Five STAR luxury at home design

4

Direct to the self-builder

Phases to Your Build

Footings & foundations Framing your self-build finishing Interior & exterior fi nishing Groundwork & landscaping

WWW.YOUR-BUILD.CO.UK

SUMMER 2019

SELF-BUILDS • CONVERSIONS • EXTENSIONS

GET INSPIRED SHOWER SOLUTIONS PATIO DESIGNS TIMELESS TILES

FREE TICKET

GIVEAWAY

page 40

5 STAR LUXURY AT HOME Roselind Wilson talks luxury home design

CARPENTER OAK Light and spacious design

INTERVIEW: SIAN ASTLEY TV expert expert and and builder builder Sian Sian Astley Astley shares shares her her self-building self-building expertise expertise TV

Finance • Home Conversions • Home Technology • Fires & Stoves • Bio Fuel • Heating • Paving •

In This Issue

4

Direct to the self-builder

Phases to Your Build

Footings & foundations Framing your self-build Interior & exterior finishing Groundwork & landscaping

WWW.YOUR-BUILD.CO.UK

SUMMER 2019

SELF-BUILDS • CONVERSIONS • EXTENSIONS

GET INSPIRED SHOWER SOLUTIONS PATIO DESIGNS TIMELESS TILES

FREE TICKET

GIVEAWAY

5 STAR LUXURY AT HOME Roselind Wilson talks luxury home design

page 40

CARPENTER OAK Light and spacious design

INTERVIEW: SIAN ASTLEY TV expert and builder Sian Astley shares her self-building expertise

Finance • Home Conversions • Home Technology • Fires & Stoves • Bio Fuel • Heating • Paving •

Cover Image: Carpenter Oak, Page 16 Photo Credit: www.georgefielding.co.uk Editor Jessica Bacon Direct tel: 017333 385311 Email: jessica.bacon@mediaone.co.uk Editor Rebekah FeaturesKilligrew Editor Direct tel: 01733 385325 Rebekah Killigrew Email: rebekah.killigrew@mediaone.co.uk Direct tel: 01733 385325 Email: rebekah.killigrew@mediaone.co.uk Commerical Director Donna Jenkins Commerical Director DirectDonna tel: 01733 385310 Jenkins Email:donna@mediaone.co.uk Direct tel: 01733 385310 Email:donna@mdiaone.co.uk Designers Owen Mooney Designer HollyMooney Aston Owen Production Manager Louise Stupples Circulation Carol Todd Publisher director & CEO Publishing Robert Nisbet Published by: call: To subscribe, Media One Communications Ltd 1 01733 Accent Park,385300 Bakewell Road, Peterborough, PE2 6XS Published by: 01733 385300 Tel Media One Communications Ltd 1 Accent Park, Bakewell Road, Website Peterborough, PE2 6XS www.your-build.co.uk Tel 01733 385300 Social Accounts Instagram: @yourbuildmagazine Website Twitter: @yourbuildmag www.your-build.co.uk

Contents

T

here are so many benefits to starting a self-build in Summer, and the warmer weather and drier days also divert our focus to outdoor spaces. In this issue we take a look at patios and pathways, with Bradstone guiding us through design considerations, and SureSet suggesting an easy way to update existing areas in the garden.

With the environment and sustainability as a constant global discussion, it’s inevitable that these topics are referenced throughout the issue. The Partnership for Biodiversity in Planning discusses how the Wildlife Assessment Check is a vital tool for self-builders before a project has even begun, UK Rainwater Management Association explain how harvesting systems can assist in making better use of available water, and Ecological Building Systems look at the importance of a fabric first approach to air and wind tightness.

This issue also features a handful of stunning case studies, including two former farmsteads: the impressive Clouse House is a truly inspirational concept from Classic Architecture that sprung from planning restrictions, and the West Yard farm project, showcased by timber frame specialists Carpenter Oak, is a stunning design that demonstrates how the tactile and aesthetic properties of green oak can be utilised in a contemporary manner.

We interview expert builder and renovator Sian Astley who provides an insight into her career and love of self-builds, and award-winning interior designer Roselind Wilson shares her top tips on how to create a luxury 5 star feel at home.

Rebekah Killigrew, Editor

From start to finish, this issue delivers insights on all phases of your build.

Printed and bound by: Pensord Press Tram Road Pontllanfraith, Gwent NP12 2YA Your Build Magazine is published by Media One Communications Ltd. 2018 All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part, without written permission from the publisher, is strictly prohibited. All views and opinions expressed by contributors do not necessarily represent those of the publisher. All prices are approximate. Your Build is distributed subject to these conditions: that it shall not be re-sold, hired out or disposed of by way of trade and that it shall not be lent, re-sold, hired out or disposed of in a mutilated condition or used in any unauthorised cover of any publication or advertising of pictorial matter. All advertising and paid for entries are strictly subject to our terms and conditions. available online at www.mediaone.co.uk/terms. We cannot guarantee a response to all enquiries. Your Build Magazine is a registered trademark.

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Contents In This Issue

36

4 Key Phases to Your Build...

Phase 1 - Footings & foundations Phase 3 - Interior & exterior finishing 43 54 The Partnership for Biodiversity in Planning explains why they developed the Wildlife Assessment Check and the UK Rainwater Management Association discusses why water supply solutions should be a consideration when designing a new home.

46

Phase 2 - Framing your build Both Isover and Ecological Building Systems discuss the importance of ensuring that a build is properly insulated and provides a comfortable environment to live in. The Structural Timber Association provides some top tips for achieving the best structural timber system.

4 YourBuild | Summer 2019

61

We explore some of the latest trends including broken-plan wetrooms and the revival of clay quarry tiles. Formica Group looks at the role of the kitchen and how to get the most out of the space, whilst Dimplex provides expert advice on preventing damp and condensation.

Phase 4 - Groundwork & landscaping Paving and pathways are the topics covered in this phase, with Bradstone discussing the design considerations, and SureSet suggesting an easy way to transform your garden.

In This Issue

Contents

44

56 Regulars 10

Budget Tips

12

Funding Home Improvements

Avoid costs spiralling out of control with Build Aviator's top tips

Finance experts Buildstore discuss what to consider when it comes to funding home improvement plans

45 42

Products A round-up of some of the materials and products for self-builders and renovators

24

18

Features 16

Award Winning Oak Frame Design

32

Leading with the Landscape

Timber frame specialists Carpenter Oak showcase a striking and unusual barn conversion

Discover the truly impressive Cloud House, an inspirational concept from Classic Architecture

YourBuild | Summer 2019 5

Your Build News NEW AR FEATURE FOR LEADING DESIGN APP

LONDON BUILD PROTOTYPES THERMAL SHUTTERS

The popular home renovation and design platform Houzz recently introduced a new augmented reality (AR) feature within its free app for iPhone, iPad and Android devices.

The feature, part of Houzz’s View in My Room 3D tool, enables shoppers to virtually cover their floor with tile, true-to-scale. Powered by technology that detects the location and orientation of floors, the updated tool enables shoppers to virtually cover the space with tile to see what their homes would look like with new flooring. Shoppers can find out how much tile is needed to cover the space and order an appropriate amount of material all within the Houzz app.

PLOTSEARCH SUBSCRIPTIONS ARE ON THE UP IN 2019 Despite the UK’s uncertain economic climate, PlotSearch kicked off 2019 with over 1000 new subscribers in January alone, an increase on the same time period last year. PlotSearch data shows that the largest demographic group looking to self-build across the UK, is subscribers aged 26-40, going against the assumption that self-build is only for the older and more established generations. This could indicate that younger people who are struggling to get a foot onto the property ladder are looking to self-build as an alternative to buying a new build or existing property. This is evident in the south of England where the housing crisis is keenly felt and where an increasing demand for building plots can be seen. 2019 will also see the first self and custom build serviced plots become available as a result of the Government’s ‘Right to Build’ legislation. With more planning permissions being granted year on year, and more people of all ages seeing self-build as a feasible option, PlotSearch will continue to help people start their self-build journeys.

NEW GUIDE ON ENERGY STORAGE Recent advances in household-scale battery systems are making them an ever more attractive option for new home buyers and there’s an expectation that they could become commonplace as part of a home’s electrical infrastructure in the near future. A new guide from the NHBC Foundation - NF83 ‘Watts in store? Introduction to energy storage batteries for homes’- now aims to ensure that battery systems are selected to be fit for purpose. This looks at key aspects of battery selection, ensuring that the right questions are asked of manufacturers and that installed systems meet reasonable expectations of home owners. While inclusion of a battery system is currently a choice, driven either by home buyers who are increasingly aware of the leading brands, or by house builders who see a marketing advantage in offering a battery system, their potential benefits to householders and to the efficiency of national energy supply are significant. This point has been recognised in other countries where government incentives have stimulated uptake of household batteries and in turn reduced the installed cost dramatically.

YOU BUILD WITH U-BUILD U-Build is a simple modular construction system designed by architectural practice Studio Bark, which aims to transform the way people think about buildings and the way they are built. The system encourages individuals and communities to self-build, simplifying the construction process and enabling anyone to participate.

6 YourBuild | Summer 2019

The system relies solely on a flat-pack kit made from timber parts, and was developed from a desire to make construction affordable for the public. Components can be quickly slotted together like puzzle pieces to assemble a building frame, and easily dismantled, recycled or reused at the end of the building's life.

An urban infill house in London’s Camden Town features newly developed insulated and automated shutters; the hope being that these shutters will become an energy efficiency solution for future retrofit and lowcost housing projects. Designed and built by bere:architects, designer and engineer Max Fordham and Bow Tie Construction, the scheme was completed in February 2019. The windows are sized and spaced rationally to optimise light without overheating in summer, and the new automated thermal shutters are intended to maintain a constant comfortable internal temperature and to defend against extremes both of external cold and heat. The horizontally sliding shutters constructed from insulated vacuum panels are accommodated within the internal fabric of the building.

They are automatically operated by a home technology system, which simplifies the proper use of the shutters and does not rely on occupants' manual operation. As the shutters are internal, potential complications are easier to note and fix than if external shutters are used. Windows are often the cause of temperature fluctuation, but these reasonably airtight shutters are designed to counterbalance this tendency. The shutters are to be closed on a cold winter night to prevent radiant heat losses ensuring no supplementary heating will be required.

News

Your Build

THE UK’S BIGGEST SELF-BUILD PROJECT Built on former Ministry of Defence land in Bicester, Oxfordshire, Graven Hill is the biggest self-build project the UK has ever seen. It’s one of the country’s most innovative self and custom build villages, and the 188-hectare site will see up to 1,900 homes built over the next decade with the aim of creating a unique community, where homes can be designed to accommodate individuals’ lifestyles. As well as homes, there are plans for commercial units, a pub, and a primary school. The recent Channel 4 TV series, Grand Designs: The Street, revealed the stories behind the first 10 self-builders of the project as they navigated the highs and lows of designing and constructing the home of their dreams. The ‘pioneers’ were from all walks of life, ranging from those escaping the renting cycle of London and those who long to build an environmentally friendly home, to first-time buyers and downsizers. Each self-builder faced individual challenges along the way, but they all shared the same desire to create the home they have always dreamt of.

STREET ARTIST COLABORATES WITH FORMICA GROUP Okuda San Miguel is one of the most prominent contemporary muralists in the world and the first artist to team up with manufacturer Formica Group to create a limited-edition line of laminates. The exclusive designs by the muralist offer a new type of collaboration between art, design and architecture. The collection is called Formica Younique® x Okuda San Miguel and the panels are intended to be the first of many artist collaborations to come. With more than 20 years of experience, Okuda’s work can be found in the public spaces of 80 cities, spanning more than 30 countries. His unique iconographic language, using geometric structures and multi-colored patterns has seen him become one of today’s most acclaimed artists. The Okuda panels are available in four exclusive patterns and three sizes, which can be adapted to any interior or exterior project, ranging from small-to-large scale application. Designs are also available; these are for interior application only and Okuda can be consulted free of charge to discuss the project. The partnership between Formica Group and Okuda is a unique opportunity to collaborate with an artist to make use of spaces and create truly bespoke projects. The Younique® by Formica Group laminate service was used to bring Okuda’s designs to life. The service allows you to create your own pattern or design, or to capture photography or corporate logo in Formica® High Pressure Laminate. The collection is available until September 2019.

YourBuild | Summer 2019 7

Reader Clinic Ask an Expert

READER CLINIC

I

Answering all of your questions on self-builds, conversions, extensions, and everything in-between! Get in touch with your queries by emailing us at editorial@your-build.co.uk

n this issue we focus on extensions with expert advice from Greg Wilkes, the managing director at Jeffery & Wilkes, a design and build company that specialise in loft conversions, home extensions, and home refurbishments.

What size extension can I build without planning permission?

Donna, via email Under Permitted Development (PD) rules you can extend the full width of the rear elevation to a depth of 3m for an attached property and 4m for a detached property. There are other limits and conditions that can be found on www. planningportal.co.uk.

How much does it cost to build an extension?

Can I extend on an existing extension?

Rebecca, via email

Chris, via email Yes, but the limits would still apply under Permitted Development (PD). So if you have already extended you may only have a small amount of PD allowance remaining.

You can apply for Planning Permission to extend further.

Do I need an architect to plan an extension?

This will vary around the UK, but in London

Tom, via Twitter

and glazing.

expect to pay between £1200-£1800 per sqm.

There are a multitude of factors that will add additional costs like finishes, roof style

It’s highly advisable to get drawings carried out to satisfy both the planning department and building control. This gives you the peace of mind that if your builders follow these plans, the extension is being built to the right size and in the right way to comply. It will also be easier to sell the property with the plans in place. However, in theory you do not require

How long does it take to build an extension?

Derek, via email An average rear single storey extension of 5x4m should take around 8 weeks from foundations to decorating. A double storey would be between 12-16 weeks depending on scale and

drawings by an architect and if your builders

specification. Bear in mind that weather related

are extremely competent, it could be built

issues could increase the timings; brickwork

in accordance with regulations without any

cannot be laid in freezing temperatures, and if it

drawings or specification. Some companies will offer a Design & Build service which will mean you do not have to engage a separate architect

were a particularly wet and cold season, drying out times would be longer. There could also be

Holly, via email A well thought out extension will always add value and this can be as much as 20% increase on the property value, but price caps on the area will apply. You can check the sqft value of your home on websites like Zoopla which will give you a guide to calculate the increase in value of your extension.

unforeseen problems like underground drainage requiring alteration that would delay time on

and this could be an avenue worth pursuing to

site. However, surveys can be undertaken at

have everything under one roof.

additional cost to limit these types of issues.

8 YourBuild | Summer 2019

How much value can an extension add to my house?

020 8819 3883 www.jefferyandwilkes.co.uk @jefferywilkesuk

DIARY DATES

Events

Your Build

Keep up to date with the latest trade events and shows to gain access to expert advice on your project

8TH - 9TH JUNE 2019 Build It Live Bicester Live seminars, free expert one-on-one advice, specialist workshops and more – ideal for prospective self-builders and renovators. Meet hundreds of manufacturers, suppliers, homebuilding companies and tradespeople to help visitors realise their dream home project and chat to the team behind the Graven Hill development.

15TH JUNE 2019 NSBRC Eco Workshop: Building Systems & Project Management Swindon This day will look at the particulars that are required when building a high performance property or one that utilises natural materials.

It will also cover the role that the self-builder plays in the construction process, whether it is self project managing, package managing or using sub contractors – addressing the relative merits and drawbacks of each route.

28TH - 30TH JUNE 2019 Homebuilding and Renovaing show Surrey Whether you’re planning to build your own house, add a spacious extension or just want to remodel and update your existing home, the Homebuilding & Renovating Show is a must.

29TH JUNE 2019 Green Building Store Open Day Huddersfield Suppliers of sustainable building products, Green Building Store, are offering a series of talks and product demonstrations on low energy, Passivhaus and retrofit construction. There will be hands-on demonstrations and question and answer sessions with key product staff covering topics such as: high performance windows and doors, energy efficiency, and radical retrofits.

6TH JULY 2019 NSBRC Building Your Low Energy Dream Home Swindon A free seminar and surgery to gain an understanding of building low cost, energy efficient and environmentally friendly home that suits you, your lifestyle and your aspirations. This is aimed at self-builders and their architects and includes free refreshments.

17TH AUGUST 2019 NSBRC Eco Workshop: Heat & Energy Swindon Get the answers that the salesmen might not tell you on everything from heat pumps to solar panels; what’s new, what works and what are the practical issues that need to be considered when installing such renewable technologies, including who does what and how it all connects together.

YourBuild | Summer 2019 9

Financial Expert Advice Build Aviator

SELF-BUILD ON A BUDGET Marcus Jefford Build Aviator offers a range of services for each stage of the build process. From support with your product specifications, to assistance with testing upon completion, to help you with a smooth route to building control sign off.

Build Aviator puts the clients’ needs at the heart of every project, whether that's building to minimum regulations or achieving an increased level of comfort and energy efficiency.

Through its services, guidance and support, Build Aviator helps you to build intelligently and to a specification that works for you, with products that are locally available from its merchant partners Jewson, Gibbs and Dandy and JP Corry.

Marcus Jefford, Managing Director of Build Aviator, shares his top tips for creating a self-build home without racking up a hefty bill

P

ick Your Plot Wisely

Of course, the crucial part about selecting a plot is making sure it’s in an area that’s right for you and one that suits your budget, but many other factors could cause your costs to increase if you don’t do your research. The plot's soil quality can add significant expense to your groundworks, so it's vital to check soil quality before you invest in the land. Planning restrictions can also be imposed on certain types of land or buildings, i.e. conservation areas, and listed buildings. This means you may need additional consents and may have to adhere to aesthetics that are inkeeping with other housing in the area. Pay extra care and attention to any land with ponds and woodland nearby. You don’t want to end up in a situation where you’ve bought a plot that is home to protected wildlife.

Keep it Under 150m2

Contact

Tel: 0333 332 1518

You may think a house that’s 150m2 seems small, but the average house built within the last ten years has less than 70m2 of living space (this space does not include stairways and halls).

The smaller the floor space, the less you’ll need to spend on the building envelope. You’ll be surprised with how much you can do with that

150m2, think three double bedrooms, a bathroom, en-suite, kitchen, living room/ dinner and maybe even that dressing room or utility room.

Think About the Specification When building a house, you must meet a myriad of Building Regulation specification requirements. A major focus for today’s requirements relates to the energy performance of space heating, lighting and water heating, along with air-permeability. The energy performance analysis is known as the Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP). This doesn’t mean you need to install a top spec Mechanical ventilation and heat recovery system, solar panels and an air source heat pump. A SAP assessor, such as our own Build Aviator SAP experts, can help you to figure out the best materials to opt for, to help you build in-line with Part L Building Regulations, while keeping your budgets constrained.

Plan Out Your Costs Producing a detailed and accurate estimate is crucial to budget planning and project management. If you don’t know your expected costs up front, how can you track your spend against your budget? You don’t need to spend hours scouring the internet for calculations, as there are estimating services out there that can do the sums for you for as little as £500.

The Build Aviator estimating service goes one step further by calculating the prices using live product files from Jewson, Gibbs & Dandy and JP Corry at no extra cost. With other estimating providers you could be paying an additional £29 per merchant. The saying “failing to plan, is like planning to fail” is very apt when it comes to self-builds and budgeting. Make sure you’ve thoroughly done your research, and if you spend wisely, you can create a beautiful self-build without breaking the bank. www.buildaviator.co.uk @BuildAviatorUK

10 YourBuild | Summer 2019

11

Build Store Financial Expert Advice

Funding your

HOME

IMPROVEMENTS If you’re planning to make some major home improvements this summer, there’s no better time! Here are a few pointers from BuildStore’s Finance Expert, Rachel Pyne, on what to consider when it comes to funding your plans

M

any people are choosing to improve their current home, as it makes sense to avoid the upheaval and cost of moving, while creating more living space and adding value to the property. Anything from installing a new kitchen or bathroom, to completely redecorating or remodelling a property can be classed as a home improvement project, with more extensive works being a full renovation, extension, basement or loft conversion. Summer is certainly the ideal time

12 YourBuild | Summer 2019

to get your plans underway, as the warmer, more reliable weather means planning the building works and getting things done is much quicker and easier.

When it comes to funding, there are a number of options. The right borrowing solution for you depends on your financial circumstances and the level of works planned. It’s always important to discuss your plans with an expert mortgage adviser who will recommend the right solution for you. So what are your main borrowing options?

Financial Expert Advice

Remortgage Your Home When thinking about how to fund your home improvement plans, your first thought may be to remortgage your home and release the equity to fund works. There are some great low rate remortgage deals on the market at the moment, but this option can be tricky because your borrowing capacity can be significantly limited.

Most lenders will only lend up to 80-95% of your home’s current value, so you may not have enough equity to release and cover the planned works. A remortgage tends to only work if you’re carrying out minor improvements, such as a new bathroom or kitchen, and if you have sufficient equity in your home, if not, a stage payment mortgage could be the answer.

Stage Payment Mortgages Stage payment mortgages differ from traditional mortgages as they release funds in stages – in arrears or in advance. Depending on your individual circumstances, your stage payments will either be guaranteed based on your costs, or rely on an uplift in value at each stage. Unlike a traditional mortgage, your

borrowing capacity is not limited by your home’s current value. You could potentially borrow enough to repay your current mortgage and fund the improvement works in full – up to a maximum of 85% of the expected end value of your home when works are complete.

These mortgages are especially useful for major

“

It’s always important to discuss your plans with an expert mortgage adviser” home improvement projects, for example an extension, basement or loft conversion, as many traditional mortgage products and lenders will not lend on a property where major structural works are being carried out.

BuildStore’s unique cost based mortgages can provide guaranteed stage payments based on the cost of works before each stage, giving you certainty in your budget and the funds you need to get the job done! When works are complete,

Build Store

you can switch to one of your lender’s traditional mortgage deals.

Bridging Loan If you own a second property outright, you could raise funds against this with a bridging loan to fund the improvements on your current home. When works are complete, the loan must be repaid in full, either by refinancing or selling your second property, or remortgaging your current home based on its new increase value.

BuildStore Mortgage Services is the UK’s leading homebuilding finance expert, with access to a range of borrowing solutions including exclusive mortgages specifically designed for home improvement projects, offering competitive rates and guaranteed upfront payments. Our specialist mortgage advisers will recommend and tailor a borrowing solution that’s best suited to achieve your new and improved home.

0345 223 4888 www.buildstore.co.uk @Buildstore Image Credit: SOUP Architects

YourBuild | Summer 2019 13

NSBRC Expert Advice

MAKE HAY

while the

SUN SHINES

I

Now the weather is improving, take advantage of the NSBRC workshops to get a headstart on your self-build projects

t’s summer and the old adage applies fully to anyone undertaking a homebuilding project. The days are longer, your site will be drier, and this should be the time to really make progress on your self-build adventure.

Activities at The National Self Build & Renovation Centre (NSBRC) certainly ramp up during the summer and a range of courses, workshops and educational days are on offer to help you along the way.

The NSBRC is the UK’s only self-build visitor centre and is open Tuesday to Sunday (10:00 – 17:30) every week. Their aim is to inspire, educate and provide impartial advice as well as showcasing the latest products and technologies from over 250 exhibitors.

The Helpdesk is staffed Wednesday to Sunday and free, guided, educational tours at midday, Friday to Sunday, each week are provided. On Friday and Sundays it’s the Renovation House Tour and on Saturdays it’s the New Build Tour.

The one day courses on offer at NSBRC are just £165 (Inc VAT) and include full refreshments and a comprehensive course pack.

The NSBRC is a must visit destination for anyone undertaking a homebuilding project of any size and is located on J16, M4 (Swindon), SN5 8UB. Entry to the NSBRC is free and there is free parking on site. www.nsbrc.co.uk

14 YourBuild | Summer 2019

NSBRC Summer Programme: JUNE 1st June – The NSBRC Guide to Project Management 7th June – The NSBRC Guide to Heating Your Home 15th June – Eco Workshop: Building Systems & Project Management (FREE EVENT) 21st June - The NSBRC Guide to Finding Land & Appraising a Plot JULY 5th July - The NSBRC Guide to Renovation Projects 6th July – Ask an Architect – In partnership with RIBA (FREE EVENT) 20th – 22nd July – The Self Build Course – The essential 3 day guide to Self Build Projects – Just £395 AUGUST 3rd August - The NSBRC Guide to Project Management 17th August – Eco Workshop: Heat & Energy (FREE EVENT) 31st August - The NSBRC Guide to Heating Your Home

YourBuild | Summer 2019 15

Carpenter Oak Case Study

LIGHT AND

SPACIOUS DESIGN Timber frame specialists Carpenter Oak inspire with a striking and unusual design, which utilises the tactile and aesthetic properties of green oak in a contemporary manner

16 YourBuild | Summer 2019

L

ocated in the heart of the Dartmoor National Park and set within 60 acres of woodland and meadow, an 18th Century granite farmhouse and associated barns grouped loosely together to form West Yard Farm. In a dilapidated state, the owners wanted to turn the farmhouse and barns into a large, modern family home with annex space for flexible use.

For the overall design of the house, the owners chose van Ellen + Sheryn architects, who approached Carpenter Oak for the oak frame aspect, with builder Richard Goulden from Goulden & Sons finishing the property to the highest specifications.

The milking parlour to the west of the group was to provide the annex accommodation required.

The brick and stone building was bisected, and a glass and green-oak framed structure replaced the southern half of the building.

Architect Eilir Sheryn worked with Carpenter Oak Ltd frame designer Paul Slemmings to conceive a light and spacious barn-like structure, with glazing on all sides and dramatic flying trusses. Finely cut square profiles were used in combination with steel connectors and tie rods, supplied by Hercules. The truss design was an unusual but striking configuration

taking its cues from a traditional scissor braced truss.

The central collar is formed with an inverted ‘V’ of green oak, and then tied back to the main truss members with stainless steel rods. These tie rods reduce the perceived mass of the frame at high level. The open roof space combined with the extensive glazing allows light to flood in.

To best compliment the massive stone and brick walls of the barn, a key aspect of the design was to maintain a strong physical aesthetic for the frame. The timber columns were doubled up with a small shadow gap between, to create

an attractive rhythm.

The frame could undoubtedly have been achieved with single posts and with perhaps one or two fewer bays over the length of the space. In this respect, beauty over efficiency was perhaps deemed more important, as the strength and rhythm of the frame as it extends away from the stone barn was so important to its success.

www.carpenteroak.com @carpenter_oak Image Credit: www.georgefielding.co.uk

YourBuild | Summer 2019 17

Your Build Industry Insight

Bespoke

DOORS

FOR YOUR HOME Kloeber offers a wide range of doors and windows to self-builders and home improvers

C

hanging your front door is a cost effective way to improve the look of your property and add kerb appeal. Specialising in providing its clients with the full package, Kloeber offers a VIP service from the initial meeting and showroom visit, through to liaising with architects and builders involved in the project.

The company will also conduct a detailed site survey to guarantee the perfect installation service, carried out by their in-house fitting teams.

With a wide range of doors on offer, Kloeber’s most popular design is the award-winning FunkyFront entrance door system. You can choose from 45 panel styles in their timber range (with oak or hardwood options) and 11 panel styles in aluminium. With numerous frame options, ironmongery and factory finishing in

a range of stains or any RAL colour, you can create your own truly unique entrance door.

For those with a traditional or period home, Kloeber offer the KlassicFront timber entrance door range. The KlassicFront range offers heritage style door panels, frames and ironmongery. Available in 13 panel styles in oak or hardwood they can be factory finished in a selection of stains as well as over 200 RAL colours.

If you are looking for a mid-century style door then RetroFront could be the perfect choice.

With 14 panel styles, clear, opaque or stained glass options and a choice of any RAL colour, RetroFront will appeal to those looking for midcentury style with 21st century performance.

18 YourBuild | Summer 2019

Kloeber entrance doors are sold as a complete system with frame, glass, handles, hinges and locks, there are no hidden costs and with Secured by Design certification, these doors provide you with complete peace of mind. If you would like to match your door with the exterior and interior of your home, then you can choose the dual colour option. All doors can be delivered as supply only or Kloeber can offer a full fitting service. A visit to one of Kloeber’s four showrooms in Cambridgeshire, West London, Buckinghamshire and West Sussex is highly recommended.

01487 740044 www. kloeber.co.uk

Lynn Palmer Architects Case Study

BARN REVIVAL

J

Lynn Palmer Architects nourished a derelict barn into a bright living space

ane Davies had spent years lovingly restoring her Grade II listed former public house, which featured an attached 18th century, single storey, wychert barn to the rear of the property. Although not all structurally sound, most of the barn’s original trusses remained intact, presenting a stunning large, vaulted single open space.

Jane approached Lynn Palmer Architects with a brief to restore, repair and bring the space back into use as a contemporary family living space. “It was also important that the barn maintained its original features,” said Jane. “I asked that Lynn and her team remodel parts of the existing home to blend in the barn conversion and the house; Lynn and her team listened, worked with me, and I am absolutely delighted with the results.”

The former hay loft which stood as an independent frame, has been replaced with a mezzanine floor, this not only gives Jane and her family even more useable space but also provides the opportunity to look down from this elevated vantage point. The glass balustrade maintains the uninterrupted vistas across the room.

20 YourBuild | Summer 2019

Case Study

Lynn Palmer Architects

The renovation was not without its challenges with one original central truss missing, the end hipped roof was over stressed and failing. The new frame, although oak, and jointed with pin joints in a traditional manor, sits inboard from the external fabric, as an obvious new addition.

Clearly making a statement between old and new, yet still blending comfortably with the original beams.

Jane was absolutely committed to the project from the start, she employed craftsman with expertise in Listed Buildings, with traditional lime screed floors and lime plastering on the wall the building can continue to breathe.

Contemporary materials sit side by side with tradition, giving balance.

Lynn Palmer Architects have won national awards for their listed building extensions. And their secret? “You have to work with what you have, produce a creative solution that doesn’t dominate the original structure but frames it.”

When you look at White Hart Barn who can argue with that! www.lpalmerarchitects.com @lynnpalmerarchitects

YourBuild | Summer 2019 21

Your Build

AL 13 Architecture

MINIMALIST WINDOW SYSTEM pivoting

To complement their OS sliding window and door range, AL 13 Architecture has developed the OS20-P, a full height window that can pivot open when required the most contemporary architectural trends.

Aiming to combine the maximum transparency with the minimum structural view available in the traditional and concealed versions. The concealed versions details aluminium covers and concealed continuous flooring. Combined with the motorised opening systems, the OS System allows the design of frames of larger dimensions.

OS20 – P Minimalist Pivoting System

A

L 13 Architecture is a commercial façade specialist, offering clients a complete design, installation and management service across a full range of systems that make up the envelope of a building e.g. windows or doors. The company is based in London, and their aim is to provide a quality customer experience from an accessible location that uses state of the art technology, and to offer a wide range of innovative products.

Following extensive work on minimalist windows for commercial and private architecture, and in order to meet the needs of its most demanding customers, the business developed a minimalist Pivot system to complement the sliding component of their OS range.

OS – Minimal Sliding Door System The OS sliding systems range is comprehensive and can accommodate the most challenging of designs. The robust solutions can accommodate

22 YourBuild | Summer 2019

a single sash of glazing of up to 1000kg, with a height of up to 6m and a width of up to 4m.

All of the systems can be double or triple-glazed and are available in an array of configurations and opening options.

Specifically designed for larger frames, the OS minimalist sliding system rose as an answer to

Combining the slim sightlines of minimalist framed sliding glass doors, Sosoares has developed the OS20-P which is a full height window that can pivot open when required.

The OS20-P details slim profiles and integrated locking into a pivoting element that can reach heights of up to 6m and widths of up to 3m across. Discrete pivoting points allow the large glass element to move effortlessly within its aluminium frame.

Flush thresholds and a frameless open aperture are possible by hiding the head and base framing within the floor and ceiling.

0800 9998200 www.al13.co.uk

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23

Sian Astley Interview

YOUR BUILD MEETS

SIAN ASTLEY

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Building expert Sian Astley shares her hands-on expertise

ian Astley is a builder, TV expert, and guest speaker at the Homebuilding & Renovating Show, with 22 years of experience renovating both period and contemporary homes. Sian’s TV work includes BBC1’s Getting The Builders In and Channel 5’s Half Built House. Currently she is build project manager for the ground breaking virtual reality show on BBC2: Your Home Made Perfect.

We spoke to Sian about all things build related,

24 YourBuild | Summer 2019

from how she got started in the industry to her own self-build project and what tips she has to avoid project costs spiraling!

How did you get started in the build industry?

After leaving University, I took a job running a franchise office that dealt with damp proofing and wall ties and found it fascinating seeing how houses were taken apart and put back together.

I left that company and set up my own specialist preservation business with a Princes Trust grant

and at the same time bought my first apartment on 100% mortgage. There began my own property ladder, buying doer-uppers and getting stuck in on home renovations. A few years later followed a period of buying properties to take back to brick, restore and rent out. By then, there was no going back!

What do you love most about working on self-builds?

Self-builds rarely fit into a category do they?

There’s something so gloriously individual about

Interview them, they way they reflect the personality, dreams and aspirations of the self-builder.

It’s why we’re all addicted to Grand Designs, even if we'll never afford one. There’s the opportunity to be totally radical, to react to the site, to incorporate things which could never be factored into a building already in place - to realise a dream. What’s not to love? If people are brave enough then an ambitious renovation can be nearly as exciting as a self-build, just watch our new show Your Home Made Perfect to see some examples.

Tell us about your own self-build, Moregeous Mansions.

Our home at Moregeous HQ was originally bought and rented out to young professionals.

Back in the day, before HMO’s ran riot and it became very run down, the area was quite well to do and the house luckily retained lots of original features and a sense of personality. We knocked half of it down as the oldest section had no foundations, dry rot and the walls were collapsing. The new build used all the original reclaimed bricks (hand cleaned by me!), slates and timbers, and it now 80% finished - apart from the kitchen which is this year's project. It’s highly personalised and relatively brave in terms of design inside. We hold a fun and interactive How To Renovate day via Airbnb Experiences once a month where we welcome home renovators and give our expert tips and insider

Sian Astley

knowledge. It’s a great day and has been really well attended. The plan is to hold more events and pop ups - I can’t wait!

What are your top tips for someone who is about to start a self-build?

Plan. Plan and plan. And plan again. Make a mood board and order samples for everything to ensure everything works together. Get any outside trades and builders booked at least six months in advance. involve building control early so any hiccups or cost spiraling requests are noted asap and get on good terms with your neighbours. Learn how to use a good spreadsheet and start populating one with your big-ticket items and small finishes. Don’t leave out the landscaping and remember you also need to furnish and finish - architects sometimes forget that bit.

Do you have any career highlights?

It might sound silly to say but every single home which I’ve ever worked on has been a highlight, because creating extraordinary homes for people to live in, whether owned or rented, is super special. I’m still in touch with many people who’s homes we’ve transformed, on TV or otherwise and that means a huge amount to me.

Being on TV is of course a highlight, as is being part of expert events like the Homebuilding and Renovating Show. I’m very much looking forward to talking about project management

and home interiors trends in 2019 Excel. If visitors have seen Your Home Made Perfect and have burning questions - come along and ask them!

Sian will be a guest speaker at the Homebuilding & Renovating Show at the London Excel, 4-6 October 2019.

Homebuilding & Renovating Show: www.homebuildingshow.co.uk www.moregeous.com @moregeous

YourBuild | Summer 2019 25

Your Build Industry Insight

SLIM-LINE

SLIDING DOORS Schueco talks us through elegant sliding doors that provide maximum design flexibility. meets stringent Passive House standards.

Security levels across the range are up to RC 2 and every system features slim-line meeting-stiles and a flush threshold that overcomes the possibility of accidents.

A Design Line option is available on all the doors. Design Line offers enhanced design benefits such as concealed fittings that leave the visible surfaces of the vent and outer frame completely flush and a slimline interlock with a 40mm sight-line that delivers today’s preferred ‘more glass, less frame’ look allowing maximum light transmission.

Additional features of the Schueco ASE 60 and 80 range include profiles that, being symmetrically identical, enable the vent to be positioned on either the inside or the outside.

For German engineering made in Britain, there’s only one name.

T

he Schueco ASE 60 and 80 range of superior sliding doors provide a complete and elegant solution for high-specification residential properties.

Covering both sliding and liftand-slide doors, the range comprises of fifteen opening types including six single-track options.

The result is greater choice, maximum design flexibility and the ability to accommodate widely differing project requirements.

Schueco ASE 60 and 80 doors have a basic frame depth of either 60mm or 80mm with a maximum vent size of 3.2m x 3.5m (or 3.5m x 3.2m), which is the largest currently being offered in the market.

Maximum vent weights are equally impressive, with both systems being able to accommodate loads of up to 350 kg, offering the possibility of

26 YourBuild | Summer 2019

01908 282111 mkinfobox@schueco.com www.schueco.co.uk/slidingdoors @schueco enhanced thermal performance through triple glazing. Rollers positioned in the middle of the vent distribute the weight evenly, minimising friction and ensuring that vents move particularly smoothly.

The inclusion of SmartStop and SmartClose technology further ensures safe, trouble-free operation.

Schueco ASE 60 and 80 doors all share certain characteristics: for example, profile sightlines have been kept narrow (from 82 mm) throughout, enabling the doors to deliver all the benefits of Schueco’s traditional sliding systems with enhanced transparency similar to a panoramic system.

Both systems exhibit exceptional thermal performance. The Schueco ASE 60, in spite of its narrow depth, offers Uw of up to 1.1 W/m2K, while the high-performance Schueco ASE 80.HI

Case Study

Frame Technologies

YourBuild | Summer 2019 27

28 YourBuild | Summer 2019

Your Build Industry Insight

OPTING FOR

ELECTRIC Annabelle Carvell from Stovax Heating Group talks about opting for an electric fireplace and the benefits of owning one

W

arm glowing logs and soaring flames from a real fire are ever desirable, but if you are after a year-round glow, an electric fire makes an ideal choice. Perfect for taking the chill off summer evenings or creating a homely atmosphere in winter, an electric stove or fire suits any household, without the need for a chimney.

Designer flames Electric fires and stoves come in a huge array of different designs to suit any interior styling.

Whether you are looking for a freestanding stove or an inset or wall-hung model, there are a host of options available to you. Some fires come with traditional flame visuals, featuring a glow of realistic logs, whilst others present unusual and contemporary fuel beds for an alternative result, such as the Vogue Midi electric from Gazco. This electric stove comes with a choice of realistic

logs, clear and grey pebbles and a contemporary Crystal Ice-effect, which when combined with the range of colour changing lighting options can create a truly bespoke display.

Smart features Many electric models come with intelligent control features to minimise wasted energy.

Fires such as the Gazco Skope offer adaptive start control, which initiates heating on an optimal start-up time so that the stove reaches a certain temperature at a chosen time using the minimum amount of energy required.

For example, to achieve a comfortable room temperature of 20oC by 6pm when you return from work, the adaptive start control will predict the optimum time to switch on, rather than it being heated up too early from the user estimating incorrectly.

Some electric fires and stoves even feature open window detection. A drop of 4oC or more within five minutes will prompt the Gazco Skope to automatically turn off its heat in order to save

energy, whilst still providing mesmerising flame visuals for ambience in the home.

On display There is nothing more relaxing than watching a fireplace in an evening when the light is dimming. One of the biggest draws to an electric log burner is their ability to offer a fireside glow but without the heat. This allows for yearround enjoyment, presenting the entire visual ambience that comes with a fire even on the warmest of evenings if desired.

An electric stove or fire also does not require a chimney, and can generally be moved from room to room if desired, depending on the level of work in the installation. This makes them a very flexible product for localised heat where it is needed.

Simply requiring a mains connection to a plug point to function, an electric stove or fire offers the whole package: striking visuals, a warm glow, plus the ultimate in ease of installation.

www.stovax.com @StovaxGazco

30 YourBuild | Summer 2019

YourBuild | Summer 2019 31

Classic Architecture Case Study

LEADING LANDSCAPE with the

Classic Architecture discusses the stunning Cloud House, an impressive design that emerged from the restrictions of local planning policy

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he Cloud House is an inspirational concept that sprung from a planning policy requirement stating that new houses built in the countryside should reflect typical buildings within the landscape. The house replaced a small bungalow and a group of farm buildings; generally opportunities for building new houses are restricted to converting an existing barn or replacing an existing house – in this case with a limit of no more than a 50% increase. However, our clients were more ambitious and wanted a 5400 square foot house, more than double the size of the original bungalow.

The answer lay in the policy that said that an exceptionally larger house could be acceptable

32 YourBuild | Summer 2019

if the design was appropriate to its landscape setting. The planning officers were quite specific and advised us that a large Georgian type would not be accepted. Thus the concept was born: to form the house from linked separate buildings that would sit comfortably in their setting as they would appear as a typical group of farm or agricultural buildings. Typical of the chalk down land setting this could include a grain silo and Dutch barn shaped buildings. Also typical that the group could include examples of different periods, and in our group we have an element that appears as an historic barn. It was this concept that secured us the planning permission.

In design terms it also presented us with some challenges but brought an exciting mix

Suppliers Roof tiles - Tudor, laid by G M Spicer roofing: 01747851313 Frameless glazing - Saper glass: www.saperglass.co.uk Copper/zinc roof - Pace roofing: www.paceroofing.co.uk Bricks - York Handmade: www.yorkhandmade.co.uk Flooring: East Brothers Timber www.eastbros.co.uk

Case Study

of materials that properly represents each type of building that formed the group. From distant views it succeeds and appears as an isolated farm stead but up close within the site it is a mix of contemporary, with lots of glass, copper, and stainless steel, and the traditional buttressed brick with a handmade tiled roof of an historic barn. The different elements are linked by frameless structures that are designed to maintain the appearance of separation but connect each part. The scale of barns and farm buildings is large compared to houses, which is a bonus that gave us tall internal spaces that we exploited to make exciting double height rooms. We used frameless glass for the internal subdivision that helped preserve the openness and large areas of external glass the rooms enjoy far views of the landscape.

The inventiveness of the design has not only been a triumph over, but as a result, of the restrictions of planning policy. www.classicarchitecture.co.uk @theclassicarchitecturecompany

Classic Architecture

Your Build Industry Insight

TRADITIONAL VALUES,

MODERN APPLICATIONS

B

York Handmade Brick Company Ltd manufacture genuine handmade clay bricks, pavers, specials shapes and terracotta floor tiles

ased near York, England and founded in 1988, York Handmade aims to produce a wide variety of colour, texture and size in brick, perfect for sensitive restoration and prestigious new build projects alike. An award winning pedigree proves their capability to manufacture beautiful bricks, for use in the enhancement of the built environment.

With a workforce of 30 people, they pride themselves on the employment of a local labour force, trained in the skills to help them become master brick makers.

Continuous investment at their factory has seen over ÂŁ3 million spent on new plant and equipment so far, combining modern kiln firing technology with time honoured hand throwing techniques, to produce products of character and durability.

York Handmade are one of the leading specialists in supply of high quality bricks to the self-build market. Over the last 30 years they

34 YourBuild | Summer 2019

have supplied high quality houses throughout the country and have a number of exciting images to illustrate.

The company employs 30 persons concentrating on the production of handmade bricks which are the ultimate in quality for the special house which everyone seeks to

build. One could say build your dream with York Handmade.

01347 838881 www.yorkhandmade.co.uk sales@yorkhandmade.co.uk Twitter: Yorkhmadebrick Facebook: Yorkhandmadebrick

Industry Insight

Your Build

CONTEMPORARY AND SIMPLE FINISH Nicola Johnson, Brand and Customer Journey Manager at Cedral, explains how to add style to your self-build’s exterior with a quick and easy system

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hen planning the exterior of your selfbuild project it can be hard to know where to start. Do you stay safe with brick? Or do you add a touch of personality? If it’s the latter you’re after, there’s a range of facades to choose from, however, practicality and price must also be considered.

That’s where Cedral Click fibre cement cladding becomes a popular choice for selfbuilders. With its simple ‘Click Clip System’, it makes installation quick and easy, creating a flush, contemporary finish.

Cedral Click is installed to the ventilated rainscreen principle, allowing air to flow in at the base of the system behind the cladding and then out over the top of the Cedral planks, enabling the removal of moisture. With the planks fixing easily to batons and requiring just two installers, this is the perfect option for self-builders looking to get their exterior completed quickly, without compromising on the final finish.

Due to its durable fibre cement construction, Cedral Click is resistant to the harshest weather

conditions and with a minimum life expectancy of 50 years it helps to keep maintenance low.

Once you’ve chosen your desired shade and finish, the planks are easily installed either horizontally or vertically alone or alongside other building materials, helping to create a unique finish that adds real kerb appeal. Cedral Click in a traditional wood effect is available in 21 different shades, from stylish Slate Grey to Taupe, whilst Cedral Click Smooth is available in 10 different shades. Insulation can also be installed behind the boards to improve the thermal efficiency of the property.

One self-builder who used Cedral Click to make a breath-taking family home was Sue Russill, creating a stunning property in Fishguard which sits above the estuary of the River Gwaun in Wales. The property is approximately 380m2 and has been built overlooking the harbour of lower Fishguard with stunning views that span across the Irish Sea. The modern two-storey house, has been clad in Cedral Click, creating a contemporary, stylish finish to the coastal home.

The property was constructed with a timber frame, supplied by Scandia Hus Architects, and Blue Stone Builders specified Cedral Click due

to its ease of installation and suitability to be installed on top of timber structures.

Location was a key factor in the design and build inspiration for the home and, once the plot of land was purchased, Blue Stone Builders worked with the client to determine the best position of the property to get the best views overlooking the coast. The seaside location required external building materials that were resistant to rot, making Cedral Click the perfect choice. Cedral Click was fitted in a horizontal style in Colour Grey, with matching trims used on the window frames. The finished result was an extremely modern, clean and sharp looking property that complemented its seaside location.

Sue Russill, homeowner of the property, added: “We’re delighted with the finished result. Cedral Click looks brilliant, the colour is great and it really blends into the landscape of the seaside location, creating the natural finish we were hoping for.”

www.cedral.world/en-gb/cladding/ @cedraluk

YourBuild | Summer 2019 35

Roselind Wilson Inspiration

How to enjoy

5 STAR

LUXURY AT HOME

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Luxury interior designer Roselind Wilson shares her tips on how to create a high-end boutique finish in your home

othing beats the feeling of stepping into a five-star hotel room and being enveloped in a sense of luxury, comfort and indulgence. The stresses of your day-to-day life simply fade away as you relax into a world of cocooned luxury. But why keep such treats just for trips away? If you bring a bit of hotel chic into your own home, you can reap the benefits all year round. Drawing on their knowledge of the tips and tricks that high-end hotel designers apply to their luxurious schemes, Roselind Wilson, of Roselind Wilson design, shares her advice on how to bring hotel-inspired design into your own home.

A Calming Palette Using a neutral palette is the perfect way to create a luxurious hotel feel. Pared-back tones have a restful quality, which makes them ideal for a bedroom because they will help prepare you for a good night’s sleep.

But neutral doesn’t have to mean dull. “A

neutral scheme can be dynamic and full of life while still retaining a calm and relaxing feel,” says Roselind. “The important thing to remember when decorating with neutrals is to bring in plenty of different patterns and textures. You can

create depth and interest by layering rich fabrics and luxurious textures.”

In the case of Roselind Wilson Design’s Eaton Square master bedroom, a palette of greens and soft greys was employed to create a calm, welcoming space. “The neutral palette goes beyond the walls here,” says Roselind. “Neutral drapery and upholstery work together to create a peaceful space where one can escape from the stresses of the day. Metallic silk textures were introduced to exude understated glamour and the velvet chaise lounge at the foot of the bed adds a further element of luxury.”

Glamorous Finishes Embracing the trend for metallic fittings in materials like brass and brushed gold is a surefire way to bring a hotel vibe into your home. “Fashionable metallics and iridescent finishes can really transform a scheme,” says Roselind. “From copper and chrome to bronze and brass, integrating interesting metallic finishes into a design scheme creates a pleasing, harmonious look.”

And when it comes to bathrooms, natural stone

36 YourBuild | Summer 2019

Inspiration is a material guaranteed to add drama and luxury.

“Stone won’t go out of fashion because it’s such a timeless material,” says Roselind. “And if it’s well maintained it can last a lifetime, making it well worth the investment.”

Roselind Wilson Design’s Eaton Mews North bathroom is a case in point. Exquisite Turkish lilac marble has been chosen here to create a decadent look in this beautiful white bathroom.

High-end hotel designers often choose marble for bathrooms because it signals luxury and gives a smooth, elegant finish.

“With the rise in popularity of social media, the lines are blurring between hotel design and residential interior design,” says Roselind Wilson, Owner and Creative Director of Roselind Wilson Design. “Hotels like Ham Yard and The London Edition – both in London’s Soho – are great examples of the trend for introducing more colour, texture and pattern into hospitality design.

They radiate fun, sophistication and elegance, and it’s this sense of style which can be brought into domestic interiors to replicate that sense of a luxurious getaway.”

Subtle Symmetry There’s something about symmetry that is innately satisfying – one of the reasons why it’s often used in luxury hotel design to help create a calm, balanced ambiance. In the home environment, this technique can be adopted to great effect in a bathroom by selecting symmetrical dual basins and matching taps.

In Roselind Wilson Design’s award-winning Belsize Park bathroom, the chunky vanity unit in Honed Ocean Black Travertine is a masterclass in symmetry with its pair of hammered bronze basins and vintage brass taps.

“A carefully considered interior design scheme is balanced – the furniture, fabrics and colour palette all work in harmony,” says Roselind.

Roselind Wilson

“Symmetry within a design scheme doesn’t necessarily mean that elements mirror themselves on either side, but rather that components within the scheme flow well together. Symmetrical interiors create a relaxed atmosphere because they are easy to assimilate and instinctively make us feel composed and comfortable.”

Luxurious Textures “Textured wallcoverings are used extensively

in luxury hotels as they add interest and depth to a space,” says Roselind. “Layers of contrasting texture on a bed provide a sense of opulence, as do cushions in luxurious fabrics combined with plush faux fur throws.”

Add hotel chic to your bedroom by creating contrasting textural layers which help bring a design scheme together, while adding warmth, depth and character. Combining rough and smooth finishes such as leather, woven fabrics

YourBuild | Summer 2019 37

Roselind Wilson Case Study and metallics can completely transform a space and help create a truly individual look. “In our experience,” says Roselind, “it’s the tactile elements in a room such as a chunky woven rug or a luxurious velvet cushion which are the ones that make the greatest impact.”

Layered Lighting We all know that lighting is an essential part of creating that luxury hotel room experience. After all, when you’re in a hotel bathroom in which the lighting really works you certainly know about it – nothing lifts the spirits like looking your best as you’re getting ready!

For the bathroom of Roselind Wilson Design’s Eaton Mews North project, the team placed great emphasis on the lighting scheme and the way in which it was controlled. “The circuits were split to allow the spotlights to be operated separately from the wall lights and under-counter lights,”

says Roselind. “And wall lights were introduced to provide task lighting for applying make-up or shaving.”

Lighting is also important in terms of setting the mood and feel of an interior scheme. “This is especially important in hospitality design in which beautiful hotel rooms create mood and atmosphere through a carefully considered layered lighting scheme,” says Roselind. “Ambient lighting can really help recreate that hotel feel.

To get it right, you should focus on two things: what the light fixture looks like and the effect you want the light to achieve. Lights that can adjust and dim are ideal for the sleeping area, whereas a bright table lamp is perfect for a desk area.” www.roselindwilsondesign.com @roswilsondesign

3 Top Tips for bringing hotel style into a bathroom 1) Make some space

“Part of the appeal of a luxury hotel bathroom is that sense of space,” says Roselind. “A large, generous bathroom will always feel more luxurious, so make sure you allocate as much square footage as you possibly can to your bathroom to create a feeling of space and luxury.”

2) Go for luxury

“Opt for an indulgent, freestanding bath for the ultimate in relaxing soaks,” says Roselind, “and make sure you include his-and-hers basins to add a touch of hotel glamour.”

3) High tech solutions

“Give your bathroom that hotel feel with embedded speakers and Bluetooth so that you can listen to your favourite music and podcasts while in the bath or shower,” says Roselind. “It’s also worth thinking about other high-tech options such as smart glass’ shower enclosures and room dividers that can turn from clear to frosted at the touch of a button.”

38 YourBuild | Summer 2019

The UK’s BIGGEST Self-Build and Renovation Show

E

xtending your home is not only an exciting prospect, it’s also a major investment. It can be daunting knowing how to create a space that will make the best use of your budget, grow with your family and also boost the value of your home.

2 FREE

SHOW TICKET S!

That’s where the Homebuilding & Renovating Show can help. The show will provide you with a source of inspiration, free one-toone advice from experts, as well as 100’s of exhibitors so you can compare prices in key areas such as glazing, flooring and the kitchen.

There’s no better time to start planning – bring your ideas along to the show to find out how they can become a reality.

The show will give you access to:

750+ ADVICE SESSIONS Book into a FREE 15 minute consultation with an independent Architect, Builder or Planner. Bring your plans with you or check your project’s running on track.

24+ DAILY SEMINARS Step in to one of our outstanding seminars and learn from the professionals. There’s everything from how to skim plaster to finding a reliable builder and lots more!

35+ MASTERCLASSES Don’t miss our masterclasses for your opportunity to gain that allimportant specialist knowledge. There’s valuable advice on smarter technology, managing costs and finding the right heating system and much more.

350+ EXHIBITORS Meet the companies and crafts people behind some of the latest high tech kitchens and innovative loft conversions. Nowhere else can you compare so many premium products and services in one place.

Get your 2 FREE TICKETS here worth up to £36* *Saving based on one day ticket entry. Offer expires 3pm day before show.

Children under 16 go free. www.homebuildingshow.co.uk/yourbuildnec

To get your 2 FREE tickets visit: homebuildingshow.co.uk/yourbuildnec 40 YourBuild | Summer 2019

Your Build The Latest Products NEW V33 RENOVATION RANGE OF PAINTS TAKES THE WORK OUT OF DIY

RAINCLEAR ADDS NEW WHITE TO ITS GALVANISED STEEL RAINWATER RANGE

Spring is finally here, and brighter days shine a light on those home improvement projects that really do need attention. You may be thinking of upgrading your kitchen, bathroom or staircase, but the costs and work involved can be daunting. The new V33 Renovation range of paints now available from B&Q allows you to simply paint over tiles, floors or kitchen appliances instead of having to pay for new ones.

V33 Renovation Cupboard & Cabinet paint is ideal for giving life back to kitchen cupboards.

V33 Renovation Radiator & Household Appliances paint brings the perfect finish to radiators and appliances such as refrigerators and dishwashers. It is also offered in a handy spray for enhanced precision during application. V33 Renovation

Rainclear Systems are adding a new colour to their durable, affordable and sustainable Infinity Galvanised Steel rainwater system. Infinity is innovatively designed to be as easy to install as the usual materials used in the UK without the need to solder or rivet.

Lengths are just as easy to handle and to cut to size without any specialist tools or equipment.

Originally available in plain Galvanised Steel - which gradually dulls from burnished to dark grey; in Copper, in Quartz Zinc and in Black, Anthracite Grey, Dusty Grey, Sepia Brown and Grey White (RAL 9002M) – which was a kind of ‘antique’ or ‘off-white’ shade.

Now they are introducing NEW RAL 9016M White - which they expect will be popular with uPVC

Wall Tile & Panelling paint is formulated for upgrading wall tiles and panelling, and is complemented by a handy grout pen. V33 Renovation Floors & Stairs facilitates the renovation of house floors, from wood, stoneware and enamelled tiles to natural stone, plus stairs made of laminate, varnished, vitreous or painted wood. www.v33.co.uk www.diy.com

HARTLEY BOTANIC’S NEW MAGNUM OPUS GLASSHOUSE SHOWCASED AT RHS CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW 2019 Historic Greenhouse and Glasshouse manufacturer Hartley Botanic has been exhibiting at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show since at least 1950 and, this year, has shown its beautiful, handmade Greenhouses and Glasshouses in a new light – demonstrating just some of the great range of uses its al fresco, light-filled structures can offer our gardens and our personal sense of wellbeing. The stand showcased two, new contemporary Hartley Botanic models which have joined its Modern Horticulture range – including a stunning Magnum Opus.

Shown as a prototype at the 2016 RHS Chelsea Flower Show, the Magnum Opus is a much grander and more dramatic structure than the classic Opus structure.

The structure is significantly taller

42 YourBuild | Summer 2019

and includes an imposing porchstyle entrance. Here it is shown at RHS Chelsea in an elegant, new Manganese Graphite colour. All Hartley Botanic’s Greenhouses and Glasshouses are handmade, bespoke and made to order.

01457 819 155 www.hartley-botanic.co.uk

installers who want to be able to offer their customers a premium option - a longer-lasting, and more sustainable, ocean/ecofriendly alternative to buying more plastic in this post ‘blue planet II’ era.

Rainclear's Big Summer Sale is now on with 7.5% off everything on their website throughout June.

0800 644 44 26 sales@rainclear.co.uk www.rainclear.co.uk

NEW PATIO HEATER FROM DIMPLEX Electric heating expert Dimplex has introduced the latest addition to its outdoor heating solutions.

Launching in June the new Dimplex Patio Heater with its 360o directional heat output, comes fully equipped with a built-in wireless speaker, making it a perfect choice for those who wish to make the most of their outdoor garden space. Designed to help extend outdoor enjoyment when the sun goes down, the Dimplex Patio Heater has an LED 16 colour-changing ambient light.

Select from strobe, flash or fade to perfectly fit the mood, all easily operated via a remote control.

The wireless speaker allows music to be played directly from a mobile phone while the 1.5kW of heat is delivered in a 360o direction, ensuring everyone stays warm whilst enjoying the music.

Boasting a weather resistant matt black aluminium construction and an extra-long 1.8m cable, the heater will look stylish positioned anywhere on the patio. An IP55 rating means it will be safe should there be an unexpected rain shower and the product comes complete with an outdoor rain

cover for easy storage at the end of the night. What’s more, the patio heater is perfect for family homes with young children and pets as a safety tilt feature means it will completely shut off should it accidently get knocked over.

Retailing at £269, the heater will be available to buy from Scotts and Next this summer. www.dimplex.co.uk

Footings & Foundations

Phase 1

&

FOOTINGS FOUNDATIONS In this section...

44

UK RAINWATER MANAGEMENT

45

THE PARTNERSHIP FOR BIODIVERSITY IN PLANNING

UK Rainwater Management discuss why water supply solutions should be a consideration when designing a new home

Rosalie Callway, Project Officer, explains how the Wildlife Assessment Check can help self-builders

YourBuild | Summer 2019 43

Phase 1

Footings & Foundations

RAINWATER HARVESTING Lutz Johnen, Chairman of the UK Rainwater Management Association, discusses why water supply solutions should be a consideration when designing a new home

W

ater supplies under stress

DEFRA’s recently published progress report on the Government’s 25-Year Plan for the Environment makes interesting reading for any environmentally conscious self-builder, not least where it relates to water. Acknowledging existing stresses on water supplies, and the additional increased pressures likely to arise in the coming years from population growth and climate-change, one of the key aims of the Government’s Plan is to ensure adequate future supplies of good quality water for both people and the environment.

The growing challenge in this respect is illustrated by the graphic (right), which shows the water-related difficulties already being faced by agriculture and, by implication, the natural environment.

It is therefore hardly surprising that the

plan aims to tackle the challenge in part, by aiming further to reduce domestic mainswater consumption below current Building Regulations requirements.

Making better use of available water By far the most straightforward way of doing that would be to make rainwater harvesting systems as normal a feature of a new UK house, as is already the case on mainland Europe in countries experiencing similar water-supply stresses.

Rainwater harvesting systems are very straightforward to install in new-build homes; they operate simply by gathering roof water via standard guttering and downpipes, then filtering-out solid matter before storing it underground for later re-use. The storage tanks are sized according to the roof area and occupancy of the property concerned, to provide around 20-days consumption in dry weather from full. The stored water is then delivered

through dedicated pipework to services that do not require potable water, typically the toilets, clothes-washing machine and garden tap.

Saving precious mains-water Current Building Regulations require new homes to be designed and built so that they use no more mains-water than 125-litres per person per day, on average; generally, this can be achieved by a combination of waterefficient appliances, smaller baths and washhand basins and sinks, and water-efficient taps and shower-heads.

To reduce average daily consumption significantly below the current requirements will mean either having new homes without baths, or the substitution of harvested rainwater for some of the mains water that would otherwise be used. Typically, this latter approach would reduce the mainswater consumption down to around 80-litres per person per day. And, better still for keen gardeners, if designed-in from the outset, the system can also be a source of garden irrigation water – even when hosepipe bans are enforced. www.ukrma.org

44 YourBuild | Summer 2019

Footings & Foundatioins

Phase 1

BIODIVERSITY IN PLANNING Rosalie Callway, Project Officer at The Partnership for Biodiversity in Planning, explains why they developed the Wildlife Assessment Check and how it can help self-builders

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hat is the Wildlife Assessment Check?

Whether a development site is in a rural or urban area, it’s vital that wildlife and habitats are considered as a part of the project to avoid habitat loss, fragmentation and the damaging impact of daily human activity on nature.

Development sites can put pressure on different habitats, which can threaten vulnerable species that are classified as ‘protected’ and ‘priority’ species. ‘Protected’ species are protected by law, as outlined by Natural England, and include: mammals such as bats, hazel dormice, water voles; birds such as the Hen Harrier and Dartford Warbler; amphibians such as Natter Jack toads; and molluscs and invertebrates such as the Roman snail and the High Brown Fritillary Butterfly; as well as many plants like the Corn Marigold. There are also 1,150 ‘Priority’ species in the UK that are threatened and require conservation. This threat from development is why the Partnership for Biodiversity in Planning has created the ‘Wildlife Assessment Check’ tool. The online tool is free and identifies whether there are any protected or priority wildlife species in the proposed location of a project.

Who is it for?

Householders and smaller developers may be unaware that local authorities have a statutory requirement to consider the ecological impact of developments and to promote improvements to biodiversity. This can result in delays and additional knock-on costs for projects, such as when unforeseen ecological surveys have to be carried out during particular seasons. So, if you’re a homeowner with a desire for a new kitchen extension, or a developer working on a small-scale project, the Wildlife Assessment

Check tool can help cut delays and costs by assessing your site early on.

submit as a part of the planning application.

Why is it important?

How does it work?

It’s a free online tool that’s easy to use and allows you to check if you need expert ecological advice before submitting your planning application.

You simply answer some quick questions about the site, the location, and type of works involved.

Once you’ve completed the questions, which takes around 5 minutes, the website will tell you whether your project is likely to require professional ecological advice. It will also outline the potential protected and priority wildlife species that need to be considered.

There are guidance notes for each species with information about legislation, mitigation requirements, survey timing, and ideas to improve habitats. The tool also provides a report that you can download and give to a consultant ecologist to help indicate whether they need to undertake ecological surveys, which they can

One in ten UK species are now threatened with extinction. Since the 1970’s, many UK wildlife species have been in decline, with over 1,200 species extinct or threatened with extinction (State of nature report, 2016). New development projects have a wide-ranging impact on our wildlife, when natural habitats are changed or damaged. Sensitive landscape design can help threatened species like hedgehogs and swallows to recover.

Considering local ecology early can help avoid unplanned delays, unexpected costs, and prevent the need to reassess potential ecological impacts during a planning application. It can also start the process of thinking how you might improve the site habitats and biodiversity as a part of the project. www.biodiversityinplanning.org

YourBuild | Summer 2019 45

Phase 2

Framing Your Build

FRAMING

YOUR BUILD In this section...

47

CALOR

48

STRUCTURAL TIMBER ASSOCIATION

Karl Bateman, Specifier Manager, gets to the bottom of common misconceptions around using BioLPG for your 'off-grid' project

Chairman, Mark Stevenson, provides his top tips for achieving the best structural timber system

50

ISOVER

52

ECOLOGICAL BUILDING SYSTEMS

Chris Roughneen, Technical Manager, explains how to ensure you have a warm and comfortable environment to live in

Architectual Technologist Fintan Wallace discusses the importance of ensuring the building envelope delivers its designed thermal performance

46 YourBuild | Summer 2019

Framing Your Build

Phase 2

DISPELLING

BIOLPG MYTHS Karl Bateman, Specifier Manager at Calor, gets to the bottom of common misconceptions around using BioLPG for your ‘off-grid’ project

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hoosing a rural plot for your self-build project can come with many advantages, such as beautiful surroundings and a peaceful location. However, if your plot is in an area that’s

not connected to mains gas, this can pose additional challenges.

You may be undecided about how you’re going to heat your home and get hot water, as well as what fuel you’ll use for cooking, gas fires and powering appliances.

You may have thought about the variety of renewable options available to choose from, such as BioLPG, Air Source Heat Pumps, and Solar PV. But if you’re not familiar with these systems then you may have some misconceptions, and that’s why we are here to dispel some of these common myths, around BioLPG in particular, and separate fact from fiction.

Gas has high carbon emissions LPG is actually the cleanest of the fossil fuels, but at Calor, we wanted to give you an even greener choice. That’s why we also offer BioLPG, which is created from a mix of renewable and sustainably sourced raw materials. This means that BioLPG will reduce your carbon footprint for home heating by 38 per cent compared to heating oil.

It’s an expensive installation Our renewable BioLPG is a drop-in fuel and has an identical chemical structure to standard LPG, so it can be used with standard LPG systems with no additional parts required.

And in actual fact, LPG boilers are on average £900 cheaper than the oil alternative and many A-rated LPG boilers reach efficiencies of 90 per cent or more. Cost of ownership is significantly less in contrast to other renewable solutions too, plus gas boilers only take around one day to fit, whereas other installations can take longer.

It’s difficult to find an installer We work with a large network of LPG qualified, gas safe boiler installers who you can rely on. It’s really easy to access our installer finder tool - simply visit calor.co.uk/find-aninstaller and you’ll be browsing our network of installers. You can even check out the cost to use LPG and BioLPG for your property, simply enter your details into our website, calor.co.uk/selfbuild to be provided with our monthly tariffs.

Cooking is limited Cooking using BioLPG is the closest alternative to mains gas. You have the versatility of an instant controllable gas flame, which many find preferable to the electric alternative. What’s more, there are a range of electrical appliances, such as tumble dryers that can be fuelled with

BioLPG, so you can be drying the weekly wash while making a Sunday roast - all whilst being environmentally friendly!

A gas tank will spoil my garden view We all want a beautiful, uninterrupted garden.

With BioLPG it’s possible! By installing an underground tank, the only thing you’ll see is a discreet, handy green cover that allows our delivery drivers access to refill your tank. We have various storage solutions available and we’ll work with you to find the best one for your needs.

Ultimately, your rural self-build property takes love, time and effort, but with the support from Calor, we can make help make the process of specifying your rural fuel system simple and hassle-free.

www.calor.co.uk/self-build @calorgas

YourBuild | Summer 2019 47

Phase 2

Framing Your Build

ACHIEVING BEST QUALITY AND VALUE

Mark Stevenson, Chairman of the Structural Timber Association, provides his top tips for achieving the best structural timber system

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here are many considerations when embarking upon building your dream home, but one of the most important is choosing the build system and making sure you have all the relevant information prior to making the decision. With impressive environmental credentials, combined with delivering cost and programme certainty, structural timber systems are the building material of choice for self-builders. Intelligent, integrated timber systems are now driving innovation in the sector, offering more choice than ever before, but how can self-builders ensure best quality and value?

Opt for Offsite The term ‘offsite’ is now entering the self-build vernacular. As the timber sector is moving towards more advanced factory-built solutions, with increased use of technology, there are greater levels of control. Offsite manufactured timber technology can help to optimise quality, productivity and predictability.

When combining the enhanced efficiencies of these advanced systems, with shorter construction timescales and guaranteed build quality, it is clear there are compelling reasons to specify offsite manufactured timber systems for self-build projects.

Incorporate the Best insulation Products We are now truly realising the full capabilities of timber as a strong, sustainable and technically advanced structural solution. Innovations in the product portfolio such as closed panel timber frame and structural insulated panel systems (SIPS) have resulted in highly insulated structural solutions. Energy efficient buildings are achieved through excellent building fabric

48 YourBuild | Summer 2019

Framing Your Build

Phase 2

design, optimising the performance of the building envelope. There is a vast array of options within the timber technology portfolio that can deliver high performance building envelopes.

By choosing a structural timber system that provides optimum thermal performance, ongoing energy consumption costs can be reduced significantly over traditional building methods, offering considerable savings over the lifetime of the home.

Pay Attention to Assured ‘as-designed’ Aerformance The thermal performance of the building envelope makes a significant contribution to reducing the overall building energy usage, however lower U-values in walls, floors and roofs need to be accompanied by correct specification, installation and detailing to avoid the ‘performance gap’ between those predicted at the design stage to the actual inuse performance. The ‘Fabric First’ approach is the most reliable route to achieving exceptional building performance. Architects are increasingly recognising the importance of good building detailing and the specification of high-performance insulation materials on in-use energy performance. Whilst renewable technology has its place, there is no doubt that optimising the external fabric is the most costeffective and reliable route to define and optimise the energy performance of the building.

Use innovative Techniques The construction industry is evolving and moving away from traditional site-based brick and block techniques and is increasingly adopting design for manufacture and assembly approaches. This means that homes are designed to be factory manufactured and then rapidly assembled onsite. Innovative techniques such as the factory fitting of insulation, doors and windows deliver enhanced quality together with considerable time savings, offering both cost and programme certainty. Manufacturing is not just about building performance. Engineered systems such as cross laminated timber panels and glue laminated beams, used predominately by the commercial construction industry, are now being specified by architects and adopted by self builders to unlock architectural freedom and enable large open plan spaces, that are not achievable using traditional building methods.

systems can meet any design aspiration and individual requirement. Lifestyles are changing, and the demands made on our living space are challenging the traditional layout of the family home. Configurations need to be adapted to meet the changing needs - removing stud walls and developing extensions is not an issue - timber construction allows great flexibility to suit different budgets and meet the design requirements of the most challenging building plots, including those on a steep incline.

Consider Design Adaptability

Use an STA Assured Member

distinction in the expected performance levels of STA members and non-members. Only STA members undergo the rigorous independent audit, providing transparency, credibility and accountability, thereby safeguarding the interests of end users and enabling them to partner with reputable member companies to harness the multitude of inherent benefits that structural timber offers. Working with an STA member means you can build with confidence knowing that your main project partner achieves the highest levels of quality across a range of industry standards.

The design possibilities of building in timber are limitless, from traditional farm houses clad in stone to contemporary homes with curves and slick white render finishes, structural timber

With assurances being of primary importance - there are a host of reasons why self-builders should partner with one of our members.

Our STA Assure assessment creates a clear

www.structuraltimber.co.uk @STAtimber

YourBuild | Summer 2019 49

Phase 2

Framing Your Build

Insulating

YOUR HOME

W

Chris Roughneen, Technical Manager at Isover, explains how to ensure that you have a warm and comfortable environment to live in

hen planning and building your own home, architectural design and aesthetic finishes understandably demand a lot of attention. However, one of the most important elements is the correct specification and installation of insulation; it’s one of the easiest ways to prevent heat escaping a building. This should be a key concern for homeowners, especially considering rising energy bill costs. However, before it comes to assessing the different types of insulation available on the market, it is vital that self-builders understand the requirements set out in Approved Document

50 YourBuild | Summer 2019

L1A and Approved Document E of the Building Regulations.

Approved Document L1A relates to the conservation of fuel and power within new dwellings and sets out the required U-values for the roof, wall and party wall within a home, as well as windows, doors and glazed roof-lights. In simple terms, U-values measure the rate of heat loss through a building element - the lower the U-value the more thermally efficient the building element is.

Another aspect of insulation to consider is the acoustic benefits it can bring to the home. As a result, self-builders also need to understand the guidance within Approved Document E, which governs the resistance to the passage of

sound within dwellings. The primary aim of this document is to reduce noise transmission between, and within, residential dwellings. Many may be unfamiliar with the acoustic performance of insulation, for the predominant focus of insulation for domestic dwellings was, for a long time, placed on thermal efficiency alone.

However, according to a survey commissioned

by Saint-Gobain UK, 90 per cent of those buying or moving into a new home are concerned about the impact of noise on their health and wellbeing.

It is therefore no surprise that the focus on insulation is evolving to consider both the acoustic and thermal benefits.

As such, it is important that you carefully choose insulation products that will protect

Framing Your Build

Phase 2

your new home against heat loss and also the various unwanted sounds of modern-day life, such as from road traffic, loud music or a noisy washing machine. Glass mineral wool insulation, in particular, offers a number of benefits, being easy to install, non-combustible and sustainable (manufactured from recycled glass), in addition to providing effective heat retention and sound absorption properties.

Isover manufactures a number of glass mineral wool insulation products that are wellsuited to a variety of applications, such as its CWS and Timber Frame Batt and Roll range, developed specifically for use within external masonry cavity and timber frame walls. With a thermal conductivity as low as 0.032 W/mk, its external wall solutions deliver excellent thermal performance and can contribute to overall sound reduction, in addition to offering ease of installation thanks to their ‘friction fit’ design.

Internal walls and floors are another area where high-quality acoustic insulation is required, for sound can easily be transferred from room to room within a house. For example, noise from a television or washing machine downstairs could disturb a young child asleep upstairs. Isover’s Acoustic Partition Roll (APR 1200) would be an ideal choice for this application, with its excellent acoustic properties able to reduce the passage of unwanted sounds within a home. To demonstrate, the requirement for internal walls in new dwellings in England is 40 dB (Rw); using 25mm of Isover APR 1200 in a 70mm metal C stud partition, lined with a single layer of 12.5mm Gyproc Wallboard would comfortably meet this level of sound reduction. You could even further increase this level of performance, by switching to 50mm APR 1200 in the stud zone with 15mm Soundbloc on both sides, resulting in an impressive overall sound reduction of 47 dB (Rw).

With limited space a common issue within our homes, an increasing number of people are choosing to build a third floor within the pitched roof of their new home, maximising on living space while not increasing the overall building footprint. If you decide to do the same, it is important that you consider the specialist insulation required.

Without installing appropriate insulation, a pitched roof can have a negative impact on a property’s overall efficiency, with heat able to easily escape through the roof. External noise, from road or air

traffic, can also be an issue, affecting the comfort of those occupying the space.

Some manufacturers have developed insulation products specifically for use in pitched roof applications, such as Isover’s Metac. In addition to its excellent thermal performance, with a thermal conductivity of 0.034 W/mk, Metac is proven to reduce externally-generated airborne sound by up to 49 dB (Rw), as well as being quick and simple to install, easily friction-fitted between the rafters, with no slumping or air gaps.

Insulation is a fundamental part of a home.

To create a warm, calm and comfortable environment, it is important that you carefully consider insulation at the design and specification stage of your self-build project. By liaising with a reputable manufacturer, such as Isover, selfbuilders can have access to a range of specialised insulation products, with both excellent thermal and acoustic properties, in addition to technical support to help meet, if not exceed, the various Building Regulations.

www.isover.co.uk www.isoveracousticsolutions.co.uk @isoverUK

YourBuild | Summer 2019 51

Phase 2

Framing Your Build

Fabric first approach to

AIR AND

WINDTIGHTNESS Fintan Wallace, an Architectual Technologist from Ecological Building Systems, discusses the importance of ensuring the building envelope delivers its designed thermal performance

F

abric first is a design philosophy that looks holistically at every aspect of the building envelope in terms of its thermal performance and ability to prevent energy wastage due to draughts and air leakage. It champions combinations of materials that will maximise a property’s service life and enhance comfort and wellbeing for the occupier.

The Importance of Air-tightness While insulation is often specified based on the material’s insulating properties, with a particular focus on its Lambda value, often the finished project fails to meet its designed U-value due to gaps between pieces of insulation and poor levels of airtightness. Even a small gap between insulation panels of as little as a few millimetres can dramatically alter the thermal performance of the whole installation due to unforeseen air leakages.

Thermal bridging at the junction between insulated and non-insulated areas of the building envelope - such as around windows and doors – can also compromise the as-built U-value of a building. This, in turn, leads to a performance gap.

With a fabric first approach to considering the design of the whole building envelope, however, improved thermal performance can be achieved using natural materials, such as Gutex woodfibre and ThermoJute 100, which offer an enhanced ability to deliver airtightness and reduced thermal bridging. By selecting the right combination of insulation and installing it in combination with an airtight vapour control layer to prevent the free movement of warm, moist air out of the building, a fabric first approach can reduce both heat loss and the risk of condensation.

What is Windtightness?

Windtightness, is a widely overlooked aspect of best practice building envelope design, which can

52 YourBuild | Summer 2019

also result in a finished building failing to meet its designed thermal efficiency.

The simplest way to explain windtightness is to consider how a woolly jumper acts as insulation on a cold day. The wind will quickly blow the warmth out of the fibres, reducing its ability to insulate, unless you wear a windproof jacket over the top. With the windproof layer in place, the jumper can do its job much more effectively, preventing the heat from being blown out of the insulating layer and trapping stale, moist air inside the construction. The same principle applies to insulated roof and wall build ups.

The problem with preventing cold air from entering a building, however, is that this could potentially also result in trapping moisture from rain during construction within the building envelope creating an increased risk of interstitial

condensation. Consequently, the windtight membrane selected must be able to allow moisture to exit.

Microporous Vs Monolithic Membranes The conventional approach to achieving a windtight barrier is to install a microporous membrane that allows moisture to escape by means of a passive air exchange, which works efficiently when there is a relatively high difference in vapour pressure between the inside and outside. However, the more significant the amounts of water vapour trying to escape, the more quickly moisture particles move towards the available escape route and the micro-pores are susceptible to becoming saturated and blocked, which may result in a film of moisture being formed. This prevents vapour from

Framing Your Build

Phase 2

escaping, creating a condensation risk within the building fabric.

Conversely, a wind and water tight membrane with a monolithic structure, such as the pro clima Solitex range, provides a pore-free solution that prevents moisture from penetrating from the outside, while ensuring the active transport of internal moisture vapour to the exterior via its molecular chain. This molecular structure provides the most robust solution for breather membranes.

The pore-free structure offers maximum protection against driving rain so the membrane can be used both as a wind proof barrier and as temporary covering during construction to prevent moisture from penetrating the roof build up.

www.ecologicalbuildingsystems.com @ecologicalbuildingsystems

YourBuild | Summer 2019 53

Phase 3 Interior & Exterior Finishing

&

INTERIOR EXTERIOR

FINISHING In this section...

55

KUDOS

56

KETLEY BRICK

58

DIMPLEX

59

IMPERIAL BRICKS

60

FORMICA GROUP

Nick Graville, Sales and Marketing Director, discusses the latest trends for broken-plan wetrooms

Alex Patrick-Smith, Managing Director, details why clay quarry tiles are making a comeback

Expert advice from Product Manager Nick Paul, on preventing damp and condensation

Imperial Bricks teamed up with Jacques Construction to create a stunning Georgian-style family home

Nina Bailey, UK Design Manager, looks at how to get the most out of the space in your kitchen

54 YourBuild | Summer 2019

Interior & Exterior Finishing

Phase 3

SHOWER

SOLUTIONS

W

Nick Graville, Sales & Marketing Director at Kudos Showers, discusses the latest trends for broken-plan wetrooms

etrooms have been one of the fastest growing trends in UK bathroom design for a number of years, they make the most of space within a small or large room and are a great all-round design solution to suit people of any age or ability. The trend today however differs from early wetroom designs where the whole room tended to be open-plan. Today designers are more likely to create a broken-plan design offering alternative uses in the space, with distinct zones created by screens, split floors and various finishes.

This new broken-plan solution has been driven largely by practical considerations. It usually involves a glass shower screen to ensure that not all the floor becomes wet and requires waterproofing. The trend has seen the sale of deep shower trays reduce and tempered glass shower panels and fixings rise to reflect it over the past few years.

To facilitate the wetroom trend, which offers an overall cleaner uncluttered line in the room, the number of hidden components in the bathroom

has risen. And as they are hidden behind a façade that can be expensive to access, like tiling or waterproof wall panels, it has meant that the performance and reliability of these hidden elements has become even more important.

Early wetrooms tended to reflect commercial applications where the whole room became a showering area. Waterproofed by a membrane product, they were and still can be an expensive option largely due to the time involved in fitting and drying, rather than the material cost. A wetroom quickly became a specialist product to install, often carried out by experienced plumbers that were prepared to embrace new technologies. New materials have been developed since these early days to speed up the process, making it more affordable and to offer flexibility in the size or scale of the waterproofed area.

Early wetroom solutions would take at least two days to install, simply because many of the membrane solutions required 24 hours to become waterproof. Today, products like Kudos Aqua4ma offer a dry installation with uPVC panels with solvent welded joints allowing fitting and tiling within the day. The robust panels allow a damaged tile to be removed and replaced

without compromising the waterproof integrity of the system. Whilst the Aqua4ma system allows for a full wetroom application, by far the most specified element is the in-floor galvanised steel shower tray and shower deck, so creating a part wet floor area, a trend growing in popularity in any size of bathroom. It’s also possible to retrofit finish the showering floor area with an almost transparent anti-slip product.

For those not prepared to go all the way with a wetroom solution, the market for shower trays has changed dramatically over the years too with trays as shallow as 30mm and slimline high performance waste systems to suit the take away of large volumes of water from large trays.

Dependent on the floor these trays can also be inset to become flush with the floor and there are now a choice of tray materials and anti-slip textures that are attractive and practical too.

Whatever your choice, full wetroom, part wetroom or slimline shower tray the result is a great base for walk in showering glass panels which look great in bathrooms large or small.

www.kudosshowers.co.uk @kudosshowersltd

YourBuild | Summer 2019 55

Phase 3 Interior & Exterior Finishing

CLAY QUARRY TILES Revival of

Alex Patrick-Smith, Managing Director of Ketley Brick, details how clay quarry tiles are making a comeback with their timeless aesthetic and practical benefits

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lay paving materials of various types have been a feature of British homes and gardens for centuries. Quarry tiles in particular have been favoured for their naturally warm appearance, low-maintenance and versatility, which makes them suitable for hallways, kitchens, living areas as well as conservatories, patios and outdoor areas.

Timeless aesthetic appeal Quarry tiles are made from natural clay and

56 YourBuild | Summer 2019

shale, which has been processed, dried and fired - not ‘quarried’ from solid slabs as the name might suggest. They were originally made by hand with charming irregularities, and natural colours, which came from the characteristics of the local clay and temperature in the kiln when fired. With the advent of mechanisation, pressed and extruded quarry tiles known for their durability were produced in volume and often laid in utilitarian heavy-duty areas or rustic environments such as kitchens.

However, with the Victorian penchant for ornate geometric floor designs, quarry tiles soon

became a classic feature of 19th century homes.

These elaborate decorative designs eventually fell out of fashion and were often covered over in the 1960s and 70s, however old quarry tile floors are now being rediscovered, lovingly restored, and treasured by home owners.

Quarry tiles in the modern home Thanks to the modern trend for all things organic and natural, the use of traditional style quarry tiles in new and self-build homes is growing in popularity. Despite the variety of colours available, the most popular tones are

Interior & Exterior Finishing

Phase 3

still reds through to multi browns and earth shades, which give a warm rustic and Mediterranean feel (as well as being the optimal colour for hiding stains), whereas cooler grey and blue tones tend to be better suited to modern styled homes.

Square quarry tiles are still widely used but the availability of different sizes and formats are offering self-builders much greater scope to create eye-catching laying patterns, such as chevrons or the popular herringbone designs.

Large format tiles are often specified to cover spacious contemporary open plan surfaces, whereas smaller quarry tiles have a homely and vintage appeal, which suits more compact spaces.

As architects design homes with more flexible living areas, we are seeing the use of different patterns and configurations of quarry tiles to subtly divide areas into distinct sections or alternatively to create a flow between interior spaces so that the combined area seems much larger. As quarry tiles perform equally well both inside and outside, they can be used to help a traditional indoor living area merge into an outdoor shaded courtyard, a modern urban patio or an open terrace, making it a natural extension to the home.

Practical benefits and considerations Durability, low maintenance and good slip resistance is critical for any indoor or outdoor floor surface, particularly where there is heavy footfall and constant wear and tear. As quarry tiles are fired at temperatures of over 1130 degrees over a long duration, they are essentially vitreous or ‘glass like’ which means that they are highly durable, have a low absorption rate and are usually frost resistant.

For optimum performance, it is advisable to choose quarry tiles that have less than 3% water absorption, as this is a key characteristic governing frost resistance. For complete reassurance that your quarry tiles are safe in wet and potentially slippery conditions, they should comply with R11 and category C of BS EN 14411:2012, which is the highest rating for slip resistance in wet barefoot tests.

As quarry tiles are not glazed and are less absorbent than Terracotta, they do not generally need to be sealed unless they are fitted in areas which are at particular risk from water stains or spills of acids, alkalis, oils, grease or fat; in fact, care should be taken as sealing can potentially affect the tone and finish of some quarry tiles.

Once laid, the unsealed quarry tiles are then generally easy to keep clean by regular sweeping or simply washing with warm water with a nonsoapy detergent. Furthermore, as they are made

from clay, a material that will heat quickly and hold the warmth, they work well with modern under floor heating systems.

An increasingly important consideration for many self-builders and architects these days is the specification of healthy materials without Volatile Organic Compounds, (VOC), which are toxic to both the environment as well as to

people. As unsealed quarry tiles are made from natural clay, they do not contain any VOCs and can help you create of a healthy home.

www.ketley-brick.co.uk @keyleybrick Image credit: Ruth Butler Architects

YourBuild | Summer 2019 57

Phase 3 Interior & Exterior Finishing

HUMIDITY

IN THE HOME

I

Nick Paul, Product Manager at Dimplex, provides expert advice on preventing damp and condensation

t’s a delicate balance to maintain the ideal humidity in our homes, and many everyday activities create a build-up of moisture which can then be absorbed into the walls, effecting not only the integrity of the structure, but also our health.

From showering and washing up, to boiling kettles and drying laundry, it can feel like an impossible feat to prevent mould, mildew, damp and condensation building up in your home.

What’s more, newly built properties tend to have excellent levels of insulation. Whilst this is great for keeping you warm in the winter, it’s not ideal for ventilation and that’s when excess humidity can build up.

What are the signs of humidity within the home?

One of the main signs that your home is suffering from too much moisture is damp and condensation appearing on walls, curtains and windows. This then causes mould to grow, which not only looks unsightly but has an unpleasant odour too. The interior décor of a property might

58 YourBuild | Summer 2019

also be affected, with paint peeling and flaking, and paper coming away from the wall. As soon as that damp and condensation appears, it is important to tackle the problem straight away, before it develops and becomes more difficult to resolve.

What causes high levels of humidity?

Poor ventilation causes moisture to linger.

Most households are on a regular cycle of bathing, cooking, washing and cleaning, all of which uses gallons of hot water, creating steam.

If nothing is drawing the moisture outside, such as open windows and vents, then it’s not surprising our properties suffer. Drying clothes outside during the cold, wet winter months in the UK is incredibly difficult and unsurprisingly, we are more likely to leave our laundry to dry inside. This is a major source of excess moisture.

Typically a 3.5 kilograms washing load after a 1000 spin cycle returns 1.5 kilograms of excess water. This water does not simply vanish, and is a common cause of excess damp and condensation.

This is the kind of problem a dehumidifier is

designed to tackle and can be a valuable asset for any laundry room.

What does a dehumidifier do?

A dehumidifier can help prevent damp and condensation by keeping the humidity levels under control, as well as potentially assist with drying laundry indoors. They do this by drawing excess moisture from the air.

What size dehumidifier do you need?

Different dehumidifiers can be used for different sized homes, so make sure that you pick a model that will best suit your home size, as well as the severity of the problems you are facing. As a rule of thumb, the following provides an accurate guide: - Small house with 1-2 bedrooms: 10 litre - Medium house with 3-4 bedrooms: 16 litre - Large house with 4+ bedrooms: 20 litre

www.dimplex.co.uk @DimplexUK

Interior & Exterior Finishing

Phase 3

BUILDING JACKS HOUSE Imperial Bricks teamed up with Jacques Construction to create a stunning Georgian-style family home

W

hen Joe and Becky Jaques decided to build a new family home in Reigate, they chose to work with Jacques Construction, an obvious choice given that the building experts are renowned for creating dream homes and the founder and CEO David Jaques is also Joe’s brother.

Searching for a family home, Joe chanced on a site with planning permission for a single dwelling. Although the proposed chalet bungalow wasn’t what he and his wife were looking for, they bought the land and applied for permission to build Jack’s House, a detached 5-bedroom home. Objections were raised and overcome and eventually 12 months after the initial application, planning permission was granted for the 5-bedroom home to be built.

Joe and Becky wanted the exterior of the house to be true to the Georgian style they both loved, so the choice of brick was crucial.

Jaques Construction recommended using Imperial Bricks whom they had worked with on previous projects and knew it would be possible to select the exact shade and size required to give the new house an authentic Georgian look.

Imperial’s team set up several sample boards which contractor and client could take to site to compare with the stone and slate options already selected. As David Jaques says: “We needed to use the best bricks we could and we also wanted to offer great value. The sample boards were excellent. We chose the 68mm Reclamation Soft Red blend, a handmade brick with a characterful aged finish.”

The Reclamation Soft Red is a popular brick for use in restoration and conservation projects, as well as new builds that require a traditional style. It is imperial sized, 9 x 4¼ x 2¾": the same size as the bricks originally used in the 19th century. Imperial’s Reclamation Soft Red bricks undergo a special ageing process to give an identical appearance to genuine reclaimed bricks. They have a soft texture with slight creasing or ‘smiles’ on the face and are perfect for high-end projects such as Jack’s House; they look just like the Georgian originals but meet all modern standards – frost resistant, imperial or metric sizing, reliable quality and with a sustainable supply from stock and none of the wastage associated with reclaimed bricks.

Although Jaques Construction does use reclaimed bricks, in practice it’s not often possible. David continues: “If the bricks are good quality and remain in one piece with the mortar cleaning off easily, we would always try to recycle materials. However this is very much the exception rather than the rule. In our opinion there is no substitute for using a high-quality handmade brick like Imperial’s. Clients aren’t usually happy to pay the cost incurred by the process of cleaning bricks, and reclaimed bricks rarely work well when cutting to form arches as they are so brittle.”

The 40,000 bricks used on Jack’s House were laid in a Flemish bond. The result is a stunning Georgian style property, just as the customer wanted. David remarks: “We always have Imperial Bricks in mind for this type of project, as we know we can get the quality and looks we are after.”

www.imperialbricks.co.uk Twitter: @imperial_bricks Instagram: @imperial_handmade_bricks

YourBuild | Summer 2019 59

Phase 3

Interior & Exterior Finishing

Shrinking in size,

GROWING IN

IMPORTANCE Nina Bailey, UK Design Manager at Formica Group, looks at the role of the kitchen in our busy lives and how to get the most out of the space

K

itchen floor space in the UK peaked in the 1960s at 15.37sqm and now averages at just 12.61sqm.

With growing populations, rising prices and increasing demand for space, particularly in urban areas, many of us are really feeling the squeeze.

With this in mind, we commissioned a survey looking into how Brits use their kitchens and also asked for their thoughts on kitchen design.

2,000 UK homeowners and renters were approached.

Different variations of the same problem, a lack of space, were identified as the biggest frustration for homeowners and with UK homes getting smaller the problem will likely persist.

Common complaints offered by respondents included ‘it’s far too small’, ‘there’s no room for table and chairs’ and ‘if more than one person is in it, we get in each other’s way’.

Nearly a third of the respondents were frustrated by a shortage of storage space, making it the biggest issue across all age brackets. Similarly a quarter complained about not having enough food preparation area.

Broken down by age group, the figures show this issue is biggest among young people, undoubtedly due to typically lower average incomes and the tendency for co-living. For example, whilst 55% of 18-24 year-olds said they were shy of enough cupboards, only 23% of the over 55s agreed.

Less space, multiple functions The results also made it clear that today’s kitchen plays a role beyond being a space for culinary pursuits, especially among younger generations. 72% of 18-24 year olds and 65% of 25-34 year olds reported cooking as the main activity they typically used their kitchens for, compared to 90% of 45-54 year olds and 96% of those over 55.

Significant numbers of younger respondents

60 YourBuild | Summer 2019

(27% of 18-24 year olds and 32% of 25-34 year olds) listed entertaining guests and spending time with family as other important uses of the space, yet only 14% of the over 55s agreed.

The survey also found kitchens are being increasingly used for work/studying, by 17% of 25-34 year-olds but only 7% of those over 55. Other activities include listening to music and doing the laundry. Perhaps this explains the design trend we see in magazines and on television to use textiles such as rugs in the kitchen; people are adapting to the fact it’s now a living space.

Gender-wise, there was little discrepancy regarding the primary use of the kitchen. Of 1,131 female and 869 male respondents, 91% of women and 88% of men reported using their kitchens mostly for cooking, with eating (41% of women, 37% of men), entertaining guests (23% of women, 13% of men) and spending time with family (27% of women, 15% of men) as secondary functions.

add value to the property, indicating that most people view the home as a place to live rather than an asset to have.

Aesthetics vs. functionality

Small steps for a small space

Design-wise, dated style was the main bugbear for just over one in five (21%). However, even with people rating the look and feel of their kitchen as highly important, no particular style dominated in terms of design popularity.

Modern/mid-century was preferred by almost a quarter (23%) of those surveyed, followed by country/farmhouse/shaker (18%) and then contemporary style (12%). A fifth of those surveyed showed no preference for a specific style.

Despite the survey indicating a professed preference for good aesthetics, it appears that practicality remains the number one consideration for the majority of us. Most people still update their kitchens due to need over want.

Over half of those asked (54%) had last done this to address wear and tear, while less than a fifth (17%) had been driven by the objective to

The lack of space in our homes is part of a much bigger problem, specifically the size of UK homes getting smaller. While finding solutions to this may take time, there are ways to address this problem in the more immediate future.

For example, one way to achieve a minimal and sleek look is to have handleless cabinets and built-in appliances. Another way is to keep your colour and material palette simple by ideally sticking to one or two colours and an absolute maximum of three shades.

For a quicker fix, by making small updates, such as including smart appliances and reorganising storage space, you can personalise your kitchen to meet the demands of your daily life and create a little extra space. www.formica.com @formicagroup

Groundwork and Landscaping

Phase 4

&

GROUNDWORK

LANDSCAPING In this section...

62

BRADSTONE

63

SURESET

Lee Dunderdale, Product Manager, discusses the design considerations for patios

Duncan Andrews, Marketing Communications Manager, highlights an easy way to transform your garden

YourBuild | Summer 2019 61

Phase 4 Groundwork and Landscaping

PATIO DESIGNS

P

Lee Dunderdale, Product Manager at Bradstone, discusses the design considerations for patios and the best products for the job

lanning your dream outdoor space can be a daunting prospect as it can be difficult to know where to start. However, whether you are planning your design from scratch or replacing a pre-existing patio, keeping the main objective of the design in mind will ensure your garden is fit for purpose.

When you start to plan, think about the best position for your patio and consider where the sun will hit the garden at different times of the day. Also think about any views that you want to enjoy, or alternatively, how you can create a private retreat so you can relax without being overlooked. It’s also worth checking that your garden furniture will fit comfortably within the allocated space.

The way you choose to design your garden

is a reflection of your personal style. You can incorporate your individual tastes, but it’s important to be sensitive to the style of your house too. A modern house will suit more contemporary paving styles made from porcelain, whilst traditional natural stone paving lends itself well to period properties.

With the aesthetics in mind, it’s also important to research the different materials available to ensure you get the product right for you and your budget.

the ideal choice for high footfall paths and for pairing with garden tables and chairs to create an eye-catching seating area. What’s more, smoother surfaced 10mm thick versions are also available in selected ranges to allow you to use the paving indoors, meaning you can create a harmonious flow from the house to the garden.

Natural Stone If you want an individual look, natural stone is the perfect choice. Nothing quite matches the inherent beauty of natural stone as each

Porcelain

paver is different from the last with variations

Porcelain paving is continuing to increase in popularity due to its aesthetic appeal and hardwearing characteristics. It is an exceptionally dense material making it scratch-resistant and requiring minimal maintenance, making it

of colour and texture determined by nature over thousands of years. All natural stone is incredibly strong and hard-wearing, and the finest quality stone boasts low water absorbency.

This means it has a greater resistance to weathering and is therefore easier to maintain and will look naturally beautiful for even longer.

Concrete An alternative paving material such as concrete could also be suitable for your garden, especially if you are working to smaller budget.

Concrete paving is a strong, durable option that can stand the test of time.

Installation When it comes to installation, you will need to consider access into your property and how you will navigate the space. Check if there are any trees or manhole covers you’ll need to work around and ensure you are fully prepared and have everything to hand, ready to complete your perfect garden. Alternatively, using a Bradstone Assured Installer will give you a five-year guarantee on installation and a 10year guarantee on the product to give you total peace of mind. Our network of professionals are nationwide so you can find one local to you who will deliver the highest standards of workmanship.

www.bradstone.com @bradstoneuk

62 YourBuild | Summer 2019

Groundwork and Landscaping

Resin

Phase 4

BOUND

PAVING Duncan Andrews from SureSet, discusses an easy way to transform your garden

offer is our range of Spectrum recycled glass.

This product can be produced to match any colour you require and is perfect for creating logos, symbols, patterns and almost anything you can dream up to personalise your garden, we have even created an entire beach scene for a customer in the middle of London, with waves gently breaking on their private suburban paradise.

For those who enjoy getting stuck in and doing the hard work yourself there are several DIY options on the markiet so you can mix and lay the resin bound paving yourself, from 1/2m kits for small areas all the way up to 30m TradePacks. All of SureSet DIY kits come with full comprehensive instructions, and the technical team are always at the end of the phone waiting to help talk you though the process if required. www.sureset.co.uk @SureSetUK

W

ith summer edging ever closer and the gardens of Britain waking up from their winter slumber now is the perfect time to make changes to your garden and make them an enjoyable place to spend the long hot lazy days.

An easy way to improve your garden is to install resin bound paving on your existing pathways and patios, or unlock a whole new perspective by creating new areas to escape too. If you have existing pathways with a solid base SureSet can be laid directly onto them, revitalising the look of your garden. If new areas are being created SureSet can offer cost effective, fully permeable build ups that will transform your space and allow water to permeate directly back into the soil, feeding your

plants and allowing your garden to thrive.

With the smooth seamless finish resin bound paving produces it is the perfect solution for improving accessibility in your garden. It's also possible to create ramps to improve access for push chairs, wheelchairs, garden toys or the allimportant wheel barrow.

SureSet offer a wide range of natural aggregates in various sizes and colours so you can tailor your paths to blend into their surrounds and provide a smooth, durable, low maintenance permeable surface. Using only the best UV stable resin you can rest assured that your gorgeous new pathway will not change colour or degrade, and with a market leading 21 year guarantee you can relax and make the most of your garden, knowing your paths will stand the test of time.

Another stand out feature that SureSet can

YourBuild | Summer 2019 63

Technology Houzz App

INSPIRATION

ON THE GO The Houzz app provides home improvement information and inspiration to help you with your renovation and decoration projects

Share ideas

Share your favourite images with family, friends and design professionals, or save them to a private virtual ideabook.

Find more home design ideas by reading stories, which cover everything from home renovation and decorating tips to house tours and DIY tutorials.

Get advice

If you’re looking for quick advice, you have the ability to ask the Houzz community.

The app also allows you to post a design dilemma on our discussion boards to get input from professionals and other homeowners.

Find professionals

Once you’ve collected ideas for your home, use the Houzz app to find architects, interior designers and home improvement contractors in your area. You can read reviews and search through previous projects to find the right professional for your style and budget.

Top features/stats: - Inspiration from over 18 million retinaquality photos of home interiors and exteriors - Portfolios and reviews of more than 2.3 million architects, designers, contractors and more to help people find the best pro for their project.

- Community of more than 40 million monthly unique users who are collaborating with each other on home projects - Tools to communicate and collaborate with spouses, partners, service providers, vendors and others involved in the renovation process such as: - Sketch – this feature enables you to type or draw on an image, add stickers and products from Houzz to bring design ideas to life - Ideabooks - where you can save and share your favourite home design photos and product shots, notes and other details of your home project Globally, the Houzz App has received more than 500,000 reviews with a five-star average rating.

The Houzz App is available for free from the App Store for iPhone, iPad and iPod touch and from the Google Play store (Houzz won “Best App” at the first-ever Google Play awards last year) www.houzz.co.uk/mobileApps

“

We wanted to create a platform that would help people easily renovate and decorate their homes.

Whether it’s looking for inspiration, communicating and collaborating with family, friends, and design professionals, using ideabooks or researching and hiring professionals, the app helps to manage entire renovations from start to finish on the couch and on the go."

Marcus Hartwall, Managing Director at Houzz UK

64 YourBuild | Summer 2019

Groundwork and Landscaping Phase 4 Social Accounts Get Connected

WHO TO FOLLOW

@georgearchiphoto

@pottonselfbuild

@veluxgroup

Stunning architectural photography that will inspire your build

Self-build specialists sharing useful tips and bespoke case studies

Filling your feed with daylight and real-life renovation stories

GET INSPIRED We share with you our favourite Instagramers of the month. A selection of aesthetically pleasing feeds we think you should follow!

@theselfbuilder

TO BE FEATURED HASHTAG #YOURBUILD AND FOLLOW @YOURBUILDMAGAZINE

The journey of a married couple building a house from scratch

@ivy_and_bricks A grand renovation of a grand old house, truly stunning

@artichoke_ltd

@rmouldingandco

@stevensonsofnorwich

Experts in bespoke kitchens, fitted furniture and architectural joinery

Eight generations of a family building tradition since 1798

Specialising in standard and bespoke decorative mouldings

YourBuild | Summer 2019 65

YOUR BUILD DIRECTORY Your ultimate guide to the best suppliers for your self build project

Basement Construction

GLATTHAAR-FERTIGKELLER LTD 1 Braeside, Addlestone Surrey KT15 2BJ Tel: +44 (0)1932 344 454 info@glatthaar.co.uk www.glatthaar.co.uk Long gone are the days when lower floor living meant a dark, damp cellar. For over 39 years GlatthaarFertigkeller has specialised in all aspects of basement construction including design, calculations, offsite manufacturing, on-site building and many other additional services.

Glatthaar is the only company that can offer an Insurance Backed Warranty against Water Ingress in addition to our company warranty.

Building Services

HADFIELD WOOD RECYCLERS Lumm Farm, Littlemoss, Droylsden, Manchester, M43 7LB Tel: 0161 370 2360 Email: enquiries@hadfield.co.uk Web: www.hadfield.co.uk Hadfield Wood Recyclers is an award-winning company which accepts all grades of waste wood for recycling. With sites in Manchester, Middlesbrough and Essex, Hadfield offers a wide range of services to suit your needs including tip-in, collection and transport options at their sites nationwide.

HOWARTH TIMBER & BUILDING SUPPLIES 32 Branches Nationwide Tel: 0330 119 2509 Email:info@howarth-timber.co.uk Web: www.howarth-timber.co.uk Since 1840, Howarth Timber & Building Supplies have been providing high quality timber & building materials to both trade and public, from doors, floors and joinery to garden & landscaping products, even bespoke kitchens!

With our groundbreaking website, view live stock levels at your branch and even order online.

Show

GUILDMORE 61 Widmore Road Bromley BR1 3AA Tel: 0208 313 5050 Email: enquiries@guildmore.com Web: www.guildmore.com Whether as main contractor, developer or joint venture partner, our deep experience in the design and construction of quality housing maximises the potential of some of London’s most challenging sites to create new homes of the highest quality and new spaces places for communities to thrive.

Underfloor Heating

POLYPIPE BUIILDING PRODUCTS Broomhouse Lane, Edlington, Doncaster, DN12 1ES Tel: 01709 770000 Web: www.polypipe.com Polypipe Building Products is a leading UK manufacturer of above and below ground drainage products and plastic plumbing as well as underfloor heating systems. The Polypipe brand represents a wide range of fit for purpose products that are widely available through builders’ and plumbers’ merchants.

Windows and Doors

Uponor UK are a leading provider of plumbing and underfloor heating products, which are suitable for new build and renovations. Our products are widely available from nationwide merchants and we offer a full design and estimation service to assist you with turning your project plans into reality.

KLOEBER UK LTD St. Margarets Way Huntingdon Cambridgeshire PE29 6EU Tel: 01487 740044 Fax: 01487 740404 Email: info@kloeber.co.uk Web: www.kloeber.co.uk Kloeber is a market leader providing bespoke glazing solutions in timber, aluminium and alu-clad. The full range of products includes bifold, sliding and French doors, traditional and contemporary entrance doors including the award winning FunkyFront door as well as a wide selection of window options, rooflights and fixed glazed elements

AGGREGATE INDUSTRIES LTD North End, Ashton Keynes, Wiltshire, SN6 6QX Tel: 01285646900 building.products@aggregate.com www.aggregate.com

FLEXEL INTERNATIONAL LTD Telford Road, Glenrothes KY7 4NX Tel: 01592 760 928 Email: enquiries@flexel.co.uk Web: www.flexel.co.uk

ARDEN GROUP Sparkbrook street Coventry Tel: 02476 632423 Email: info@ardenwindows.net Web: www.ardenwindows.net

Our Bradstone range of walling and roofing combines the look and feel of traditional natural stone with the high performance, long life and low maintenance qualities of modern materials. Suitable for new builds and renovation projects, each range is carefully designed to make detailing and construction as simple as possible.

Flexel is one of the leading manufacturers of electric underfloor heating systems for domestic and commercial environments. Products are designed for easy installation and can be installed on most subfloors.

Flexel underfloor heating products can be installed under all floor coverings, including tiles, carpet, laminate, vinyl and wood.

HOMEBUILDING & RENOVATING SHOW Tel: 0121 728 9819 Homebuildingsupport@ blueberryms.co.uk www.homebuildingshow.co.uk If you’re planning to extend, remodel the internal layout or create a brilliant new kitchen, a visit to the Homebuilding & Renovating Show is a must.

Now with 8 shows across the country, you are never too far away from a Homebuilding & Renovating Show. Get 2 free tickets from homebuildingshow.co.uk/yourbuild

UPONOR UK The Pavilion, Blackmoor Lane, Watford, WD18 8GA Tel: 01923 927000 Email: domesticproducts@uponor.com Web: www.uponor.co.uk

Structural Build

EVERBUILD BUILDING PRODUCTS LTD - A SIKA COMPANY Site 41, Knowsthorpe Way, Cross Green Industrial Estate, Leeds LS9 0SW. Tel: +44 (0)113 240 3456 Web: www.everbuild.co.uk Everbuild Building Products Ltd – A Sika Company is the one stop shop for every builder’s need. Sika is the world’s largest manufacturer and supplier of building chemicals to the construction industry.

By taking expertise and know-how gained on large construction sites, Sika brings that knowledge to the tradesman, builder and DIYer in smaller pack sizes.

Designer, manufacturer and installer of the finest quality timber windows and doors. Our customer base ranges from individual customers through to multimillion pound refurbishment projects. With the largest product range in the marketplace and highly flexible machinery we tailor our products to your needs.

Please contact us for details

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If you want a stylish, cosy, energy efficient home and don’t want radiators it has to be underfloor heating, right?

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