (should be) kiln dried. This speeds up the process, but also brings the moisture level below the level that air drying will give (bear in mind the home is dryer than outside your front door). In the case of swietenia mahogany for example it should be 6-8%MH, it will naturally rise again to a certain degree, but will remain below the MH level it went in. Cabinet construction techniques are employed to accommodate the natural movement of the wood in your furniture due to changes in its environment.

For those of you with a lot of valuable antiques, you may have a humidifier that controls your room’s humidity level and no doubt you are careful to maintain a very controlled constant temperature, so as not to allow movement to occur.

We are not going to go into lengthy descriptions about each technique used in cabinet constructed furniture that requires a long book and many have been written, but a key example is the floating panel. Used in the base of a chest of drawers, often as fielded panel (with a bevelled edge) it normally covers a larger area and is situated within an internally routed recess in a mortise tenon jointed frame.

This allows it room to expand into and contract, without showing daylight between the frame and panel. Next time you visit an antique centre or shop have a look in a drawer base. You will find a floating panel, often with rear exposed, out of the frame with a screw at the back, allowing you to loosen it and move the panel forward should it have contracted the screw being tightened afterwards.

A general description for cabinet joints is that they place points of contact between pieces of wood, so as to offer opposing force where

required. They are constructed to be as strong as the wood used.

Now as natural timber has far greater strength as well as other benefits already mentioned, a traditionally jointed cabinet therefore, is going to be stronger than any veneered chipboard or MDF. This brings us back to the role of traditionally made furniture in today’s world.

With so much mass produced furniture using man made wood based materials requiring higher energy requirements to manufacture, that is not as strong as natural wood, and does not last as long has become a seemingly consumable product. The energy required to

“Everything should be made as simple as possible, but not simpler.” Einstein manufacture them exceeds that of solid wood (especially if kiln drying utilises off cuts and sawdust as its fuel) and they are often replaced.

This means multiple carbon footprints for the same functional piece of furniture, a bed is a perfect example.

So as my granddad used to say ‘buy right once’ solid wood traditionally cabinet jointed furniture will save you money and help the environment. We can manufacture modern minimalist contemporary to traditional reproduction furniture this way. Our demand for this type of furniture would encourage the expansion of plantations, variety of trees grown and give a value to land that could exceed the revenue from competing less environmentally friendly harvests. Palm Oil often used for bio diesel for example, but that is another discussion.

I Traditional Homes & Interiors I 39

EXPERT ADVICE The Sleep Event

The Return of Cool

Once again Sleep is ahead of the pack by attracting the industry names that everyone wants to see and hear.

T

opping the conference bill this year is entrepreneur Ian Schrager, co-founder of Studio 54 nightclub and originator of the boutique hotel concept in the 80s as well as many other groundbreaking ‘modern lifestyle’ concepts which have revolutionised the hospitality industry.

Returning to London a month after opening his latest creation, the EDITION hotel in London’s Fiztrovia, Schrager will join conference moderator Guy Dittrich on stage for a candid conversation on the first day of the conference. On the previous evening, Schrager will be honoured with the Outstanding Contribution Award at the European Hotel Design Awards.

Joining Ian Schrager in the two-day line up will be Inge Moore, Principal at HBA London and winner of Gold Key Awards Interior Designer of the Year 2013, sharing her views along with Chris Boulton of Yoo and Arlett Oehichen from HVS in a discussion that looks at the influence of high-end residential and retail design on the luxury hospitality sector. Javier Hortal of Mandarin Oriental participates in a debate The conference programme explores fresh frontiers in hotel design with topics selected to spark audiences’ imaginations. In a session on ‘Contemplative Design’ audiences are invited to discover how to create experiences that offer an antidote to the hectic pace of 21st century living.

One of the most sought after components

40 I www.thimagazine.com

of the Conference is the Round Tables – a chance for delegates to talk with selected industry influencers and decision makers as they move around the tables. This year’s roll call of hosts includes: Robin Sheppard of Bespoke Hotels, Felicity Black-Roberts of Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Nigel Buchanan of Yotel, Paul Callingham from Starboard Hotels, Peter Tisdale of That Group, Bruce Robertson of South Place Hotel and Invesco’s Lisa Neubueser. And for those seeking a further opportunity to quiz the experts, the conference concludes with ‘Question Time!’ where Anna Goodrich of Hyatt, Dexter Moren from DMA, Marriott’s Rajiv Puri and Charles Leon of CLA will be on stage to address questions from the audience.

Meanwhile, the Sleep Hotel designers continue to refine and develop their designs for the built-room sets imagining a suite in a hotel originally constructed during the Pop Art era in the 1960s. The winning concept will be revealed at a drinks reception on the first evening of Sleep in the Sleep Hotel Bar, the hotspot where the industry’s movers and shakers mix and mingle. Sleep Hotel judge Anthony Ingham, VP - Luxury & Design Brands EMEA of Starwood Hotels, says: “Sleep Hotel celebrates innovation in our sector and pushes the hotel industry to remain at the forefront of cutting-edge design. Strong, forward-thinking design has never been more important in the hotel business than it is today and this event ensures that both designers and hoteliers

continue to push the boundaries to create advancements in design that reflect the changing needs and requirements of today’s travellers.”

Alongside the conference and Sleep Hotel is the Sleep exhibition where 130 participating companies will showcase their newest products and services, with exhibitors confirmed from Hong Kong and America as well as across Europe.

Especially exciting is that for the first time, all the events - the exhibition, the CPDaccredited conference and Sleep Hotel - are free to attend for all visitors pre-registering online, with a handful of exclusive sessions requiring pre-booking. Full conference details together with registration are now available on the event website.

The European Hotel Design Awards, with which Sleep is closely affiliated, is widely acknowledged as the foremost pan-European hotel architecture and design awards programme. Currently in its 16th year, the shortlist includes boutique gems such as the Brimstone at Langdale, Cumbria, entered

by Unwin Jones Partnership; ION Luxury Adventure Hotel in Iceland from Minarc Architects; and The Thief in Oslo, Norway.

A gallery at the exhibition will feature the winning entries, revealed at the awards dinner on Tuesday 19th November, at the Park Plaza, Westminster Bridge, London.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT: www.thesleepevent.com

A British love affair At Hypnos each Royally Approved bed is individually handmade by master craftsmen using the finest natural materials to guarantee years of sumptuous and rejuvenating slumber. So, to be sure that you have the very best night’s sleep and awake feeling revitalised and refreshed, visit a Hypnos Retailer and choose a Hypnos bed that’s just right for you.

www.hypnosbeds.com

2435 Traditional Homes Ad 130x90 aw.indd 1

15/11/2013 10:08

HOME IDEAS Heating

Heating your home The heating of homes in the UK has evolved over the years in line with the available technology and products. by John Griggs

O

riginally, heat would have been provided around a campfire fuelled by whatever local burnable substances could found such as wood, peat, straw, dead animals etc. As homes became more substantial permanent heating sources such as fireplaces were constructed along with flues and some form of crude controls such as dampers and vents. Left to our own devices, the British would probably have continued to develop the fireplace at a slow pace. However, when we were invaded by the Romans, they introduced us to the delights of underfloor heating, piped water supplies and rainwater harvesting. When the Roman Empire collapsed, we did not develop these new technologies, but conservatively returned to fireplaces in draughty buildings. Unlike other countries, the UK does not embrace new technology enthusiastically and so we tend to be very slow to change the way we live.

Since the Industrial revolution in the UK coal had become the main fuel for space heating and producing hot water. Coal was cheap easy to store and readily available.

Up until the late 1950s virtually all gas was produced from coal so it would normally be more expensive than coal. It was not until the early 1960s that household gas consumption started to increase as the whole country had its gas infrastructure renewed to take advantage of the windfall of North Sea gas.

To counter the increasing use of gas, adverts for solid fuel devices became common. An example from 1969 is shown.

42 I www.thimagazine.com

Typical heating advert in the late 1960s

Heating HOME IDEAS The reduced gas prices and introduction of domestic ‘Central Heating’ boilers and low cost steel radiators started the boom in domestic central heating systems. Intense TV advertising advocating gaining the freedom of your home through gas central heating lead to a massive growth in radiator and gas boiler central heating systems. The publication of the Parker Morris ‘Standards’ in 1961 had included the following requirement: • Dwellings should be fitted with heating systems that maintain the kitchen and circulation space at 13 degrees Celsius, and the living and dining spaces at 18 °C, when the external temperature is −1 °C. This was interpreted as a fundamental requirement for any home and lead to the demand for central heating in new buildings and increasingly in older homes. As anyone with a house built in the 1960s or 70s will tell you, homes built then may have had good heating systems, but they did not have good insulation and tended to be poorly built.

Those in areas not served by the Gas Grid tended to use oil for heating, as that too was cheap, but as the various oil crises hit the UK the price of oil rose above the UK gas price and the number of oil fired central hating

systems started to decline.

Today we are in a recession along with rising energy prices, so from a financial point of view it makes sense to have as efficient a heating system as possible. The first question to ask about your heating system is: ‘What is my heating system heating?’

You need the system to heat the water, that you want as hot water, and the inside of your home so that it is comfortable.

However, you may find that much of your system is actually heating the outside air, your cold water supply and the unoccupied parts of your home such as the attic. The current HHIC campaign ‘Hole in the Roof ’ emphasises this situation by likeing most UK homes to one with a significant hole where heat escapes (www.holeintheroof.org. uk). This interactive website enables anyone to learn about how current technology can improve their home, how much it might cost and what savings you could expect. It also mentions the Government’s Green Deal.

Although we have been looking at developments in the UK, the problem of inefficient heating systems is not limited to just the UK. Hence, within Europe a Directive has been issued to address the problem. The Energy Performance of

The HHIC’s Hole in the roof website provides lots of easy to digest information on modern heating options and the best ways to make your home energy efficient.

Buildings Directive (2002/91/EC) has had a major impact and has spawned a number of related Directives, Regulations and actions; in the UK the Green Deal is the Government’s main vehicle to address the issue of poor energy efficiency in the UK housing stock. The concept of the Green Deal is simple; you improve the energy efficiency of your building and as a result you should reduce your fuel bills, but instead of having to fork-out for all the costs before the efficiency measures are implemented you just pay for them over a number of years; through a charge on your energy bills that will not exceed your energy bill that you would have received if you had not had the measures installed. Although the concept is fairly simple, the practice is complicated. The main problem is that the scheme is new and does not have a track record, so predicting what will happen in the future is difficult (See http://www.ciphe.org.uk/Global/CIPHE%20 Green%20Deal%20%20May%202013.pdf ). If the Green Deal was the only scheme available it would be easier, but there are a number of others that impact and interact with the Green Deal in various ways that further complicate the situation.

The key European legislation regarding renewables is the Renewable Energy Directive(2009/28/EC) (RED) that includes a definition for energy from renewable sources: energy from renewable non-fossil sources, namely wind, solar, aerothermal, geothermal, hydrothermal and ocean energy, hydropower, biomass, landfill gas, sewage treatment plant gas and biogases.

This wide definition is clarified and reduced in each Member State’s subsequent legislation, so that appropriate technologies can be encouraged in different locations. It may be helpful to explain why burning wood and other biomass as fuel is considered to be ‘renewable’. In fact such processes are defined as ‘Carbon neutral’. This because as they grow plants and trees remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, but they only release the same amount when they are burnt (or decompose naturally on the ground).

After much debate, both in public and private, Great Britain’s Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive is being opened for applications in Spring 2014. This is to provide incentives to households to not simply replace their old gas boiler with a new high efficiency one, but to use a non-fossil fuelled appliance instead. The anticipated payments for the domestic RHI are: 7.3p/kWh for air source heat pumps; 12.2p/ kWh for biomass boilers; 18.8p/kWh for ground source heat pumps and at least 19.2 I Traditional Homes & Interiors I 43

DEMAND MORE DEMAND GRUNDFOS ALPHA2!

Since Jan 1st 2013 only the most energy efficient glandless circulators meet EuP (Energy Using Products) legislation.

Grundfos are ready – are you?

• ENERGY EFFICIENCY: ALPHA2 far exceeds the EuP legislation for 2013 saving money and energy

• PROVEN TECHNOLOGY: Over 3 million ALPHA2 circulators installed and saving energy

• AUTOADAPT: The pump is continually monitoring system conditions as they change over time and making adjustments to the pressure control settings in order to best match the system loads, as they continually change.

• QUICK & EASY TO INSTALL: ALPHA2 fits onto the same pipework as a 15-50 or 15-60 – it even fits on the same pump housing. The ALPHA2 wiring plug is at the front for your convenience.

be think innovate

For more information Web: moderncomfort.grundfos.com Email: uk-sales@grundfos.com Tel: 01525 775402

Heating HOME IDEAS p/kWh for solar thermal (12th July 2013 Greg Barker).

Although the domestic RHI is not yet operational, when it is it will also be partially retrospective. So, if you have an eligible installation that was installed since 15th July 2009, it can also be included. Along with the RHI the Government is currently running the Renewable Heat Premium Payment (RHPP) scheme that gives money towards the installation of Renewable Heat systems.

The current sums that can be claimed per household are:

Heating System

Grant

Solar thermal hot water

£600

Air-to-water heat pump

£1,300

Ground-source or water-source heat pump

£2,300

Biomass boiler

£2,000

Key factors

Possible grants/ schemes

The only RHPP grant that people in England, Scotland or Wales with mains gas can claim is for solar thermal, but people with ‘off-gas grid’ homes can apply for all the categories.

However, prerequisites for the domestic RHI and RHPP will be a Green Deal Assessment and appropriate Certification under the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS). One aim of the RHI is to ‘compensate’ people for the additional cost

Heating device/ system

Fuel consumed

Probable range of equipment cost

Wood burning stove

Logs or wood Needs sufficient pellets storage for fuel

Depends upon fuel – bio- £300-£4,300 for mass and pellet can get stove RHI if they heat water

Not all stoves can produce hot water

Solar Thermal

none

Location of collectors

RHI, Green Deal

£3k-£6k for a system

Consider combining with a PV system to also get FIT

Under floor heating

Depends on heat source

Best fitted in new constructions, but can be retrofitted.

Can also be used for cooling systems

No

2 or 3 times the cost of a radiator system

If you are using a heat pump, such a system is appropriate as it uses ‘low’ temperature hot water

Radiator based Depends on heating heat source

Can work with conventional systems and, if sized correctly, with low temperature systems

No

£1k-£3k depending Generally, the lower the upon design source water temperature the larger the surface area of the radiator.

Ground Source Electricity Heat Pump (gas in some cases)

Needs either a large area – field, or a deep borehole which can be expensive

RHI

The GSP will cost £3k-£8k, but the excavation costs are difficult to predict and can run into 10s of thousands of pounds in a few cases

Once installed, very low running costs, but the low temperature water produced may limit the production of domestic hot water and choice of space heating

Air source heat Electricity pump (gas in some cases)

Installed outside, modern units are quiet

RHI, Green Deal

£1.5k-£5k for the ASHP. In some cases a new hot water cylinder will also be required at around (£1.4k)

Performance is poorer in winter. The low temperature water produced may limit the production of domestic hot water and choice of space heating

High efficiency gas boiler

gas

Simple to replace existing boiler

Green Deal

£500-£1.5

Will consume fossil fuel, but less than an old boiler

Electric boiler / immersion heater

electricity

Can use some output from a PV array or electricity generated from non-fossil fuel sources

Generally no, but some

£300-£2.3k for electric boilers

Electric boilers are becoming popular in some situations, but immersion heaters are common in water cylinders heated by heat pumps

Biofuel feed system

biofuel

The definition of biofuels is wide, but you will need a consistent reliable supply

RHI, Green Deal

£25 to £80 for an immersion heater Will depend upon the fuel, but storage and conveyance systems can cost more than the heater

Other

Fire and Carbon Monoxide risks need to be considered when storing boifuel

I Traditional Homes & Interiors I

45

HOME IDEAS Heating of installing and running a renewable energy system compared to a conventional fossil fueled system over a period of 20 years.

By reducing the UK’s dependence upon fossil fuel a reduction in CO2 emissions should be achieved along with improved energy security and reduced dependency upon foreign energy sources.

One issue here is defining what a renewable heat source is. Solar powered heating is clearly using energy that has not originated from this planet, so Solar Thermal water heating systems are clearly renewable. A ground source heat pump uses the thermal mass of the planet as the heat source, but as any heat pump is basically a refrigerator in reverse it needs an energy supply to run and this is normally electricity.

So the heat is renewable, but the energy to run the pump will probably not be. Where a building is well insulated and electricity from renewable sources is available, the option of an electric boiler is worth considering. Such boilers range in their complexity and can include items such as hot water storage and underfloor heating controls.

So, we are now at a point where all the heating systems that have ever been invented are now available to households. Most modern incarnations of ancient systems are now very sophisticated and labour free.

For example, the modern wood burning stove will produce little, if any, ash can be fuelled automatically and can have devices that enable it to produce mains pressure hot water safely. The modern version of the Roman hypocaust uses small flexible water pipes in a highly insulated base to provide underfloor heating in suspended as well as solid floors. However, with every system there are advantages and disadvantages, so the process of choosing a suitable system can be difficult. Although your local Registered Heating Professional will be able to help you make a choice as well as design and install a system for you, you may find the matrix on the previous page helpful in narrowing down your choices.

If your home is heated by oil or nonmains-gas, the benefits of switching to a renewable heating source will be considerable, as it has been shown that such systems cost around 50% more than mains gas fuelled ones. Although heating technology has changed and improved over the years, the currently available systems are all well proven and it is unlikely that any major new technologies will come to market in the near future. Probable developments may be in the area of controls and storage –of heat and other forms of energy. The

46 I www.thimagazine.com

availability of wireless sensors and controls enables a greater number of sensing points to be easily provided that can be used to help provide better control of space heating. Links to phones are also possible so that heating can be controlled remotely.

One of the problems of renewable energy is that in the case of wind and sun it is not always available when it is needed, hence, the need to have appropriate storage of energy so that an uninterrupted supply can be provided. Large water based stores are often used, but in some cases phase change materials, chemical storage and hybrid systems can be used to minimise the storage volumes.

CIPHE is involved two European Commission funded (FP7) projects that show how future heating systems can be produced and selected. SmartHeat developed a modular renewable heating system that could be retrofit to existing heating systems.

Modules with specific phase change materials were connected physically and electronically to a water based thermal store so that different renewable heat sources (eg heat pumps and solar thermal) could be utilised optimally by a very intelligent controller.

Data from field trials can be seen on the SmartHeat website (www.smartheat.org. uk ). A current project is EAGLE where a website is being developed that will enable potential customers, and others, to enter simple address details and then receive an assessment of the suitability of the site for solar energy use, along with calculations of the financial benefits. By utilising 3D images, EAGLE takes into account not only the shape and orientation of the roof, but also shading effects throughout a year. A website showcasing the project is www.eagle-fp7.eu .

If you are content with your existing heating system and do not want a new one, are you sure that it is operating as efficiently as possible? It is good practice to have your heating appliances checked and serviced annually, but how efficient is the radiator

system?

Most people think that the liquid circulating around their radiators is water.

Although, certainly most hydronic systems will at some point have been filled with tap water, to provide an efficient heat transfer, over many years, most systems will have special additives and filters to improve the efficiency. In time the fluid in the pipes and radiators will react with the various materials in the system leading to deposits that can reduce the size of waterways and eventually cause blockages that could prevent radiators or the boiler from operating. Modern high efficiency boilers use high surface area heat exchangers that have very small waterways, so they are susceptible to blockages. To minimise the possibility of a heat exchanger blockage (and subsequent expensive replacement) there has recently been a flood onto the market of in-line filters that use magnets, and other features, to trap any debris before it can enter the heat exchanger.

These devices range in price considerably, but are typically around £100 to buy. As most central heating systems use steel radiators, and many have iron pipes, the main deposits are ion based and hence magnetic. So, a magnetic filter is a wise investment as it could save much more money than it costs.

These filters are simply emptied once a year and their connections can facilitate the connection of ‘power-flushing’ machines.

Power-flushing is a process where cleaning chemicals are circulated around various parts of your heating system in sequence, followed by a neutralizing chemical, water and finally appropriate inhibitors and additives to ensure optimum performance. Such a process is normally only carried out before installing a new boiler or when there is a known problem with the system, it is not a routine process.

Conventional central heating systems can be cleaned and flushed without a power-flusher, but draining and filling a system by gravity can be difficult and removing any air-locks

Websites of the CIPHE coordinated EC projects on the future of heating – Smartheat and EAGLE

HOME IDEAS Heating

The CIPHE Find-a-plumber webpage that only needs a postcode to locate 10 Registered plumbers in your area. can be very frustrating. The chemicals that need to be added in the right way and in the correct volumes, so this is a job that is best done by a professional who will have the know-how and all the correct tools. You can find a competent plumber and heating engineer in your area by simply entering your postcode at the Find-a-Plumber website (www.ciphe.org.uk/Find-a-Plumber). You will be instantly provided with a list of 10 local plumbers to choose from.

As homes become better insulated, the need for space heating will be reduced.

In fact, the problem of over-heating in homes is now becoming more of a problem and domestic cooling systems are being introduced. This is one area where heat pumps can have an advantage, as many of them are reversible and can be easily switched to provide cooling in the summer.

One way of reducing the heating and cooling load on a building is to use the soil. Drawing air for the building through long pipes about 2m beneath the ground tends to warm the air in winter and cool it in summer. This passive system is known as ‘earth tubes’ and in principle is maintenance free and uses no expensive energy, but some questions were raised about some early systems regarding condensation and bugs in the pipes. A modern example is shown below.

Schematic of a house with Earth Tubes for pre-heating and cooling the air

48 I www.thimagazine.com

An Earth tube connected to a mechanical ventilation and heat recovery unit (source www.rehau.com/GB_en/Building_Solutions/ Renewable_Energy/Ground-air_Heat_ Exchangers/Domestic_Installations/526312/ AWADUKT_Thermo_-_Domestic_ Installations.html ) Another way to reduce overheating and add some biodiversity to a building is to use a green roof or wall. In the right situation a so called green roof can, though evapotranspiration, help cool a building and provide some amenity value. These are basically insulated slabs on to which well drained soil is added. As long as the structure beneath is sound and sufficiently strong, a green roof can be added to most buildings.

A green wall can provide similar benefits to vertical surfaces, but it normally requires an irrigation system to maintain its appearance.

Conventional exterior insulation materials can also be used to reduce the heat loss/gain of an existing building. An impressive green wall has recently been installed on a hotel close to Buckingham Palace in London.

Insulating Green Walls on the Rubens Hotel, London (source www.dezeen.com/2013/08/21/ londons-largest-living-wall-will-combatflooding/ ) So, for a good new heating system you need to consider the following: • Can I improve the insulation level of my home? – the less heat is wasted the less will be needed.

• What heating systems would be feasible to install at my home? – what supplies are available, where is it located, how much space do you have?

• How will I use the house? – if you only sleep and eat in your home you may have different heating needs to someone who is in the house all day • How much am I able to spend on the installation and running costs?

• What environmental benefits would a new system bring? – how can you help the planet

• What grants or schemes could help me with the cost of the system?

• Who can I get to provide advice and install my chosen system? – you will need a competent, trained and qualified person who is adept with the system; put your post code into www.ciphe.org.uk/Find-aPlumber/.

If you have a system that you do not want to replace yet, you should consider these questions: • Have I had the central heating boiler serviced in the last 12 months? – if not get a CIPHE registered Plumber or Heating Engineer, to do so • Do I have a well insulated hot water cylinder? – if there is a hot water cylinder and it is hot to the touch (when it is in use) it probably needs additional insulation, even if it already has factory applied foam insulation. A cylinder jacket is cheap, simple to fit and will help you save energy • Are the pipes from the cylinder or water heater well insulated along their length? – pipe insulation needs to be tightly wrapped around pipes and fittings so that there are no gaps and the heat in the water does not get lost to the air • Does my boiler have a magnetic filter fitted to its return pipe? – if not it would be wise to get one installed the next time the boiler is serviced • Am I content with the level of control for the system?- heating systems can be easily zoned so that you only heat the areas of your home that you need at specific times of the day, Thermostatic Radiator valves (TRVs) are easy to retrofit and increase the flexibility of control • How old is my existing boiler?- if it is over 10 years and is not reliable perhaps you should be considering a replacement Heating systems have come a long way since the simple campfire in the open, by insulating our habitable areas we can reduce the amount of heat we need for comfort.

If we insulate to the practical limit we can produce a passive house that needs no external energy, but where that is not practicable we will need some form of heating. Today it is important to have the most efficient heating system that you can to reduce running costs and minimise our impact on Earth. So check your system to see how it could be more efficient and then get a professional to do the work properly. Remember, that if you need a local expert go to www.ciphe.org.uk/Find-a-Plumber

Heating HOME IDEAS

The Heat is On New Wood Burner from Eurostove

T

he new Westfire Uniq 33 wood burning stove from Eurostove is a handsome and sleek design that sits above floor level to give a warm visual aspect of the fire and also project the heat more efficiently into the central airspace of the room.

Eurostove say that it’s important to choose the positioning of the Uniq 33 to create a focal point and also appreciate the glass side panels with dark glass at the base and clear glass at the top so the flames and illumination can be seen from three aspects.

As opposed to open fires, wood burning

stoves deliver 80% efficiency with only 20% of the heat vented through the chimney – the opposite performance statistics to an open fire.

Further efficiencies can be achieved by burning dried or kiln dried indigenous and sustainable hardwoods like beech, birch or larch when a moisture content of 20% can be achieved.

The Uniq 33 is a beautiful feature for any living area in the home - both traditional or contemporary. Its tall, elegant design gives a comfortable view of the flames and creates a special ambiance.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT: Eurostove Ltd 01934 750 500 www.eurostove.co.uk

Technical Data WESTFIRE UNIQ 33 WITH SIDEGLASS High-grade steel double lined convection with glass side panels: Output: 6.1 kW H/W/D: 105cm/50cm/44cm Weight: 118kg Log Length: 33cm I Traditional Homes & Interiors I 49

HOME IDEAS Aga and Range Cookers

Aga & Range Cookers With kitchens being at the heart of most homes, making the decision to install an Aga or range cooker is one of the best home improvement decisions you will ever make

T

he current market place has a multitude of choice available with a colour, size and design to fit every kitchen. A range cooker will provide your kitchen with an ideal focal point and unique cooking system that locks in moisture and preserves natural flavours. Range cooking aficionados swear that the selection of this traditional method of cooking is a life changing decision.

Providing much more than just an oven, range cookers became the centre piece for a home and an intrinsic part of family life.

slow cookers, and grills and will cut down on the monthly central heating bills. Busy working mothers can leave a casserole in the simmering oven all day, ready for the family to eat in the evening. If you opt for the domestic hot water version you can in addition provide lashings of hot water to your taps for a modest increase in fuel consumption. There is an extensive colour

History of the Aga Cooker

The Aga, one of the easiest and most versatile cookers to use, has long been synonymous with good food, with continuous modernisation; this essential lifestyle commodity now incorporates stylish home design as well. Dr. Gustav Dalen (a blind Swedish physicist and Nobel Prize winner) came up with the design for the Aga in 1922 in order to simplify the tedious cooking chores for his wife. Improvements to what is widely recognised as the perfect cooking range have been made over the years, but the design of this iconic cast iron cooker has remained almost unaltered. The Cast Iron body of an Aga cooker is virtually as indestructible as the reputation of this legendary cooker, with many pre-war Aga cookers still going strong today.

Benefits

An Aga cooker is highly practical and multifunctional with many benefits including drying the laundry and warming the house. An Aga negates the need for electric toasters, microwaves, tumble dryers,

50 I www.thimagazine.com

hood not only burns electricity but can extract up to 160 litres of warm air from your kitchen every minute.

Which fuel type should you choose?

You have the option to run your range cooker on solid fuel, oil, gas or electricity, and many models are dual-fuel. Where your choice is for an electric Aga, you can just plug in and go.

• Oil is an easier and cheaper option with the only disadvantage being the fitting of a storage tank.

• Gas is a convenient choice for home owners connected to a mains supply • Solid fuel is a popular choice of the traditionalists but as with gas and oil, a flue or chimney is required.

• For the eco-conscious, Aga is creating a range of cookers which are capable of being run off biofuels in the future.

Choosing a Renovated Aga

A high quality conventional range from Aga. range to choose from, including British Racing Green, Dark Oxford Blue and Black. There are ground-coated colours of Cream, Yellow and Pewter and special option colours of Wedgwood Blue, Claret, Aubergine, Pistachio and Heather. Custom colours are also possible by special request.

An extractor hood is not needed as cooking smells are gently vented straight outside from the oven, a conventional extractor

If your dream is to own an Aga but cost is a consideration, a viable option is to purchase a renovated Aga. If purchased from a reputable company and serviced regularly a reconditioned Aga will provide you with trouble fee cooking and a warm home for decades to come. Aga Twyford, the only Renovater to be authorised by Aga PLC, have renovated more than 10,000 Aga cookers. They offer a full and complete renovation service, with a five year guarantee on all their cookers. There are two basic renovation models to choose from, the Traditional model, dating back to 1941 and the deluxe more streamlined module dating from the 1950’s. There is a two oven or four oven option. Originally, Aga cookers

Aga and Range Cookers HOME IDEAS

Top: Claret four oven deluxe renovated Aga cooker. Bottom left: In Summer cool, in Winter warm! A cream 3 oven Aga with integral module. Bottom right: Three oven cream deluxe renovated Aga with hybrid

I Traditional Homes & Interiors I 51

CLASSIC AND CONTEMPORARY KITCHEN AND FURNITURE DESIGN SERVING CLIENTS IN THE WEST COUNTRY THROUGH TO LONDON AND THE HOME COUNTIES

BARNES OF ASHBURTON LTD, 24A WEST STREET, ASHBURTON, NEWTON ABBOT, DEVON TQ13 7DU

t. 01364 653613 | www.barnesofashburton.co.uk

Aga and Range Cookers HOME IDEAS

Vintage style meets the demands of the modern lifestyle with the new Range 90 cooker from Leisure were designed as solid fuel appliances, but in the renovation process these can be re-engineered to burn oil, natural gas, or propane as required. The re-engineering process is a tried and tested procedure and is not to be confused with the “conversion� process, which does not produce the required oven temperatures.

A further option available is to install an Aga Module, called a Hybrid, a conventional cooker which is attached to models made after 1974. The Hybrid and the renovated Aga are then enamelled at the same time to provide an almost perfect colour match. This combination presents customers with the advantage of switching off during the summer months, thus offering a summer cool and winter warm option.

Electric Agas are now available, simply connected by a 13amp plug, which offer customers greater flexibility on where to site their Aga in the kitchen.

replaced, along with rope seals and insulation materials to ensure the renovated Aga will be fully efficient and operate within the same temperature range as a new Aga. A new burner is fitted, with new controls and a fire safety valve. To complete the makeover the original enamel is removed and a high quality vitreous re-enamelling is carried out from the numerous colour choices available.

Professional Installation

A qualified engineer must always install an Aga. Agas are delivered in sections, and need to be built on site. The site must have been properly surveyed by the installation engineer, prior to installation.

Prior to installation, it is vital that the site is adequately prepared. Typical preparation will include lining of the chimney or provision of the flue, fabrication of a plinth for the cooker

The Renovation Process

The specialist renovation process begins with collection and transportation to the Aga Twyford plant in Hereford where the Aga is dismantled and inspected. Original components that are reusable are cleaned and blasted and others recycled, any new parts needed are replaced with brand new replicas.

Hotplates are machined to ensure they retain a solid, flat surface for maximum conduction with cooking pots and pans.

Main castings are sand blasted to remove all dirt and debris using specially prepared shot to prevent damage to the cast iron.

Door and lid linings are automatically

The Toledo XT from Rangemaster is chic styling in a multifunctional range I Traditional Homes & Interiors I 53

HOME IDEAS Aga and Range Cookers to stand on and arranging for your chosen fuel supply to be routed to within 1 metre of the appliance. Full technical specifications are available on request.

All oil and solid fuel Agas will require a lined chimney flue or stainless steel flue for their operation. Gas Agas will also require a chimney flue, although the Deluxe model is available with a balanced flue and a power flue system, which allows the Aga to discharge its flue gasses direct to the outside thus doing away with the need for a chimney or flue. The same applies to Electric Agas.

Buyer Beware

As with all purchases whether new or reconditioned, it is of paramount importance to choose a company who have been in business for a substantial period of time and have a good reputation in the market place.

It has to be said, the renovation market has attracted some dubious characters, and with the new tendency to import cheaper castings from China, it is important to make sure that the renovated Aga you are purchasing carries an extensive guarantee and has been renovated with genuine Aga parts, where possible.

Precision engineering at its best, the Mercury RC1090, a dual fuel range in a Travatine colour

What model should you choose?

If your heart is not set on installing an Aga there are many more options open to you all of which will offer a superior cooker for your kitchen. Some of the most popular options are discussed here.

RAYBURN

An Aga in itself will not run central heating, however for a combination of cooking, hot water and central heating the installation of a Rayburn is the answer. Today’s models offer you all this plus the options of the latest control technology, together with a range of sizes and fuel types which are equally at home in a traditional or contemporary setting.

The secret of Rayburn’s success lies in the fact that it’s made from cast iron. Whatever the fuel source - whether gas, oil or solid fuel - the temperatures generated, heat the cast iron of your Rayburn to the levels required for cooking; the heat is then released to the cast iron oven walls, so that food is bathed in a constant heat from all directions. This is the very best way of sealing in the flavour of roasts, casseroles, pies and other dishes, preserving natural juices and cooking thoroughly without drying.

Each Rayburn model has a cast iron main oven for baking, slow cooking and roasting in fact the main oven (a standard size on all Rayburns) easily accommodates a 13kg/28lb

54 I www.thimagazine.com

The Everhot 100 range in black is a traditional style electric heat storage range

Buy direct from our joinery workshops and cut out the middleman to save ££££'s

Family business Established 1974

Looks Expensive...

We manufacture kitchens from modern right through to traditional ranges.

We have no salesmen, only professional designers and we supply and install direct.

Visit our beautiful showroom. As a family run business, we have been established for 38 years. We pride ourselves on customer service and high quality kitchens, at sensible prices.

WHAT OUR CUSTOMErS SAY...

“...wow” “...Broadway Kitchens have a unique elegance”

bolted together” • Kitchens • bedrooms • Studies & Libraries • bookcases & Wall Panelling • Home Cinema/Media rooms

“...Completely individually designed” at Broadway” “...Breathtakingly different” “...We’ve found it to be totally practical”

For a FREE design call 0121 353 4999 Visit our Beautiful Showroom: 54-56 Thornhill Road, Streetly, West Midlands B74 3EN Contact our London office: 0207 1188822

Visit our websites: www.Kitchensbybroadway.co.uk • www.Interiorsbybroadway.co.uk

BROADWAY KITCHENS Desirably Different Kitchens

HOME IDEAS Aga and Range Cookers

A Cream Rayburn – the classic design icon turkey. The upper part of the oven is slightly hotter than the lower half, so you can cook foods requiring different temperatures at the same time - and because Rayburn ovens are vented, you can cook both sweet and savoury dishes simultaneously, without either dish flavouring the other.

The solid plain shelf that comes with your Rayburn can be used to divide the main oven into two halves so that the temperature differences establish themselves quickly - and the surface of the shelf can also be used as a baking sheet to bake scones and biscuits. You can also grill in a hot main oven by placing the grill rack in the meat tin, using the oven’s top runners, while the oven floor can be used as an additional cooking surface.

The Lower Oven provides a second cooking oven at half the heat of the main oven, ideal for slow cooking, or for steaming root vegetables while roasting is being carried out in the main oven.

If it’s a cooking only option that you want the new Rayburn Cookmaster range offers a choice of fuel, size and design options.

The sleek new XT model combines the solid workmanlike lines of the traditional Rayburn with contemporary design.

MASTERCHEF

The freestanding masterchef is a completely

56 I www.thimagazine.com

new cooker recently introduced to the market.

With features such as the five burner hotplate, slow cooking oven, grill compartment, choice of two electric fan ovens or two gas ovens and sturdy die cast doors. Each independent oven is large enough to a hold an 11kg (24lb) turkey, there is a slow cooking oven for soups and casseroles and an advanced high speed grill. This model has the advantage of being an Aga look-alike.

FALCON

The Falcon Range of Cookers are all hand built to order, with each part individually manufactured, tested and passed. Each model has separate grills with professional branding plates and reversible wire trivets and large ambient warming areas to warm plates or prove bread.

The P.K.R traditions 1092 model comes as all gas or dual fuel. The P.K.R Traditions 900 is available in dual fuel only. However, in either option, a large five burner, stainless steel hob, with individual wells and solid cast-iron vitreous enamel pan supports is standard.

With the P.K.R Traditions 1092 Range Cooker, twin ovens allow you to cook to perfection at different temperatures on different shelves, while the P.K.R Traditions 900 Range Cooker offers one of the largest single ovens currently available on the domestic market.

RANGEMASTER

The original range cooker, made in 1830, was a revelation to the market, the new ranges still share this original dedication to quality, design and innovation. There is a vast selection of cookers available with various fuel types and colour options along with matching hoods and splash backs.

The Excel model offers double oven cooking with the flexibility of a separate grill and a dedicated slow cook oven.

Thermostatically controlled, this additional feature is ideal for hearty casseroles, keeping dishes warm or simply warming plates. The contemporary styling extends to the attractive controls and long chrome handles across the two top compartments creating an eye catching rail.

The XT model combines a five burner hob including a triple ring wok burner and warming zone with the added benefit of a multifunction oven, offering you the ability to enjoy closed door grilling as well as a host of other functions. This is in addition to a second fan oven for total flexibility. The contemporary styling of the Toledo XT is enhanced by aligning both ovens to the top of the cooker and including a spacious full width storage drawer.

The Freestyle model combines the functionality of a range cooker with the

Aga and Range Cookers HOME IDEAS

The latest electric induction range, the Falcon Ceramic in cream

A Racing Green Rayburn Heatranger that not only cooks, but runs the central heating!

The Falcon Ceramic in green, the latest in the electric induction range clean lines and modern looks of a built in appliance. The Freestyle also offers the added benefit of being able to place the range style hob in a different area of the kitchen to the ovens if preferred.

MERCURY

Mercury set out with an objective to create outstanding cookers of uncompromising quality and performance. This has been possible from the start with the meticulous attention to detail throughout the design process. Mercury’s design and development team worked with top UK product designers Seymourpowell creating a range of outstanding cookers.

The RC1090 and the Thermastone are both personally hand-crafted from start to finish by a skilled craftsman at Mercury’s state-of-the-art factory in Lincoln.

Combining the finest traditions with the very latest technology, they ensure that all Mercury products are fashioned with great pride and meticulous attention to detail.

The contemporary classic RC1090 is a perfect fusion of innovative design, attention to detail, quality and performance. The state-of-the-art, one-piece brushed stainless steel hob top features matt enamelled, cast iron pan supports designed in a cattle grid formation to offer users a large work surface.

With a huge cooking surface, two ovens, a separate grill and a stainless steel hob, this is a cooker for every occasion and every kitchen.

An innovative twist on the traditional heat store range cooker is the Mercury Thermastone. Temperature is controlled innovatively using Thermastone’s smooth Twist Grip controls, a revolutionary new way of igniting the two burners and heating up the Chef ’s Plate. With Thermastone you get what you want, when you want it. A simple twist grip creates everything from a simmering sauce to a sizzling stir-fry.

EVERHOT

Everhot has introduced a brand new 1000mm model to its collection of exceptionally made range cookers. The Everhot 100 has been designed, engineered and built in Gloucestershire, England to meet the increasing demand for customers who are looking for a cheaper-to-run alternative than the very well known market leader.

With classic, hand-crafted styling and at just under 1000mm wide, 600mm deep and in a choice of five elegant colours, the Everhot 100 fits seamlessly as a stunning centrepiece into any kitchen. Four cast iron doors house three ovens – a roasting oven with full-width grill, a casserole oven and a

useful plate-warming oven – and the final, fourth door conceals the digital control system, which allows individual temperatures to be set for each of the cooking areas.

Everhot ranges use on average less than half the energy consumption of most traditional ranges; it can save an additional 15%, making it particularly appealing for those who use sustainable energy. The Everhot 100 plugs into a standard 13amp plug socket, needing no flue, extractor or special reinforced base so installation is simple. It needs no annual servicing, and can move home with you every time.

The tradition of craftsmanship and green fuel efficiency of the Everhot 100, along with substantial running cost savings and quality cooking results make it a first choice for discerning cooks everywhere.

Top purchasing tips

• Your range cooker will last a lifetime so investigate all the options • Prioritise your needs such as how often you cook, what you cook and the size of the household • Match the style and colour of the cooker with your home and available space • Factor in installation costs • Weigh up the investment in relation to the life span of the cooker I Traditional Homes & Interiors I 57

DESIGN TALK Doors and Windows

Front of House

Period features, whether original or replicated can turn even a small terraced property from a drab looking house into the best home in the neighbourhood 58 I www.thimagazine.com

Windows and doors with outstanding thermal performance Limitless range of colours Colour matched fascias, soffits, and rainwater goods National delivery and installation services

Experiment on-line with our ‘window colour’ selector Colour4you 0800 678 5515 info@colour4you.net www.colour4you.net

a total solution for architectural glazing

LIGHT

• atriums • facades • canopies • partitions

• rooflights • balustrade • conservatories • walk on floors

SPACE

• shuffle glazing • framed glazing • structural glazing • frameless glazing

Tel: 01842 816080 sales@glazinginnovations.co.uk www.glazinginnovations.co.uk

H i g h Q u a l i t y Fo l d i n g S l i d i n g D o o r s  B r i t i s h , G e r m a n & B e l g i u m D e s i g n  A Fa n t a st i c Va r i e t y O f F i n i s h e s & Co l o u r s  Vi r t u a l l y m a i n te n a n ce f re e  S t a te - o f - t h e a r t s e c u r i t y fe a t u re s  F u l l f i t t i n g ava i l a b l e  F re e s u r vey & d e s i g n a d v i ce

U n i t 2 6/3 S i l i co n B u s i n e ss Ce n t re  2 6 Wa d swo r t h Ro a d P e r i va l e, G re e n fo rd M i d d l e s ex U B 6 7 J Z

Te l : 02 0 8 9 97 24 4 8 Fa x : 02 0 8 9 97 0 61 1 www.1stfoldingslidingdoors.co.uk / foldingslidingdoors@btinternet. com

SBH_90x130_2013-07-02.indd 1

STYLE

02/07/2013 11:37:50

DESIGN TALK Doors and Windows

S

ometimes the original features are still in place, but can be tired, ill fitting or poorly decorated. If this is the case, then specialist companies can refurbish the original windows and add modern developments, for example effective draught proofing, to make the windows even better than new.

From time to time, only part of the features remain in place, but again specialist companies can refurbish what is left and add replica replacements as needed to return the windows to their former glory.

On occasions the windows are beyond repair and complete renewals are needed, but again replica versions can be manufactured to retain the original look. In copying the design of a window, modern improvements can be incorporated to also improve heat efficiency, for instance, by adding double-glazing.

All three options are actually excellent ways of saving money, as they all offer various elements of heat efficiency, whilst giving the added bonus of “doing your bit” for the environment. Additionally, your home will look more beautiful and be so much more of a pleasure to live in – and, as the housing market picks up, it will also undoubtedly add value to your home.

NOW LET’S LOOK IN CLOSER DETAIL AT THE OPTIONS… Window - Refurbishment

People often look at their windows and come to the conclusion that they are in desperate need of renewal, but more often than not the issues can be resolved and restoring the existing windows can be relatively simple, which can allow the home to retain its original beauty. People can also be unaware that casement windows can usually be draught proofed as well as box frame sash windows.

Quality companies, such as Sashy & Sashy Ltd, will visit your home to talk through the real condition of your windows and give realistic solutions to the problems. Draught proofing and the refurbishment of existing windows is one option for those who want to retain the look and feel of the original windows. However, this may only be a short term solution especially if the wood is rotting, in which case it might pay to have the window replaced. Seek advice from specialist companies who can advise you.

When done correctly the work involves a highly skilled tradesman working at your home. He will remove the staff and parting beads, and depending on the condition of the windows and the customer’s preference, will either re-use or renew these items.

He will remove the opening sashes, and

60 I www.thimagazine.com

whilst these are out of the box fame, he will remove the pulley wheels, rub down the box frame checking for any defects. The most common problem with the box frame can be the sills and quite often at least the sill font will be in need of replacement. Additionally, sometimes the external face boards or jambs can have rotten timber. These items can usually have the rotten timber removed and replicas skilfully pieced back into the frame.

The frame is also rubbed down to remove any heavy built up areas of old paint. It is also important to remember, that with any windows on the first flooer, you will need to factor in scaffolding to comply with Health & Safety Regulations.

The sashes are inspected, they may need the joints re-cramping or complete renewal.

Putties will be inspected and new areas of putty will be replaced as necessary. Again the sashes will be rubbed down to allow for easy movement and ensure a good key for new decoration. The sashes will be weighed and either new weights or extra weights will be used to ensure the perfect running of the sashes.

Grooves will be skilfully put into the sashes to accept the draught proofing and then the sashes will be re-fitted with new wax cords, pulley wheels and either the existing catches or new catches of the customer’s choice will be fitted.

The final result, if done properly, is a perfectly weighted, beautifully sliding window with high quality draught seals.

Once expertly painted the outcome can make the window appear brand new.

The cost is dependent upon the condition of the original window and it should be pointed out that, whilst it is possible to fully refurbish most windows sometimes, when a lot of rotten timber is present, it can be more cost effective to renew the entire window.

Therefore, spending time with an expert to assess the condition of each window prior to commencement of the work is highly recommended, to enable an informed choice to be made with regard to the best option available and avoid any nasty shocks when the invoice arrives.

All of the above can also be achieved with a casement window, but in a different way. Again, checking the condition of the window prior to commencement is essential to make the correct decision whether to refurbish or renew.

If your original windows have been removed…

To the unskilled eye it often appears the beautiful old windows appear to have been

Doors and Windows DESIGN TALK

I Traditional Homes & Interiors I 61

Doors and Windows DESIGN TALK

“ripped out” and unattractive windows put in their place. Sadly, this is sometimes true but quite often only part of the window has been removed and then, with the help of a skilled specialist company such as Sashy & Sashy, the windows can have replica original items put in place of the new out of keeping ones and the windows, once fully refurbished, can be completely brought back to life.

As the existing sashes have been previously removed it can sometimes be difficult to establish the original design, but often a nearby house will have the original windows, or old photographs can provide the answer. However failing that, specialist companies have experts with many years experience who can suggest likely designs.

If there is any double, a reputable company is likely to be happy to start by refurbishing just one window to make sure the customer is happy with the result before commencing with the rest of the windows.

Window Refurbishment and Double Glazing

This option also leads us to a further alternative, which is to draught proof and refurbish the window but with the addition of double glazing. This will obviously enhance extra heat efficiency to save more money but it will also have the added benefit of increased sound efficiency. You can even go one step further and add acoustic double glazing to further increase sound efficiency.

This is particularly useful for those homes in noisy areas.

It should be noted that the installation of double glazing is not possible in all windows, but talk through the options with a specialist to ascertain the best choice for you.

Window - Renewal

The final option is complete renewal of the entire window. This maybe necessary because all of the original window has been removed,

or that the existing window is beyond economic repair.

The advantages of complete renewals are that they give the very best in thermal values with double glazing and draught proofing and they come with modern paint systems designed to protect them again decay. In short they give a very good imitation of the past with all the advantages of modern advancements. Grade II listed properties can only be renewed with single glazing.

Doors

Although undoubtedly windows are a massive part of the “wow” factor in the refurbishment of period properties, doors can also make or break the true feel of a correctly renovated home. People often see doors as unsightly, old or cold and difficult to operate. Often in the hands of an expert they can be transformed back into the beautiful original door, again with the added benefits

I Traditional Homes & Interiors I 63

DESIGN TALK Doors and Windows of modern draught proofing.

If the original door is missing, as before, looking at nearby properties can provide the answer to the correct design. External doors should always be made from hardwood because modern softwood increasingly comes with a high moisture content and, if in direct sunlight or subject to extreme weather conditions, shrinkage and warping can destroy your beautiful new door.

If you have a lovely old door but it does not fit as well as it once did, re-hanging and draught proofing can be an excellent solution. Specialist companies such as Brookdown Joinery can copy old doors from old photographs, as they take detailed measurements on site for all timber sizes involved.

The problem with ill-fitting doors can sometimes be more to do with the frame than the door. Also it can be very difficult in a lot of original frames to fit modern draught proofing in an effective and unobtrusive way.

If this proves to be the case, having a new frame with the original door re-fitted into it is a very worthwhile consideration, this will enable the door to fit perfectly and discreet modern draught proofing can be easily fitted.

Furniture

Whatever option is chosen for the windows and doors in your home, the final piece of the jigsaw comes in the quality and correct design of the furniture. Often the original furniture is still in place and can easily be removed and re-used. Sometimes it is still in place but has been painted and it is often possible to have it removed and restored before re-fitting.

If the furniture is beyond repair, or the customer would prefer new furniture, there is a wide choice of fittings. As with many items, the internet is full of companies that can supply virtually all possible variations from box frame catches to door knobs in all materials, with final finishes including chrome, brass, steel and even wood.

Care should be taken and, as a guide, if it seems very cheap it is probably for a reason and we could recommend British made as being a good indication of quality. As usual, we would advise that if you are employing a reputable company, part of their service will be working with you to ensure the correct furniture is used to give the final impact on your finished windows and doors.

In Summary‌

1. Do not assume your doors and windows are past refurbishment, call an expert and discuss your options.

2. Consider your options with care,

64 I www.thimagazine.com

remember, not always spending the most amount of money gives you the best option; as a good condition, refurbished window can add as much value and give as good a look as a brand new window and at a fraction of the cost!

3. Where costs are concerned, remember that refurbishment can seem the cheapest option, but extra, unseen items may be uncovered upon commencement of the work, which were not included in the original quotation, making the price closer to the cost of renewal. Additionally, with all refurbishment work, full decoration is always needed afterwards, and most expert companies do not

include for decoration in their costs.

4. Consider carefully the different materials available and the circumstances of your home, e.g, noisy areas could benefit from double glazing and/or acoustic glass; areas exposed to extreme weathering should have items made of hardwood rather than softwood and decorated with special paints.

5. Remember, windows and doors are just as important as any other part of your home and will represent a large financial outlay.

Therefore, it is imperative that choosing the right experts to help you will ensure that your investment will be worth every penny in these difficult times.

Capture the dream

Pinelog specialise in providing elegant high quality swimming pools in natural timber buildings.

As the UK’s leading indoor swimming pool company, designing and manufacturing buildings in our Derbyshire factory, we efficiently and professionally manage swimming pool projects, taking care of everything from initial planning applications through to the final commissioning.

An indoor swimming pool at home is an investment in a lifestyle which you can enjoy every single day, giving you and your family memories that last a lifetime. The perfect indoor swimming pool takes time and expertise to create – it’s an effort we would love to make for you, to help you capture your dream.

Contact us now to find out more, or visit our web site www.pinelog.co.uk

Email: pools@pinelog.co.uk.

Phone: 01629 814481

Pinelog Limited, Riverside Business Park, Bakewell, Derbyshire DE45 1GS

HOME IDEAS Sofas and Soft Furnishings

Snuggle Up This Winter

Sofas and soft furnishings are an excellent way of creating impact in your home.

A

good quality suite is a real focal point to a room, along with a nice fire. Layer upon layer of soft sumptuous cushions and throws, with matching curtains, will create a warm and cosy feel.

Here are some great ways to keep your home cosy during the winter months with some of our favourite soft furnishings and accessories.

Choosing the Right Sofa‌

Choosing a sofa is one of the most important pieces of furniture you will purchase for your home, as it will add that finishing touch to your sitting room. However, this can be time-consuming and fraught with difficulty.

It may seem that style has to be compromised

66 I www.thimagazine.com

for comfort and visa-versa, however, the overall look of a suite and the coverings are usually the things that catch your eye first.

Choosing the size of your sofa should be the first thing you take into consideration.

The sofa you prefer may look quite small in a large showroom, but once inside your own home, it may overwhelm your room. Our tip is to measure your old sofa as well as your potential one before you buy.

Comfort of a sofa should also come top of your list, so don’t be afraid to sit on your chosen suite and get a feel for it! After all, this will be a potential purchase, and is a major financial outlay, that will have to provide many years of service.

The frame of a sofa is made from hard wood, and is very strong, but price does come

into play. As the more expensive sofas are doweled, glued and screwed. This is the best choice of construction, as compared to frame joints, which are just stapled and glued.

With so many upholstery fillings available, it can be difficult to know which one to choose. Fibre filled sits soft to start with, but will settle or flatten over a period of time.

Feather filled will sit firmer, but again will also settle. You will normally find the most expensive suites are feather filled, however, a feather/fibre mix is the most serviceable of all.

With all cushions, if they are plumped up and turned regularly, their shape and buoyancy retention will be prolonged.

A variety of foam fillings are also available, and are all very durable. It is important to remember that the thicker the density, the

Sofas and Soft Furnishings HOME IDEAS

Influenced by East Coast and designed by Atlantic Homes this Jacksonville sofa shown in ‘Champagne’ is available in two widths - 210cm or 250cm from Nautical Living

firmer the sit.

When choosing a fine fabric for your suite, try to avoid light weight cotton, you should go for heavyweight fabric or linen, draylon and velvet including flatweaves and most flocks are extremely hard wearing, whilst leather is the most hardwearing of all. If choosing a leather suite, remember that a cheaper suite may not always be good quality, and will not wear as well as a more expensive suite.

By the Fireside

Snuggle up beside your fireplace, stove or heater this winter, and revel in the fact that it’s the season for staying in. We all have our preferences when it comes to home heating, so before you make the crucial decision take a look at some of the choices available this year.

Create a focal point in a living room with some oversized candlesticks. Aluminium candle holders with a hammered finish from Nordic House Ltd

Antique leather armchair, find similar at Pale and Interesting, cream throw from Ikea, cushion in Charlbury Wedgewood chocolate 205 from Sanderson Fabrics.

Walls painted in Bone China Blue 183 and Shirting 129 from The Little Greene Paint Company I Traditional Homes & Interiors I 67

HOME IDEAS Sofas and Soft Furnishings Curtains and Blinds

Transform a cold, impersonal space into an inviting room full of warmth and atmosphere, with the careful use of curtains, blinds and accessories.

Curtains and valances will add style to any window, here you can dress the window simply or have a bit of fun and create a wonderful theatrical look.

Pelmets will frame your window, whilst swags and tails will make a real design statement, and will create a sense of opulence to your room. Add a matching pair of tiebacks to add interest and to finish off the look.

Whichever you decide upon, ensure that it is in-keeping with the rest of your dĂŠcor.

By selecting your chosen fabric carefully, and by obtaining swatches, you can ensure that the colour you choose ties in with your

existing furniture and soft furnishings.

Soft Accessories

More than just a few chintz pillows or an old throw to cover an unfortunate stain on the settee, accessories can set the tone of a room.

Rich velvets or bright splashes can create contrasts that give a room depth and width.

Some of the very best pillows and throws are often made from hand embroidered or woven fabrics. The patina of accessories made from old or antique fabrics can bring a warmth and interest to a piece of furniture or particular corner.

Well chosen pieces can work to effectively combine the different colours and styles that may have evolved in a room. Don’t try hard to match exact colours. Look instead to bring a sense of contrast and depth to a setting.

Curtain fabric; Symphony (8076) from the Operetta collection by Harlequin. Throw also from the Operetta collection (8075) and cushions in Minuet (8066) Symphony (8075 and 8076), Viola (8058) also from the Operetta collection. Wallcovering, Odyssey from the Odyssey collection.

68 I www.thimagazine.com

Layers and Textures

Make a room feel cosy and warm by matching neutral colours such as bright white and creams against plain white walls, but combining finishing touches that match your carpet and curtain colour.

Add texture to the room wherever you can, why not try adding some woven throws or rugs, different cushion fabrics such as suede or fur, this will make the room feel warm and inviting.

Finishing Touches

Again, add accessories with natural materials such as wood, rattan or perhaps wicker baskets. Finish by adding a bowl or basket of pine cones to create a Christmas feel, or perhaps some of your favourite pot pourri or room scents.

Sofas and Soft Furnishings HOME IDEAS

The Nore is hand finished burnished mahogany and has all the traditional looks you would associate with a solid wooden mantelpiece. Available from Kilkenny Living.

Above: This beautiful gold chesterfield sofa from Springvale Leather will certainly create a warm homely feel to any living room!

Left: Drape the throw over a sofa or at the end of your bed for warmth and comfort.

This cosy Mocha throw and cushion are from The Cotswold Company.

Below: Boost the comfort in your home by keeping large knitted throws and cushions to hand. This knitted cushion from Christy is made from wool, angora and nylon making it feel extra soft. Available in pink or oatmeal.

Right: This stunning Pandora collection of printed fabrics, including a striking graphic floral design will add that cosy feel to your living room. Available from Crowson Fabrics

This stunning Pandora collection of printed fabrics, including a striking graphic floral design will add that cosy feel to your living room. Available from Crowson Fabrics

Add seasonal colour with rich berry shades, and soft pinks to add a cosy feel to a corner or shelf, all from Asda Home.

This Evesham fireplace with a large cradle basket is perfect for curling up infront of this winter. Available from Gallery Fireplaces.

I Traditional Homes & Interiors I 69

HOME IDEAS Luxury Living Rooms

Why choose bespoke?

S

The creation of beautiful furniture is an art form involving the design of each detail, through to the final finish of the piece

adly, the prominence of large furniture retail stores and Internet shopping, has led to a mass production of furniture which offers little in the way of individuality. Added to this, much of this furniture is imported from the Far East - with all those extra eco-miles.

The benefits

Fortunately there is a solution. Bespoke furniture enables you to have complete control over the look and feel of the furniture you are choosing. It gives you the opportunity to have something that is unique and personal to your home and expresses your individuality.

70 I www.thimagazine.com

How often have you searched in vain for that piece of furniture that fits the space you have available and has all those little features that are so important to you? However, there is no need to compromise - a piece of bespoke furniture will meet all your criteria.

In addition, you will have the added satisfaction that it is handcrafted in the UK, using a British craftsman. You may also have the opportunity of visiting the workshop whilst it is being made. This adds to the experience of being involved with your new piece of furniture from the design stage through to it finally being installed in your home.

Handcrafted furniture is not only aesthetically pleasing it will give you

something that you can pass on to your children as a piece of solid craftsmanship.

Buyer beware!

Much of what is sold as oak or beech or walnut furniture is not solid wood. It is in fact a wood veneer over a sub-base such as MDF or Plywood.

A veneer is a thin slice of real wood that is glued over the MDF or plywood base. This gives the furniture every appearance of solid wood but it is only solid wood in parts.

Veneers are perfectly acceptable in certain circumstances, for example where heating or humidity may give rise to stability problems.

However, if you want the satisfaction of

THE DESK CENTRE

TRADITIONAL ENGLISH HOME & OFFICE FURNITURE

Telephone for a FREE colour brochure and price list.

023 8022 8939 www.thedeskcentre.co.uk Showrooms at 74/76 Northam Road, Southampton SO14 0PB

HOME IDEAS Luxury Living Rooms Widford three seater sofa covered in JMT Leather Tuscany Peat, from Wesley Barrell.

knowing that your furniture it is built out of solid wood then ask at the outset what materials will be used.

If you are able to visit the workshop whilst the piece is being made you will then have the added advantage of being able to ensure that you are getting what you have asked for.

Types of wood

One of the advantages of choosing bespoke furniture is that you can choose the type of wood that is in harmony with your decor.

There are a very large number of woods to choose from, each with their own individual characteristics such as grain and colour.

Oak has always been a very popular wood for furniture and holds particular affection in our British heritage. But did you know that there many varieties of Oak?

72 I www.thimagazine.com

There is the traditional rich, honey coloured British Oak, European Oak, the lighter coloured American White Oak, through to Pippy Oak which has small, tight clusters of knots, which appear sporadically in the growth of the tree, giving the appearance of ‘cats paw’ like markings in the grain.

In addition to the traditional oak, woods such as Ash, Beech, Cherry, Maple and Walnut are also very popular.

wax, oil or lacquer, which can range from matt through to gloss. This will enable the grain and the characteristics of the wood to be seen at its best.

Many items of furniture require handles or hinges and again you will have complete choice as to the style of fittings that are used. These may seem small details but they can make all the difference to the look of the piece of furniture that you are so carefully investing in.

Fittings and finishes

From start to finish

The choice of handcrafted, bespoke furniture will not only give you choice in the design and type of wood but also in the finish and those little extras that make all the difference – the fittings.

To see the real benefit in a piece of solid wood furniture it is best finished in a clear

One of the joys of commissioning a piece of bespoke furniture is that you will have the opportunity of being involved from start to finish – from the original concept and design through to its completion. You will then own something that is unique and beautiful and built to last.

Luxury Living Rooms HOME IDEAS

Available from Christian Blakes Furniture, this Walnut dining table seats 12 people

This Oak wall unit with wine rack is available from Christian Blakes Furniture

This Lockton wing chair is available from Sofas and Stuff I Traditional Homes & Interiors I 73

HOME IDEAS Lighting

A Little Light T on the Subject Where would we be without lighting in our homes? Well, for a start we wouldn’t be able to see anything of course!

he lighting in our homes can have an effect on the mood, tone and style of your house, so it is essential that you make the right choices. Here we have some practical lighting solutions to help you make the right choice whatever room you are thinking of.

With winter fast approaching, we all begin to dread the darker mornings and shorter days. It’s horrible when you find yourself leaving for work in the dark, and then arriving home in it too! This month we have decided a guide to lighting is what’s in order, to help lighten up your home this winter.

Whilst many people spend hundreds of pounds on the decoration and furnishings for their home, we all tend to forget about the

Oslo108 Polestar lighting has been used in this hallway by John Cullen Lighting.

74 I www.thimagazine.com

Sidney floor lamp from Besselink & Jones

Lighting HOME IDEAS lighting, which is one of the most powerful elements of interior design.

The right lighting can transform a space, even if it already has an abundance of natural light, but the choice can be overwhelming.

Should you go for a single pendant light, uplighters, downlighters, or a series of table lamps? The best solution is to consider a combination of different lights to suit the various functions of the room and to create different moods. You’ll need to pick lighting styles to complement the rest of the décor.

Natural lighting is of course the best form of lighting, but unfortunately, not every home is lucky enough to have a good source of natural light. However, there is a vast choice of good lighting available on the market.

It is easy to think of lighting just in terms of fittings, but lighting is complex; both aesthetically and technically. Creative lighting requires a careful balance of the different sources of light, as well as an understanding of its direction and control.

It is important to choose the right style of lighting for each room, also to be in-keeping with your décor. By choosing your lighting carefully, you will be able to create the right ambience for each room.

When decorating a room, your first need is to decide upon the type of lighting you require, and where it is to be best situated, to ensure you get the most from your light.

There are many types of lighting available, which include:-

Wall Lights

Wall lights provide a gentle glow of light across the wall of a room, creating a relaxed and calming atmosphere.

Spotlights

Spotlights are usually positioned above points of interest that you wish to be highlighted, and are also available with flexible arms to allow movement of the light, so to be positioned onto a chosen object.

Strip Lights

Strip lights are usually used in kitchens to produce a broad light, and are often in display cabinets or underneath cupboards to create a softer effect.

Available from Franklite Ltd’s Mystique range of 24% lead crystal chandeliers. There are 6, 8, 12 and 18 light chandeliers and a single and double wall light

A selection of lamps from LaLou. From left to right: Crystal by Sèvres Lamp, Iranian hard-carved printing block lamp, Sacred Indian Shiva Lingham lamp and Nigerian spear lamp Provenza traditional antique brown three light chandelier with natural coloured pleated fabric shades, from all-up-and-on.

Three arm Glover wall-light from Besselink & Jones

Zues chandelier from Mediterraneo I Traditional Homes & Interiors I

75

HOME IDEAS Lighting

This beautiful lead crystal bathroom fitting and matching wall bracket conceals a 40W G9 halogen lamp inside acid glass tubes, which offer these items with an IP rating of 44, making them suitable for any area of the bathroom. Available from Franklite Ltd.

Table Lamps

Usually used for softer light, designed for small tables perhaps in your sitting room, or on a bedside table.

Candle Lighting

Candle lighting is often used to create a romantic mood, however, if you prefer not to have the real thing, there are many electric designs available in both ceiling and wall lights.

Uplighters

Usually positioned in your living or dining

76 I www.thimagazine.com

room to create a subtle beam of light against a wall.

Downlighters

Downlighters can be either fixed or directional, and are used to provide feature lighting for specific areas and objects, or for general lighting.

Another important factor when choosing your lighting is to make sure which bulb and wattage is needed. If you need lots of light, perhaps in your kitchen or bathroom, you will need a higher wattage bulb, or even a fluorescent bulb.

It can be fun choosing lighting, for instance, create a relaxed feel in your living or dining room with a lower wattage bulb, or possibly use a coloured bulb; there is a vast selection available. Whichever light fitting or bulb you choose, try to buy one that is energy efficient, and will in most cases last twice as long.

Whilst it may appear simple choosing lighting for your home, you need to ensure you plan and consider what style you are looking to achieve. If you research your lighting thoroughly, you should not come across any problems in the future.

Lighting HOME IDEAS The Carousel range from Franklite Ltd available in a bronze or chrome finish, in 5, 8 and 15 light versions with a double wall light. It can be used with candle shades for a softer light and energy saving candle bulbs. The fitting shown has an impressive diameter of 940mm

Above: This beautifully elegant ceiling light is made entirely with hand made Venetian crystal, from the Italian Lighting Centre Below: Blenheim wooden standard lamp, from Jim Lawrence

Always use a qualified Electrician – Electricity can kill and it’s simply not worth trying to cut corners in order to save money, it could cost you your life.

Pick up the phone and call The National Inspection Council for Electrical Instillation Contracting. They are able to advise names of local electricians who meet regulation standards.

Light up your kitchen with this metal cream Batersea light.

Available from The Contemporary Home

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT: 0870 013 0382 enquiries@niceic.com vwww.niceic.org.uk I Traditional Homes & Interiors I 77

HOME IDEAS Lighting Polestar 50/50 lighting has been used in this bedroom to create a soft lighting effect. John Cullen Lighting

80 I www.thimagazine.com

Lighting HOME IDEAS ROOM BY ROOM LIGHTING Sitting Room

Keep the lighting in your sitting room versatile. It’s where you entertain, relax, watch TV and read, so lighting needs to be multifunctional. Have as many lighting sources as possible for as many different functions, go for standard lamps, table lights and wall uplighters.

Dining Room

Make sure you have the right lighting in your dining room. Start with a central light to bring a sense of unity and then add accent lighting around the room, highlighting a special feature such as a dresser or chimney breast.

Kitchen

Good lighting is vital in a kitchen. Strip lighting or spots suffice for most jobs, but you’ll find task lighting important working with sharp knives and hot pans.

Bathroom

Ideally, bathrooms should be as light as possible in the day and relaxing in the evenings. General lighting recessed into the ceiling will provide the main source of light, while spotlight or side-mounted lights are perfect around a mirror. For safety, never have wall mounted switches inside your bathroom; use a cord pull switch only.

Fittings should be steam and splashproof and at least 60cm away from water.

If you do go for downlighters in your bathroom, make sure you use low voltage bulbs for safety and think carefully about the layout. Work out where you’ll need the light most rather than creating a symmetrical pattern.

Bedroom

Lighting in your bedroom should create a relaxed mood to help unwind at the end of the day, but it should also produce enough light for bedtime reading, looking through your wardrobe or sitting at your dressing table. Consider a main overhead light with a dimmer switch as a combination of different types of lighting to provide separate functions.

If you use your dressing table when you’re applying make-up, make sure there’s the same amount of light coming from both sides of the mirror to prevent awkward shadows.

Decorative Features

Create a fun or romantic mood with strings of pretty lights and clusters of candles. Ideal for I Traditional Homes & Interiors I 81

HOME IDEAS Lighting special occasions or simply to give a room a luxurious touch.

Pick the right bulb

Classic – Quality bulbs in different shapes and sizes to suit chandeliers and smaller fittings.

Halogen – Bulbs that offer the ideal light for applying make-up, if used around mirrors.

Party – Different coloured bulbs for creating instant and inexpensive fun atmosphere.

Practical – Mainly cylindrical bulbs that are best for cooker hoods, ovens and fridges.

Spot – Reflector-style bulbs used for highlighting special features and pictures.

Eco- Bulbs - Use less electricity and last up to five years, they can also create warm background lighting in a room.

Soft – Bulbs that provide light without glare or hard edges – perfect for a subtle, cosy feel.

Garden & Exterior Lighting

A garden can appear magical at night, simply by making the most of your outdoor features with the use of lighting, and can often form part of an extension to your house creating the feeling of more space.

With outdoor lighting you must decide which features to light, and to what intensity.

For example, the right lighting can provide depth to shrubbery, highlight a feature, add light to a pathway or lawn, or create an array of light around a decked area or terrace.

An extendable spike spot light from Anthony de Grey

82 I www.thimagazine.com

Above: A magical effect has been created here in this garden, with lighting from John Cullen Lighting. Below: This garden light is available from Anthony de Grey

natural wood

floors ~ doors ~ skirting ~ beams

• flooring •solid hardwood • engineered • profiles • mouldings • architraves • cladding • hardwood door kits • oak beams Contact Sales on: 01423 322370 free catalogues, showrooms Mon-Fri 8am to 5pm Sat 8am to 4pm Easy access A1M junction 48.

Delivery nationwide

John Boddy Timber Ltd Riverside Sawmills, Boroughbridge, N. Yorks, YO51 9LJ. Email: sales@john-boddy-timber.ltd.uk www.john-boddy-timber.ltd.uk

STYLE IDEAS Create a Cosy Home

15 Ways to Make Your Home Feel Cosy Transform your space with rich colours and tactile fabrics, and use stylish lighting for a warming glow

2

Add Texture Underfoot

Transform wooden floorboards or laminate floor with a deep-pile rug. It will add warmth underfoot, and a textured design brings interest to a plain floor. Go for a shade that will blend in seamlessly with your existing colour scheme, from B&Q

1

Dress Your Bed in Layers

There’s nothing more snug than a sumptuous bedroom, so layer your bed with cushions and quilts in touchy-feely fabrics like velvet. Bedding, throw and cushions all available from Dorma

84 I www.thimagazine.com

3

Natural Decoration

Add some of these Oriental carved baubles to a bowl or basket, and then add some fragranced oils which will fill your room with a lovely aroma. Available from Tesco’s

Create a Cosy Home STYLE IDEAS

4

5

Layer Up With Knits

Boost the comfort in your home by keeping large knitted throws and cushions to hand.

Drape a throw over the sofa or at the end of your bed for warmth on cold nights, and add large cushions for a cosy feel. This knitted cushion from Christy is made from wool, angora and nylon making it feel extra soft. Available in pink or oatmeal

Cover up Draughty Windows

Keep winter’s chill at bay with a window treatment. Choose a heavyweight fabric for curtains, interlined with warmth. These Wykenham curtains in a blue colourway from Lewis & Wood

6

Add Colour with Accessories

Look for pieces in rich berry shades, and soft pinks to add seasonal colour. Head to supermarkets for good value items on the latest trends, all from Asda Home

7

Bring Back Wallpaper

Add sumptuous style to your walls with patterned paper. Try a floral print with a soft cream or beige background. The darker colour of the plum will make a room feel more intimate, while the glimmering pattern will sparkle in lamplight. Fuschia Plum wallpaper from Arthouse

8

Layer up with Throws

9

Boost the comfort in your home by keeping large throws and cushions to hand. Drape the throw over a sofa or at the end of your bed for warmth on cold nights. This cosy Mocha throw and cushion are from The Cotswold Company

Decorate your Fireplace

An unused fireplace can still be a warming focal point in a living room. Simply fill it with logs to add texture and place oversized candlesticks on the hearth to create a gentle flickering light. Aluminium candle holders with a hammered finish from Nordic House Ltd

I Traditional Homes & Interiors I 85

STYLE IDEAS Create a Cosy Home

11

Use Soft Textures

Invest in a deep piled rug. Place it near your bed so you have something soft to step on first thing in the morning. So treat yourself to this Calligaris Hemp rug, from Mac & Mac Interiors

10

Invest in Sumptuous Upholstery

Invest in a classic wing-backed armchair, upholstered in soft velvet, to bring a timeless comfort to your living room. Storyteller chair in Seduction velvet with bolster in Mineral Heather from Sofa Workshop

14

Choose Glimmering Furniture

Metallic furnishings and accessories are a key trend that looks set to continue. Invest in an eye-catching piece to create a bright focal point in your room. Versailles bedside table and chair from Ivory Pearl Interiors

12

Choose a Colourful Carpet

In smaller areas of your home, you can afford to be brave with a rich, colourful carpet. An intense shade of berry, raspberry or deep plum will transform a hallway, landing or a spare bedroom into an inviting and instantly warming space.

Sisal small boucle accents carpet in scarlet, from Crucial Trading

86 I www.thimagazine.com

13

Paint it Plum

All it takes is a lick of paint to transform a room from cold to cosy in a matter of hours. Try using a multi-surface paint in the same rich shade on both the woodwork and walls to create an intimate atmosphere. Adventurer Ultimatt emulsion fron The Little Greene Paint Company

15

Go for Ambient Lighting

Take a fresh look at your lighting scheme.

Try bulbs in amber or pink tones. Higham lamp with droplets from Jim Lawrence

ADVERTORIAL

noisy kids?

how to keep the peace at home...

Karndean Designflooring answer your questions

Q

I’m converting the room above our garage for our 14 year old son and his friends.

We decided it’s time to ship them and his drums out of the house. Any suggestions for a hard wearing floor?

With an innovative friction grip backing, Karndean LooseLay is quick and easy to install. Perfect for fitting over most existing hard floors.

A

Low maintenance, durable and perfect for underfloor heating

Converting your garage is a great way to gain an additional room and add value to your property.

Q

Karndean LooseLay would work brilliantly in your new room. Quick and easy to install, Karndean LooseLay can also help with noise reduction.

A

We are close to completing our self build project and need a floor that will work with underfloor heating in our kitchen diner. What would you recommend?

For a floor that can be laid quickly and is compatible with under floor heating, we’d recommend Karndean LooseLay.

It’s also quieter than click or laminate. So you won’t get that clickety-clack sound when walking across it and we all know teenagers aren’t the best at picking up their feet.

Designed to work with underfloor heating systems, Karndean LooseLay can withstand temperatures up to 27ºC. As an added bonus, it’s also quick and easy to install. So if you’re running out of time on your project, this could really help buy you some time back. All you need is a smooth, sound and dust-free subfloor and you’re ready to go.

Best of all it comes with a 15 year guarantee. So hopefully by the time you need a new floor, your son and his drums will have found a home of their own.

As with any flooring, we recommend checking with your retailer and/or heating system’s manufacturer to ensure your chosen system is compatible with Karndean.

Like us on Facebook /karndeandesignflooring

KD0844UK FullPgAdvertorials.indd 2

Quieter than click or laminate, as well as durable and hard wearing

Do you have a question that’s flooring you?

Email us at questions@karndean.co.uk

See Karndean LooseLay for yourself at www.karndean.com/looselay

30/07/2013 14:55

STYLE IDEAS Creating a Beautiful Home

My aim is to interpret your style not impose my own Whether your taste is contemporary or traditional I want your home to be elegant, attractive and supremely comfortable.’

M

ary Leslie specialises in Residential Design and has worked on projects ranging from 500 – 20,000 sq. ft. She creates imaginative solutions which suit her clients’ lifestyles from the simplest interior to the most extravagant installation.

She is happy to involve her clients as much or as little as they wish. She is passionate about good design and her attention to detail means that she creates genuinely bespoke interiors. She has worked with clients of many different

88 I www.thimagazine.com

nationalities and cultures in both traditional and contemporary idioms, and thrives on resolving challenging situations. Mary expects a high standard of workmanship and calls upon a skilled team of tradesmen, artisans and consultants, many of whom she has known for over 20 years.

Mary Leslie formed her own London based company in 1996. She graduated from the Inchbald School of Design in 1980, and has been involved in all aspects of Interior Design ever since. The majority of her work is in the United Kingdom; however,

international commissions have included the USA, Caribbean, Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

Mary Leslie is a past Vice-Chairman of the BIDA and past Chairman of the BIDA Charitable Foundation.

Mary Leslie, BIDA (BIID), IIDA,

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT: Mary Leslie Interior Design Ltd. 020 8675 0910 mhl@mhleslie.co.uk www.mhleslie.co.uk

Creating a Beautiful Home STYLE IDEAS

This Agra Twist rug in beige from Modern Rugs features a beautiful traditional design originating from the Agra region of India.

Available in large sizes up to 200 x 300cm, These rugs are hand tufted with a quality thick 100% wool pile

Your Flooring Questions Answered

Q

I am decorating a barn and rather like the idea of using floor cloths rather than rugs. I know they are easy to find in the USA, but where would I find them in England, and are they something I could make myself?

A

I think floor cloths are great fun, and an excellent way of personalising a space.

They are very versatile as you can make them any shape, whereas most rugs come in standard sizes. If you enjoy arts and crafts then you could certainly make your own. You will need a large work space as the cloth has to be laid out flat to prepare and then to decorate.

Pale Swirl rug by Paul Smith for The Rug Company.

Hand knotted Tibetan wool, 2.74 x 1.83m There are various methods, but this is an easy DIY version. To make a floor cloth you will need to source canvas of at least 18oz in weight. Cut it about 2” larger all round than your finished size. Tack it to a wooden frame much as you would picture canvas or a tapestry. Mix acrylic primer and PVA glue one part PVA to 5 parts water and apply at least 2 coats to the underside and 4 – 6 coats to the top side, letting each coat dry and sanding it lightly before proceeding. When it is completely dry remove the frame, and turn under the edges, mitring the corners. Glue the turnings with the PVA glue. I recommend that you use flat oil based paint for the base colour and then paint your image or stencils

in either artists’ oils or artists’ acrylic. Again let it dry completely and seal with at least 4 coats of oil based or acrylic varnish, plus a couple of coats on the back. I advise that you start with something small until you get a feel for the number of coats and the texture of the paints and varnishes before you progress to anything too ambitious. To start with you may find geometric or stencilled shapes easiest, but if you are artistic you can have a wonderful time creating freeform images.

You also ask where to find floor cloths. I should start with Sophie Sarin, whose work is truly amazing. Otherwise a trawl on one of the major search engines will produce all sorts of wonderful artists working in the medium.

This beautiful and elegant ‘Veneto Borgogna’ leather flooring is priced £71.99 per metre squared. Available from The Cork Flooring Company

Prodital Leather (Italy) luxurious leather flooring tiles, laid on a unique tongue and groove system for easy installation. Prices start from around £225.00 per meter squared, although tile sizes can be custom made. 100% genuine Italian Leather. Available supplied and fitted in the UK by Clever Leather I Traditional Homes & Interiors I 89

STYLE IDEAS Creating a Beautiful Home

Stupa Silver rug by Suzanne Sharp at The Rug Company. Hand knotted Tibetan wool with raised silk, 2.74 x 1.83m

Q

A friend of mine has just laid a leather floor and I think it looks wonderful, but I can’t believe it will last. Is she crazy?

A

I don’t think she is crazy – I would love to have a leather floor at home, particularly in a dressing room, as they are so wonderful to walk on, and they mature so beautifully. A quality leather floor will be hardwearing and not require all that much maintenance. You can have one made up of large or small panels or as tiles or strips or even shapes, and there is an amazing array of colours available if you want to move away from the natural colours.

The limit on panel size is governed by the usable surface of each hide. If you decide to have one for yourself you need to discuss with your interior designer or supplier whether it is going to be suitable for the space, depending on the amount and type of traffic, whether the area is wet or dry, and whether it is likely to be crossed much by children, animals or spiky heels. My first stop in finding a supplier would be either Bill Amberg or Alma Home. A word of warning though – however wonderful it looks it will not be cheap!

Q

My first two homes had wooden floors throughout and now I am moving to a house which will need carpet. I know very little about it and feel horribly ignorant, so where should I start?

A

Naturally I would say start by talking to your interior designer who will lead you through the basics, but if you are decorating

90 I www.thimagazine.com

Tribe rug by Matthew Williamson for The Rug Company. Hand knotted Tibetan wool, 2.74 x 1.83m

the house yourself here are my top tips for buying carpets and rugs.

1. Always buy the best possible quality – cheap carpet is a false economy.

2. For durability go for either 100% wool or 80% wool 20% nylon.

3. For the home carpet is divided into heavy, medium and light domestic qualities.

Discuss with your supplier which is the most appropriate for you. You may find that the manufacturer provides the same carpet in different qualities so that you can vary the pile (and save money) throughout the house.

4. It is very important to check the type of underlay to be used. Felt and not rubber should always be used over under floor heating.

5. Take care if planning to use a textured carpet on a staircase. Some ‘grin’ on the nosing, and others may not be suitable – always seek your supplier’s advise.

6. Discuss with your carpet layer where he plans to put the seams if more than one width is required. This is particularly vital if you are using body width (27” or 36”) carpet, as a wrongly placed seam can ruin the effect in a room. Most broadloom carpet comes as both 4 metres and 5 metres wide, which will accommodate the majority of rooms without seams.

7. Some cut pile carpets are subject to a form of shading. There is no known reason for this and it does not mean that there is a fault in the carpet. This is a standard disclaimer from the suppliers.

8. I have never felt that sisal or coir are suitable where there may be small children around. They are quite rough and could cause skin burns if a running child were to slip and skid on them. They also tend to wear out more quickly in the doorways than other types of carpet.

9. Where you are thinking about changes of floor finish do consider how easily one will butt up against the other. It may be necessary to have a naplock or threshold strip between the two. This can be in metal or wood, and your designer or supplier will advise you on the most appropriate.

10. When you are working out your costs you should also allow for taking off, cutting down and re-swinging the doors where necessary.

11. When carpeting a staircase your carpet layer should allow enough extra to be turned under top and bottom, so that as the front of the steps becomes worn the carpet can be lifted and re-laid with the warn edge at the back of the step.

A useful tip in these straightened times.

12. If you are thinking about a rug I think the best approach is to work out the ideal largest and smallest size which would fit the space and work within those parameters. Unless you are having a rug custom made that will give you the most flexibility. My first stop for rugs is always The Rug Company, because they are at the forefront of rug design have such an inspiring collection of rugs which work in almost any space.

REGULAR FEATURES Trade Secrets

Trade Secrets

The inside story of traditional skills and forgotten arts around the British Isles

T

he Natural Wood Floor Company is one of the largest Wood flooring manufacturers in Europe, specialising in beautifully designed and crafted products Wood flooring will look stunning in any room, adding texture, warmth, style and character. It’s hard-wearing, durable and easy to maintain, making it a great option for traditional or contemporary homes. There are plenty of different options to choose from, including wood species, plank sizes, designs and the overall finish. To help steer you in the right direction, it always pays to buy from an established, specialist supplier with a good reputation, who can not only verify the quality of their products, but also offer expert advice to help you choose the right type of wooden floor for your home.

Founded 22 years ago, The Natural Wood Floor Company has grown to become one of the largest wood flooring manufacturers in Europe. That’s quite an achievement for a company which began life based in a small garden shed, supplying and fitting reclaimed floors. The family run and owned business has grown beyond recognition and now employs over 100 staff across Europe and the UK. The company runs a 100,000 square foot manufacturing facility in Eastern Europe, which houses state of the art production equipment and 4,000M3 capacity kilns. The Natural Wood Floor Company also has a

92 I www.thimagazine.com

25,000 square foot showroom and distribution centre in Wandsworth, London together with a further 3 showrooms in Europe.

Although the business has grown substantially since its humble beginnings, the company has retained the ethos and qualities of a small business, offering attention to detail, first class products, excellent customer service and a competitive pricing structure.

With over 20,000 square meters of wood in stock in London, covering 100 different types of flooring, The Natural Wood Floor Company offers a versatile range of high quality products. Providing nation-wide delivery for their engineered, solid wood, parquet woodblock, chevron and pre-finished flooring, there are products to complement all homes and lifestyles, where ever you live.

One of The Natural Wood Floor Company’s strengths is that their products are constantly evolving. Placing a strong emphasis on product design, enables the company to keep ahead of the market and offer their customers the most current and desirable styles.

The latest wood flooring trend is based on the timber’s natural beauty, with looks that highlight the unique grain patterns making the biggest impact. The cool, neutral tones of silver, white and grey are big news, as they combine the desirable characteristics of wood, with an up-to-date and modern twist. Looking equally at home in modern

or traditional homes, these wooden flooring tones provide a neutral, versatile background, working well with darker wall paints and furnishings or complementing lighter and softer schemes.

The Natural Wood Floor Company’s latest offering is an on-trend grey range of engineered oak flooring. Coastal Grey, Driftwood and Antique Blue are all about texture and colour. These two elements work hand-in-hand to highlight the individuality of every piece of wood. In doing so, they capture the natural charm and personality of the timber. Coastal Grey combines the fashionable shade of grey with the warm sandy tones of oak. The beautiful weathered, textured surface creates a look which is both current and timeless. Driftwood combines light and dark shades of grey, which work with the brushed surface, to add depth to the timber. Antique Blue has a very subtle bluish, grey tint, which is perfect for those who prefer darker tones with a contemporary edge.

In addition to developing new colours and styles, The Natural Wood Floor Company has experienced an increased demand for high quality, authentic products which have a timeless appeal. Modern flooring with an antiqued, distressed look is now in vogue.

Homeowners want the look and character of a period wooden floor, but they also want to be able to use it with the latest technology, such as underfloor heating. A good quality

Trade Secrets REGULAR FEATURES engineered board or parquet block, which is aged using a specialist manufacturing technique, is the solution. The multi layer construction of this wood means that it is incredibly strong and stable, reducing any movement caused by temperature changes.

Distressed looks with a more contemporary edge are also making a big impact. Coloured oils and smoky finishes offer an authentic looking floor with bags of style and character.

Perfect for any period home.

Parquet Chevron blocks are also set to make a big comeback. Unlike rectangular parquet woodblocks, chevron blocks are cut at an angle at each end. When fitted, this creates parallel lines running along the floor, which can change the perspective of a room by visually enlarging and extending the space. To bring this look up to date, The Natural Wood Floor Company is developing a new range of hand finished Chevron blocks in cool whites and greys.

The Natural Wood Floor Company also manufactures a range of solid wood mouldings to complement their flooring. In addition, the company makes oak step kits to cover existing stairs, wooden chopping boards and solid wood kitchen worktops.

With ecological issues high on their agenda, The Natural Wood Floor Company follows the replant and recycle principle.

The company believes that using wood from sustainable sources is essential for the replenishment and protection of forests for the future. All of their wood is selected from both farmed and managed natural forests, which have long-term replanting procedures in place to ensure that there is a healthy crop of wood for the future. The company also operates with a strict zero waste policy. The whole tree trunk is used in the manufacturing process with by-products such as sawdust being used to power the wood drying machines and heat the factory buildings. This commitment ensures that all of their products are produced in harmony with the environment.

The use of The Natural Wood Floor Company’s products in a number of prestigious commercial and residential properties in London and across the UK, is testament to their success. The Tate Modern, The Natural History Museum, Soho House, Westfield London, Chelsea Football Club and The British Library are just a few of the buildings where you can see the company’s floors.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT: The Natural Wood Floor Company 020 8871 9771 visit www.naturalwoodfloor.co.uk I Traditional Homes & Interiors I 93

DESIGN TALK Moorcroft Pottery Ragged Pansy

The Walk

Historic Staffordshire Pottery Company Marks its Hundred Year Anniversary!

M

oorcroft, said to be the finest art pottery in the world today with each piece made entirely by hand in Burslem, England, is celebrating the hundredth year of its inauguration. Much has been planned for tourist visitors and there are many tempting offers as well (see below). A visit to this historic factory allows members of the public to witness for themselves over a century of inspired designs using techniques first tried out by William Moorcroft over a hundred years ago. Visitors can quite literally step inside the historic grade II listed bottleoven that soars into the Burslem skyline. In the Moorcroft Museum at Sandbach Road, Burslem, Stoke-on-Trent, not only does surface design reflect each design generation, but the shapes of Moorcroft quite literally come to life in factory tours and through the stories unveiled. Interestingly, new Moorcroft shapes are continuously added. Over the last twenty years, more than 200 new shapes have been created or historic shapes re-issued, many of which originally came from William Moorcroft’s own hands.

Anniversary celebrations are now in hand to commemorate this momentous anniversary with a special collection entitled LEGACY, created by Moorcroft designers to pay homage to the founding father of Moorcroft, William

94 I www.thimagazine.com

Moorcroft. Not an astute businessman admittedly, - a man who notoriously agreed with the original Moorcroft stockholders, Liberty of London, (brought out by the Moorcroft family in the 1960’s) to contract his services to W Moorcroft Ltd for life! And what a life this brainchild has had, starting with trans-Atlantic awards from St Louis, USA, and leading to huge collector followings in America, Australia, Canada and New Zealand. Historic pieces like Waratah sell today for phenomenal prices on the secondary market, not to forget a corporate Royal Appointment, an honour bestowed on the company by Queen Mary in 1928.

Moorcroft designers are also celebrating the art pottery’s design achievements within the creation of an historic Legacy collection. Rachel Bishop (senior designer), has already had a Staffordshire University Hall of Residence named after her as well as some national gold and silver awards of her own. The head of the Design Studio is highly regarded in the world of Moorcroft for her outstanding contribution to the art pottery in the 1990’s when she introduced a plethora of designs reviving the Arts and Crafts movement in ceramic design. In turn, these allowed the art pottery to intrigue and excite collecting in Moorcroft again as it moved towards the Millennium.

In 1997, the Moorcroft Design Studio was formed, and the likes of local designer, Emma Bossons FRSA, (made a fellow of the Royal Society of the Arts after the Millennium celebrations for her contribution to Moorcroft design) with her Design Studio colleagues, can now see Moorcroft displayed in the Mansion House, London, at the time of the Olympic celebrations for Heads of State and visiting dignitaries to admire. These prestigious pieces are now on display at the Mansion House in perpetuity. Nicola Slaney, another Design Studio star born and bred in The Potteries brought fresh blood into Moorcroft, now acknowledged to be a globally-renowned brand. Other members of the Moorcroft Design Studio members have undertaken work for national charities including the RSPB, and the Born Free Foundation to name but two, whilst during this Moorcroft centenary year, the Douglas Macmillan Hospice itself is also a beneficiary.

All Moorcroft designers push forward the boundaries of ceramic design in keeping with the prestigious name that the art pottery now carries worldwide with literally thousands of collectors on their database.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT: Moorcroft www.moorcroft.co.uk

Free to enter competition COMPETITION

WIN

Pr iz e value of

£500

Enter our prize draw to win £500 worth of vouchers to spend at leading online bathroom retailer Victoria Plumb!

Do you have a tired bathroom, en suite or cloakroom in What’s more, Victoria Plumb offers: need of a makeover? If so, this is the competition for you!

We’ll be giving one lucky winner £250 worth of vouchers to spend on bathroom products.

Victoria Plumb, the UK’s leading online bathroom retailer, offers a wide range of traditional and contemporary bathroom suites, luxury roll top baths, on-trend showers and enclosures (including walk-in and wetroom designs), stylish bathroom furniture, basins, taps, heated towel rails and much more.

As Victoria Plumb doesn’t have costly showrooms they can pass the savings onto you. With quality products at unbeatable prices, you can create the ideal bathroom haven to relax and unwind in.

• Lowest price guarantee • Next day delivery available on all items* • Interest free credit and buy now pay later options • Real time “live stock” function on site showing product availability • Adaptive technology website – optimised for use on any mobile, tablet, laptop or desktop PC To order or simply browse their stunning product ranges, visit www.victoriaplumb.com or call 0844 804 48 48 (lines open 7 days a week). You can also order a free copy of their new 180 page brochure. Plus, if you’re looking for bathroom design ideas, visit Victoria Plumb’s own inspiration centre “Love Bathrooms”.

To enter the competition Log onto the Traditional Homes & Interiors website: www.thimagazine.com Terms & Conditions • No cash alternative is available.

• The winners will be sent an E-Voucher with a code.

• Orders must be placed on the telephone and winner must quote reference code sent on E-voucher to validate the prize.

• Each voucher is valid from 6 months following the competition closing date.

• The £500 must be used within 1 order.

• Free standard delivery on your 1 order.

• The competition is open to all UK residents aged 18

and over, excluding employees and associates of Victoria Plum Ltd. and their families.

• No purchase necessary.

• The draw will be held within the following seven days with the winner chosen at random by an independent judge.

• Entry into this competition implies acceptance of the above rules.

• Prize draw promoter: Victoria Plumb (Victoria Plum Ltd), Amsterdam Road, Hull HU7 0XF.

*Next day deliveries should normally arrive between 7am and 7pm, and you will be contacted on the morning of delivery to confirm if you will receive your goods in the morning or afternoon. Large next day delivery orders will be delivered to a room or area of your choice by our specialist 2 man service. Small and medium items will be delivered using our 1 man carrier service. Only orders placed by 2pm on the previous working day are eligible for the next day service, and postcode exceptions may apply.

I Traditional Homes & Interiors I 95

REGULAR FEATURES Shopping Directory

Moorcroft www.moorcroft.co.uk

Springvale Leather www.springvaleleather.co.uk Stoneham Kitchens www.stoneham-kitchens.co.uk Swans of Oakham www.swansofoakham.co.uk Sweetpea & Willow www.sweetpeaandwillow.com

G

N

T

George Smith www.georgesmith.co.uk G.H. Frith Rugs www.frithrugs.co.uk

New House Textiles www.newhousetextiles.co.uk

The Apple Cottage Company www.applecottagecompany.co.uk The Bohemian Company www.freestandingkitchens.com The Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering www.ciphe.org.uk The Holding Company www.theholdingcompany.co.uk The Natural Wood Flooring Company www.naturalwoodfloor.co.uk The Rug Company www.therugcompany.com

A

F

A1 Furniture www.a1-furniture.co.uk Aga www.agaliving.com And So To Bed www.andsotobed.co.uk

Feather & Black www.featherandblack.com Franklite www.franklite.net Furniture Village www.furniturevillage.co.uk

B BC Sanitan www.ukbathrooms.com Brights of Nettlebed www.brights-interiors.com Broadway Kitchens www.kitchensbybroadway.co.uk

C Chamber Furniture www.chamberfurniture.co.uk Clive Christian www.clive.com Crown Paints www.crownpaint.co.uk

D Darlings of Chelsea www.darlingsofchelsea.co.uk Dotcomgiftshop.com www.dotcomgiftshop.com DROM UK www.dromuk.com

E Euroheat www.euroheat.co.uk Eurostove www.eurostoves.com

96 I www.thimagazine.com

H Harveys the Furniture Store www.harveysfurniture.co.uk Heirloom Beds www.heirloombeds.com House of Bath www.houseofbath.co.uk House Courtier www.housecouturier.eu House of Fraser www.houseoffraser.co.uk Kit Stone www.kitstone.co.uk

Laura Ashley www.lauraashley.com Leeks www.leeks.co.uk

M

O Oak Furniture Land www.oakfurnitureland.co.uk Oil Save www.oilsave.org

P Portway Stoves www.fireplaceproducts.co.uk

R Revival Beds www.revivalbeds.co.uk Roman at Home www.romanathome.com

J

S

Jim Lawrence www.jim-lawrence.co.uk John Cullen www.johncullenlighting.co.uk

Second Nature www.secondnature.co.uk Simon Taylor Furniture www.simon-taylor.co.uk Sofa.com www.sofa.com Sofa Workshop www.sofaworkshop.com

L La Lou www.laloucollections.com

V Vi-Spring www.vispring.co.uk

W Wharfside www.wharfside.co.uk William Ball www.williamballkitchens.com Wood Empire www.woodempire.co.uk

For a free catalogue or just friendly advice please do not hesitate to contact us

Eastlands Court Business Centre St Peters Road | Rugby | CV21 3QP

07970955 509 | 01788 555023 www.kvradiators.com