IMPROVE AUTUMN 2020 VOL2 by Christina Shaw

Autumn 2020

ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S TIME TO BRING YOUR DREAMS TO LIFE AN ELEGANT ALTERNATIVE See how timber alternative sash windows help restore a Georgian cottage to its former glor y

THINKING OUTSIDE THE BOX Discover how t h e Tu r n e r f a m i l y transformed their tired conser vator y into a stunning new living space

KERB APPEAL What does your front door say about you?

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Stanier Road, Porte Marsh Industrial Estate, Calne, Wiltshire SN11 9PX T 01249 816 969 • F 01249 815 234 • E deceuninck.ltd@deceuninck.com

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BEAUTIFUL WINDOWS MAKE BEAUTIFUL HOMES Deceuninck is one of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s major PVC-U window and door systems companies and has been established for over 30 years in the UK, with production, distribution and head office in Wiltshire. Autumn 2020

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Contents 9

EXTENDING YOUR HOME – or building from scratch?

Open House – an unloved Granary converted into a light filled home Going Green – bring down your energy bills, shrink your carbon footprint and reduce noise

Getting the Glazing Right – achieve optimum levels of space and light

Scandinavian New Build – roof windows to shine natural light

37 CONSERVATORIES & ORANGERIES - Is it time to replace your conservatory roof? Transforming Conservatories – create a room you can use all year round

BI-FOLDING & SLIDING DOORS - Light filled living

HARDWARE, SECURITY & TECHNOLOGY IN THE HOME - Smart and Secure

Keyless Technology – the savvy homeowner

HERITAGE & PERIOD PROPERTIES - Beautiful Windows make Beautiful Homes

New Lease of Life – 3 ways you can upgrade or transform an old conservatory

Flush Sash Windows – one of the most striking features of a heritage home

Elegant Alternative – timber alternative sash windows

SKYLIGHTS & ROOF LANTERNS - A Brighter Choice

Award Winning Roof Lantern – your builder or specifier will know about this product! Roof Light & Glass Floors – fantastic ways to add light to daylight deficient spaces

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107 CONSUMER ADVICE - How familiar are you with fenestration? Further Education – we look at career opportunities you never knew existed! Green Homes Grant – expert installers to provide the best advice

115 STEEL WINDOWS - Add Value to Your Home The Real Steel Deal – minimalist and dramatic windows, doors and screens Bonafide Supplier – our guide on buying

125 BLINDS & SHUTTERS - 50 Shades or All White? Beat the WFH Blues – colour, contrasts & cooling things down

131 KERB APPEAL - First Impressions Count Understanding Colour – what reflects your personality?

140 GARDEN ROOMS & PATIOS - Outdoor Living Habits Self Watering Raised Planters – Reader Offer! Pergolas – early Autumn Mediterranean vibes

Click any of the contents to go straight through, you can also click back to this page at the start of each section

Christina Shaw Editorial Director

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Welcome to Improve Magazine! Improve is all about bringing you the latest products and design ideas to help create extra living spaces in your home and garden. During the pandemic many of us have already felt the need or desire to upgrade, refresh or extend our homes. No matter what your project is, we have it covered. This edition showcases fabulous extensions and new builds including whole house conversions and we’ll show you how changing a conservatory roof can transform a living space. As the darker nights draw in, our thoughts turn to preparing our homes for Christmas. After all, it’s the time of year families come together and enjoy each other’s homes. So although the pandemic may restrict our movements, it can’t restrict our imaginations! Read how to beat the ‘working from home blues’ by using window dressing to fit your mood. See how skylights and bi-folding doors can bring light into your life and escape away to the country with our feature on Heritage and Period homes. If you can think it, you can improve it!

Christina GET IN TOUCH

All Enquiries Christina Shaw T: 01302 278756 E: christina@improve-magazine.co.uk W: www.improve-magazine.co.uk PHOTO CREDIT: Front Cover Image – Ultraframe The views contained herein are not necessarily those of Improve Magazine and whilst every effort is made to ensure information throughout is correct, Improve Magazine does not accept liability for errors. The views expressed by contributors and the content of letters, are not necessarily those of Improve Magazine and therefore cannot take responsibility.

If lockdown has left you wanting to improve your home, transforming an old conservatory into a stunning new extension is a fantastic place to start. There are various ways that a tired conservatory can be given a new lease of life and they are all faster and simpler to do than you might think, thanks to the latest solid and glass conservatory roofs. The stunning extension on the front cover was once an old conservatory that was updated with the Ultraroof solid roof from Ultraframe – the UK market leader in the design and manufacture of conservatory and extension roof systems for almost 40 years. To find out more about this beautiful transformation, turn to Page 46.

Improve Magazine is published by Lazenby Shaw Creative Ltd.

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External shading experts, Caribbean Blinds, have won the title of ‘Best Garden Buy’ for one of their best-selling products, the Outdoor Living Pod™, in the Real Homes Awards 2020.

who qualifies? FENSA, along with the entire country, welcomed the Green Homes Grant Scheme announcement back in early July. A £2bn investment into making homes up and down the country more energy efficient can only be a good thing. So who qualifies? Well, the main scheme is open to owner/occupiers (both freehold and leasehold) and landlords who rent privately or through the social sector whilst the low income and vulnerable part of the scheme is open to owner-occupied households and part home owners.

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t a ke a closer look The world of conservatories is being transformed by the latest innovative solution that is the “solid” roof. If you are the proud owner of a conservatory, you have probably found yourself questioning how to best use said room.

f ro m t i re d to t i l e d Kasia Benda decided to re-build her conservatory using Ultraroof from Ultraframe to create the beautiful extension featured on the front cover. Kasia lives in a heritage property in Oxford and had an old conservatory which wasn’t especially thermally efficient.

former glory colour combo Colour is a reason for excitement. Demand for colour has soared as more and more homeowners choose colour to revive the outside of their properties and boost their appeal. All products in Deceuninck’s Heritage Window Collection are available in our range of beautiful colours – from striking greys and black to soft heritage-style shades like Agate Grey, Classic Cream and English Oak.

going g re e n From green Government initiatives to documentaries like Blue Planet, the world around us is keen to prevent ongoing climate change damage from impacting our communities – and possibly reversing some of the damage that has taken place over time due to greenhouse gas emissions.

After years of neglect, Millwater Cottage was in desperate need of renovation. Built in 1752, this pretty Georgian mill house sits in a beautiful location in Surrey next to a river and old mill.

Q-secure

It can be daunting when thinking about purchasing new windows and doors, but it needn’t be. There are some great products around, however, your new windows and doors must be secure as well as beautiful.

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Design your dream home with Liniarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s revolutionary PVCu windows, Queenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Award-winning PVCu or fully aluminium bi-fold doors, lantern roofs, conservatories and outdoor products.

Ask your installer for Liniar! Discover the Liniar difference at www.liniar.co.uk 8

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Extending your home and self builds

Looking at extending your home?

Click here to go back to contents

The following section covers... • Home Conversions

• New and Self Builds

• Extensions

• Balustrades

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LINIAR HELPS DELIVER

a n a r c h i t e c t â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s v i s i o n 10

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A stone's throw from the picturesque Blanchmans Farm Nature Reserve, the aptly named Cedarwood property is a contemporary masterpiece which blends perfectly into the surrounding landscape.

Finished in mid-2020, this beautiful Warlingham property was constructed by bespoke developer â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Hursleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, located in Keston, Kent. Hursley Developments was established four years ago and is gaining a growing reputation for finishing projects to an exceptionally high standard - and Cedarwood was no different.

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The Project The initial concept design for Cedarwood featured ultra-modern slimline windows which provided a seamless transition to the natural cedar cladding - and this particular feature of the plan posed a challenge when specifying the products to be used in the build. "The original concept from the planning architect featured very slim profile windows in order to achieve a contemporary finish. When we were looking at products to specify, we had to take into account not only the finished look but also the installed U-value, as well as making sure that the windows were practical for the future homeowner," commented Toby. "We could achieve the required look with aluminium windows, but when we looked into PVCu, they offered the energy

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efficiency that we needed. Additionally, with the Liniar flush sash profile, we were able to introduce openings as well as providing the practicality and ventilation required by the homeowner without compromising the contemporary look. We also chose to use cheek boards foiled to match the flush sash windows as opposed to using cedar cladding. They had to be set to the exact dimensions depending on whether the cedar was vertical or horizontal adjacent to them â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but it provided the perfect finishing touch. "Our preferred local window fabricator, WinRem, suggested the PVCu EnergyPlus flush sash casement window and the PVCu patio door by Liniar. The Liniar flush sash casement window design achieved everything we needed, from the slim lines to the opening mechanism, whilst also having exceptional thermal performance and being far more cost effective than aluminium."

Jake Stephens Director from WinRem explains: “The Liniar EnergyPlus flush sash window boasts U-values as low as 0.8 W/m²K which can provide homeowners with lower energy bills whilst maintaining warmth throughout the colder months of the year. Its six-chamber profile is designed to provide strength without needing additional steel reinforcement, making it incredibly easy to install. It's ideal for a wide range of applications from modern and contemporary to heritage designs.”

Toby continues: “We needed a window that would blend flawlessly, which is why we choose to have Liniar's flush sash casements foiled with 7016 Anthracite Grey - it complements the natural cedarwood cladding perfectly. “The finished project exceeded all of our expectations, and we couldn’t be more delighted with the finish, and the service, from both Liniar and Winrem!” Toby concludes.

View Hursley’s full portfolio of projects by visiting www.hursleydevelopments.co.uk. For more information about Liniar’s PVCu EnergyPlus flush sash casement windows, please visit www.liniar.co.uk/windows/casement/ and to find out about WinRem’s product range, visit www.winrem.com.

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cost effective, simple to install Glass balustrading is no new thing, a broad range of solutions and fixing methods have been available for some time, so how do you cut the wheat from the chaff and choose the best solution?

Firstly, establish what look you require, one of the first considerations in detailing a glass balustrade solution is whether to include posts or not, or point fixings? Ultimately this comes down to aesthetics and ensuring the best performance. Frameless glass balustrades provide unrestricted views. Post fixed balustrading creates a sturdy look, however the posts do create visual impediments in the overall view. Using point fixings is another option to create the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;all glassâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; look but the fixing substrate needs to appropriate to enable side fixing. Autumn 2020

Once you have chosen your preferred type of glass balustrading system naturally you want to make sure the system is fit for purpose and from a reputable supplier. Two of the key elements for a successful glass balustrading project are ease of installation and cost effectiveness. ONLEVEL are well known for providing innovative glass hardware solutions, with their TL-6020 frameless glass balustrade profile leading the way in the UK for simple, no fuss installation. Glass is fitted into ONLEVEL’s range of ‘TL’ profiles using Flex-Fit, Flex-Fit is ONLEVEL’s innovative system for adjusting glass plates. With this system it was possible to adjust each individual glass plate up to 40 millimetres towards the perpendicular line. It provides safe alignment of glass balustrades; with just a simple sliding movement the installer is able to precisely position glass and reduce the assembly time by some 30%. – fast, effective and so simple. In addition, Flex-Fit is safer than traditional glass balustrade fixing solutions which often require you to work from both the balcony side and the void side. Flex-Fit was fully operated from the balcony side. Not only is it safer, rental costs for scaffolding or a cherry picker are eliminated! ONLEVEL’s glass balustrading solutions provide real cost savings due to installation ease and speed, furthermore with ONLEVEL you have peace of mind, knowing their products have been successfully installed on numerous projects across the UK and Germany for many years. 16

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Colindale Gardens, London, UK Situated in the heart of North West London is Colindale Gardens, a unique £1bn residential development in Colindale, Barnet. Once complete it will comprise of 2,900 homes, nine acres of public green space alongside a shopping plaza and school. Spanning 47 acres in total, Colindale Gardens is an ongoing regeneration scheme with a 12-year plan. The first construction phase in 2017 saw the development of Lassen House and Newington House, beautiful new residential blocks featuring ONLEVEL’s TL-6020 frameless glass balustrade profile. Each apartment features an external area with balcony that combines effortlessly with the building envelope to create a sleek, modern structure. Central to the success of the building’s exterior appeal, with its clean lines and architectural balcony framework is the frameless glass balustrading by ONLEVEL. It provides a safe and secure barrier to each balcony area whilst subtly unifying with the protruding metalwork and façade of the building. A total of 600 metres of TL-6020 frameless glass balustrading system from ONLEVEL was specified and installed in the external balcony areas of each apartment, maximising light throughout and providing unobscured views. Gary Dean, Sales Director, ONLEVEL UK, comments, “Its fair to say we have a reputation for developing innovative glass hardware solutions. Innovation is part of our character, creating easy to install innovative solutions is key, but like everything we do, there has to be balance and no matter how innovative the product, it has to be cost effective.” Redrow North London’s Colindale Gardens development received the accolade of Multi Storey Development of the Year at The Bricks 2017 Awards.

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TRANS LEVEL FRAMELESS GLASS BALUSTRADE

TL 6020 1.5 kN TOP MOUNT TESTED ACCORDING TO BS6180

T +44 0161 804 9500 | F +44 0161 804 9505 sales@onlevel-uk.com | www.onlevel.com

CHESHIRE PLAINS, ENGLAND 18

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BRING THE

outside in Delivering excellence across its vast array of windows, doors and conservatories, the Thames Valley Window Company is renowned for taking care of customers through the entire length of their purchase, from product selection through to installation. With over 35 years of expertise, the greatly knowledgeable team is able to offer customers the very best service and the highest quality products. With the trend for open plan spaces evolving over the past few years, homeowners’ desire to expand living areas to incorporate the outdoors has continued to grow. “Wide-span openings are very on trend. Blending the garden into the home is commonplace among home improvers looking for a seamless transition between the indoors and out.” Ryan Schofield, Managing Director, Thames Valley Window Company. For a cohesive look that leads from the house into the garden, Bi-fold and Sliding Doors, available in uPVC, Timber, Aluminium or Composite, offer homeowners the perfect solution. Bi-fold Doors are available with or without a ‘slave’ door, providing the option of entering or exiting a home without having to open up the entire structure, this choice eliminates any sense of glazing between the outside and in. For a more practical option, Sliding Doors offer an expansive view and greater flexibility, allowing homeowners to partially close some of the Sliding Door, ideal for providing a little protection on a slightly crisper evening.

Thames Valley Window Company’s range of Wintergardens, Conservatories and Orangeries can also brighten and open up living areas. Designed to add light and space to a home, these glazed structures, available in traditional or modern styles, allow homeowners to connect with nature in both summer and winter. An alternative option is a Glass Atrium, designed to transform patios into glasshouses, for a simple solution to warm and covered alfresco dining.

Click here to enquire Autumn 2020

o p e n

HOUSE Converting an unloved granary to light-filled home Gillian Reader barn conversion | County Durham, UK | CENTOR

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Spring 2019 Autumn 2020

hen Gillian and her family decided to buy a derelict farm in County Durham, she could only dream about the property she might eventually be able to enjoy. Fastforward eight years, and Gillian has successfully converted and extended the former granary building to create a beautifully appointed and light-filled ‘forever home’ that brings her joy every day. In 2009, Gillian and her husband pooled resources with Gillian’s parents and her sister and family to purchase

an entire farm. The 72-acre plot of land came with a series of run-down buildings that no-one had lived in for 40 years – but the family had big plans… Gillian explains: “We converted the Dutch Barn into garages and the stables were converted into a home for my parents. My sister and her husband and children had the farmhouse, but they had to knock it down and start again. Because of strict planning permission requirements, they had to build it exactly as it originally was. We took the granary – and were subject to the

same planning restrictions.” She continues: “We had to re-build it on the same footprint, with every window, door and opening exactly as they once were. So I’ve now got five very narrow openings for the windows, where the granary machinery and the hoists were – they’re only 4-inches wide!” As the director of a large construction and demolition company, Gillian is no stranger to the often-unforeseen challenges of any type of building work, and she wasn’t phased by the task of re-building the granary. The Spring 2019 Autumn 2020

35 21

whole project took 18 months to complete. The two-storey building was previously adjoined to the neighbouring barn by a simple corrugated shed. This ‘non-traditional’ aspect allowed Gillian to push through planning consent to replace this section of the house with a new link structure that isn’t subject to the same rigorous restrictions. “For the whole of the rest of the house, we had to use the old local stone to re-build the granary. But in this one space I was allowed to do something a bit different, because it was a completely new structure,” explains Gillian. And she had a very clear idea of what she wanted to create… “I went Australia about eight years ago and met up with a friend who had moved there. Her house overlooks the sea and it had two glass walls that completely moved. She could open up the whole ground floor to the outside and it was incredible. I wanted to be able to achieve that kind of insideoutside way of living too.” With that vision in mind, Gillian and her husband set about finding and specifying a set of full-height folding doors that would enable them to have their new lounge totally open to the outside. “I wanted as much natural light into the living area of the house as I could get,” says Gillian. “Our architect, Craig Kipling from Create Architecture, advised us that we would need to get a really good quality door to enable it to span the entire almost 7-metrewide opening.” They visited the Homebuilding & Renovating show at Harrogate and came across the Centor stand: “They were showing Centor Integrated Doors, with the insect screen and blind, and were opening and closing them so smoothly. My husband thought they were a piece of art!” She adds: “We made an appointment to visit our local Centor dealer to take a closer look – and that was pretty much it! 22

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“We loved the obvious quality of these

doors. They are clearly very strong, but they open and close so easily – you can literally push them with one finger. They look very nice, and the integrated blinds really appealed to me. I didn’t want any curtains in my house, but I wanted the capability to occasionally block the light out and to close the windows off at night. These blinds are just incredible!” Gillian and her husband specified an all-aluminium 6-panel 405 Integrated Folding Door with a double blackout shade. “It’s the only thing that isn’t wooden in the whole house!”, she laughs. “We wanted the whole build to be sympathetic to the original granary building; the same footprint, the same stone, we had to have wooden windows, we had to have sash windows – it was all part of the planning consent. But this new linking area was allowed to be very different. I wanted wall-to-wall windows and these are just brilliant!” The result is a beautiful home, built

in a traditional style with a distinctly contemporary twist. “We have a true inside-outside existence now,” says Gillian. “In the summer, we can have the doors open and be inside, still getting fresh air no matter what the weather does outside. It’s really nice just to sit with the doors wide open and be inside but feel like you’re outside. “We do a lot of entertaining. My son and his wife don’t live very far away so they might pop in after work, my sister and her kids are literally 10 yards away and my parents are about 50 yards away! Our evenings are quite social – it might be two people, it might be 23! We’ve got patio heaters, so even if it’s chilly, we can happily sit outside until late.” She adds: “This is absolutely my favourite part of the house. It’s a very open space, with the living area leading into the kitchen and it really flows. We got such open living now, inside and out – it’s just lovely.”

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Case Study: Self Build

A Ta l e o f Tw o P ro j e c t s :

GOING GREEN

From green Government initiatives to documentaries like Blue Planet, the world around us is keen to prevent ongoing climate change damage from impacting our communities – and possibly reversing some of the damage that has taken place over time due to greenhouse gas emissions. The steps an average person can take extend far beyond cutting single-use plastics out of their life (though this is an important step!) Making a lasting impact of your own carbon footprint begins where you live and extends into the very foundation of the home you live in.

In 2019, the UK announced its plan to pass laws to end its contribution to global warming by 2050 and achieve a carbon neutral state. The first major economy to declare such an aspirational plan, the UK’s ‘green initiative’ will take more than big business and industry leaders to make a difference – homeowners can play a huge role in making it a success as well. This isn’t a new idea All the way back in 1990, PassivHaus technology was created - but it’s only been in the last decade that homeowners have become more aware of how the overall construction of their property makes an impact on their energy bills, extending far beyond insulation. In 2008, UK PVCu window design experts Liniar launched a new window system which was the first in more

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than two decades to be designed from scratch with both energy efficiency and security in mind. The design engineers behind this revolutionary window wanted to achieve unrivalled energy efficiency without sacrificing security or stability. ‘Energy Positive’ building specification Four years later, in 2012, a couple in Lincolnshire were looking to self-build a house that was incredibly energy efficient, with no utility bills for heating. After employing a top-notch architect who put them onto Liniar’s EnergyPlus range, they knew they’d found the right windows for the job. “We did look at timber as an option, but we had seen it used in other developments where it had warped and had problems with the seals... and we wouldn’t touch aluminium with a

bargepole! It was just too expensive and not at all energy efficient. So really, we were set on having uPVC from the beginning. We hadn’t heard of Liniar windows before, but our architect recommended them as he had specified them in previous projects. We found a local Liniar installer, who could help us achieve our objectives.” The couple were delighted that the finished building was ‘Energy Positive’ by 40% – meaning that it generates 40% more energy that it uses. PassivHaus accreditation While Liniar’s EnergyPlus window was able to achieve PassivHaus ratings in 2012 for the Thomson’s it wasn’t a truly PassivHaus accredited system. In 2017, however, Liniar launched a truly revolutionary product - the EnergyPlus90

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(EP90) window. This 90mm window is the UK’s first PVCu PassivHaus accredited window and also has incredible acoustic values. Since its launch, the EP90 window has been the go-to product for specifiers and architects who want to achieve not only groundbreaking energy efficiency but also noise reduction to WHO urban standards. In 2020, a 1970s office block in Hampshire underwent a facelift, turning it into 67 luxury one- and two-bedroomed flats. The windows had to be energy efficient, and because of its location next to a railway station, acoustic properties were essential to provide future homeowners the peace of mind that they wouldn’t be disturbed by the noise. “We researched the available options for PVCu windows which would meet acoustic standards whilst offering high security and excellent thermal performance. We found that the market is lacking in options for this type of product, and there are very few to choose from. After investigation, we chose to go with Liniar’s EnergyPlus90 due to its slim frames and patented design features. The finished job is stunning – without the sound of a train in earshot!” One of the only windows with the required acoustic 42-decibel rating, Liniar’s EP90 system also boasts PassivHaus accreditation, providing unrivalled thermal performance – as well as exceptional security to ‘Secured by Design’ standards. The EP90 windows were foiled in 7016 Grey on the outside to give a modern, industrial appearance and left white on the inside to provide a blank canvas for the new occupants. Perfect for your project Whether you’re looking to bring your energy bills down, shrink your carbon footprint, reduce noise in an urban area, Liniar’s window range ticks all the boxes.

“We found that the market is lacking in options for this type of product, and there are very few to choose from. After investigation, we chose to go with Liniar’s EnergyPlus90 due to its slim frames and patented design features. The finished job is stunning – without the sound of a train in earshot!”

For more information on Liniar’s energy-efficient window and door ranges, visit www.liniar.co.uk.

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a light and contemporary

F A M I LY L I V I N G S P A C E Alison and Phil Ball, both working at family company Heating & Boiler Services Ltd, had always dreamed of creating a light and contemporary family living space in their home in Rainhill near Liverpool. When the couple moved into the early-â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;80s detached property in 2011, they soon realised that the existing layout would not suit their requirements for a family home.

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With no doors from the conservatory at the back of the house to the adjoining living area, the downstairs of the property was boiling hot in summer and freezing cold in winter – so much so that the conservatory actually doubled up as a wine cooler in the winter months! A few years after moving in, Alison and Phil made the decision to knock down the conservatory and extend the back of the house, in order to put their own stamp on their dream home. In July 2017, the couple enlisted the help of local architect Dave Price at DP Design Services to help them realise their vision of creating one big openplan living space, spanning the width of the back of the property. This would comprise a large kitchen with a breakfast bar island and a contemporary yet cosy family area. Planning permission went through fairly quickly, even though the couple had to apply to two councils due to the location of the home. Alison said: “The only requirement was for all the windows and doors at the back of the property to be triple-glazed, which we duly did. This does make it nice and toasty when they’re all shut, but luckily we designed the space so that when they are open it’s perfectly airy.” Phil set about with father Graham – a joiner by trade – to undertake the majority of the building works. With the help of friend John Kingdon, the trio dug the foundations for the extension while roofing and plastering were completed by Andrew Cross at local company Xperia Construction. Due to his contacts from his work as a joiner, Graham specified the best building products for the project, ordering Keylite Roof Windows from his builders’ merchants Huws Gray in St Helens. Graham recommended Keylite’s Roof Windows as the ideal solution to complement the style of the extension and to let light and air into the space, and although Alison also loved the look of Keylite’s Roof Lanterns, she felt that the roof windows worked much better in this setting due to the sloping roof of the extension. Autumn 2020

Alison and Phil settled on the Keylite triple glazed, centre pivot PVC roof window, installing four into their pitched roof. Alison said: “My vision was always for a large open-plan kitchen and living area that had a clean and contemporary feel, while also being really cosy and a great place for the family to spend most of our time. “Sadly, Graham passed away during the course of the build, but Phil and various friends of ours continued to work tirelessly to finish the job – laying the bricks, building the roof, fitting the windows, doors and kitchen, and undertaking all rendering and plastering themselves.” The project took the best part of three years in total, and just recently the couple fitted decking to the outside patio and tidied up the garden, so that they can use the outside space as an extension of the indoor living area. Reflecting on their self-build journey, Alison said: “The sheer scale of the building process was quite daunting but well worth the upheaval in the end. My only advice to anyone who wants to undertake a similar project is to perhaps commission a local builder to do the work if you wanted it completed in a shorter timescale.

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“Phil and friends have been fantastic, but with two young children at home the worry of living in a building site for so long was quite difficult at times. In hindsight, we perhaps should’ve moved out for a bit, but with Phil working on the extension as well as working on his dayjob full-time, we always knew it would be a lengthy process.

“My favourite part of the entire extension is Keylite’s Roof Windows. I just think they set off the space so beautifully and cast a wonderful light across the whole space, which we wouldn’t have been able to achieve without them. “The fact they are triple-glazed with expanding thermal collar and warm edge glazing supplied as standard also means the thermal performance is secondto-none, and the aesthetics of them really set off the room so nicely – fully transforming the space and helping bring the outside in.”

Client: Alison & Phil Ball Style: Contemporary openplan kitchen and family room extension Location: Rainhill, near Liverpool

For more information about Keylite Roof Windows, please visit www.keyliteroofwindows.com, call 01283 200 158 or email info@keyliteuk.com. Autumn 2020

SCANDINAVIAN

open-plan new build Gareth Boyd and his wife Lindsey had always dreamed of building a home for themselves and their young son. Working as an Architectural Technician at 2020architects, Gareth had spent many years helping people to design and build their ideal home, and so in October 2017, decided it was time to put their own plans into action.

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The couple put their house on the market in late 2017 to help fund their self-build, and found it was sold just seven days later, meaning the pressure was really on to find a plot to build on and somewhere to live in the meantime. They found the perfect spot in the Northern Irish countryside at the end of 2017 where planning was already live, and building commenced in July the next year. Large and remote, the plot featured a lane leading to the edge of the site, a preinstalled water pipe, and an electric pole in reach. Gareth designed the home himself, saving on both time and architectural fees, and based the design on a simple barn shape, managing to fit everything they needed into 1,700 sq. feet – again minimising fees and any potential issues. “Because of the job I’m in, I see people building their ideal homes all the time, so we really fancied doing it ourselves too. We also wanted something a bit more remote than where we’d left, somewhere out in the country.” The Boyds first approached a mortgage advisor to ensure there were no potential or obvious issues that may put off lenders, before the chosen lender checked over both the site and design to confirm.

“We wanted a home where the inside was connected to the outside. That’s why we opted to use plenty of timber to create a Scandinavian feel, while the open plan spaces and large windows would allow us to look right over the landscape and fill each room with natural light.”

After a few tests to analyse the conditions of the groundworks, all legal checks and necessary approvals were granted. A call from the couple’s Planning Officer explained how they were happy with the overall design of the house, but the concrete chimney they had included in their original designs had been rejected. The Boyds decided to sadly discard the idea of a chimney, knowing that fighting the decision could have caused significant delays, with no real guarantee of success. It wasn’t long after then when planning was fully approved, having taken only two months from submission to approval – a very quick process for an application on a greenfield site in their area, and the build could commence. “We wanted a home where the inside was connected to the outside. That’s why we opted to use plenty of timber to create a Scandinavian feel, while the open plan spaces and large windows would allow us to look right over the landscape and fill each room with natural light.” The family finally moved into their new home in July 2019, with only the finishing touches to the interiors and landscaping left to complete. The end result is a quaint, rustic home filled with natural materials and home comforts. Lighting is one of the stand-out features in Gareth and Lindsey’s home. The open plan, Scandinavian style living space is flooded with natural daylight from the windows and the light bounces off of the timber flooring and white walls to create a bright and fresh feeling throughout the home. Due to his work at the Architect firm, Gareth was well acquainted with roof windows specialists Keylite. “We chose to incorporate Keylite’s roof windows as I’ve worked with them many times before on projects in my day job. I knew without a doubt we would be getting quality products with minimal hassle.

Autumn 2020

Client: Gareth Boyd Style: Scandinavian, open plan self-build Location: Northern Ireland

“The roof windows shine natural light right down into the living area setting off the whole space; we’re honestly chuffed with the end result.” “From an efficiency point of view, we put a lot of emphasis on a fabric-first approach to design throughout the home. This involved maximising the thermal efficiency of the envelope of the building, investing in generous amounts of insulation, good quality windows and air-tightness. If these areas are specified and installed properly, the amount of energy required to heat the home is greatly reduced. With this in mind, the Keylite expanding thermal collar is fantastic for minimising any heat escaping around the window, making the overall window far more thermally efficient. “The whole process from ordering to installation was so easy. We ordered

from the builders’ merchants, JP Corry who had the windows we wanted in stock already and were sent to us right away. I know that the joiners we work with like using Keylite products because of ease of installation too. “We chose three centre pivot roof windows with blinds to go in our son’s room and over the mezzanine landing, which looks over into our open plan living space – without a doubt these are the brightest rooms in the house. The roof windows shine natural light right down into the living area setting off the whole space; we’re honestly chuffed with the end result.”

For more information about Keylite Roof Windows, please visit www.keyliteroofwindows.com, call 01283 200 158 or email info@keyliteroofwindows.com Autumn 2020

Autumn 2020

Conservatories & Orangeries

Is it time to re p l a c e y o u r c o n s e r v a t o r y ro o f ?

Click here to go back to contents

The following section covers... • Roof Replacement 48

• Frame Replacement

• Solid Roofs (Tiled)

• Timber Conservatory

• Bespoke Orangery

Spring 2019

Autumn 2020

WHETHER YOU ARE EXTENDING YOUR HOME OR BUILDING FROM S C R ATC H , T H E B I - FO L D N E T W O R K H A S

THE PRODUCT RANGE TO MEET YOUR NEEDS.

• Bifold Doors • Windows and Entrance Doors • Heritage Windows and Doors • Patio Doors

Autumn 2020

Contact us today to find a local installer or call us for a friendly, no obligation chat. www.bifoldnetwork.com Email us to find your local installer: info@bifoldnetwork.com If you would like further help please call our friendly staff on 0114 231 3133 Autumn 2020

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bringing the roof

DOWN bringing

the

roof

DOWN

Is it time to replace your conservatory roof? UK homeowners love a conservatory, but with many of them installed decades ago, is it time to look at replacing the roof? facilis dissentiunt id, pro elit vivendum adolescens et.

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Click here to enquire

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A u t u m nSpring 2 0 2 02019

4 111

Ask

for

Icotherm

roof

when

TRANSFORMING YOUR C O N S E R VAT O R I E S The world of conservatories is being transformed by the latest innovative solution that is the â&#x20AC;&#x153;solidâ&#x20AC;? roof. If you are the proud owner of a conservatory, you have probably found yourself questioning how to best use said room. Hard to keep cool in the summer, and too cold to use in winter, you will be staying out of it for large parts of the year. 2020 might have been particularly frustrating as a lot of homeowners will have been desperate to make any available space usable, either as office space, or for the children to go to comfortably whilst you are working from home. With an Icotherm roof your dreams can come true Designed and engineered specifically to replace the traditional glazed conservatory roof, the range of Icotherm roofs will allow you to transform your space into a usable room, just like any other in your house.

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As the first widely available timber framed solution on the market today we have refined our roof to what we believe is the best performing on the market today. All roof options are highly insulated for comfort, fully ventilated for an airy feel, and the plasterboard ceiling can be fitted with downlights. Designed with traditional timber frame using the same high-quality structural timber you will find in your house roof, Icotherm roofs are fabricated following all required structural guidelines, and are building control compliant.

Create a room that you can use all year-round

The solid roof company For conservatory roof replacements or new single storey extensions

Eco-friendly timber

Thermally efficient

Fully ventilated

Sustainably sourced timber, making for the ultimate green building solution.

The Icotherm roof helps maintain optimum temperature in the room, protecting from the summer heat and retaining warmth in winter.

Unique timber pod construction which speeds up installation and the roof is fully ventilated to prevent condensation.

To find an installer near you, email us on info@icotherm.co.uk Autumn 2020

Autumn 2020

Of course, we use FSC certified timber (ie sourced from sustainable / managed forest), and our insulation material is 100% recyclable.

Look at the attached photos of this sumptuous gabled room.

with this new gabled installation. Because of the outlook they wanted to make the most of the light, and the view, so the height given by the ceiling style was perfectly fitting. Thanks to Icothermâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unique structural design we can provide these large gable roof types without any visible form of restraints like tie bars, for a very clean feel and look. A couple of Velux windows were added, and the tiles selected were of the slate effect type.

Originally a small and tired glazed conservatory, the owners opted to have the whole installation removed and replaced

If you are looking to transform your conservatory the Icotherm roofs range would offer all the options you need.

Autumn 2020

a new lease of

Life

ultraframe-conservatories.co.uk

After spending so much time in our homes during lockdown, many of us are now itching to get started on home improvement projects, with many families wanting to create valuable extra living space after spending so long living in closer proximity than usual.

So, what are your options? There are 3 main ways that you can upgrade or transform an old conservatory: Before

After

ne of the simplest ways to do this is to upgrade and reinvigorate an old conservatory. If like many UK homeowners, you have a conservatory that is tired, in need of some TLC and currently not being used, there are several ways you can upgrade the thermal performance of your conservatory or transform it into a stunning light filled extension. Ultraframe is the UK market leader in the design and manufacture of 46

Autumn 2020

conservatory and extension roof systems and has been pioneering the market for almost 40 years. Every Ultraframe roof – whether glass, tiled or hybrid – is engineered for the exact postcode where it will be installed to ensure it can withstand the worst possible weather. This means that with an Ultraframe roof, you’re not only assured of a stunning, light filled new living space, but also, complete peace of mind.

Re-roof. Replacing the roof on your conservatory can dramatically reduce temparature fluctuations creating a space that’s comfortable every day, whatever the weather. Replace. You may also choose

to replace the windows and doors – with modern options such as bifolds and large span sliding doors being popular options.

Re-build. You may choose

to knock down your existing conservatory to the foundations creating a brand new, bespoke extension.

Choose the roof for your conservatory transformation: Glass. A new glass roof

From Tired to Tiled Kasia Benda decided to re-build her conservatory using Ultraroof from Ultraframe to create the beautiful extension featured on the front cover. Kasia lives in a heritage property in Oxford and had an old conservatory which wasn’t especially thermally efficient. As the conservatory was rarely a comfortable temperature, it was hardly ever used, as Kasia explained: “My old conservatory was outdated in terms of its thermal technology which made it practically uninhabitable. I wanted somewhere to relax and enjoy the tranquillity of my garden at any time of the year using the same footprint as my existing conservatory. My garden is a beautiful little oasis and I really wanted to be able to enjoy it more – both by having better views of it and also by linking it to my home.” After speaking to her local Ultra Installer, Kasia decided to transform ultraframe-conservatories.co.uk

her conservatory into a stunning and highly thermally efficient extension featuring an Ultraroof. Ultraroof is the most thermally efficient tiled roof system on the market, so it was perfect for creating the year-round room that Kasia desired.

As it’s also the strongest tiled roof on the market, it was the ideal choice for the steeply pitched gable style of the new extension – because Ultraroof never needs a tie bar, this means that the resulting ceiling is an open vaulted space, which has made the new extension feel much larger. Also adding to the airy feel of the new living space are the full-length glazed panels which flood the room below and the adjoining room with plenty of natural light.

A whole new way of life The Ultraroof gable extension has transformed the downstairs of Kasia’s home and the way she lives in it. Describing more about

featuring the latest high performance glazing will give your old glass or polycarbonate conservatory a stunning new look – as well as a much more comfortable interior temperature. Couple with features such as an internal pelmet to get an extension-like feel at a fraction of the cost.

Tiled. A tiled solid roof is a fantastic way to transform an old conservatory to a new extension. Plastered on the inside just like a bricks and mortar extension, from the outside, the beautifully authentic tiles will blend perfectly with the roof of your home. Hybrid. A hybrid solid roof looks more like a conservatory from the outside but also has a plastered finish inside, just like a tiled solid roof. Both tiled and hybrid Ultraframe solid roofs can be glazed with full length glazing panels to flood the interior with natural light and add wow factor to the outside. the project,Kasia said; “I love my new extension; it’s definitely a huge improvement. I really liked the authentic look of Ultraroof’s tiles - it looks beautiful. Not only does it look stunning but the new, properly insulated extension, has affected the temperature of the house downstairs, and its ambience – I’ve actually gained another room. Autumn 2020

ultraframe-conservatories.co.uk

Think outside the box! The Turner family also chose the re-build route – but went a step further by extending the footprint. A great example of what can be achieved with a little imagination – the new extension is a large contemporary space which is unrecognisable from the old traditional conservatory. The family wanted to upgrade their old T-shaped conservatory with a polycarbonate roof into a more usable room which would also improve the feel of the adjoining rooms and increase their connection to the garden.

A modern solid roof with a bright interior was top of their wish list and so the Livinroof hybrid roof from Ultraframe was the perfect choice. Livinroof’s insulated grey panels look gorgeous when paired with

Before 48

After Autumn 2020

grey window and door frames and glazed panels can be positioned anywhere in the roof for a completely bespoke design – providing natural light exactly where you need it! On the interior, Livinroof has a plastered vaulted ceiling and so creates an extension-type feel – even though it can be fitted quickly as it is 100% pre-fabricated before arriving on site.

Somewhere we can spend time as a family The existing conservatory was demolished and replaced by a stunning modern hipped leanto extension. Unsurprisingly, the homeowners are thrilled with their new living space and said: “The ability to reduce the amount of glazing in the roof was important so the room wasn’t too bright or hot and so Livinroof with its mix of solid and glazed panels was ideal. Our new living space is somewhere we can spend time as a family and we use it throughout the day now - a quiet room in the morning, family room for lunches and for relaxing early evening to enjoy the view of the garden.”

Your project checklist If like these homeowners, you have an unused, unloved conservatory, that you’re ready to bring back to life, here’s how to go about it:

Find. A reputable local builder or conservatory installer to work with – their experience and expertise will ensure a hassle-free project. Search on: ultraframe-conservatories.co.uk Discuss. Your ideas for enhancing your old conservatory and decide whether to re-roof, replace or re-build. Choose. The right roof for you – the Classic glass roof, an Ultraroof tiled solid roof or Livinroof.

A Classic transformation Mrs James had a conservatory which needed updating and chose to re-place thier conservatory roof and frames. The conservatory, which had a polycarbonate roof, could get very hot in the summer and not retain heat as necessary in winter, plus the windows and doors were draughty. She contacted her local Ultraframe installer, explaining that she wanted to be able to use the conservatory all year round and maximise her views across the open countryside. Ater discussing the options available to her, it was decided to go down the replace route - removing the existing roof, windows and doors, but retaining the base and some of the brickwork. A new Ultraframe Classic roof with a decorative curved cornice was chosen to not only make the new conservatory look beautiful, but also to provide the enhanced thermal performance that Mrs James was looking for. High-performance blue ultraframe-conservatories.co.uk

glazing in the roof not only ensures a bright interior, but also helps to regulate the temperature, whilst the self-cleaning properties ensure the roof always looks its best. The insulated internal pelmet gives a more substantial look to the interior and provided the ideal housing for downlights. Explaining more about her new conservatory and how it has exceeded her expectations, Mrs James said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;

The Ultraframe range addressed all the shortcomings in the original conservatory and increased the level of light in both the conservatory and the adjoining snug. I particularly liked the opportunity to include an inbuilt lighting system in the internal pelmet and the deep cornicing over the external guttering. The internal pelmet makes my

conservatory feel more like a real room from the inside, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a great feature. Ultraframe has transformed the look and feel of the conservatory - it is light and airy but also snug and cosy in the evenings. Best of all, I can see the trees and sky through the glass roof and the sunlight reaches much further into the house. Mission completed!â&#x20AC;? Autumn 2020

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Spring A u tconservatories um n 2Spring 02019 2 0 2019 5 1 49 and orangeries , 49 David

Wright and his team can be contacted

breathing new life INTO A GRADE II LISTED PROPERTY W I T H A B E S P O K E O R A N G E RY This stunning property was blessed with a wealth of period features and unique character, however, the traditional design did not meet the requirements of modern-day family living. The original property dates back to the 16th century, with newer features added during the Victorian period. As a result, the interior was segmented into smaller individual rooms, reflecting the trends at the time. The owners of the property got in touch with Westbury Garden Rooms with the challenge of extending the living space, without detracting from the property’s heritage.

The first hurdle that needed to be tackled was the fact that the property is a Grade II listed building, something that can make gaining planning permission more difficult. However, the fact the rear of the property was newer there was little issue obtaining conservation consent. At the rear of the property was an aged and dated uPVC conservatory which had to be removed before work could begin. New structural openings were then added to create an open-plan kitchen and dining space, utility room, toilet, and hall leading to the new part of the house. The flow of the new room created a multifunctional space that perfectly complements the existing property. To allow light to flood the room below, a large timber roof lantern was installed. Using Ogee moulding on the underside, a detailed yet timeless look was created ensuring the lantern matched the classic essence of the property. Bringing the home into the 21st century, two electronically operated automatic roof vents were installed, which help to ventilate the room and include rain sensors and thermostatic controls. When the British weather is kind, the new room flows perfectly into the stunning surrounding Surrey countryside with two

Autumn 2020

pairs of double doors. Additionally, classic casement windows were installed and designed to reflect the historic charm of the home. Key design features include oversized internal window cills, antique brass ironmongery, and gothic-style glazing bars. Combined, these features are very visually appealing, and help breathe new life into the home while keeping in touch with the property’s history and character. From a technical standpoint, the orangery was created out of engineered wood, with an external layer of Accoya®. Used for its durability, longevity, and reliability, Accoya® is very robust, meaning the homeowners can be safe in the knowledge that their new orangery will last the test of time. Furthermore, Accoya® is made from fast-growing, sustainable FSC® or PEFC™ Radiata pine, making it an extremely environmentally friendly and sustainable building material. The addition of a new, bespoke orangery, means the owners of this Grade II listed property can now enjoy all the benefits of modern open plan living as the rear of the home has been transformed into a comfortable and bright space that can be loved by the whole family. www.westburygardenrooms.com

Autumn 2020

Skylights & Roof Lanterns

A brighter choice

Click here to go back to contents

The following section covers... • Award winning Roof Lantern

• Roof Lights

• Glass Floors

Autumn 2020

SLIMMER

WARMER

STRONGER

EASY INSTALL

THE MULTI-AWARD WINNING KORNICHE ALUMINIUM ROOF LANTERN

A BRIGHTER CHOICE Ask your builder or specifier about Korniche today. Engineered aluminium products that deliver class leading structural and thermal performance. Uninterrupted sightlines provide unrivalled interior views.

enquiries@korniche.co.uk

www.korniche.co.uk 56

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‘Being voted Best Rooflight Supplier is a reflection of how well regarded Korniche Aluminium Systems is amongst its customers and the industry’ The Faster, Stronger, Warmer and Slimmer Korniche started a revolution in roof lantern design when it was launched in 2016. Since then it has been successfully installed in thousands of home extension projects throughout the UK and become the market leader.

The best looks to complement your project • Slim • Traditional • Clean Lines • Attention to Detail • The Finishing Touch

BESPOKE SIZES UP TO 6MX4M The most efficient in class • Complete Roof U values from 1.2 • 100% Thermally Broken • High Performance Glazing

FIXED 25˚PITCH

The strongest on the market • More Glass, Less Roof • Highest Quality Weatherproofing • Security • Exceeding Standards

3 STOCK RAL COLOURS

24MM DOUBLE GLAZED UNITS DUAL COLOUR AVAILABLE

BESPOKE RAL COLOURS

Autumn 2020

a brighter

CHOICE 58

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‘Project by MK Construction. glazedextension.com’

Korniche Aluminium Systems – Contemporary glazing products that deliver everything a homeowner and self-builder could wish for to bring light into extensions and self-build projects. The Korniche Roof Lantern looks great – Slimmer with fine architectural lines it has less frame, delivers more light and elevation. Flat roof extensions with Korniche become a much more vibrant and open space providing an architectural feature which looks at home in any traditional setting, and was recently the winner of the Homebuilding & Renovating Award for ‘Best Rooflight Supplier 2020’. The Lantern is easy to specify, easy to build on-site and maintenance free! The net result is a product that can be ‘Installed in minutes, glazed in seconds’ by the trade but also delivers a slim, refined lantern for the homeowner which is the strongest and one of the most thermally efficient Lanterns on the market today. The Lantern is available in any square or rectangular size up to 6mx4m. The new Korniche Aluminium Bi-Folding Door is also now available with further product lines following soon…. Watch this space.. or rather – build the space and specify Korniche for the perfect finish.

If you are looking for an architectural feature which looks at home in either a contemporary or traditional setting, look no further than Korniche.

Download brochures or obtain a quote, please visit: www.korniche.co.uk

Autumn 2020

SKYLIGHTS, ROOF LIGHTS & GLASS FLOORS If commissioning a bespoke roof light design, it is always best to use a designer and manufacturer that will consider the project as a whole, including the area below, the light, the interfaces, the installation and maintenance, rather than simply the glazing itself.

Generally speaking, planning permission is not required although there are some limits and conditions which must be adhered to; for example, “the window must not protrude more than 15cm above the plane of the roof”, which a specialist will be able to advise on. The panel must integrate with the surrounding area and take into account the dissemination of light. It must look pleasing from above and below whether it is to be a simple frame or a seamless extension to the roof. A rooflight should interface with existing roof materials and the design take into account all the fixtures and fittings. Cleaning and maintenance also need to be considered. To take light further down into the property, a glass floor directly under a roof light is an option. Glass must be laminated but as far as finish goes, there are many options, including clear, frosted, tinted or even bespoke designs. A roof light that also acts as a glass floor may not be suitable for heavy traffic or if there are pets, as the glass can become scratched Renowned for bespoke staircases, Bisca’s brief for project 3123 was to design a staircase from ground floor to first and

Autumn 2020

first to second floors in a converted Victorian property. The client wanted the design to include as much natural daylight as possible through the centre of the house. A slim, bespoke roof light offers an abundance of natural light to the new staircase, a structure of steel with continuous treads and risers of kiln-dried of oak. A second light source, this time a glass floor, ensures the natural light flows all the way down to the hallway. Bisca also designed and installed a wall of glass by the side of the staircase at the top of the house, to allow light to flood into the master bedroom. A walk-on roof light isn’t just for external use in a terrace or flat roof. For project 1679 the panel brings light down from the ground floor into a basement room. To get the most benefit, site the roof light near a conventional window. This walk-on roof light, designed and made by Bisca, is a laminated glass with a frosted chequerboard pattern in a handmade oak frame. Glass roof lights from £10,000 Tel: 01439 771 702 www.bisca.co.uk

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Roof lights and glass floors are fantastic ways to add light to areas without sufficient natural daylight. In any space where a lack of ambient light is a problem, installing a roof light or glass floor can borrow light from another space without reducing usable floor space in the area where the natural light normally falls. They work especially well on staircase landings, which can be devoid of natural light.â&#x20AC;? Richard McLane, Design Director, Bisca.

Autumn 2020

Bi-Folding & Sliding Doors

C re a t e l i g h t filled living spaces

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The following section covers... • Slim Sightlines

• Large Span Sliding Doors

• Glazed Walls

• Natural Light

Autumn 2020

a f o re v e r f a m i l y home filled with

LIGHT It was far from love at first sight when Hannah and Duncan looked around a 1970s house in Sussex. What changed their minds was the potential to create a light-filled, open-plan living space.

Autumn 2020

“We were moving from a period villa with sizeable rooms and lots of original features,” explains Hannah. “When we came to view this house, the unorthodox layout and slight feeling of neglect were a bit dispiriting.” “However, it was essentially a blank canvas and we saw that we could create something more modern and attractive.” The couple wanted an expansive, openplan feel to the ground floor and to have a minimal transition between the garden and the interior. Architectural designers Sloane and Brown understood their vision straight away. “They are a young family who wanted a more contemporary home suitable for modern living but without losing the character of the original building,” says Phil Brown, project architectural designer. “We agreed that the primary objective was all about inside-outside living – creating one big usable space rather than a series of separate spaces.”

Autumn 2020

“We spent a long time thinking about what we wanted to achieve. We had done our homework and considered Schüco because of the design and quality of their products.”

The three huge sets of bi-fold doors (the largest measuring 4900mm x 2200mm) across the back of the house were fundamental to this vision, as they create a seamless transition between the outside space and the kitchen, dining room and living room. These generous areas of glass are echoed on the first floor by French doors and glazed balconies. Specialist contractor Euro Aluminium recommended the use of Schüco bi-fold doors and windows throughout the project. “We used the ASS 70 FD system for the large bifold doors” recalls MD Gabriel Andrisan. “It has an elegant, slim 120 mm profile and we were able to use the same system for the French doors

on the first floor. All the other windows were designed using the AWS 70 SC system so there is a common aesthetic which helps this project really come together.” The result is everything Hannah and Duncan were looking for. “We spent a long time thinking about what we wanted to achieve. We had done our homework and considered Schüco because of the design and quality of their products. “Now there is so much glass that the house is flooded with light and even in midwinter the slightest glimmer of sunshine keeps the whole space warm and welcoming.”

For more information on Schüco and to find your nearest Schüco partner visit: www.schueco.uk/improve. Email: mkinfobox@schueco.com or call: 01908 282111.

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Often seen on high-end, luxurious properties, Bi-Fold doors are an aspirational statement that almost anyone would love to add to their home. Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking to add a modern flair to an older property or invest in improvements that can add thousands to the value of your home, Bi-Fold doors are a great option to look in to.

BI-FOLD B E N E F I TS ;

how adding a luxury entrance can create light, space and value for your home

To see the difference that Bi-Fold doors could make to your home, visit www.eurocell-home.co.uk.

Autumn 2020

Bi-Fold doors have become increasingly popular over the last decade, with many homeowners choosing to improve their homes rather than move to a new property. For these purposes, a set of BiFolding doors is a great choice, as they can completely refresh the look and feel of a house. The real value of Bi-Folds Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s common knowledge that adding Bi-Fold doors can help to increase property values, but the actual percentage increase is quite staggering, with some experts estimating that simply adding a system to your property could increase its value by between 5-10%[1]. This increase is down to both the increased utility that Bi-Fold doors can provide, which can open up space and create a relaxing transition between your home and your garden, as well as the inherent aesthetic benefit that you get thanks to the large glazed area.

Enhancing natural light levels The large glass panes that provide the Bi-Fold door’s beautiful aesthetics offers another advantage to homeowners; namely, a large increase in the levels of natural light in your home. Natural light has long been known to offer many benefits, from providing a more pleasing environment to reside in to real health benefits such as reducing stress. Letting as much natural light as possible into your home will also help to expand your home, making your living spaces look more spacious and welcoming. Eurocell’s Aspect range of Bi-Fold doors are perfect for letting in lots of natural light, with ultra-slim profile frames that expand the area of glass in the door, whilst also creating an eye-catching aesthetic for your home.

Expansive transitions between home and garden As well as being the perfect way to let light into your home, Bi-Fold doors also provide a tremendous amount of utility for your home. By installing a system between a main room, such as a kitchen, and your garden space, you can create a spacious area and a natural transition between the inside and outside of your home. Compared to other forms of doors, such as French or Patio doors, Bi-Fold doors offer a unique advantage due to their compact size once opened. This allows for a much larger open area, perfect for entertaining guests or simply providing a relaxing space to unwind.

With Eurocell Home, creating your perfect space with a new set of BiFold doors is easier than ever before. Designed with homeowners in mind, specifying, measuring and ordering your Bi-Fold doors can all be done in just a few minutes with the innovative online ordering tool – something that is totally new for UK homeowners. Whether you’re looking for more space or a way to simply enhance the value of your home, a set of Bi-Fold doors is a great option to consider when you’re looking to enhance your property, and with a huge range of styles, colours and specifications available, ordering from Eurocell Home is the perfect way to achieve that dream look you’ve been after.

Autumn 2020

transformational L I V I N G S PA C E S Steve Jones at Hehku explains how aluminium glazing can transform homes, creating light-filled living spaces that are perfect for modern life.

With this year’s lockdown and working from home likely to become the norm for many households across the UK, the trend to improve, not move is here to stay. Whether it’s to create extra living space for the family or a suitable office space to avoid trying to work at the kitchen table, more and more of us are looking for ways to extend our homes. Extending out is one of the most popular ways of adding extra space in homes, and under permitted development laws, single story extensions or conservatories of up to 4 metres by 6 metres can be built without planning permission. This means that home improvement projects can move along much quicker.

A lot of our clients choose this way to create that sought-after extra space, choosing to extend the home and create a modern, open-plan, living, dining and kitchen space for integrated family living. Glazing is one of the most important elements to get right in this kind of project. Make the wrong choice and the middle of the house can suffer from a lack of natural light, making it dark and unwelcoming, or the flow around your home may not work for your family life. Getting the glazing right At Hehku, we can work with you from the start of your project so that your new home achieves the optimum levels of space and light, combined with security, performance and functionality.

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In this project in Upminster, Essex, we helped our client to achieve this stunning living space with a beautiful, 3 pane, Anthracite Grey, aïr Lift & Slide door, completed with modern brushed silver hardware. The slim sightlines mean minimal interruptions, creating a stunning glazed wall, the width of the extension - a dynamic design that lets natural light beam into the property while framing the garden. As well as looking stunning, the doors needed to offer practical functionality for the whole family. aïr doors feature weightless aïrglide technology which enables the widespan panes of glass, weighing up to 300kg, to be moved with just 2 fingers!

Autumn 2020

Impressive aesthetics, incredible performance With a wall of glass this large, performance of your glazing is another important factor to consider. Living spaces still need to be comfortable and withstand the worst of the British weather. We offer both double and triple glazing options and the doors have U-Values as low as 0.95 W/m2K. Security is covered too. PAS 24 accreditation and Secured by Design upgrade options mean that homes are kept completely safe from unwanted visitors. Design options Glazing also needs to work around how you use your living space. The correct door size and opening configurations will make the world of difference to the functionality of a home. aĂŻr Lift & Slide doors are available in 1 to 6 pane configurations, with single, double or triple track options, so the design options are boundless. Sashes can be up to 2.5 metres wide and 2.7 metres tall, and interlock sightlines are a super slim 48mm, creating a truly impressive glazing feature that maximises glazed areas. Advice from the experts at Hehku Our design specialists and architectural surveyors know everything there is to know about aluminium glazing for extension projects. With years of experience transforming living spaces, we understand the best ways to fill homes with rays of natural sunlight and make it a practical, functional living space that works for you. Our team will work closely with you through every stage of your project, from planning through to installation. We only install the best-engineered products, like aĂŻr, that perform to the highest standards and add real wow-factor to your living space, so families can enjoy their new homes for years to come. Tel:01634 298026 enquiries@hehku.co.uk

Autumn 2020

Sweep away whole walls in seconds devine by design inspiration for your home Completely transform your home and bathe your living space in natural light with our stunning range of aluminium windows & doors. Hehku specialise in the design and installation of bespoke aluminium bi-folds, sliding doors, windows, roof lanterns and sky lights that are meticulously designed to provide that extra special finishing touch to your home. Based in the South East our experienced team will work with you to provide a professional service with the highest standard of customer care. Our range of quality products have been carefully selected to be competitively priced, 100% British made, offer a unique set of safety features, deliver exceptional energy efficiency, offering an industry-leading guarantee of up to 25 years. We are pleased to be able to offer a 3 to 5 week lead in time from survey to ensure your project is finished on time.

www.hehku.co.uk

enquiries@hehku.co.uk 01634 298026 Autumn 2020

outside in

THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING BI FOLDING DOORS Imagine a bi-folding door that folds back seamlessly to reveal open space, allowing you to step into your garden and enjoy the open feeling of the living area and the great outdoors combined.

Autumn 2020

They are a contemporary update for any home that can dedicate a larger opening to accommodate the door design and size. They are a popular patio door option for modern homes due to the fact that they can extend the feeling of outdoor living and provide an uninterrupted view of the garden. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a great way to bring more light into your home!

The space The dimensions and size of the room will influence the cost of the project so this is important to note beforehand ensuring that you budget for the costs. ATT Fabrications offers bespoke services to help you work with your surroundings Insulation Heat in our homes plays a big part in our everyday life. Temperatures can plummet in the winter, making you want to keep all the heat that you can within the property. With bi-folding doors, the ability to keep heat in is supported by the double glazing windows which feature within the design of the doors. This will ensure that no heat escapes and more importantly that no cold wind or drafts enter into your home. Alternatively, when the temperatures rise you can open up the bi-folds wide letting the cool breeze from outside to blow in.

Autumn 2020

Accessibility An important element to consider is your access route. We know how amazing they are and the fold back feature will still excite you every time you do it, but in reality, you won’t Summo postea atNam usu.have Namthegraece Summo postea at constantly usu. graece doorsfacilis foldeddissentiunt back. With that in mind, elit vivendum facilis dissentiunt id, proid,elitpro vivendum it is important to consider your detracto access adolescens et. Fastidii adolescens et. Fastidii detracto routes to and from your property. With our designs here at ATT Fabrications, we mel. mel. ErremErrem phaedrum forensibus et phaedrum forensibus et offer a range of pane designs in 3 paned, vim, vim, sed an tota omittantur. No sed sed an tota omittantur. No sed 4 paned and you guessed it 5 paned option commodo indoctum, vel dicta option commodo indoctum, vel dicta variations.

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Click here to enquire 76

Autumn 2020

facilis dissentiunt id,need protoelit vivendum With bi-folding you adolescens et.doors, Fastidii detracto adolescens et. Fastidii detracto consider whether you want your doors mel. Errem phaedrum forensibus et to fold inwardly or outwardly. With most Errem phaedrum No forensibus et vim, mel. sed an tota omittantur. sed designs, the common option isvel for dicta the vim, sed an tota omittantur. No sed option commodo indoctum, doorsoption to fold commodo outwardly. The doors willvel dicta indoctum, either stack internally in your with facilis dissentiunt id, pro elithome vivendum ‘Open In’ designs whereas the doors will facilis dissentiunt id, pro elit vivendum adolescens et. Fastidii detracto be external to your property if they are mel. adolescens Errem phaedrum forensibus et an et. Fastidii detracto ‘Open Out’ design. vim, mel. sed an tota omittantur. sed Errem phaedrum No forensibus et option commodo indoctum, vel dicta vim, sed an tota omittantur. No sed facilisoption dissentiunt id, proindoctum, elit vivendum commodo vel dicta adolescens et. Fastidii detracto facilis dissentiunt id, pro elit vivendum mel. adolescens Errem phaedrum forensibus et et. Fastidii detracto

Bring in the

LIGHT

O P E N U P YO U R S PAC E A N D E N J OY T H E V I E W !

Visit us online to DESIGN A BIFOLD DOOR

www.bifoldnetwork.com See how a sliding folding door would look on your property. Choose the size, number of panels, colours and handle colour options to generate a design and receive a quote from one of our approved, local installers.

Email us to find your local installer: info@bifoldnetwork.com If you would like further help please call our friendly staff on 0114 231 3133 Autumn 2020

natural

Light A

Natural light holds the key to homeowner happiness Express Bi-folding Doors

new study has today revealed that natural light is the key to homeowner happiness, with 70 per cent of Brits claiming it improves their mood and wellbeing all year round. The survey of over 2,000* homeowners by aluminium glazing specialists Express Bi-folding Doors was conducted to find out the importance of natural light to potential homebuyers and homeowners across the UK. It reveals that 84 per cent value natural light greatly when buying their dream property, with homeowners in Edinburgh (91%) seeing it as being the most vital, closely followed by Liverpool and Bristol (both 89%).

light, 25-34 year olds are willing to pay the most (£6,031) to have it in their home. Conversely, those aged 55+ deem it the most important (79%) but are only willing to fork out £3,313 extra when purchasing a new home – the lowest amount of all the age groups surveyed. The survey findings are backed by celebrity interior designer, Linda Barker, who commented: “Most of us crave natural light in our homes. A simple trick to cheat extra daylight into a room, is to position a mirror opposite a window as it will have the benefit of doubling the light effect.

“A large window that opens-up onto a garden space serves to enhance our sense of wellbeing and can quite literally connect us to the But what price would homebuyers natural world. There are scientific pay to have the luxury of a home with studies to show that looking out good natural light? On average, Brits onto greenspace can improve our would pay £4,786 on top of their mental health. Sliding windows are my budget, with seven per cent willing to favourite window style and are most fork out an extra £15,000 - £20,000 effective at connecting the inside with above the asking price. the outside, allowing light to flood a room and make us feel all the better Despite being the age group 78 A u tthat u m n 2 0 2 0 for it.” places the least value (56%) on natural

When it comes to improving our mood all year round, 70 per cent believe natural light is the key to our happiness and wellbeing, with a further 12% relying on it in the dark winter months and 11% needing it in Spring-Summer. Behaviour expert Richard Daniel Curtis supports the findings from a psychological perspective, adding: “Exposure to increased sunlight has been shown to have a huge impact of wellbeing and particularly some mental health problems. During the winter, when daylight hours are reduced, the ability to feel the daylight indoors will

brighten the mood and help to avoid the negative feelings associated with being inside with artificial lighting all of the time.” Steve Bromberg, General Manager for Express Bi-Folding Doors, who conducted the survey, added: “The greatest feature of natural light in the home is that it’s completely free! Its importance has always been difficult to measure, however our survey clearly highlights that homeowners view it as integral to their property, are willing to pay a premium for it and heavily rely on it to boost their mood and wellbeing.”

Plymouth tops the following Top 10 list of UK cities willing to cough up more budget for a home with natural light, closely followed by Glasgow, Birmingham and Edinburgh: 1. Plymouth - £7,522 2. Glasgow - £5,878 3. Birmingham - £5,506 4. Edinburgh - £5,498 5. Leeds - £5,473 6. Newcastle - £5,397 7. Southampton - £5,027 8. Cardiff - £4,983 9. London - £4,786 10. Manchester - £4,674

Autumn 2020

the appeal of large span

SLIDING DOORS

The Weru lifting/sliding door is a space-saving solution which is recommended for extremely large door openings. The precision guidance of the sash at the top and bottom means it can be opened and closed sideways very easily. It also offers effective thermal protection, maximum tightness, exceptional stability and reliable burglary deterrence. One of the main benefits of installing large span sliding doors is future proofing your home. Over the past few years, there has been a significant increase in homeowners choosing to renovate their properties, rather than

Autumn 2020

relocating to a new home. With the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;improve rather than moveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; mentality, high-quality windows and doors easily enhance properties and customers can feel assured that they are investing long-term in their homes,

Te c h n i c a l H i g h l i g h t s High operating comfort Special steel-reinforced running carriage housings stabilise the sashes, which therefore slide open and closed sideways very easily due to the smoothrunning operation. A special easy access threshold is available on request (to DIN 18040) for an almost seamless transition to outside. Outstanding energy efficiency As the 86 mm thick GFP high-tech sash profiles are fully reinforced, the steel reinforcement could partially be omitted thus achieving a Uf value of 1.3 W/(mÂ˛K). A Uw value of 0.8 W/ (mÂ˛K) is therefore possible with Weru thermal glazing.

More comfort The ingenious chamber geometry of the PVCu-aluminium bracket ensures outstanding energy efficiency and reduces the danger of condensation forming in the area of the threshold. Enhanced living comfort The special profile construction allows a glazing thickness of 53 mm to be used thus allowing functional glazing to be used to provide a greater degree of thermal insulation, burglar protection and acoustic protection according to the requirements of your living situation.

Outstanding tightness Peripheral sash gaskets, special dropdown gaskets and seals on the centre closing profiles ensure outstanding air tightness and effectively keep out driving rain when the lifting sliding door is closed. Outstanding stability Fully-reinforced GFP high-tech sash profiles ensure outstanding dimensional stability and make sensational sliding sash sizes of 3 m x 2.70 m possible thus admitting more daylight into the living space. The stabilised running carriages guarantee load transfer for heavy triple glazing systems weighing up to 300 kg.

For more information, visit: www.weru.uk Autumn 2020

Hardware, Security & Technology

H a rd w a re , S e c u r i t y & Te c h n o l o g y i n the home

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The following section covers...

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Secure

• Voice Control Windows

Autumn 2020

• Keyless Technology

• Remote Locking & Security

Your Castle, Your Family, Your Home

PROTECT IT ALL with

Windows & Doors Guaranteed To Keep Your Castle Safe

Provided By

Receive up to £8000 compensation if your property is broken into

10 Year Peace Of Mind Guarantee

BSI security standard PAS24 On Tested Windows & Doors

Find Your Q-secure Installer Today! Join the Q-secure Network Today! If you’re looking to add quality windows and doors to your home, qsecure.co.uk/join-our-network opt for super secure products with the added benefit of the Q-secure Guarantee. We are proud to offer the Q-secure guarantee across our product range. All hardware has been exhaustively tested to the latest qsecure.co.uk/find-an-installer security standards at BSI.

A Growing Network Of Installers Offering Top Quality Windows and Doors

Backed by VBH, Europe’s Top quality products largest supplier of quality with hardware a MULTI-BRAND since 1975 security guarantee

info@vbhgb.com www.qsecure.co.uk | www.vbhgb.com 01634 263300 | sales@vbhgb.com www.qsecure.co.uk Connect with us on social media @vbhgbltd @VBHGB @vbhgb Autumn 2020

83 01634 263 300

It can be daunting when thinking about purchasing new windows and doors, but it neednâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be.

Autumn 2020

There are some great products around, such as flush and coloured uPVC windows and doors, and super flexible bi-folding and lift/slide doors. However, your new windows and doors must be secure as well as beautiful. As a hardware expert who has been supplying top quality products to the trade since 1975, VBH can help you source windows and doors that are GUARANTEED to be secure. We recognise the need for a meaningful security guarantee for the end-user and have put together the Q-secure guarantee after having our security-related hardware tested at BSI to the latest security standards. There are three huge benefits to home owners who buy Q-secure Approved windows, doors and patio doors. 1) Only companies who use top quality uPVC and aluminium window and door systems can become Q-secure Approved. 2) Consumers can buy safe in the knowledge that all the hardware on their windows has been independently tested to the latest security standards both in the UK and in Europe. 3) In the unlikely event of a successful break in being achieved due to the failure of the hardware on a Q-secure installation, VBH will pay the customer up to ÂŁ8000 in compensation.

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We can to do this because we have supreme confidence in how our hardware performs. Q-secure is offered by a growing network of Approved Installers and covers uPVC windows and residential

doors, composite doors, uPVC sliding patio doors, aluminium lift/slide doors, and our most popular product â&#x20AC;&#x201C; aluminium bi-folding doors. Only Approved Installers using our Q-secure hardware can offer the guarantee.

Autumn 2020

Visit www.qsecure.co.uk to find out how your new windows and doors can give you 10 years peace of mind and to find an installer near you.

Autumn 2020

design-led ROSE GOLD Have you just bought a new front door? First impressions count, so why not style it out with unique edgeless door hardware. Brisant Secure, the brains behind Britain’s most secure lock, is thrilled to announce an on-trend rose gold hue to its existing, corrosion-resistant hardware range. Beautiful rose gold door security and accessories homeowners can trust. The new rose gold colourway is available on the full Sweet range which includes handles, letterplates, numerals, knockers and escutcheons. Sweet door furniture embodies edgeless design which helps to prevent potential intruders as there is no surface area in which to grab easily and attack. In addition, it is corrosion resistant and carries multiple coatings of copper and nickel, ensuring it always looks great, even after being hammered with saltwater for over 8,000 hours. In fact, it lasts an astonishing 30 times longer than actually required by the industry corrosion standard. If you are looking for the ultimate security upgrade, opt for the Lock Lock handle system which is also available in rose gold to perfectly complement other accessories. With Lock Lock, better security is built in. The patented lock-block is Sold Secure accredited by locksmiths and stops the spindle from turning. If the spindle doesn’t turn, the door doesn’t open – simple! What’s more, it is 210% stronger than a typical bolted door as it is fixed with 12.9 grade, high strength steel alloy M6 bolts. The warm pink hues of rose gold have become an instant hit within the world of interiors; whether you style them within a room or outside on your front door, its popularity is continuing to rise. Create a co-ordinated scheme and match your letterplate to your handles or door knocker to numerals. Whether you want the full package or just a touch of rose gold finesse, Brisant Secure has got you covered. Brisant Secure Sweet in rose gold is priced from £9 and is available to buy from https://www.sweet-doors.co.uk/ and comes with an impressive 10 year guarantee.

Autumn 2020

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SmartSecure, Keyless technology for the savvy home owner by Carl F Groupco

f you are looking for state-of-theart electronic door locking and access control to upgrade your home, SmartSecure from Carl F Groupco is a sophisticated solution that combines style with simplicity.

an electronically operated multipoint lock endorsed by Secured by Design and offering Smart access options plus automatic motorised locking or choose a retrofit route using Yaleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Smart locking handle.

Designed to make your life easier while improving security, options are

With Yaleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s handle, a Smartphone replaces the traditional key, existing

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QUITE SIMPLY, THE UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S MOST AUTHENTIC TIMBER-ALTERNATIVE SASH WINDOW Ultimate Rose

A Rated

Acoustics

PartQ/PAS24/ SBD

Mechanical Joints

Seamless Horns

No Horn

Deep Cill

Slim Mullion

Icons with borders are standard features. Ones without borders are options.

Autumn 2020

01234 712 657 www.sashwindowsuk.com

Heritage & Period Properties

Beautiful windows make beautiful homes

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The following section covers... • Latest generation of windows & doors

• Flush Sash Windows

• Timber Alternative Windows

• Colour

Autumn 2020

• Country Homes

Beautiful windows

make beautiful homes

Autumn 2020

Rob McGlennon of style and standard setting systems company, Deceuninck UK, says the latest generation of windows and doors can transform your home. Year in year out, Britain’s most desirable homes are featured in Sunday supplements, How to Spend It and home improvement magazines. The Week features a double page spread of the top ten from all parts of the country, in different styles, price brackets, size and age of property. We can’t get enough of them. And one of the most striking features of these homes – what makes them look good and adds to their value - are their windows and doors.

It’s an eternal truth and no mere headline: beautiful windows make beautiful homes. Homeowners have always taken great pride in their front doors too. They make a statement about the home and its owners for visitors to see. Yes, windows are functional – their job to let light and ventilation into the home and keep warmth in, and the weather, burglars, and unwanted noise out. But such essentials do not make hearts beat faster! What delights and creates pride and passion and adds hugely to the value of a homeowner’s biggest asset are the aesthetics. Whether it’s a sleek sliding patio door to add light and open up a room, a vibrant front door to make a strong first impression or a traditionalstyle window to complement an older property, the right windows and doors have the power to transform the home. This is equally obvious when we see

the opposite. We can all recall seeing inappropriate, ugly replacement windows and doors that look wrong for a property and cut thousands off its value. That’s why the latest generation of windows and doors have generated considerable excitement in the market. This new generation ticks all the functional boxes, and more for energy efficiency, weather, and security performance and adds exceptional aesthetics with beautiful lines and colour. Deceuninck is a leading window and door systems company, supplying the profiles and components to window and door manufacturers to make products that are engineered for beautiful, highend looks and long-lasting performance. Manufacturers and installers say we’re the pioneers of ‘pretty windows’ because our products are designed to please the eye with perfect symmetry and balanced sightlines. Our Heritage Flush Window, Autumn 2020

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“Deceuninck’s Flush Window has slim, balanced sightlines and sits seamlessly flush within the outer frame.” one of the new generation of windows that generated all the excitement, replicates the flush, slim sightlines of traditional timber windows and quickly became a best-seller. It enhances all types of houses, from country cottages to modern townhouses and everything in between. Blending seamlessly with the property aesthetic, Deceuninck’s Flush Window has slim, balanced sightlines and sits seamlessly flush within the outer frame. It looks immediately different from the standard ‘storm’ windows which sit proud of the frame. There’s a matching flush door to complete the look of course because if you’ve invested in beautiful windows, you’ll want a beautiful door to match. Deceuninck’s Heritage Flush Door is a slimline French door which offers the same traditional looks with top energy efficiency and the best weather performance to keep the warmth in, and the wind and rain outside. It has a low threshold so it’s suitable for wheelchair access. Meanwhile, Slider24, is our next generation sliding patio door offering smooth handling, excellent security, and a maximum width of 5.9 metres to open up the home. 30 + 20 beautiful colour combinations Colour is the other reason for the excitement. Demand for colour has soared as more and more homeowners choose colour to revive the outside of their properties and boost their appeal. We stock all products in a choice of 30 colourways – with a further 20 colours available on short lead times - so installers can install without the frustrations of long waiting times. All products in Deceuninck’s Heritage Window Collection are available in our range of beautiful colours – from striking greys and black to soft heritage-style shades like Agate Grey, Classic Cream and English Oak.

If you’d like to learn more about the Heritage Window Collection call 01249 816 969, visit www.deceuninck.co.uk for a brochure, or find your nearest Deceuninck supplier at www.deceuninck.co.uk/en-gb/dealer-locator Autumn 2020

An elegant alternative to original windows Timber-alternative Rose Collection sash windows help restore this Georgian cottage to its former glory. After years of neglect, Millwater Cottage was in desperate need of renovation. Built in 1752, this pretty Georgian mill house sits in a beautiful location in Surrey next to a river and old mill. Flanked by listed buildings and sitting firmly within a conservation area, works had to be sensitive both to the property itself and the area’s heritage.

While the structure of the building was sound the cottage was in need of careful restoration, bringing it back to how it should be while improving energy efficiency, soundproofing and weathertightness. Nowhere was this more evident than with the windows. According to developer and homeowner Claire: “The house was a mix of original single glazed sash windows that were rotten and draughty, and unsightly replacement uPVC fake sashes. The whole lot had to go. “Victorian and Georgian homes are a classic feature of British architecture,

and that’s largely down to their beautiful large sash windows. Traditionally sash windows are timber, but they are pricey and come with their own problems, including rot, swelling and the constant maintenance of re-painting. But what is the alternative? Having seen so many poor-quality replicas on the market the thought of uPVC windows made me shudder, and I was about to place my order timber sash windows. Then I came across Roseview and I was absolutely blown away.” In 1985 Roseview Windows was the first company in the UK to specialise in timber-alternative sash windows. As a result their experience, expertise and attention to detail are second-to-none. Their Rose Collection sash windows have been specifically designed to closely match the features and details of original sashes. Details such as seamless slim sightlines, putty line detailing, joinery-style closed-end fully mechanical butt joints and completely seamless continuous sash horns, coupled with authentic traditional astragal bars, add up to make a sash window that’s indistinguishable from timber, even from close-up. But the use of modern manufacturing techniques and materials mean that— while they may look the same—Rose Collection sash windows outperform timber in a number of ways. They are warm, secure, quiet and easy to use. And they never need repainting. On this project, a total of 14 Rose Collection sash windows were specified, including two fully integrated bay windows. All windows were finished in

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white woodgrain and include simple period astragal bar designs. The property is in a conservation area, so a fully authentic appearance was required, delivered through the Rose Collection’s use of authentic corner technology, ultraslim 35mm midrail detail and seamless construction. As the cottage sits next to a fast-flowing river cutting, acoustics were another key consideration. Enhanced noise reduction was achieved by specifying acoustic glass, reducing external sound by up to 38dB. “What attracted me most was that they have been accepted in conservation areas throughout the country; that in itself says enough about the quality. We added acoustic glass to our order, so not much noise can get through. It’s pretty amazing. It’s definitely worth spending the extra on acoustic glass if you live on a busy road or next to a noisy river like we do.” Claire continues. “The result is incredible. Our home now looks exactly as it should, and we know that we never have to worry about the windows again.”

To find out more about Rose Collection sash windows, visit www.sashwindowsuk.com or call Roseview on 01234 712657. 100

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Discussing the project, Roseview’s MD Richard Burrells said: “We worked very closely with Claire throughout this project, as the end-product had to be exactly right. We offered advice on some of the finer details that would make the windows fully authentic for the age and style of the building, as well as its surroundings. The result is spectacular, and a credit to Claire’s vision.”

QUITE SIMPLY, THE UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S MOST AUTHENTIC TIMBER-ALTERNATIVE SASH WINDOW Ultimate Rose

A Rated

Acoustics

PartQ/PAS24/ SBD

Mechanical Joints

Seamless Horns

No Horn

Deep Cill

Slim Mullion

Icons with borders are standard features. Ones without borders are options.

01234 712 657 www.sashwindowsuk.com Autumn 2020

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country homes A N D P E R I O D P R O P E RT I E S Renowned for high-quality Timber, uPVC and Aluminium frames, along with contemporary and traditional doors, Thames Valley Window Company provides a vast array of energy-efficient window and front door designs to suit all property types.

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for period-style properties and those built in the Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian eras due to their traditional aesthetic. Casement windows are ideal for use in properties from the late 19th Century as the side-hinge is functional and more modern in style. “Generally, replacing period property windows with like-for-like will not require planning permission. For a listed building, you will need to prove to the local authority that your property’s existing windows are beyond repair. For properties in a conservation area, restrictions may also apply. “. Ryan Schofield, Managing Director, Thames Valley Window Company The traditionalist’s material choice, particularly for Sash Windows, is Timber. Combining aesthetic appeal with good insulation, Timber frames and doors are not only the most environmentally friendly option. They also offer a sophisticated natural elegance, ideal for both country homes and period properties, and can be painted in soft, muted colours, to create a picturesque English countrystyle aesthetic. Timber alternative is the latest technological innovation in window and door material. Available in several colour options and in woodgrain finishes, homeowners are able to achieve an authentic appearance at a lower cost. The high-performance material can be paired with mechanical joints and intricate period features such as detailed glazing bars, which make it difficult to distinguish from a traditional timber window. A great affordable option as well as durable and non-corrosive, Timber alternative is a favoured choice by many homeowners due to its high quality and low maintenance.

With over 35 years of expertise within the glazing industry, the extremely knowledgeable team is able to advise on the most suitable choices for country and period properties for maintaining traditional character and historic charm.

With period properties, like for like replicas are the best option, to ensure the traditional aesthetics of the property are maintained.

Heritage Crittall-style windows with narrow frames made from Aluminium or Steel are also a perfect option for period properties. A choice of traditional ironmongery will complete the historical look and ensure the character of the property is maintained. For a personalised touch, add Georgian leaded bars, plain or frosted glass and incorporate this design onto the front door for a cohesive, in-keeping look.

Click here to enquire

Sash Windows that feature an up and down mechanism are the perfect choice

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t r a n s f o r m i n g a d e re l i c t p ro p e r t y i n t o

A GRAND HOME WITH NEW DOORS AND WINDOWS

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When the owners purchased a derelict property that had been empty for a considerable amount of time, it was clear that certain elements of the building needed a complete revamp. As a result, they got in contact with Westbury Windows & Joinery to aid with the refurbishment project by replacing all of the windows and doors.

From the start, it was obvious that keeping a sense of the original propertyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s style was crucial. In addition to this, the owners wanted to put their own stamp on the building and make an impact with their home. The original building was architecturally quite unique, so it was obvious why the owners wanted their new doors and windows to reflect that.

Westbury Black, the result is a dramatic facade. At the bottom of the entrance are a set of double doors that have been crafted with engineered v-grooved vertically boarded panels. Internally, the doors have been expertly matched to the floor to create a seamless finish and continue the colour theme inside the property.

All the windows were replaced in the same style as the originals, which included a lead design as opposed to glazing bars. The first floor was fitted with mostly legacy box sash windows, with two first floor bays holding fullyopening French casement windows which are of significant proportion and stature.

The concept behind the main entrance was all about designing an impressive focal point that will capture the eye of any guests and add the wow-factor to the property. Maximising the light that streams into the hall behind the entrance was of paramount importance, and as a result, the individual panels were glazed on site. Antique lead was used in the glazing, to ensure the dark-coloured detailing wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t fade over time.

On the ground floor, directly under the French casement windows, there is a unique French casement window that includes a lower decorative bolection panel. These windows have the appearance of doors, however, they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have door handles and open like a traditional window. This design is quite unusual nowadays, however, they were once a common feature on the ground floor of properties of this era and have since evolved into the more common French door. The grand two-storey glazed entrance is the crowning jewel of this beautiful property. Manufactured from sustainably sourced oak, and then painted in

In addition to the updated doors and windows, a perfectly balanced octagonal roof lantern was installed above the dining room. The original room was rather dark and gloomy, and the addition of a roof lantern helped to flood the space with natural light. Furthermore, the new opening created the illusion of a higher ceiling which in turn made the room feel more spacious and airy. Overall, the addition of new windows, doors, and roof lantern helped transform this property into a stunning home and return it to its former glory. www.westburyjoinery.com

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Consumer Advice

C a re e r O p p o r t u n i t i e s and Choosing an Expert Installer

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The following section covers... • A viable alternative to further education

• Green Homes Grant Scheme

• Smoke Ventilation Systems

• How to Clean Windows

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Entering industry is a desirable alternative to further education says n e w Yo u G o v s u r v e y We spoke last time about how education is one of the hottest topics of the day. The ongoing disruption caused by Covid 19; the recent issues surrounding the awarding of grades for GCSE’s and particularly A Levels, following swiftly on the tail of the Universities Minister Michelle Donelan stating that in her opinion the education system had for too long been geared to sending young people onto courses that did nothing to prepare them for life in the workplace continues to make it so.

The question of university or the workplace as the preferred choice for their children was one of the questions put to parents by the Fenestration Industry’s leading awarding body GQA Qualifications in a recent YouGov survey. The outcome was a massive thumbs up to the idea of children entering industry, and pursuing vocational career paths and qualifications. Completely opposite to the perception of the universities minister about the relevance of many of the degree courses available these days, all our qualifications prepare learners for the role they are going to undertake in their day to day job; enable them to learn life skills along the way; and give them a direct career progression route through ongoing learning and achievement. GQA has issued nearly 50000 nationally recognised qualifications within the fenestration sector alone, and now operate in multiple areas, including the wider construction sector. Most people will not know that the fenestration industry offers over 25 completely

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different career paths, each with progression opportunities, and great rewards for those who make their way up the career ladder. The fenestration industry is truly vibrant, worth over £4.6 billion per year to the UK economy and is so far removed in reality from the negative perception that some people have of it as the ‘double glazing’ industry. Take the Shard in London for example, one of the most iconic structures to adorn any skyline anywhere in the world – that is a product of the Fenestration Industry, a truly amazing glass structure, and typical of the kind of buildings we see going up in every town and city in the world – glass cities for the future, made with the most technically advanced, high performing, thermally efficient and environmentally friendly materials there are. That is the Fenestration Industry and workers on those structures are qualified to do their jobs through our learning and qualifications programmes.

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Recent Yo u G o v Survey

For decades we have been recruiting too many young people on to courses that do nothing to improve their life chances or help with their career goals” As a parent, to what extent do Q1 Statement agreement you agree orrecruiting disagree with this statement? For decades we have been too many young people on to university courses that do nothing to improve their life chances or help with their career goals"

In every industry you find people who are truly passionate about what they do; I am no different to that. Generally, it’s a really positive thing, but occasionally it can lead us to have a blinkered view of things, and so during August we commissioned a survey by YouGov to sense check our own thoughts on certain key issues. YouGov asked parents with children under the age of 18 the following questions:

As a parent, to what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

45% 40% 35% 30%

25% 20% 15% 10% 5% 0%

Strongly agree

Tend to agree

Neither agree nor disagree

Tend to disagree

Strongly disagree

There is increasing talk about vocational training and/ or vocational qualifications as alternative career paths for young people instead of university. To what extent do you agree or disagree that this approach could be Q2 Vocational approach beneficial to young people There is increasing talk about trainingpeople? and/ or vocational qualifications as alternative career paths for young people instead of university. To beneficial to vocational young what extent do you agree or disagree that this approach could be beneficial to young people? 45% 40% 35% 30%

All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 4677 adults, of which 1,011 were parents with children 18+ or younger. Fieldwork was undertaken between 5th - 7th August 2020. The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all UK adults (aged 18+).

25% 20% 15% 10% 5% 0%

Strongly agree

Tend to agree

Neither agree nor disagree

Tend to disagree

You can ask for more information by emailing us at: marketing@gqa.com and simply put ‘More information’ in the title bar. 110

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Strongly disagree

The Fenestration Industry is one of the most exciting industries to forge a career in – for those who are hands on and want to install windows, doors and glazing; those who want to manufacture the products; those who have a technical outlook and want to design and create the amazing products that go into structures like the Shard; those with a preference for customer service roles, sales or marketing. All skills that can be underpinned by formal, relevant qualifications to set people on

How familiar, if at all, would you say Q5 Familiarity with the word fenestration you areif atwith the term How familiar, all, would you say you are with ‘Fenestration’? the term 'Fenestration'? 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0%

Very familiar

Fairly familiar

Not very familiar

Not at all familiar

To what extent, if at all, were you aware that there are over 25 career paths in the fenestration industry in the Q6 Awareness of fenestration training To what extent, if at all, were you aware that there are over 25qualifications career paths in the fenestrationand industry in the UK, all with formal relevant UK, all with formal relevant training? qualifications and training? 80% 70% 60% 50%

40% 30% 20% 10% 0%

Very aware

Fairly aware

Not very aware

Not at all aware

the right career paths and with the opportunity to continue their development through CPD (Continuous Personal Development) programmes – learning for life. Perhaps for a minute just consider for yourself what your own answers might be to these questions? For us it confirmed what we thought – that there is frustration with the emphasis that the education sector places on pushing young people to university with not enough consideration as to what it might mean for them in the longer term; that there is an extremely positive attitude towards children entering industry, and taking vocational career paths and qualifications; but that, as we suspected, our industry has not done enough to communicate what it can offer to the wider public. That will be where we are going to focus our energies over the coming months here in the Improve Magazine, and in the next issue we will tell you about how you can get more information about joining the Fenestration Industry if you are thinking about opportunities for the children in your household, or indeed a career change for yourself.

GQA Qualifications Limited | 12 O’clock Court, 21 Attercliffe Road, Sheffield S4 7WW www.gqaqualifications.com | 0114 272 0033 | @gqaquals Autumn 2020

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g re e n h o m e s GRANT SCHEME FENSA, along with the entire country, welcomed the Green Homes Grant Scheme announcement back in early July. A £2bn investment into making homes up and down the country more energy efficient can only be a good thing. But whilst the initial headline was promising, the September start date that was provided put homeowners in limbo, not knowing if they would qualify for a grant. Unfortunately there is very little assistance for the vast majority of homeowners looking to install windows and doors to help with their energy efficiency. So who qualifies? Well, the main scheme is open to owner/occupiers (both freehold and leasehold) and landlords who rent privately or through the social sector whilst the low income and vulnerable part of the scheme is open to owner-occupied households and part home owners. Windows and doors are only seen as a ‘secondary measure’ as part of the scheme which means a grant will only

“The FENSA certificate is imperative when it comes to buying or selling a home and it can only be issued by a FENSA Approved Installer.” 112

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apply if a homeowner first has a ‘primary measure installed, ie insulation or low carbon heating. When it comes to windows, only those homes with single glazing who are looking to install double or triple glazing will qualify, but only up to the amount provided for the ‘primary measure’. Complicated isn’t it. Now that the details of the scheme have been released it does mean however that people can continue with their home improvements as they had previously planned. FENSA are helping on that front with their new lead generation website and you can now request a quote from a FENSA Approved Installer at the click of a button. The glazing industry hit the ground running as lockdown measures eased however this was not helped by the announcement of the Green Homes Grant Scheme. But now homeowners who have spent the last few months

at home looking at improvements they could make, and with many families not taking a summer vacation, orders on upgrades to replace their windows and doors will continue to be buoyant. It follows on the back of a trend for homeowners over the last few years to now see windows and doors as an important aesthetic element to the house in addition to the benefits of safety, security and energy efficiency. This is why it’s imperative to have the right tradesman carry out the work.

windows and doors are energy efficient and the work has been registered with the local council, meaning you don’t have to pay for the council to come out and inspect it, at no small cost to yourself. The new FENSA website puts homeowners in touch with expert FENSA Approved Installers who can provide expertise and advice on what would work best for each individual home, giving you peace of mind.

There are over 6,000 FENSA Approved Installers across England and Wales, making it the largest glazing community in the UK and issuing over 500,000 FENSA certificates a year. The FENSA certificate is imperative when it comes to buying or selling a home and it can only be issued by a FENSA Approved Installer. The FENSA certificate means the work complies with building regulations, the

Are you replacing windows or doors? no

yes

Keep this for when you are.

Are you using a FENSA Approved Installer?

yes

Will they provide proof the work is compliant, energy efficient, and registered with the Local Council?

yes Search for a FENSA Installer who will at

fensa.org.uk

Will they offer a warranty for the work, backed by insurance?

yes

Great.

Put the ke tt le on and re lax! All the proof you need

fensa.org.uk Autumn 2020

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Stiff and Trevillion, photography by Kilian Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Sullivan

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trend experts. So, if you’re revamping your kitchen, for glamour and S t e e l Windows elegance, you can’t go wrong with ‘on-trend’ steel partitioning screens and windows.

provide a sense of space and light with clean lines, subtle detailing, excellent technical properties. Elegantly slender, the slim steel framing, with single or double opening doors, is unobtrusive. The distinguished-looking installation makes a wonderful talking point. Natural illumination inside is maximised, while enhanced acoustic properties ensure privacy and reduced noise levels, without compromising on security.

Add value to your home with bespoke, timeless design Rather than putting in a dividing wall, blocking-out light, a great alternative is installing an interior steel screen, which lets light flood-in. Complementing flooring and décor, their reflective properties make small areas seem bigger, add warmth and a cosy feel to shady areas.

“The kitchen is the home’s focal point. So along with choosing the styling of cupboards, storage, worktops and appliances, and where you put the coffee station or breakfast bar, getting the windows and doors just right is important too,” says says Russell Ager, managing director of Crittall Windows, makers of steel window frames, screens and doors for almost 170 years.

Chilly draughts are prevented, warmth kept-in for year-round comfort.

InnerVision steel frames can be powder-coated to your choice of RAL or BS colours. Each screen is bespoke to your application panel shape and size, single or double glazing, decorative or obscure glass. Natalie Benes, associate architect at Stiff+Trevillion comments:

“Crittall windows are a great on-trend “A kitchen’s design, how it’s lit option if you want a light and airy internally, and openings to natural feel with an industrial aesthetic. Their outside light through windows and slender minimalist frames allow as doors, impact. If you’re knocking much light as possible into a space, down a brick, or plaster-board wall, a working well with contemporary steel frame screen is an ideal addition architecture and in period properties. for maximising daylight in the kitchen “Steel partitions can be used really and adjoining rooms; be it the living successfully as divisions between, Click here room or lobby.” or within rooms, whilst tostill goletting back to light and views through into adjoining contents Steel is three times the strength of spaces. They enable practical physical aluminium and achieves strong, stylish separations without making a space frames combiningsection slim profiles. This feel too small and enclosed.” The following covers... allows large expanses of • Crittall • Steel Window • Windows, Doors glass, bringing-in essential natural Only the original Windows Association & Screens daylight, visually enhancing living Crittall advises that you don’t spoil the space and functionality. look of a property for the sake of a cheap installation. Autumn 2020 115 Mr Ager continues: “The outside can

THE REAL

STEEL DEAL Innovative development using steel has led to creative multiple-use options from room dividers to shower screens adding glamour and elegance. Cleverly dividing space and letting in light, acoustic properties make interior screens particularly suitable for partitioning kitchens, living areas, home offices and more, with glazing options to reduce noise and allow privacy. The company prides itself on its manufacturing expertise, using handcrafted, centuries-old techniques with skills and craftsmanship that can rarely be matched. Crittall windows, doors and screens are virtually maintenance-free, finished in any colour with galvanised, factory applied powdercoating to last a lifetime. A discreet plaque stamps Crittall authenticity and approval allowing identification of genuine Crittall products. Install only the original, genuine make Russell Ager, managing director at Crittall Windows, says: “There is only one genuine Crittall brand of windows and doors, stamped as the authentic product our customers deserve. “We place considerable emphasis on communicating our key message of Crittall authenticity based on quality, craftsmanship and British heritage. 116

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“When a customer buys a window sold by reference to the Crittall name, they need assurance that it’s the genuine item made by Crittall Windows.” A well-established network of Crittallappointed Specialist Partners, who supply and install its products nationwide, provide a Certificate of Authenticity for every new installation. These approved partners offer a stress-free service from initial enquiry to installation and after-sales, giving free, no obligation, quotes and a warranty covering windows, doors, glass and installation. Also, free guidance is available to customers to obtain Building Control and Planning Regulations. The network ensures Crittall’s rich heritage is maintained, providing and installing high-quality, iconic, unique products directly to customers. Dramatic Crittall products are available for interior or exterior applications in any style of building from historic, listed, contemporary or new-build. Each window, door and screen is hand-crafted to fit any shape or size to create the look to suit customer requirements. Unmatched by other materials, slim profile steel windows and partitions give a retro-look with a contemporary twist; ideal for an extension with a dramatic steel-framed glazed screen forming a light-filled area off the kitchen or lounge to divide your living space or a partition from bathroom to bedroom. The inherent strength of steel offers endless possibilities for large expanses

Image courtesy of John Knight Glass/David Godfrey Photography

World famous for minimalist, slim profiles and sightlines, the company’s products are equally as popular today with people looking to make a statement about their property through renovation, new or selfbuild projects.

It’s almost 200 years ago when Crittall pioneered the original, iconic steel window frames. Modified over the years to meet today’s stringent regulations, hand-crafted Crittall windows, doors and screens undoubtedly add value to a home with bespoke, timeless, design for every application.

of glass to visually enhance living space and functionality with a range of opening styles for design flexibility. Advanced glazing options allow these bespoke steel framed screens to maximise natural illumination without compromising security. Cosy for comfort in the cooler weather, enhanced acoustic properties keep noise at bay. Bespoke doors and fixed safety glazing in a choice of colours with hardware options offer complete design flexibility. No other steel window system provides such an extensive range of window profiles and styles. An effective weather-stripping system with a double-glazing option up to 16.4mm, ensures excellent thermal insulation properties. Ideal for replica

refurbishment, the system’s large opening casements and slim frame make them particularly popular with conservationists and planners. Sense of space On-trend steel sliding doors and interior screens offer open plan living with a different dimension, so you can partition areas to create contemporary ‘zones’ without impacting on light or space. Crittall’s minimalist style windows and Innervision glazed steel screens with sliding or hinged doors are designed for modern living, providing a sense of space. Their understated beauty with clean lines, subtle detailing and excellent technical properties can transform your property. Combining style with functionality, a distinguishedlooking installation makes a wonderful

talking point and adds value to your property. Merging your indoor and outdoor space can create a light-filled home, enhancing its look and feel as well as benefitting well-being. An outside area can be dramatically fused with the inside by opening-up living space to create a seamless transition between inside and out. Adding bright, beautifully crafted walls of glazing and slim-profiled windows can reflect the timeless style of a period house, adeptly define spaces in a townhouse, minimalist urban loft, warehouse apartment or a self-build project.

Tel: 01376 530800 www.crittall-windows.co.uk

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The benefits of choosing bona-fide suppliers for your beautiful home Choose a member of the Steel Window Association for your windows, doors and screens. We all know the benefits of choosing bona-fide manufacturers and suppliers – especially when it comes to your beautiful home! But how can you be sure you are safe with your choice? After all, the internet is mind-boggling and we cannot always trust reviews. A traditional and proven method still holds true today – pick a member of the relevant association and you will be there! When it comes to selecting steel windows, doors, and screens, your go-to is The Steel Window Association – www.steel-window-assocation.co.uk. You will find all you need to know there! The appeal of steel framed doors and windows has truly stood the test of time, spanning from old country cottages and warehouses built during the Industrial Revolution, to contemporary commercial and residential properties where designers strive for a minimalist appearance. SWA members have a full understanding of the design, fabrication and installation process, and are fully versed on all technical standards. It follows that customers can have full confidence that window and door packages supplied by SWA members will deliver on energy performance, security and safety, while the strength and durability of modern hot dip galvanised steel frames guarantee a long, low maintenance working life. Recognising the long term resilience and lasting aesthetic ‘appeal of steel’, there are also Steel Window Association

member companies who specialise in the repair and maintenance, or even the full restoration of older style windows; as is often essential in conservation cases.

need for strong fluorescent bulbs. And, as weather seals can be employed to ensure a fully waterproof enclosure, it’s a great alternative to a shower curtain!

Choosing an SWA member to manufacture and install your steel windows and doors ensures that you are receiving the highest standard of fabrication, installation and customer service.

With plenty of design options available, steel windows can be used in a number of ways throughout the home. Each structure offers solidity without being overpowering and exposes more areas of the home to sun light, reducing the amount of blue light used and allowing you to reap the benefits of natural light, such as improvement in productivity, a boost in Vitamin D, and a lower costing energy bill!

Let the light flow with stunning steel screens Broken-plan homes give the appearance of more space while still maintaining separate areas. This is often achieved through the use of internal screens. Steel windows are the perfect material for these internal screens as they are strong and sturdy, and will let plenty of natural light flow throughout your home. The trendy steel material is ideal for replacing a non-load bearing wall between your living space and kitchen. It still provides two separate rooms but does not compromise on the natural light available. Although most popular between a living room and kitchen, any two spaces can be divided with steel screens. The internal partition can be made from steel windows and steel doors to allow design flexibility combined with practical functionality. And, as door thresholds are not necessary, your finished floor will remain intact, leaving the perfect stylish passage for light to run between the two rooms. You can also use steel framed windows as shower screens in your bathroom, maximising the amount of natural light into the shower cubicle and removing the

W20 profiles are the preferred choice when it comes to internal screens. The glazing bars are a mere 28mm wide leaving the biggest area possible for glass between them, opening up the most passages for natural light to enter a space. Internal steel screens are highly versatile and can include windows or doors up to a height of 2.4m. Bring steel windows and doors into your kitchen Open plan kitchens are hugely popular as they allow more natural light into the space. However, there’s a lot to be said for separate spaces, so the development of broken plan kitchens arrived. Steel windows incorporate the best of both worlds with internal partitions to break up the space, as well as external windows that maximise the area for light to enter your kitchen. External steel windows can be amalgamated into kitchen extensions as a replacement for exterior walls. This is a perfect way to bring light into your home Autumn 2020

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and create the illusion of a larger room, blending the indoors with the outside. Steel windows come in a range of sizes so you can have large glass panes spanning across the space of the external wall which will not obstruct your view of the garden. To convert existing open plan areas to the new trend of broken plan kitchen design, and create separate spaces, the same W20 steel profiles can be used as internal partitions bringing through the external design aesthetics to the internal space. This can be a small partition to separate an open pantry or utility room from the rest of the kitchen, or a large partition can take the place of an interior non-weight bearing wall. It’s the perfect solution to stylishly bring a broken plan scheme to the kitchen. Steel partitions complement various interior schemes from mid-century modern designs to Scandi-styles with black steel windows reflecting a striking contrast to pale kitchen cabinetry.

concealed bolts and mortice deadlocks. Locking handles are also supplied for existing installations to provide the highest levels of security. To achieve the greatest protection against forced entry, hardware is attached using steel screws threaded into the steel frame.

Not only are steel windows incredibly stylish, the strong W20 steel sections allow for double glazed windows with thermally efficient units so your kitchen can stay beautiful and warm.

A concealed multi-point cremone bolt locking system, operated through the frame by a geared handle, offers enhanced resistance to intrusion on new windows in the W40 range. When specified, glazed steel framed doors can be fitted with security mortice deadlocks.

Keeping the burglars out with steel windows Difficult to force because of the inherent strength of their frames, steel windows are not liked by burglars. One of the best deterrents to a prospective thief is the traditional ‘cottage’ style steel window, divided into small frames, with interlocked steel glazing bars.

Glass is not easily removed from today’s steel windows. Modern adhesive sealants and metal beads firmly secure the panes and, in vulnerable areas, small pane ‘T’ glazing bars and laminated glass can be employed, making breaking and entering difficult. Even if the pane is broken, locked handles and stays will maintain security.

The strength and security of steel windows and doors is increased through the use of appropriate hardware. When manufacturing new windows, Steel Window Association members provide locking devices, locking handles,

Effective air movement need not be compromised by good security. A two point locking handle will allow the option of leaving the window cracked open or trickle ventilation can be provided through the head of the window.

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For further information on the Steel Window Association, please visit www.steel-window-association.co.uk or call 020 3475 8049. Autumn 2020

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k i t c h e n

Steel STEEL FOR KITCHEN KUDOS Q: Want your kitchen to have impact? A: Install ‘on-trend’ steel-framed glazed internal screens and windows… Crittall Windows

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etallics’ will be everywhere, say interior trend experts. So, if you’re revamping your kitchen, for glamour and elegance, you can’t go wrong with ‘on-trend’ steel partitioning screens and windows. Rather than putting in a dividing wall, blocking-out light, a great alternative is installing an interior steel screen, which lets light flood-in. Complementing flooring and décor, their reflective properties make small areas seem bigger, add warmth and a cosy feel to shady areas. “The kitchen is the home’s focal point. So along with choosing the styling of cupboards, storage, worktops and appliances, and where you put the coffee station or breakfast bar, getting the windows and doors just right is important too,” says says Russell Ager, managing director of Crittall Windows, makers of steel window frames, screens and doors for almost 170 years. “A kitchen’s design, how it’s lit internally, and openings to natural outside light through windows and doors, impact. If you’re knocking down a brick, or plaster-board wall, a steel frame screen is an ideal addition for maximising daylight in the kitchen and adjoining rooms; be it the living room or lobby.” Steel is three times the strength of aluminium and achieves strong, stylish frames combining slim profiles. This allows large expanses of glass, bringing-in essential natural daylight, visually enhancing living space and functionality. Mr Ager continues: “The outside can be seamlessly, dramatically, fused with the inside living space, giving a sense of well-being through a clear view of the outdoors - your patio, flower beds, shrubs and trees.”

Stiff and Trevillion, photography by Kilian O’Sullivan’.

Further dimension Crittall brings a further dimension to a kitchen through its minimalist style windows and its InnerVision glazed

steel partitioning screens. Designed for modern living, they provide a sense of space and light with clean lines, subtle detailing, excellent technical properties. Elegantly slender, the slim steel framing, with single or double opening doors, is unobtrusive. The distinguished-looking installation makes a wonderful talking point. Natural illumination inside is maximised, while enhanced acoustic properties ensure privacy and reduced noise levels, without compromising on security. Chilly draughts are prevented, warmth kept-in for year-round comfort. InnerVision steel frames can be powder-coated to your choice of RAL or BS colours. Each screen is bespoke to your application panel shape and size, single or double glazing, decorative or obscure glass. Natalie Benes, associate architect at Stiff+Trevillion comments: “Crittall windows are a great on-trend option if you want a light and airy feel with an industrial aesthetic. Their slender minimalist frames allow as much light as possible into a space, working well with contemporary architecture and in period properties. “Steel partitions can be used really successfully as divisions between, or within rooms, whilst still letting light and views through into adjoining spaces. They enable practical physical separations without making a space feel too small and enclosed.” Only the original Crittall advises that you don’t spoil the look of a property for the sake of a cheap installation. Install the screen, window, door brand it says it is - only the original, genuine, make. Being the original steel window frame company, Crittall says there are companies claiming to be providing that, but are not.

More & Visit our Information website: www.crittall-windows.co.uk Find and Installer Spring 2019 Autumn 2020

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blind

Style Cordless blind with style Swish - the home of window decoration Swish Blinds

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SS t y ll ee or effortless style and ease of use, the unique new Cordless Aluminium Venetian blind range from leading window decoration experts Swish takes ready-made blinds to the next level. Using its revolutionary SwishRise cordless system, all of the stylish 25mm Aluminium blinds can be raised, lowered and, unlike others currently available, tilted for privacy with just one simple touch of the bottom bar.

A patented, integrated safety system and absence of cords, cleats or tilt wands also gives an ultra-sleek and uncluttered finished look for your windows that cannot fail to impress.

Available in a range of seven sophisticated shades including Polar White, Cocoa Butter and Champagne to suit a more neutral palette, to the bolder Berry Berry option (pictured right) that will add a splash of eyecatching colour to your windows, this range will add flair to your kitchen, lounge or bathroom.

Brushed Bronze finishes complete the range and give a nod to the latest metallic looks.

With options to suit most window sizes, all colours can be selected in a host of widths from 60cm to 180cm and in two drops, 120cm and 180cm. The range is also easy to fit with a colour coordinated head rail that blends the blind seamlessly into your window setting. Once this head rail is fitted, the brackets simply clip the blind securely into place. The absence of a cord makes the blinds perfect for homes with children and pets as the SwishRise cordless models feature an integrated safety system to prevent the risk of potential harm by ensuring integral cords cannot be pulled to create a loop.

Prices range from £18.36 for a 60cm x 120cm Cordless Aluminium Venetian blind to £183 for an 180cm by 180cm option.

www.swish.co.uk Cordless blind with style Swish - the home of window decoration Cordless blind with style Swish - the home of window decoration More Information and Swish Blinds Find an Installer Polished Aluminium, Piano Black and Swish Blinds

For effortless style and ease of use, the or effortless style and unique new Cordless Aluminium Venetian ease of use, the unique blind range from leading window new Cordless Aluminium decoration experts Swish takes readyVenetian blind range from made blinds to the next level.

leading window decoration

Using itsSwish revolutionary experts takes SwishRise ready-made cordless system, alllevel. of the stylish 25mm blinds to the next Aluminium blinds can be raised, lowered and, unlike others currently available, Using its revolutionary SwishRise tilted for privacy with just one simple cordless system, all of the stylish touch of the bottom bar.

25mm Aluminium blinds can be A patented, integrated safety system raised, lowered and, unlike others and absence of cords, cleats or tilt wands currently available, tilted for privacy also gives an ultra-sleek and uncluttered with just one simple touch of the finished look bottom bar. for your windows that cannot fail to impress.

AAvailable patented, safety system in a integrated range of seven sophisticated including and absenceshades of cords, cleatsPolar or tilt White, Cocoa Butteran and Champagne wands also gives ultra-sleek andto suit a more neutral palette, bolder uncluttered finished look to forthe your Berry Berrythat option (pictured right) that windows cannot fail to impress. will add a splash of eye catching colour to your windows, this of range will add flair Available in a range seven to your kitchen, lounge or bathroom.

sophisticated shades including Polar PolishedCocoa Aluminium, Piano and White, Butter andBlack Champagne Brushed finishespalette, completeto the to suit a Bronze more neutral the range and Berry give a option nod to the latest bolder Berry (pictured metallic looks. right) that will add a splash of eyecatching colour to your windows, this range will add flair to your kitchen, 124 Autumn 2020 lounge or bathroom.

Spring 2019

With options to suit most window sizes, Brushed Bronze finishes complete all colours can be selected in a host of the range and give a nod to the latest widths from 60cm to 180cm and in two metallic looks. drops, 120cm and 180cm. The range is also fit with a With options toeasy suit to most window colour coordinated head rail that blends sizes, all colours can be selected in a the blind seamlessly into your window host of widths from 60cm to 180cm setting. this head rail is and fitted,180cm. the and in Once two drops, 120cm brackets simply clip the blind securely The range is also easy to fit with a into place.

colour coordinated head rail that

The absence of a cord makes the blinds blends the blind seamlessly into your perfect for homes with children and window setting. Once this head rail pets as thethe SwishRise is fitted, bracketscordless simplymodels clip the feature an integrated safety blind securely into place.system to prevent the risk of potential harm by ensuring integral cords cannot be pulled The absence of a cord makes the to create a loop.

blinds perfect for homes with children

Prices range for a cordless 60cm and pets asfrom the £18.36 SwishRise xmodels 120cm Cordless Aluminium Venetian feature an integrated safety blind to £183 for an 180cm byof 180cm system to prevent the risk potential option. harm by ensuring integral cords

cannot be pulled to create a loop. www.swish.co.uk

Prices range from £18.36 for a 60cm x 120cm Cordless Aluminium Venetian blind to £183 for anhere 180cm by 180cm Click option.

to enquire

www.swish.co.uk

More Information and

Blinds & Shutters

Window D re s s i n g Style

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The following section covers... • Window Screens

• Integrated Blinds

• Shades

• Shutters

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Beat the WFH blues We’ve all been spending a little - or a lot - more time indoors lately. Thanks to the Covid-19 pandemic, households of all shapes and sizes across the UK have had to adjust to lockdown life. Working, playing, exercising, learning and generally getting on top of one another, all between the same four walls. Those kind of conditions are bound to bring with them a big hit of emotional pressure. Our calm, sociable work days have been replaced by juggling childcare, household chores and conference calls. And though most of us won’t miss the daily commute, all our focus and motivation seems to drain away once we put down the cereal bowl and open the laptop. But help is at hand! You might be stuck inside your home for now, but there’s plenty you can do to boost those feelgood vibes, and create emotionally positive spaces that lift us up, rather than keep us down. We gathered some top tips from the in house interior designers at Couture Living, whose carefully curated collection of luxury fabrics for curtains and blinds wouldn’t be a bad place to start. 1 - Use colour to fire things up… The place every professional designer starts is colour. Your room is a blank canvas, ready for whatever energy you want to throw at it, and every single wall, surface, piece of furniture, textile or object is a chance to inject some feeling. If you want to get your creative juices flowing, then there’s no better way than adding some bright colours to walls or furnishings. If you’re not ready for smoky paprika kitchen cabinets, or deep and fiery umber walls, then start small with statement curtains or sofa throws. Rich pigments like these are scientifically proven to fire up the senses. 126

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2 - ...or cool things down. Creating the perfect living space is something that haunts many a renovation, with Pinterest boards packed with tasteful scandi styling and artfully distressed coffee tables. But before you sweat the small stuff, it’s vital to set the scene.

4 - Let the light in. It’s an obvious one. Energising, healthy, motivating, and packed with vital vitamin D - natural light, whenever and wherever you can get it, is a priceless commodity. But knowing you need it, and knowing how to get it is what separates the amateurs and the experts.

Ditch the neutral grey and beige in favour of tones with more emotional resonance. Earth tones, like pale greens and even browns, help bring the outside in. The calming effect mother nature has on our senses can’t be underestimated. Our brains are wired to love fresh air and green leaves.

The advice from Couture Living is to reassess your window spaces. Look at whether your curtains or blinds match your ambitions for the room. If you’re stuck with heavy, dark curtains in a gloomy lounge then it’s time to swap them out for light voile. Or ditch the curtains altogether in favour of a discreet blind that leaves you open to the world by day.

3 - Concentrate on the contrasts. Let’s be honest. Staring at the same four walls every day is just flat out boring! And so is living amongst too much of the same. If everything you own is rough wood and shabby chic, your brain never gets a break. We don’t want to delve too deeply into the psychology of aesthetics here, but it’s no surprise that we get pleasure from tactile objects of all shapes, sizes and textures. Variety is the spice of life, and all that. Use furnishings, paint and textiles to turn up the contrast, like mixing hard modernist furniture with soft, shaggy rugs, or floaty, voile curtains with solid wood floors.

5 - Focus on the floor plan. We don’t all have the luxury of designing a room from scratch, but most people can move a desk, or play around with the location of the sofa. Getting the floor plan right is the first step to locking down that home office focus, or introducing a calm and positive flow between living spaces. Make sure you’ve already nailed our last tip, introducing plenty of natural light. Then decide what you need, and keep it within easy reach. You don’t want to be traipsing across the room to the printer every ten minutes, or searching a bookcase hidden in the corner for your favourite mags. If you can, use clever hacks like storage hidden by neutral coloured curtains to give the feeling of spaciousness.

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6 - Everything in its right place. The final tip is one the interior designers can’t do for you. It’s down to you. So front up, focus, and take a long hard look at your nick-nacks. Whatever emotional resonance you’re shooting for, the everyday objects that surround you play a huge part. But we’re not suggesting you go all Marie Kondo and chuck all the kids’ drawings in the bin. Just make sure your ornaments and keepsakes are there for a reason. A happy, calm living space should display all the things you love with space to breathe, rather than looking cluttered and chaotic. And a productive home office or kitchen needs tools and essentials close at hand, easy to reach, and exactly where you left them. Not a maze of draws and cupboards snarled up with everything and anything. At the end of the day, it’s your home. Your choices will make all the difference. Like Ahmed Akudi, Director at Couture Living says, “taking the time to pick out the perfect furniture, a beautiful fabric for your curtains, or wallpaper that fits your style is the best way to feel good about your home. Nothing beats the feeling of making that room your very own.” If you find that perfect fabric at Couture Living, their made-to-measure service means your curtains or blinds will fit perfectly too. All handmade in their Yorkshire workshop, delivered to your door.

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Kerb Appeal

First i m p re s s i o n s count!

Click here to go back to contents

The following section covers... • Composite Doors

• Cladding & Façades

• Entrance Gates

• Colour

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Find a local supplier for your AD UP system and other SchĂźco solutions here: https://www.schueco.com/uk/homeowners/contact/find-your-schueco-partner

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SMART DOORS

for easy access to your home Latest in its range of high-quality aluminium systems, the Schüco AD UP door system combines understated contemporary design with impressive technical performance.

From first touch, the weight and smooth operation of the door mechanism is reassuring. The satisfying click as it gently closes behind you provides an instant sense of security, while front door draughts and cold spots are a thing of the past thanks to the system’s extremely impressive insulation. Despite outstanding levels of weather performance, a threshold is not required – the AD UP system is available with the Schüco concealed drop seal technology. This engages when the door is closed to create a high- performance weather seal with a completely smooth transition into the home. This level threshold option also allows for barrier-free access, which provides easy operation and comprehensive usability for all. If the entrance is used by people with reduced mobility or if you simply need to bring a pushchair inside, Schüco AD UP gives easy access combined with elegant design. For the technically minded, the new system is also compatible with Schüco Smart Home technology. The door can be opened via a fingerprint touchpad or using the Schüco app on your smartphone. Lost keys are therefore a thing of the past and you can control access to your property remotely, keeping track of who enters and leaves. The entire system has been designed in the German engineering HQ and every detail - from concealed hinges to recessed pull grips - is designed to work in harmony. Available in heights up to 3 metres and widths measuring up to 1,400mm the AD UP range can provide the grandest of entrances. Perfect integration with the bi-fold and sliding door systems for which Schüco is best known is ensured through the wide range of colour options. Furthermore, its outstanding durability means the system will continue to provide effortless operation for years to come. Autumn 2020

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Colour What Does Your Front Door Say About You? What What What Does Does Does Your Your Your Front Front Front Door Door Door Say Say Say About About About You? You? You?

When it comes to curb appeal it’s all People who paint their front door When When When it itcomes itcomes comes tocurb tocurb curb appeal appeal appeal it’sit’s it’s all allall People People who who paint paint their their front front door door People who paint their front door about the firstto impression...New Home orange are often social butterflies. about about about the the the first first first impression...New impression...New impression...New Home Home Home orange orange are are often often social social butterflies. butterflies. orange are often social butterflies. Finder reveals all. They love to entertain and certainly Finder Finder Finder reveals reveals reveals all.all. all. They They love love toaway toentertain and certainly certainly They love toentertain entertain and certainlyof don’t shy fromand the challenge don’t don’t shy shy away away from from the the challenge challenge ofofof don’t shy away from the challenge There are few things quite as pleasing playing host. There There There are are are few few few things things things quite quite quite as as as pleasing pleasing pleasing playing playing host. host. playing host. as decorating your brand new home. asas decorating decorating your your your brand brand new new new home. home. home. Itas isdecorating what makes abrand new build house 3. The Yellow Front Door It Itfeel isItiswhat iswhat what makes makes makes a a new a new new build build build house house house Yellow Yellow Front Front Door Door 3.The The Yellow Front Door like yours by reflecting your taste 3.3.The feel feel feel like like like yours yours yours by by by reflecting reflecting reflecting your your your taste taste taste and your personality. Yellow is the colour of logic. It and and and your your your personality. personality. personality. Yellow Yellow is isthe colour colour oflogic. It ItItbrain Yellow isthe the colour oflogic. logic. represents the left of side of the represents represents the the left left side side of of the the brain brain represents the left side of the brain However, we all know that it is the first responsible for critical thinking and responsible responsible for for critical critical thinking thinking and and However, However, However, we we we all all know all know know that that that it it is it is the is the the first first first responsible for critical thinking and impression that often counts the most, original thought. As the lightest colour original original thought. thought. As As the the lightest lightest colour colour impression impression impression that that that often often often counts counts counts the the the most, most, most, original thought. As the lightest colour so forget your beautifully decorated in the spectrum it also inspires feelings in in the the spectrum spectrum it it also also inspires inspires feelings feelings soso so forget forget forget your your your beautifully beautifully beautifully decorated decorated decorated in the spectrum it also inspires feelings interiors with carefully chosen of cheerfulness, fun and positivity. interiors interiors interiors with with with carefully carefully carefully chosen chosen fun fun and and positivity. positivity. ofcheerfulness, cheerfulness, fun and positivity. furniture, because it chosen could well be the ofofcheerfulness, furniture, furniture, furniture, because because it itcould itcould could well well well be be be the the the The person living behind a yellow door Someone who chooses to paint their colour ofbecause your front door that reveals Someone Someone who who chooses chooses chooses topaint topaint paint their their their colour colour colour of ofyour ofyour your front front front door door door that that that reveals reveals reveals The The person person living behind behind a ayellow yellow door door person living behind aand yellow door Someone door bluewho will value thetopeace and most about you… isThe going toliving be both logical lively door door blue blue blue will will value value value the the the peace peace peace and and and most most most about about about you… you… you… is is going toto be both both logical logical and lively lively isgoing going tobe be both logical and lively door tranquillity itwill brings and will view their with lots of vitality for life.and Their positive tranquillity tranquillity itbrings brings and and and will will will view view view their their their with with lots lots ofgives ofvitality forfor life. life. Their Their positive positive with lots ofvitality vitality for life. Their positive tranquillity home as itaitbrings place of refuge from the 1. The Red Front Door attitude them the “get up and home home home asas as a aplace aof place place ofrefuge ofrefuge refuge from from from the the the 1.1.The 1.The The Red Red Red Front Front Front Door Door Door attitude attitude gives gives them them the the “get “get upup and and attitude gives them the “get up and pressures theofoutside world. They go” attitude. pressures pressures pressures ofofthe of the the outside outside outside world. world. world. They They They go” go” attitude. attitude. go” attitude. will also be grounded, honest and true Red is the colour of passion. It is will will also also also bebe be grounded, grounded, grounded, honest honest honest and and and true true true Red Red Red is isthe isthe the colour colour colour ofof passion. ofpassion. passion. It ItisItso isis towill themselves. vibrant, lively and exciting and 4. The Green Front Door totothemselves. tothemselves. themselves. vibrant, vibrant, vibrant, lively lively lively and and and exciting exciting exciting and and and so so so 4.4.The Green Green Front Front Door Door 4.The The Green Front Door too is the person behind the door. too too too is isthe isthe the person person person behind behind behind the the door. door. door. 6. The Purple Front Door People who choose to the paint their Green is the colour of health and 6.6.The 6.The The Purple Purple Purple Front Front Front Door Door Door People People People who who who choose choose choose totopaint topaint paint their their their Green Green is isthe colour colour ofof health and and Green is the colour ofhealth health and front door red are often some of the wealth. Itthe is tranquil and traditional. front front front door door door red red red are are are often often often some some some ofofthe ofthe the wealth. wealth. wealth. It ItisItcombined istranquil istranquil tranquil and and and traditional. traditional. traditional. Purple means extravagance. It reflects most welcoming and hospitable souls, With the power of Purple Purple Purple means means means extravagance. extravagance. extravagance. Itreflects Itreflects reflects most most most welcoming welcoming welcoming and and and hospitable hospitable hospitable souls, souls, souls, With With the the combined combined power power ofofof the With the combined power wealth, fantasy and risk. It isIt no delighting in entertaining and having representing health and wealth, wealth, wealth, fantasy fantasy fantasy and and and risk. risk. risk. It ItisItisno isno no delighting delighting delighting ininentertaining inentertaining entertaining and and and having having having representing representing health health and and wealth, wealth, the the representing health and wealth, the surprise then, that the person who guests. This explains why traditionally, individuals living behind the green door wealth, surprise surprise then, then, then, that that the the the person person person who who who guests. guests. guests. This This This explains explains explains why why traditionally, traditionally, traditionally, individuals individuals living behind behind the the green green door door individuals living behind the green doorsurprise picks purple isthat more than comfortable red has represented awhy hospitable are often living successful and ambitious. picks picks picks purple purple ismore ismore more than than than comfortable comfortable comfortable red red red has has has represented represented a ahospitable ahospitable hospitable and are are often often successful successful and and ambitious. ambitious. are often successful and ambitious. taking apurple riskisor two. home. Arepresented red door says ‘welcome’ They value the well-being of their taking taking taking a arisk arisk risk orortwo. ortwo. two. home. home. A Ared Ared door door door says says says ‘welcome’ ‘welcome’ ‘welcome’ and and and They They value value the the well-being oftheir They value the well-being oftheir their ithome. means it.red family as well aswell-being workingofhard and it itmeans itmeans means it.it.it. family family asas well well asas working working hard hard and and family as well as working hard and They will also enjoy the finer things in self-improvement. They They They will will will also also also enjoy enjoy enjoy the the the finer finer finer things things things ininin self-improvement. self-improvement. self-improvement. life, indulging in treats and pleasures 2. The Orange Front Door life, life, life, indulging indulging indulging inintreats intreats treats and and and pleasures pleasures pleasures 2.2.The 2.The The Orange Orange Orange Front Front Front Door Door Door where ever they can. More than that 5. The Blue Front Door where where where ever ever ever they they they can. can. can. More More More than than than that that that Blue Blue Front Front Door Door 5.The The Blue Front Door though, the person behind the purple Orange is the colour of warmth. It is an 5.5.The though, though, though, the the the person person person behind behind behind the the the purple purple purple Orange Orange Orange is isthe isthe the colour colour ofofwarmth. ofwarmth. warmth. It Itisand Itisan isan an Blue is the colour of peace. It is door will dream big and even consider expression ofcolour energy, happiness door door door will will will dream dream dream big big big and and and even even even consider consider consider expression expression expression ofofenergy, ofenergy, energy, happiness happiness and and and Blue Blue is isthe colour colour ofand ofpeace. It ItisItis Blue isthe the colour ofpeace. peace. is themselves free spirited. confidence. A blend ofhappiness the primary calming, relaxing honest. The themselves themselves themselves free free free spirited. spirited. spirited. confidence. confidence. confidence. Ablend Ablend blend ofofthe ofthe primary primary primary a calming, calming, relaxing relaxing and and honest. honest. The calming, relaxing and honest. The colours redAand yellow itthe represents sound of the sea breeze andThe the colours colours colours red red and and and yellow yellow yellow it itassociated represents itrepresents represents atoaa sound sound ofof the sea sea breeze breeze and and the the sound ofthe the sea breeze and the 7. The Pink Front Door mixture ofred the qualities ocean waves have often been used 7.The The Pink Pink Pink Front Front Front Door Door Door mixture mixture mixture of ofthe ofhappiness the the qualities qualities qualities associated associated associated toto to ocean ocean waves waves have have often often been been used used ocean waves have often been used 7.7.The each; the of yellow and the as examples of peace and relaxation, each; each; each; the the the happiness happiness happiness ofyellow yellow and and and the the the asas examples examples ofofpeace and and relaxation, relaxation, as ofpeace peace and relaxation, Pink is the colour of love. A mix of boldness of red. ofofyellow so itexamples is no wonder that blue represents Pink Pink isand isthe isthe the colour colour colour oflove. oflove. love. A Amix Aqualities mix mix ofofof boldness boldness boldness ofofred. ofred. red. soso it itisitisno no wonder wonder that that blue blue represents represents so is no wonder that blue represents Pink red white it of blends the these qualities. these qualities. red and white itblends blends the qualities red red and and white white it itblends the the qualities qualities these qualities. these qualities. 56 5656 56 134

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compromises often demanded by compromises demanded compromises demanded byby compromises often demanded modern life, often tooften ensure stabilitybyand modern life, to ensure stability and modern life, to ensure stability and modern life, to ensure stability and balance in their lives. balance inintheir lives. balance lives. balance intheir their lives. 11. The White Front Door 11. The White Front Door 11. The White Front Door 11. The White Front Door

White is the colour of perfection. White is isthe colour ofofperfection. White colour isthe the colour ofperfection. perfection. ItWhite represents wholeness, equality It Itrepresents wholeness, equality represents wholeness, It represents wholeness, equality and perhaps surprisingly,equality creativity. and perhaps surprisingly, creativity. and perhaps surprisingly, creativity. and perhaps surprisingly, creativity. White is the sum of all colours in White is the sum of all colours ininin White is the sum of all colours White is the sum of all colours equal measures and that’s why it equal measures and why it itand equal measures and that’s why equal measures and that’s why it has connotations ofthat’s wholeness has connotations of wholeness and has connotations of wholeness and has connotations of wholeness and equality. equality. equality. equality. Like the colour, the person living Like the colour, the person Like the colour, the person living Like the colour, the person living behind the white door willliving be 9. The Black Front Door of these two colours. The passion 9.9.The Black Front Door behind the white door will bebe behind the white door will ofof these two colours. passion Black Front Door 9.The The Black Front Door ofthese these two two colours. colours. The The passion passion behind the white door will be will someone who is very fair. They and boldness of redThe is softened by very fair. They will someone who They will and boldness is bybyby and and boldness boldness ofred ofred red issoftened issoftened softened someone who isvery very fair. They will be openwho to allis is sides offair. an argument, Black is the colour of sophistication. someone the purity ofof white making it romantic, colour ofofsophistication. open toto all ofeach ofan argument, the purity ofofwhite making it itromantic, Black isthe colour isthe the colour ofsophistication. sophistication. the the purity purity ofwhite white making making itromantic, romantic, Black beopen open toallsides allsides sides ofanargument, an argument, carefully balancing side to arrive ItBlack is is classic, authoritative and stylish. bebe loving and thoughtful. It ItisPainting authoritative stylish. each side toalso carefully balancing each side toarrive loving and thoughtful. authoritative and stylish. Itisclassic, isclassic, classic, authoritative and stylish.a carefully loving loving and and thoughtful. thoughtful. balancing each side toarrive arrive atcarefully a fairbalancing resolution. They are likely your front doorand black makes Painting your front door black makes a a a atat aatafair resolution. They are also resolution. They are also likely Painting your front black makes Painting your front door black makes afair fair resolution. They are also likely to be highly imaginative, able tolikely fill bold statement. It door tells the world your As you may well guess then, the statement. It Ittells the world your be imaginative, to highly imaginative, able tofill AsAs you may well guess the bold statement. the world your Asyou you may may well well guess guess then, then, the theis the bold bold statement. tells the world your toto tobehighly be highly imaginative, able tofillfill the blankness of whiteable with ideas and home is a place ofIttells order and control. person living behind athen, pink door is isaisaplace ofoforder and control. blankness ofofwhite with ideas and the blankness with ideas and person living behind a apink door is isthe home and control. home aplace place oforder order and control. the person person living living behind behind apink pink door door isthe the home the blankness ofwhite white with ideas and creativity. neighbourhood’s hopeless romantic! creativity. neighbourhood’s romantic! neighbourhood’s neighbourhood’s hopeless romantic! romantic! creativity. That means the person living behind creativity. They will make hopeless a hopeless good partner and That means the person behind They will make athanks partner and That means the person living That means the person living behind They will will make make agood agood good partner and and 12. The Glass Front Door the black front door isliving likely tobehind have a aThey great friend topartner their caring black front door is isand likely totohave a aina 12. The Glass Front Door 12. The Glass Front Door a agreat friend thanks tototheir caring the black front door the black front door islikely likely tohave have agreat great friend friend thanks thanks totheir their caring caring the 12. The Glass Front Door place for everything everything nature and thoughtfulness. place forforeverything everything ininin Last but by no means least, the nature and thoughtfulness. place everything place foreverything everything and everything nature nature and and thoughtfulness. thoughtfulness. its place. They areand aand strong, itsits place. They are a astrong, Last but bybyno means least, the Last but least, the They are itsplace. place. They are astrong, strong, Last but byno nomeans means least, the sophisticated person of substance glass door. Like the material itself, 8. The Brown Front Door sophisticated ofofsubstance glass door. Like the material itself, glass door. Like the material itself, 8.8.The Brown Front Door sophisticated person sophisticated person ofsubstance substance 8.The The Brown Brown Front Front Door Door glass door. Like the material itself, the person behind the glass door and style. person and style. the person behind the glass door the person behind the glass door and style. and style. the person behind the glass door has nothing to hide. They are friendly, Brown is the colour of earth. It is has nothing totohide. They are friendly, has nothing hide. They are friendly, Brown is isstable the colour of ItWhether Brown Brown isthe the colour colour ofearth. ofearth. earth. ItisItis is has nothing to hide. They are friendly, outgoing and open. 10. The Grey Front Door warm, and organic. 10. The Grey Front Door outgoing and open. outgoing and open. warm, stable and organic. Whether 10. The Grey Front Door 10. The Grey Front Door warm, warm, stable stable and and organic. organic. Whether Whether outgoing and open. painted brown or natural wood, the painted brown oror natural the painted painted brown brown ornatural natural wood, wood, the the Grey is the colour of contentment. It person behind this doorwood, will share the is isthe colour ofand It It It person behind this door will share the Grey colour ofcontentment. isthe the colour ofcontentment. contentment. person person behind behind this this door door will will share share the the Grey So, does your front door suit you or isGrey calm, practical reserved. Being same characteristics as the colour. practical and reserved. Being does your front door suit you ororor So, does your front suit you So, does your front door suit you same characteristics asasthe colour. practical and reserved. Being same same characteristics characteristics as the the colour. colour. calm, practical and reserved. Being So, will you be making adoor change? aiscalm, mix between black and white, grey They will be grounded, down to earth, is iscalm, between black and white, grey you bebemaking a achange? will you will you bemaking making achange? change? They will bebegrounded, down totoearth, between black and white, grey amix mix between black and white, grey They They will will be grounded, grounded, down down toearth, earth, a amix can also be considered the colour of will warm and friendly. can also bebeconsidered the colour ofThe warm and friendly. can also considered the colour ofof can also be considered the colour warm warm and and friendly. friendly. indecision and even indifference. New Home Finder provides everything and even The Home Finder provides everything New Home provides everything New Home Finder provides everything indecision and even indifference. The indecision and even indifference. The New you need toFinder know about buying a new However, should the shade of brown indecision person who has a indifference. grey front door will who has grey front door will need totoknow about buying a anew you need about buying you need toknow know about buying anew new However, should the shade ofofbrown person who has front door will person who has agrey grey front door will you However, However, should should the the shade shade ofbrown brown person be looking for aa aquiet life. home. Visit be on the darker side of the spectrum forfora life. home. Visit home. Visit home. Visit bebe on darker side of the spectrum life. belooking looking foraquiet aquiet quiet life. beonthe on the darker darker side side ofthe the spectrum spectrum bebelooking www.newhomefinder.co.uk then itthe could reflect a of more private Click here www.newhomefinder.co.uk www.newhomefinder.co.uk then it itcould reflect a amore private then then itcould could reflect reflect amore more private private They don’t like to stand out too much www.newhomefinder.co.uk soul, looking to avoid too much They don’t like toto stand out too much soul, looking to too much They don’t like out too much They don’t like tostand stand out too much soul, soul, looking looking toavoid toavoid avoid too too much much to enquire interaction with the outside world. and are happy making the and are happy making the interaction with the outside world. and are happy making the and are happy making the interaction interaction with with the the outside outside world. world. 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b o o s t y o u r h o m e ’s

KERB APPEAL There are many good reasons why it pays to keep up the look of the outside of your home. Not least because it could add value to your property.

When looking to buy a new home, 93% of us are more likely to book a house viewing if the outside looks inviting. Create a welcoming façade and it can add value and help to sell your home. Clear pathways, a fresh lick of paint, clean windows and a tidy garden sounds obvious, so why are so few of us actually doing it? In fact, most people have not done anything to improve the front of their home in the last 8 years. What’s stopping us make the most of our homes? And how can we get some instant kerb appeal?

Here, we share 7 easy ways to get your home looking its best. Step 1 - Stand Back and Look Before reaching for the nearest tin of paint, it’s a good idea to stand back and take a good look at your house. What’s the style or period of your property? Are you in a red brick Victorian town house, a painted country cottage or a rendered 1950s semi? It sounds straightforward, but understanding your house and its style will help you decide and plan the overall look you want. Be critical and try and see it as a potential buyer would or as a first-time visitor. Are the windows in good order, is the guttering in place, does the garden gate open and close properly, are there old plant pots in the way and does any paint need a refresh? Making a list will keep you focussed and help with your planning. Top Tip Take a photo of your exterior as it is now – to enjoy ‘before’ and ‘after’ photos later. Step 2 - Choose a Paint Colour If you have a painted exterior, now’s the time to re-decorate or plan a whole new colour scheme. 136

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Here are a few things to consider. Perhaps your house has a natural stonework where the colour could influence your paint choices? If you live in a terrace of painted houses, what colours are your neighbours? You may have your heart set on a vibrant shade of purple, but how will that ‘sit’ against the earthy, muted tones of the rest of your street? Have you thought about the colour of your pathway, fence or railings? Do they have a particular hue or style you want to contrast with or tone in? Step 3 - Fabulous Florals If you have any plants or trees against the house, think how a paint colour will look as a backdrop. The shades, tints and tones of an established climbing rose for example, could be used as your inspiration for a paint colour. You may want to co-ordinate or contrast with any coloured foliage to get the best kerb appeal. Top Tip Think of the entire outside of your home as one colour palette, from door, walls, paths, flowers and foliage. Step 4 - Door to Door Now think about your front door. The pièce de résistance to the exterior look of your home. The latest trend for statement front doors in an array of colours looks set to continue. Taking on board all the previous considerations, the colour of your front door could be determined by an underlying colour from your home’s natural stonework, a hue to complement your neighbours’ or a stronger shade from the colour of a flowering plant. Or will you stand out from the rest and go for a bold ‘pop’ of colour like we see in this yellow front door? As the entrance to your home, the colour of your front door is an important style

statement and should set the tone for what’s inside. It could even be a colour that would complement the hallway of your home, so bringing the outside in. Step 5 - Keep It Practical If you’re painting the whole exterior, the window frames or the front door, it’s important to use the correct paint for the right surface. It goes without saying to follow the manufacturers’ guidelines to ensure the durability and longevity of your new painted look. Use expert trades people for more demanding DIY jobs, laying paths or any tricky fixtures and fitting. Step 6 – Clean Your Windows As Michelle Ogundehin advises in her new book “Happy Inside: How to Harness the Power of Home for Health and Happiness” – clean your windows. “They are the eyes of the home” she says. And we agree. Such an easy, quick fix to make the outside of your home sparkle. Now relax and take an ‘After’ photo! After all your hard work, don’t forget to take an ‘after’ photo. So when you’re relaxing inside, you can remind yourself how fabulous your new ‘outside’ looks! If you’d like to learn interior design skills and even take the first step to a new career, take a look at our most popular online interior design course – My Professional Interior Design Course. Suitable for complete beginners, this 12 month Diploma course has been enjoyed by hundreds of students from all over the world. You CAN be the interior designer you’ve been dreaming about. What are you waiting for? You can enrol today! By My Interior Design School www.myinteriordesign.school

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Wa n t t o f re s h e n up your fascia? Freefoam Building Products have created a fantastic website, myfascia.co.uk, to help you get new fascia fitted to your home. Created to de-mystify all aspects of roofline – fascia, soffit and gutter – the site illustrates the choices available and puts you in touch with a local, expert installer - homeowners can feel confident that they are in safe hands Every step of the way Myfascia.co.uk helps you make the right choice for your home. Familiarise yourself with the different roofline products, browse photos to get inspiration and ideas, and get a quote from a local reliable installer. Our team will support you from your initial enquiry, to final fitting. Colour to match windows and doors Whilst we’re all familiar with the standard white fascia, there is now a fantastic range of colours to choose from. With many homeowners now choosing contemporary black or grey window frames you can now match your fascia to other external features. Try out our colour choice with the ‘roofline visualiser’

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Reliable local installers Installing fascia, soffit and guttering is not an easy job to do yourself. It’s inaccessible at the base of your roof and needs a level of skill that comes through experience and training. We would recommend you get it done professionally BUT tracking down a reliable and trustworthy installer can be a daunting. Use myfascia.co.uk and simply fill in your details online and Freefoam will put you in touch with a local tradesperson who is familiar with the product range and give you a FREE no obligation quote for fitting. Low maintenance Everyone is short of time, with demands from family and work ever increasing, time at weekends is precious. Home Improvement jobs are way down the list! PVC fascia and cladding needs minimal maintenance. Just a quick wipe down with a cloth and it looks as good as new. Low lifetime costs Freefoam fascia is guaranteed for up to 50 years! So what value will your replacement fascia give that time? Taking the average cost of installation of £2,500 over 50 years it costs you just 0.1p a day! Compared to the cost of fitting, repairing and repainting wood fascia it’s money well spent. www.myfascia.co.uk

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Garden Rooms & Patios

Outdoor living habits

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The following section covers... • Interior Design Tips

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• Outdoor Living

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• Pergolas

• Decking

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OUTDOOR LIVING POD™

installation Luxury external shading manufacturer, Caribbean Blinds, recently completed its most ‘creative’ installation of one of its most popular products, the Outdoor Living Pod™, in collaboration with an exceptional landscaping firm. 142

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During the early design stages of a complete garden renovation project in Hemel Hempstead in November 2019, Limebok Landscaping contacted the outdoor shading experts for their assistance. The garden transformation began in February this year, with Caribbean Blinds undertaking a detailed survey in mid-March. The Outdoor Living Pod™ was installed in late May, taking just two days to complete. Stuart Dantzic, Managing Director of Caribbean Blinds, explained: “In May this year, we installed the Deluxe model of our award-winning Outdoor Living Pod™ for a client who required a low-maintenance pergola to seamlessly link their newly built outdoor bar and kitchen area and provide an allweather socialising spot for the adults, whilst allowing a full and unobstructed view of the children’s play area. As a Caribbean Blinds ‘first’, we incorporated a water feature into a unique ‘living’ wall on the boundary side of the pergola.

Screening was also added to the adjacent side of the outdoor kitchen and play area to provide protection from the weather but with a view through so as not to enclose the space. Finally, lighting and heating options were integrated into the structure for year-round use.” The end result was a dedicated ‘zone’ that the client can use to simply relax in or entertain friends and family with no disruption from the elements due to the all-weather pergola that cleverly adapts to the changing ambient conditions. Stuart added: “Our committed team were on hand throughout the entire process to discuss every detail with both the landscaper and client, with a shared vision of the end result. When confirming details such as screen materials, hardware colours and finishes, and lighting and heating options, every ‘zone’ on site was taken into consideration to ensure that all elements of the garden would flow.”

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The client explained: “It’s no secret that the UK weather is extremely unreliable, so this was at the forefront of our minds when designing our garden. We wanted a space for the whole family to enjoy during the summer months, but still be able to utilise throughout the colder, wetter and windier months too. After a lot of research, we decided to purchase the Caribbean Blinds Outdoor Living Pod™. When the team came to carry out their survey, we decided to add a central leg to split the blind up and create a doorway. They were so accommodating and made us feel at ease throughout the entire process. The Pod is, without a doubt, the feature of our garden, and we couldn’t be happier with the results. Whether someone is cooking on the outdoor BBQ or mixing up cocktails behind the bar, the spaces link together effortlessly, providing a feeling of inclusion for everyone to enjoy. Furthermore, the adults can enjoy their time together in their grown-up space without worrying about the children in the play area.”

“We wanted a space for the whole family to enjoy during the summer months, but still be able to utilise throughout the colder, wetter and windier months too. After a lot of research, we decided to purchase the Caribbean Blinds Outdoor Living Pod™.”

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Limebok Landscaping commented: “We introduced our client to Caribbean Blinds whilst working on a large-scale garden landscaping project. Our client was very impressed with the no-nonsense, professional service they received and the quality of the Outdoor Living Pod™. On site, we found the installation team to be fantastic – they were courteous, hardworking, knowledgeable and extremely efficient. The pergola was a brilliant addition to the garden we designed and

featured heavily in our finished photos, which were incredibly popular across our social media channels. We look forward to the next install of Caribbean Blinds on one of our projects.” Ingeniously designed for those who want to live life outdoors, the Caribbean Blinds Outdoor Living Pod™ provides the ultimate luxury, all-weather, outdoor living space that gives the customer complete control of the elements, 365 days a year.

For more information, visit: www.cbsolarshading.co.uk/outdoor-living-pod/

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GEORGEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S BAR

open all hours

The constant disruptions and Covid restrictions means the demise of the great British pub continues, so with more and more of us choosing to stay at home, maybe the new era of pubs is the home pub? Now thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth raising a glass! And with 10pm curfews or local lockdowns looking like they are here to stay for the winter, no one can call time on you in your own pub! More and more of us are utilising garden sheds and converting them into far more useful (and fun) spaces. Whether its an existing shed that needs some TLC, or a flash all out garden room, the pub shed/home pub arena is opening up around the UK.

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Getting out into the garden and socialising with friends and family is good for our mental health. Here, we feature Lesley and Michael’s pub shed, based in Barnsley, South Yorkshire. Although there was some initial reluctance from Lesley, their conversion of a shed pub has had a really positive impact on their social activities, especially for Lesley’s elderly father. Here’s what Lesley had to say: "It all started off having a chat and drink in the garden. It's a lovely sun trap and I loved it as it was. My husband had different plans and he wanted to build a pub! After much debate, we finished up with this and we love it. Mick and my 90 year old dad, who the pub is named after, put so much work into it and it’s given my dad a new lease of life. The pub shed took 5 months from start to finish with just a little more work required in front of the decking, then we are finished. Its improved our garden and living space so much and is a great place for us all to relax with family and friends."

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outdoor

LIVING HABITS

After months of being cooped up inside – be it due to inclement weather or the COVID-19 pandemic, there’s no question that Brits are ready to get outdoors. This pent-up demand for fresh air and open space is reinforced in the findings of a new survey* by Trex Company, the world’s #1 manufacturer of wood-alternative decking and railing, and leader in high-performance, low-maintenance outdoor living products.

“Something wonderful that has come out of this period of staying at home is the fact that Brits have fallen back in love with their gardens,” said Indi Sarkaria, assistant product manager at Arbor Forest, exclusive UK distributor of Trex. “After months of being restricted, we are now flocking outside as restrictions begin to lift. There is no question about it, we are ready to embrace the outdoors and show off our outdoor spaces.” According to the Trex survey, nearly all survey respondents (97%) indicated that it’s important that their home has an attractive and inviting outdoor living area. This is likely because, during fair weather months, nearly 9 out of 10 respondents (88%) do or would use their main outdoor living space nearly every day (47%) or at least several times a week (41%). “Outdoor living has never been more popular – or more essential,” noted Leslie Adkins, vice president of marketing for Trex Company. “Homeowners around the world are looking for ways to escape the stresses of life without risking the health and safety of their loved ones. A well-designed outdoor space can offer a refreshing change of scene and comfortable place to relax and regroup while connecting with nature.” When it comes to how we use our outdoor spaces, the Trex survey found that relaxing (79%), gardening 148

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(61%) and spending time with family (58%) topped the list of outdoor activities Brits engage in most outdoors. Also ranking high were reading (49%), cooking and grilling (47%), and sunbathing (45%). Furthermore, the survey findings revealed insights into some of the top trends that will be popping up in gardens and backyards across the country this season. Garden Getaways Facing continued travel restrictions and limited recreational options, many homeowners are focused on turning their gardens into restful retreats. Inspired by home improvement shows and social media channels like Pinterest and Houzz, consumers are seeking ways to add comfort and function to their outdoor areas. Reflecting this trend, nearly 60% of survey respondents indicated that they plan to purchase new furniture for their outdoor space this year. More than half (51%) plan to add lighting and 41% are looking to install a new deck or outdoor flooring surface. Materials Matter When it comes to outfitting an outdoor space, survey respondents had definite opinions about the attributes that drive their purchasing decisions. Price, durability and aesthetics topped the list at 56%, 48% and 43%, respectively. Also ranking

high were quality/performance (41%), maintenance requirements (40%), and ease of installation (34%). While pavers, stone and timber remain popular options, eco-friendly alternatives like highperformance, low-maintenance composite decking meet more of the criteria on consumers’ checklists for outdoor flooring materials. Durable Trex® composite decking is engineered with an exclusive high-traffic formulation and proprietary protective shell that resists stains, scratches and mold, while delivering an authentic wood-grain pattern in rich colors with realistic streaking. Trex decking won’t rot, warp, crack or splinter – and upkeep is hasslefree. The product requires no stripping, sanding or sealing, and cleans up easily with just soap and water. Plus, the entire Trex decking portfolio is made from more than 95% recycled material, making it a purchase that feels as good as it performs.

Minimal Maintenance, Maximum Enjoyment When presented with a dozen possible complaints related to their outdoor living space, “weather”related issues and “lack of privacy” were the top concerns. It’s no surprise then that fencing (47%), a permanent shade structure – like a gazebo or pergola (35%), and lattice (33%) also ranked among the outdoor living products consumers are likely to purchase this year. For more information about high-performance Trex decking, railing and outdoor living products, visit https://uk.trex.com/. Survey on file and available upon request.

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pergolas With holidaying abroad proving more challenging this year due to the ongoing pandemic, now’s the time to inject your garden with an early Autumn Mediterranean feel to make up for missing out.

The rise of the 2020 staycation has seen a dramatic upturn in the number of people spending time upscaling their outdoor space. Be it creating an inviting alfresco kitchen area for entertaining, blissfully tranquil seating areas, or simply ensuring perimeter fencing is robust enough to eliminate any unwanted prying eyes and let children and pets roam free. Ongoing social distancing rules mean ‘garden living’ is more popular than ever, as it extends your living space, enabling you to continue to socialise safely. This can be easily achieved by creating dedicated zones in your garden to bring an indoor feel outdoors, expanding into a new exterior ‘room’. Consider a protective shelter with walls, or a shade structure such as a single pergola, which will enable you to enjoy your outdoor area all year round. Designed using our popular Venetian panels for the sides and roof, the Retreat Garden Shelter embraces the Mediterranean look, especially when the sun is shining through, casting dramatic patterns of light and shade. Alternatively, double pergolas are perfect for defining a large entertaining space while remaining light and airy. Double pergola sets can be used to make feature areas for sunbathing, or relaxing and unwinding in the shade provided by additional roof elements or side panels. Corner pergolas are another eye-catching garden feature, adding interest to specific parts of the garden. Like all types of pergolas, they can be made to fit any garden, large or small. Each of these pergola designs is made all the more inviting when combined with climbing plants or warm light features. Not only does a pergola offer shelter from the natural elements, it will also add a sense of structure to your outdoor space, becoming a natural focal point in your garden. Perhaps as an attractive walkway or as a decorative screen. Pergolas allow for limitless design options once the structure is in place. Let your creativity run wild and customise them with whatever you please, transforming your space into a very special oasis of calm.

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G a rd e n Decking

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The client wanted a large space on which to entertain on and also create a very relaxing sun deck. They chose to use the Walnut Hyperion Decking with a stylish picture frame boarder to accentuate the deck features.

The Solution Using the durable low profile recycled plastic bearers, we were able to create a deck that seamlessly connected with their current patio area, whilst being very stable under foot.

P ro j e c t Details

The wood grain pattern side of the decking board was used to give a beautifully natural appearance, which still retained the high slip resistant properties we achieve on both sides of our deck boards.

Colour: Walnut

Customer Feedback Paul, Guildford: “We used the walnut coloured decking in our garden, backing onto the house. It looks great and is really grippy, even when its wet! We used the wood grain side of the board which I think has a really natural feel to it. The EnviroBuild team were really helpful throughout the ordering process, we would highly recommend this decking!”

Size: 30m² Product: Pioneer Range – Hyperion Decking Substructure: Low Profile Manticore Plastic Bearers Install Time: 2 Days Installer: Boa Contractors Location: Surrey

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ITâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S TIME TO BRING YOUR DREAMS TO LIFE AN ELEGANT ALTERNATIVE See how timber alternative sash windows help restore a Georgian cottage to its former glor y

THINKING OUTSIDE THE BOX Discover how t h e Tu r n e r f a m i l y transformed their tired conser vator y into a stunning new living space

KERB APPEAL What does your front door say about you? 154

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IMPROVE AUTUMN 2020 VOL2

Articles inside

EXTENDING YOUR HOME

KERB APPEAL

GARDEN ROOMS & PATIOS

STEEL WINDOWS

HERITAGE & PERIOD PROPERTIES

CONSERVATORIES & ORANGERIES

BI-FOLDING & SLIDING DOORS

SKYLIGHTS & ROOF LANTERNS