Building & Renovating Guide 2019

BUILDING & RENOVATING GUIDE 2019

Free supplement with issue 127 of Homes & Interiors Scotland Untitled-4 1

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CONTENTS FEATURES 04

CASE STUDY Humbie House renovation

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LISTINGS Professionals at work

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INDEX Take note

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WELCOME

ASK THE EXPERTS 13

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FINANCE Money matters

tress is an inevitable part of any self-build or renovation project, and you can expect to endure your fair share of it whether you’re moving into a new home or simply improving what you’ve already got. If it’s fear of the unknown that’s causing your blood pressure to rise (or giving you cold feet), you’ve already taken a step in the right direction by picking up Building & Renovating. This guide, pubished every autumn by Homes & Interiors Scotland, is designed to fill any gaps in your knowledge, such as where to find a specialist mortgage or how to co-ordinate trades and specialists. Crammed with practical information and expert tips, it will help you make the right choices, saving time and money while ensuring high-quality results. Use it as you plan your project and keep it close all the way through to completion: it’s a surefire way to maintain a level head – and turn your dream space into reality. Don’t know where to start? Here, of course.

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Planning All in the prep

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ARCHITECTURE Constructive thinking

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GARDENING Growth time

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INTERIOR DESIGN The big details

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TECH Smarter home

BUSINESS PROFILES 20

Cameron Interiors

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CR Smith

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Kitchens International

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McNairs

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Oakwrights Scotland

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Topflight Precast

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Velux

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Victor Paris

Editor Gillian Welsh Designer Linda Park Contributor Judy Diamond Production Caroline Maciver Images: Cover, contents and welcome images shutterstock.com Peebles Media Group, The Albus, 110 Brook Street, Glasgow G40 3AP. Tel: 0141 567 6000. www.homesandinteriorsscotland.com

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CASE STUDY

ANOTHER LEVEL Unexpected problems could have derailed this renovation, but quick thinking turned the challenges into a positive Photography Mack Photography Words Caroline Ednie

Above: The sharp lines and steeply sloping roof of the extension contrasts with the low-slung shape of the original bungalow. Once work began, rot was discovered in the roof, resulting in additional time and costs. But it was an opportunity to clad the rebuilt roof in slate, rather than retain its original cheap concrete tiles. Cupa 3 Heavy slates from Cupa Pizarras were used Left: The new oak staircase feels light, elegant and open, and matches the hardwood oak floorboards that run throughout the house

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DETAILS Project: An extended, renovated and reconfigured bungalow Location: East Renfrewshire Build time: Nine months Architect: Bespoke by Emma Ellson

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uying a property that you know really needs renovating is a risky move. Are the changes you envisage structurally feasible? Would they even get planning permission? The couple who now own this house in Newton Mearns to the south of Glasgow did the sensible thing and took architect Emma Ellson with them to view it before they went ahead and submitted an offer.

What she found was a place brimming with potential that she knew could make a great home – once its obvious shortcomings were addressed. It was a large four-bedroom dormer bungalow, and sat on a generous 2.7-acre plot, but it had dated finishes, lots of small unconnected rooms and poor energy efficiency. “As a bare minimum, it needed new windows and doors. The floors were uneven and needed to be levelled out. The central heating needed replacing,” she recalls. “But elements of it had promise and we knew we could work with the clients to bring it up to current standards and give it the kind of wow factor it deserved.”

The clients, who were moving back to Scotland from Gibraltar for family reasons, were essentially looking for something with a similar feel to their former home – a clean, contemporary open-plan whitewashed Spanish villa. The bungalow in its current condition was fairly wide of this mark, so they knew substantial changes would be necessary. “At the very least, they wanted to push the existing kitchen and adjoining dining room out in order to make a large family room,” says the architect.

Her design went much further than that: submitted to the planning department and approved within two months, it included full modernisation of the entire property, including an underfloor heating system throughout, rewiring, new windows, a new roof, structural alterations to remove the ceiling ties in the living room’s vaulted ceiling, a new staircase and an entire new first-floor roof space and larger dormer windows.

“The brief had grown to include a few interesting extras,” adds Ellson. “The clients had asked for a special room for their pets – several small dogs and tropical birds. This evolved into the garden room extension, to allow the dogs to have their own area with easy access to the garden. A further external garden room was later

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“We’d hoped to work with the original dormer structure and reconfigure it, but we soon saw there was extensive rot. It was no longer fit for purpose” developed with a chicken pen.” Following planning approval, work began immediately, with the owners taking up residence on site in a static caravan for the duration.

One of the main challenges was the roof, as Ellson explains: “We had hoped to work with the structure of the original dormer roof and reconfigure it, but we soon saw there was extensive rot. It was no longer fit for purpose.”

Rather than derail the project, this discovery turned out to be a bonus. “It meant that we could redo the whole roof in high-quality slate rather than using cheap concrete roofing tiles to match what was already there. The new roof formation also allowed the addition of a sizeable en-suite bathroom in the first-floor roof void, which had previously been unused attic space.”

The design of the extension roof also changed during construction. It had originally been envisaged as a flat roof, finished in standing-seam zinc. As the project progressed on site, however, it was agreed that slates would tie in better with the replacement roof on the rest of the house. “It meant we had to increase the pitch to accommodate the slate finish, but this allowed us to install an additional bank of Velux rooflights, bringing natural light much deeper into the house.”

Finally, following the nine-month refurbishment and extension programme, a very different house emerged. This is now effectively a new-build house, hidden within the footprint of the original dwelling, with extensive additions. From the front, it appears understated and minimal. Once inside, however, the house opens up into an expansive living area with a huge wall of glazing overlooking the garden. This substantial space has been carefully divided into distinct areas: a partition creates a concealed study behind the generous open-plan kitchen, with a separate dining space and a family area with stove.

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RAISED DECKING

SECTION 'A'

CASE STUDY

12773 4075

890 800

1200

1230

8470

1200

DINING AREA

OFFICE G10

800

G10 2800

800

Integrated Dishwasher

Steam Oven

800

Integrated Freezer

800

Activity Space

1000 Deep

HOUSING FOR BOILERS / WATER TANKS WM

EXTRACT

Sink

DW

TD

VENT

Sink

Sink

Waste Bins

Wall Units Over

EXTRACT

LO

Integrated Dishwasher

Integrated Fridge

Left and below: Two views of the open-plan kitchen-diningTERRACE living room. The owners workedSECTION 'B' with Charnwood on the kitchen design, requesting a large island unit with curved edges 6135 and integrated appliances to take centre stage. The white acrylic cabinet doors give the desired modern and minimalist appearance. The island is topped with granite. Velux rooflights bring daylight into SUN ROOM EXTENSION the heart of the space, while G09 Schuco sliding doors lead out to the patio. All the new windows in the house are tripleglazed and by Schuco

4075

UTILITY ROOM G11

FAMILY ROOM G10

1400 X 1800 Elipse Manouvering Space

Right: The architect’s plan of the ground-floor layout, showing how the kitchen-dining room is connected to the rest of the rooms

KITCHEN G10

Wall Units Over

Service Void - SE to advise location of pier required

HALL G01

RDEN LOUNGE

min. 800mm

G08

1100

GARAGE

STORAGE TO HALL

MASTER BEDROOM G03

GUEST SHOWER ROOM G02

G07

Walk-in Shower

htr

1075

HALL G01

Walk-in Shower

EQ.

2000

MASTER EN-SUITE G05

htr

800x700 Activity Space

800x700 Activity Space

1500

DRESSING ROOM G04 htr

VESTIBULE

htr

EQ.

BEDRO G13

1100x800 Activity Space

SECTION 'A'

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Top left: Like the rest of the interior, the master bedroom and its dressing room got a complete makeover. Bespoke cabinetry was designed and installed by Charnwood. The central storage unit forms a link between the bedroom and its en-suite bathroom

THE BRIEF Emma Ellson’s clients asked her to refurbish, modernise and extend their property to make the most of the views and to create a larger open-plan kitchendining-living room for them to enjoy with their extended family

THE TEAM Main contractor: P + D Contracts Ltd (01236 872319). The firm came highly recommended and oversaw the development from start to finish Structural engineer: David Narro Windows: Schuco, installed by Scottish Bi-Folds Heating engineer (for the underfloor heating): Tailored Heat Roof trusses: Stevenson & Kelly Roof Truss Ltd. The new roof trusses allowed insulation to be upgraded throughout the entire property. Specialist JJI joists were used in larger spans such as the open lounge to create a vaulted ceiling and allow the tie beams to be removed

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CASE STUDY

Left: The house is surrounded by trees and countryside and windows have been carefully positioned to frame the views

“The initial inspection might convince you that many areas could remain untouched, but it’s often a very different matter once you start opening things up” BUILDING & RENOVATING GUIDE 2019

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CASE STUDY The original lounge, meanwhile, has been completely redesigned to allow an open vaulted ceiling with further expansive glazing to exploit the views. A staircase now leads to the guest bedroom above. The master suite, dressing room and en-suite, on the ground floor, are reached via a long corridor.

All the ground-floor joists were replaced (defective plumbing in the kitchens and bathrooms had caused the originals to rot). This made it easier to level the floors and install underfloor heating. Oak hardwood flooring has been laid throughout, matching the oak that’s now on all the internal doors, skirtings, architraves and facings.

A new oak staircase replaces the ‘wonky’ original; it has been elegantly configured to create more headroom and a more meaningful connection to the main lounge. Opening up the lounge’s vaulted ceiling has unblocked the view from the staircase.

The modernisation work has had an immediate impact on the house’s energy efficiency. All the new floors, ceilings, attic spaces and intermediate floors have been insulated, cutting heat and noise transfer. Triple-glazed windows and patio doors from Schuco were installed by Scottish Bi-Fold Doors (resulting in an ‘A’ rated Energy Performance Certificate). On top of that, the main roof has fully integrated solar panels along the front elevation, so the house can be run off-grid.

“There was no corner-cutting on this project – when we advised that certain building materials or construction methods were no longer fit for purpose, the clients listened and adapted the brief to accommodate these changes,” concludes Ellson. “That’s why it’s always worth allowing a reasonable contingency fund on a renovation project. The initial inspection might convince you that many areas could remain untouched, but it’s often a very different matter once you start opening things up.”

This image and left: Two views of the guest bedroom Above left: Bathroom sanitaryware and tiles from Porcelanosa

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THE SELF BUILD LOAN FUND H E R E TO H E L P T H O S E S T R U G G L I N G TO S E C U R E SELF BUILD FINANCE

ABOUT THE SELF BUILD LOAN FUND

THETHE SELF SELF BUILD BUILD LOAN LOAN FUND FUND

The Self Build Loan Fund (SBLF) was established by the Scottish Government to support and encourage the self build market at a time where securing mainstream finance can be difficult. The Highlands Small Communities Housing Trust administer the fund.

ABOUTABOUT THE SELF THEBUILD SELF LOAN BUILD FUND LOAN FUND

@SelfBuildFund

KEY FACTS

The Self Build TheLoan Self Build Fundavailable (SBLF) Loan Fund was (SBLF) established was established by the by the Now across Scotland, self builders can borrow Scottish Government Scottish Government to support to and support encourage and encourage the the up to £175,000 to help them during their construction self build market self build at amarket time where at a time securing where mainstream securing mainstream period. finance canfinance be difficult. can beThe difficult.

Highlands The Small Highlands Small Communities Communities Housing Trust Housing administer Trust administer the fund. the fund.

Now available Nowacross available Scotland, acrossself Scotland, builders self can builders can borrow up to borrow £175,000 up toto£175,000 help them to during help them theirduring their construction construction period. period.

• Borrow up to £175,000 • Must be @SelfBuildFund able to demonstrate that you have been @SelfBuildFund unable to secure mainstream self build finance • KEY UsedFACTS toKEY financially support the construction of your FACTS Borrow up to Borrow £175,000 up to £175,000 home and then repay your loan with a traditional Must be able Must to demonstrate be able to demonstrate that you have thatbeen you have been mortgage on completion unable to secure unablemainstream to secure mainstream self build finance self build finance • Used Fees interest apply to and financially Used to financially support thesupport construction the construction of of your home your and then home repay and then your repay loan with your a loan with a • Must own a house plot, with planning consent in traditional traditional mortgage completion on completion place mortgage on Fees and interest Fees and apply interest apply Must own aMust house own plot, a house with planning plot, with consent planning in consent in place place For more information visit our website:

For more information For more information visit our website: visit our website: www.hscht.co.uk/scotland-self-build-loan-fund www.hscht.co.uk/scotland-self-build-loan-fund www.hscht.co.uk/scotland-self-build-loan-fund Or get inOrtouch: Or get in touch: get in touch: selfbuild@hscht.co.uk selfbuild@hscht.co.uk 01463a572030 01463a572030 selfbuild@hscht.co.uk 01463 572030

We have also Werecently have also launched recentlya launched new website a new dedicated websiteto dedicated to providing self providing and custom self and build custom news build and information. news and information.

You can view You it can here: view www.selfandcustombuild.co.uk. it here: www.selfandcustombuild.co.uk.

We have also recently launched a new website dedicated to providing self and custom build news and information.

You can view it here: www.selfandcustombuild.co.uk.

The Highlands Small Communities The Highlands Housing SmallTrust Communities is a Company Housing Limited Trust byisGurantee a Company (SC182862) Limited byand Gurantee a Scottish (SC182862) Charity (SC027544). and a Scottish Charity (SC027544).

The Highlands Small Communities Housing Trust is a Company Limited by Guarantee (SC182862) and a Scottish Charity (SC027544).

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ASK THE EXPERTS...

finance Add impact to a subtle design by contrasting black and white

A good building takes money, but there are ways to cut costs, both during and after construction. Two experts talk us through raising funds and lowering bills How do I build a home on a tight budget without sacrificing quality or size?

Claire Munro, BuildStore: Find a plot that isn’t too expensive.

Try to avoid a sloping site – a slope can add 10% to costs. Do as much of the work as you can yourself or with friends’ help. Stick to your budget and don’t make changes. Consider a 1.5-storey house – it’s a lot less expensive than a full two storeys. Think about room sizes – it’s all very well having big open spaces but something has to hold up the roof; give the builders a headache and you’ll end up paying for it. Think about access: the bigger the lorry, the cheaper the delivery cost – but not if it can’t get near your site. Get a cost-based advance-stage payment mortgage from BuildStore – you can build with just a 5% deposit and your funds will be guaranteed upfront, so you can shop around and take advantage of the best deals.

Michael Leybourne, Savills: The secret is to keep the building simple. Costs rise significantly when the plan or external appearance gets complicated. While some fearless grand designers may wish to go it alone, employing a good architect or building surveyor will remove a large part of the stress.

They will help to ensure the build is completed on time and within budget. They can also manage the tendering process by obtaining competitive bids from tradesmen and specialists such as renewables consultants. This exercise will be integral to understanding what you can afford and in turn will influence the scale, design, materials and spec chosen by your architect.

How do I fund a self-build or renovation project?

BuildStore: That depends on your personal and financial circumstances. Some borrowing options will be more suitable than others, so talk to an expert mortgage adviser, who will explore the paths available and recommend the right one for you. BuildStore Mortgage Services has more than 20 years’ experience in homebuilding finance. Our specialist advisers will tailor a borrowing solution to suit you. The following are the three most common options. (1) Traditional mortgage: Suitable if the property is run-down but habitable (has a working bathroom and kitchen) and needs only minor improvements.

Most lenders will give you up to 80-95% of the current value of the property and may withhold some funds until works are complete. You’ll need put down the purchase deposit and fund the improvement works. (2) Stage-payment mortgage: This is most suitable if the property is not habitable or you need help to fund the purchase and improvement works. BuildStore’s mortgages can provide guaranteed payments based on your build costs before each stage of works – giving you certainty in your budget and the funds you need to get the job done.

Once works are complete, you can switch to a traditional mortgage deal. (3) Bridging loan: These are useful when you need funds fast, such as when buying a property at auction.

If you have enough equity in your current home, you could raise funds against this to purchase the property and fund the improvement works. When your new home is ready, you can sell your old one to repay the loan.

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ASK THE EXPERTS...

finance

Savills: It makes sense to talk to a specialist financial adviser in the self-build sector, as many conventional mortgage brokers will simply not be aware of the products available. Some lenders will be more amenable to self-builders. Others will assume your existing house has already been sold – a challenge, if you intend to continue living in it while the build takes place. It also means that larger deposits are more likely and that irregular staged payments to your builder need to be negotiated to ensure these can work with their cashflow model. If you are a first-time buyer, get a Help to Buy ISA going as soon as possible to start generating the deposit for a mortgage, and you have an A-listed building which requires restoring, there is the possibility of a grant from Historic Environment Scotland.

Mix textures and materials as seen here in this wooden dwelling with a modern glass extension and stone paving

How do I minimise energy costs?

BuildStore: If you are looking to build a super-insulated home (or even to Passivhaus standard), a large-format panel system is arguably be the most cost-effective way to go.

Bear in mind the following: (1) A property that is as airtight as possible will be energy-efficient, so focus on the fabric of the building first. Only then think about energy-saving technology such as solar panels or heat pumps. (2) For free heat, ask your architect to design with a view to maximising solar gain.

Savills: Insulation, insulation, insulation – and keep the plan simple. A cube creates the maximum floor space with the least external wall/roof space, making it one of the most energyefficient shapes for a building. Building to Passivhaus standard can be expensive, but you will end up with something that costs very little to heat – and the savings you make here can go towards paying off the mortgage.

Would extending my home affect my council tax?

BuildStore: When a property is altered or extended, an ‘Improvement Indicator’ is placed on its record. That doesn’t affect the valuation band until the property is sold, when it’s possible the new owner might pay a higher rate of council tax.

Savills: Extending your house should not affect the amount you pay, but the valuation band could be reviewed if you sell up.

Do I really need insurance?

BuildStore: Every project needs site insurance – mortgage lenders will insist on it. If your project is hit by flood, fire or

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theft, or a member of the public, or one of your tradespeople has an accident on-site, it can seriously affect your ability to finish your new home. Site insurance gives you protection.

Cover should start from the point you are responsible for the plot or property, even before the building works start. Don’t rely on your builder’s insurance; it’s likely it won’t include the build itself, any ongoing works or the site when they’re not there.

Savills: You will require insurance to cover injuries to anyone who might be close to the site. You may also wish to insure against damage to the partially built building and damage to or theft of materials on site. Consult a professional.

Are there hidden costs I should be aware of?

BuildStore: Fees are not hidden, but people are often unaware of how many there are and how much they will cost. You can expect to pay legal fees, mortgage fees, planning application fees, architectural fees, surveying fees, building regulation fees and interim inspection fees. They could amount to £10,000 to £20,000 in total, so build this into your budget. A contingency fund (10 to 20% of your build cost) is also recommended.

Savills: New buildings and most extensions need planning permission and a Building Warrant. These require a set of drawings, where you will need professional support from consultants such as architects, building surveyors and structural engineers. There are also statutory fees due when the plans are submitted for the two consents. If your work disturbs the roof, the local planning authority may request a bat survey.

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Make your dream home a reality With a specialist Self-Build Mortgage from the Scottish Building your dream home can be incredibly rewarding. But it takes plenty of hard work too.

That’s why it’s important to choose a mortgage provider who’ll support you every step of the way.

With a Self-Build Mortgage from the Scottish, funds are released in stages as the work progresses. And, we can help you with your plans, budgeting, and offer advice on many aspects of the process.

Flexible staged release mortgage Borrow up to 80% of the total land and construction costs or valuation (whichever is lower) Expert assistance and underwriting

To find out more, call us today on 0345 600 4085 or visit scottishbs.co.uk

Rewarding Membership Branches in Edinburgh • Glasgow • Inverness • Troon • Galashiels • Aberdeen Plus local agents across Scotland Scottish Building Society is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority (Register No. 206034).

Member of the Building Societies Association and UK Finance. Scottish Building Society, SBS House, 193 Dalry Rd, Edinburgh EH11 2EF.

YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE.

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ASK THE EXPERTS…

planning Advanced double-glazing is an excellent way to improve your home – but will the planning department approve of these aluminium frames?

Doing things in the right sequence is crucial in a complex project. Here, we focus on getting permissions for a build and, overleaf, how an interior designer orders their work – plus essential tips to make everything run smoothly How and when do you go through the planning process – and can an expert do it for you?

Jigsaw Planning, Glasgow: Before any development or building work is started, it is essential to find out if you need planning permission. Not all work does, but if your property is a listed building or is in a conservation area, permission will almost certainly be required. When working up your design, engage with a registered architect to ensure you understand the planning implications of what you’re proposing. Planning consultants, accredited by the Royal Town Planning Institute, offer a professional service to assist you through the planning process, from the design stage right through to submitting applications and dealing with appeals.

What are the rules regarding conservation areas?

Jigsaw Planning: Conservation areas are designated by the council. If your property lies within such a zone, some works, such as replacing windows, small extensions, works to trees, etc, will need planning permission, even if they wouldn’t normally require it elsewhere. You can find out if you are in a conservation area on your local council’s website.

What is the purpose of planning permission?

Jigsaw Planning: The planning department is all about good development in the right location and ensuring any changes won’t have a detrimental impact on the environment or other people’s properties. A good project team will ensure the process goes as smoothly as possible, from engaging with the council through to achieving your development aspirations.

Where should I start?

Jigsaw Planning: Familiarise yourself with the relevant Local Development Plan, which is where the council sets out its policies and design guidance. Try to understand the implications of what you’re proposing and what information the council will need in order to make a decision, such as assessments of noise, drainage or transport. Good communication and engagement with the planning department and your neighbours is crucial – explaining and discussing the proposal with key stakeholders can often eliminate any problems. Your planning consultant can assist with this.

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ASK THE EXPERTS…

planning Don’t wait until the final stages to bring an interior designer on board – they can help with so much more than just the finishing touches. Anna Agapova, of O&A Design, talks us through the five planning stages she typically follows, explaining how this will benefit the entire project.

1. Statement of work The client should visit the site with the interior designer, and together work out where and how the light falls and which views should be captured from the windows. The designer A well-designed space will be a pleasure to use

will study the architectural and stylistic features of the surrounding area to help put the project in context, using this knowledge to create a strong concept and tie it to the environment. The designer and architect will measure up and fix the utilities together. Doing this early and getting it right should go a long way towards eliminating any potential errors relating to the use of materials during construction.

2. Schematic design During the schematic design phase, space planning and furniture layouts are developed. The designer will present the client with rough sketches, including preliminary ideas for furniture and finishes. Well-thought-out planning forms a base for a quality finished product.

3. Design development After approval of the schematic design, the interior designer develops floorplans, elevations, colours and finishes, furniture, fabrics and equipment. At this stage, they might also devise a lighting scheme.

4. Construction documentation Here, designers document specific details of the work, such as carpentry specification, finish selections, plumbing location and fixture selection, and the position of electric sockets.

5. Design management At this final stage, the designer is on site during the installation to ensure every item is received in good condition and installed correctly.

Targets to hit… and pitfalls to avoid: the experts share their secrets • Agree a timetable in writing covering delivery, fitting and completion dates.

• Co-ordinate trades and specialists. It’s very annoying if your wardrobes have been fitted but there’s a twoweek wait for the electrician to wire up the lights.

• Communication is vital. Both sides should keep each other up to speed with plans. If one element of the work falls behind schedule, try to give all the other trades as much notice as possible. It’s always worth leaving some breathing space between each trade to accommodate short delays.

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• Respond quickly to plans, drawings, paint and fabric samples etc.

• Build in lead time for orders. Remember that many European firms close in August and at Christmas.

Scottish trade holidays can mean a July shutdown too.

• Payment. Get a detailed plan of when the deposit and final payments are due. If your joiner or plumber won’t accept credit cards (and many don’t because of the charges), it is essential to check your money is safe with appropriate insurance from the contractor in the event they go into liquidation.

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BUSINESS PROFILE

CAMERON INTERIORS This page and opposite: The designs that emerge from the Cameron Interiors studio are a million miles away from standard fitted kitchens. Lighting, space, functionality and quality materials are combined to produce something unique for each client

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WORDS TO SUM UP THE BUSINESS

LONGEVITY PASSIONATE CREATIVITY 20

Who is your customer?

Our clients are discerning people.

They are searching for something that not only looks beautiful but is personally designed to suit their lifestyle. They don’t want something ‘fashionable’, preferring a design that will transcend passing trends so they can love and enjoy their space for years to come. They want the very best quality along with the highest levels of professionalism. Clients who move house come back to us, and we’ve discovered that many of our customers have parents who were our clients; having grown up enjoying the benefits of a Cameron Interiors design, they now come to us for their own homes.

What sets your company apart from the competition?

We were established in 1979, and our longevity in this business speaks for itself. We pride ourselves on great customer service all the way from the first meeting to completion. We ensure every single client is thoroughly satisfied with their investment in us. In an ever-evolving industry, our ability to listen to and interpret our clients’ individual needs and aspirations has been key to our success, and our core principles remain as relevant as ever: passion, product and perfection. We are also proud to be the only Bulthaup dealer in Scotland, something that enables us to create innovative design.

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CAMERON INTERIORS

ESSENTIAL TIPS 1. Space planning is key. Think about how you will work in, move around and potentially entertain in your new kitchen.

2. Storage. Considering even the smallest details, such as internal accessories, can ensure everything is exactly where you want it to be.

3. Materials. Invest in hardwearing, quality finishes that will be able to stand up to the demands of a busy kitchen for years to come.

4. Equipment. Making an investment in key appliances can free up both space and time.

5. Relationship. Ensure your kitchen designer is listening to you and paying attention to each and every requirement.

What inspires your designs?

We find design inspiration all around, from nature to architecture and our travels. But undoubtedly the most important source of inspiration comes from our clients and their families. We take the time to find out how they live (and how they aspire to live), so we can come up with a design that is unique to them which not only looks beautiful but will enhance their life every single day. We are not sidetracked by what’s fashionable, aiming instead for timeless quality that will always look good.

What has been your biggest commission to date?

That was probably the renovation of an entire house on the banks of Loch Ard – a kitchen, utility room, four bedrooms, three bathrooms and multiple living areas. We worked hard

with the client to create the New England style they were looking for.

The house had the most stunning views of the loch and we took this into consideration, making the most of the outlook in all the rooms, so that the owners could enjoy the vista whether they were socialising in the kitchen or reading a book in the large master bedroom.

The secret to success is…

Putting the client at the forefront and establishing a dialogue with them. Our design team can only create the perfect space if we truly understand the client’s lifestyle.

Our ability to listen to people and interpret their individual needs and aspirations has been the key to our long-term success. This is what we do, in combination with our passion for functionality, precision and design.

What is the company’s main strength?

A company-wide ethos of integrity drives everything we do. We put the client at the heart of our thinking to deliver an experience we ourselves would personally love to receive.

We carefully consider every design to create an environment that will enhance our clients’ everyday lives, making tasks easier, freeing up valuable time that can then be enjoyed with family and friends in a beautiful, comfortable kitchen or living space. To achieve this, our team are qualified interior architects and designers, all of whom have chosen to study design from a natural passion.

We create every kitchen from scratch so that every detail is considered.

Clients see a noticeable difference in their experience and in the time, care and consideration we afford to find the perfect solution for them.

458-462 Crow Road, Glasgow G11 7DR. T: 0141 334 9532 31 Dundas Street, Edinburgh EH3 6QQ. T: 0131 556 2233 www.cameroninteriors.co.uk

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BUSINESS PROFILE

CR SMITH Who is your customer?

Our customers live all over Scotland, in all types of homes, from new builds to period properties. No matter the style of the property, our customers simply want a bright, well-designed contemporary space and see our Lorimer living spaces as a way to enjoy more of the outside indoors.

There are many customers who are also in the process of moving into a new home, and an orangerie or sunroom forms part of their dream way of living. We help people realise this dream.

What sets your company apart from the competition?

We surprise people. We are well known for replacement windows, but our expertise in designing beautiful

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WORDS TO SUM UP THE BUSINESS

DESIGN-LED

PASSIONATE EXPERTS

22

living spaces, including orangeries and sunrooms, is second to none. Using all of our experience we’ve gained over 45 years in the business, we design and build stunning additions to our customers’ homes for them and their family to enjoy all year round.

What inspires your designs?

First and foremost our customers inspire our designs. They often have a very clear picture of the space they’re looking for and what they will use it for, so we work together to make that happen. Equally we always like to propose alternatives and our free 3D design service allows customers to visualise exactly what they’re considering. We have the design expertise to ensure that the new living space suits the style of the home and provides our customers with the perfect space for their needs.

What has been your biggest commission to date?

That has to be the spectacular, 120sq.m conservatory built for the Malin Court Hotel on the Ayrshire coast, now known as the Boyd Lounge. This majestic structure, with its dramatic views over to Arran, includes an atrium entrance, more than 50 energyefficient Lorimer windows, a solar control glass roof, and a state-of-theart climate control system, designed and built specifically for the hotel’s exposed location.

A current favourite, however, has to be the sunroom that we designed and built for a couple in Hamilton.

When they moved house, they started to dream of open-plan living; our design gave them that and more, with underfloor heating and an inbuilt sound system. It is the perfect fit for their modern home, providing a huge light and airy space, which has transformed the way the family live.

And like all our builds we completed the job from start to finish.

The secret to success is…

Making sure everything is design-led, the planning process and build are project managed, then finished to perfection. We can produce as many 3D designs as our customers wish to help them choose the ideal style and build for their home. We supply the perfect finishes, all the way from the flooring to the temperature control units and the installation of Sonos sound systems.

What is the company’s main strength?

We understand what our customers want and work with them to help them achieve their perfect living space as smoothly and efficiently as possible.

We recognise that your home can be the greatest investment you’ll ever make, and, thanks to our longevity and expertise, customers can take comfort knowing we will get everything right and look after their home for years after, should they need us.

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Below and opposite: CR Smith does so much more than replacement windows. It can design, manufacture and build sunrooms, orangeries and conservatories. The below build features a sunroom with adjoining conservatory, providing the ultimate open-plan living space

CR SMITH’S ESSENTIAL TIPS 1. Dream big. You won’t regret it.

2. Consider design carefully.

Choose a design that matches the character of your home.

3. Talk to the experts.

Experience is invaluable when you are extending your home.

4. Enquire about modern technology. The latest advances create the perfect ambience all year round.

5. Check out the guarantees. This is an extension to your home and needs to be built to last.

Gardeners Street, Dunfermline, Fife KY12 0RN info@crsmith.co.uk • 01383 732181 www.crsmith.co.uk

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BUSINESS PROFILE

KITCHENS INTERNATIONAL KITCHENS INTERNATIONAL’S

ESSENTIAL TIPS

Preparation is essential when embarking on a new kitchen project, so before you begin bear the following advice in mind: 1. It’s never too early to appoint a designer/supplier. The sooner the team are in place, the more easily a plan can be formed, meaning less stress all round.

2. Work out what you want.

Putting together a list of key requirements (in order of importance, if possible) will really help to formulate a clear brief.

3. Think about how your kitchen functions for everyday living, not just for big occasions such as Christmas. Acknowledge the positives and the negatives, as again this will help to give the brief clarity.

Who is your customer?

Over the past 25 years, Kitchens International has built an unrivalled reputation for providing innovative design, outstanding quality and exceptional service to both the retail and contract markets.

What sets your company apart from the competition?

Winner of the KBB UK Kitchen Retailer of the Year 2019 award and the UK Kitchen Showroom of the Year 2019 award, Kitchens International is widely acknowledged as the UK’s leading luxury kitchen specialist. Continuous training and development drives every department of the company. Our award-winning designers and installation experts will work with you to create your dream kitchen, with every detail impeccably planned, designed and fitted with seamless efficiency. Our unique aftercare service will continue long after your kitchen is installed – we are determined to make sure that everything is how you hoped it would

be, now and for years to come. Even when it’s yours, we still treat your kitchen as if it’s ours.

What inspires your designs?

Our clients are our biggest inspiration.

Our designers listen to what you want, building up a picture of your life and family so the kitchen will reflect your needs perfectly. We have excellent relationships with many clients which have turned into long friendships.

What has been your biggest commission to date?

The Crescent by Cala is one of the most prestigious and iconic sites that Kitchens International has had the pleasure of working on. Attracting a very discerning clientele, this development in Edinburgh’s New Town UNESCO World Heritage Site required a high specification to stand apart from other builds in the city.

The secret to success is…

Knowing your client and providing total customer care. It is the

4. Consider storage. Which items are to be left out on display?

Which are to be put away after use? (And how easily do you want to access these?)

5. Space planning. Make sure there are good, clear walkways and that the major appliances, sink and hob are positioned in a way that will be easy and efficient for you to use them.

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Below and opposite: A kitchen should be efficient and hardworking, but it can also be elegant, welcoming, beautiful and inspiring – a place you and the whole family want to spend time in. The designers at Kitchens International understand this, as these layouts show

foundation of our company and the principle that has built us an unrivalled, award-winning reputation. We believe that the only way to guarantee satisfaction to every customer, from concept to completion, is through our team of selected professionals. From the initial design, through the co-ordination of the project to the final completion, each stage is carefully handled by our passionate team. Getting to know you is important: we look forward to meeting you.

What is your company’s main strength?

Our people. We are an award-winning team. With strong leadership and strong players, we are committed to total customer care and we continually strive to exceed the expectations of our valued customers.

Our people are motivated by the love of the job and by a sense of satisfaction in what we create. With over 80 people working and training in all aspects of kitchen design and installation, we know we are in good hands. You will be too.

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WORDS TO SUM UP THE BUSINESS

INNOVATIVE

QUALITY

PROFESSIONAL

Showrooms in Glasgow, Tillicoultry, Aberdeen, Edinburgh (Dundas Street and Fort Kinnaird) and Broxburn 0845 074 0022 www.kitchensinternational.co.uk BUILDING & RENOVATING GUIDE 2019

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BUSINESS PROFILE

McNAIRS Who is your customer?

For 35 years we have been supplying quality building materials both to professional tradesmen – the likes of landscapers, dryliners, roofers, joiners and builders – as well as to the self build market. We have added bathrooms, plumbing and heating materials to our long list of product specialities.

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WORDS TO SUM UP THE BUSINESS

EXPERIENCED

HELPFUL

PROFESSIONAL

What sets your company apart from the competiton?

As well as offering a comprehensive range of products, we have an impressive home improvement showroom. It’s the perfect place to come if you’re planning a renovation project, whether you’re simply wanting to replace your doors and floors, or you’re going all the way and building a brand-new house.

Visit us and you’ll find so much inspiration. We have beautiful bathroom designs, stunning doors and floors, stair parts, Velux window displays, ironmongery and much more.

All of this, of course, is backed up by helpful service and advice, as managing director Brian Ballantyne explains: “I think what really sets us apart from our competitors is our experience and knowledge of the industry – and the fact that our people are passionate about their work. We employ more than 70 staff

and are proud that today some of our employees have been with us for ten, 15 or even 25 years!”

The secret to success is...

The company’s ‘superbranch’ in Kirkintilloch, just outside Glasgow, is ideally located to service central Scotland, with a fleet of 13 trucks offering a next-day delivery service.

McNairs has great long-standing relationships with its customers. These are busy people who want to place their order in the knowledge and security that they will receive their delivery – correctly and on time – the next day.

What is the company’s main strength?

“Our customers can usually get most of what they need right here without having to go to different suppliers,” says Brian Ballantyne.

“With storage space extending to over 64,000sq.ft on a four-acre site,

Above: The McNairs fleet will deliver across Central Scotland.

Opposite, top: You’ll find a great choice of paving for landscaping, but also decking, fencing and even artificial turf.

Opposite, right: Interiors are taken care of too – flooring, fixtures and decorating materials – plus much more

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McNAIRS’

ESSENTIAL TIPS 1. Plan ahead. Make sure you have decided on your materials and finishings in advance so your builders know exactly what you want.

That way, they won’t have to choose things for you and it avoids any costly hold-ups on site.

2. Brochures are great but it really helps to see materials in person and in natural light.

That’s why we spend a lot of time and money renewing our displays every year. we can accommodate not just a comprehensive range of materials but a real depth of stock that no one else in central Scotland can come close to matching.” Pop in for a chat about your

next project – the McNairs team love nothing better than turning customers’ dream projects into reality, and will help you go from planning all the way to completion.

3. Rather than request a price for a specific item, talk to your supplier about the project as a whole. They should always show a genuine interest in what you are trying to achieve. We offer a dedicated account manager service as it really helps us to get to know our customers and their project in order to be able to fully understand their requirements and provide the best possible discount.

4. If you don’t see what you want, ask for an alternative.

We will always try to source unusual or bespoke items from the huge bank of suppliers we’ve built up over many years.

5. Experience counts. We’ve helped on all sorts of projects over the years, from small garden refurbs to stunning self-builds and large developments such as golf clubs, restaurants and housing developments. We will happily supply the wood for a single dog kennel or everything for a pet hotel!

Old Mill Park, Glasgow Road, Kirkintilloch G66 1SS sales@mcnairs.co.uk 0141 777 8080 www.mcnairs.co.uk BUILDING & RENOVATING GUIDE 2019

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PHOTOGRAPHY: RICKY FREW

BUSINESS PROFILE

OAKWRIGHTS SCOTLAND This page and opposite: The Carmichael House in Elie has two wings, with a turret as the hinge. The post-and-beam oak frame allows a series of external porches to be created, while inside the house the frame is dramatically expressed in the vaulted ceilings of the upper floor and in the double-height living areas

Who is your customer?

Our customers are determined individuals looking to self-build a home unique to their lifestyle. Our homes are built bespoke for our

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WORDS TO SUM UP THE BUSINESS

INNOVATIVE PASSIONATE KNOWLEDGEABLE 28

clients’ requirements. These might be family homes, second or holiday homes, a home to downsize to or a home for relocating out of the city.

What sets your company apart from the competition?

We are flexible and we offer a fully bespoke building service. By choosing to buy from Oakwrights, our clients have access to an ‘all under one roof’ service, which will help to make their build process run efficiently.

This can go all the way from finding a plot, architectural design and planning assistance, to frame design, encapsulation and completion of your build. We can provide a full turnkey service or just the individual elements that the client requires.

What inspires your designs?

The principal inspiration is talking to the client – understanding how they live, what their priorities are for their new house and simply getting to know them a little. Inspiration from clients can also come in the form of mood boards or Pinterest collections.

The plot itself is another great source of ideas: views, the path of the sun, creating outdoor spaces for use at different times of the day can all contribute, as can the opportunity to make the most of the oak frame in each design.

What has been your biggest commission to date?

That would be Carmichael House, which was designed in partnership

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OAKWRIGHTS’ ESSENTIAL TIPS 1. Thorough research. Visit our open days or stay at our show home.

with Thomson Hunter Architects. It’s a 380sq.m family home in Elie. It has double-height spaces, vaulted ceilings and a gallery ‘bridge’ from the stair to the bedrooms. It is full of character, with lovely views of the new garden.

There’s a turret too, which creates fantastic external views and acts as a focus for the main façade.

The secret to success is...

We are committed to being at the forefront of 21st-century oak framing.

We are the first (and to date the only) company to have a patented infill panel system that has been successfully assessed by TRADA, with full NHBC approval. Oakwrights is the only oak-framing company with a fully fitted and functional show home

where we hold regular open days and in which prospective self-builders can stay overnight.

What is the company’s main strength?

Our key strength is in taking your oak-frame build idea or concept and fulfilling the entire process to completion in a seamless and cohesive manner. This ‘full-build’ turnkey capability provides the simplest way to control your project throughout its development. Our talented architectural designers, working in partnership with our skilful oak-frame designers, will put their extensive abilities and knowledge at your disposal in order to understand what you are looking for and to produce designs to inspire you.

2. Good design. Use the services of an architect or architectural designer you trust. Decor and furnishings can be updated but the design/layout of your home will last a lifetime.

3. Establish a realistic budget.

And give this information to your designer. Include a 10% contingency fund for unforeseen circumstances.

4. Communication. This is vital, especially between contractors and service providers and to schedule tradesmen on-site. It will help prevent costly delays.

5. Attention to detail. Maintain this right to the end of the project and the results will speak for themselves.

1 Portland Road, Kilmarnock KA1 2BT enquiries@oakwrights.co.uk 0141 309 9237 www.oakwrights.co.uk BUILDING & RENOVATING GUIDE 2019

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BUSINESS PROFILE

TOPFLIGHT PRECAST TOPFLIGHT PRECAST’S

ESSENTIAL TIPS 1. Don’t delay. Contact us at the early stages of your planning as this will allow time to ensure the best possible outcome can be achieved. It will also allow the design of your precast staircase to go hand in hand in the design of the property itself, often minimising possible problems and saving money into the bargain.

2. Do not compromise. This building is not only your house – it’s your home. Building or renovating your home can be one of the biggest financial and emotional challenges you can face, so why compromise the design of your perfect home, when we at Topflight can help you realise your dreams.

3. Communication. Never feel embarrassed about asking questions or seeking advice.

At Topflight Precast, we are here to help you every step of the way. Our team of experts will gladly answer any questions or listen to any ideas you may have, no matter how trivial they may seem. No one is more important to us than the customer.

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Who is your customer?

Our customers come to us from a wide variety of backgrounds. Because our products are so specialised and unique, our services are in high demand not only in Central Scotland, where we are based, but throughout the whole of the United Kingdom. Whether we are dealing with residential refurbishments and new-builds or multi-million-pound commercial and industrial projects, we are there to provide artistry and elegance in concrete form.

What sets your company apart from the competition?

Without a doubt what makes Topflight Precast unique is the dedication of our team. We always strive to make the best quality bespoke precast products, and to achieve this we have the best craftsmen working together to provide a service that is second to none. Our high-class service goes all the way from the customer’s initial enquiry to the artistry of our specialist joiners and the prowess of our highly experienced precast team.

What has been your biggest commission to date?

All of our projects, no matter their size or value, are treated with the same level of professionalism and expertise. Whether it be an individual staircase for a single development or multiple stairflights for commercial developments, we will always provide the same level of service. Recent projects have included curved staircases for a luxury development in Oxshott, the UK’s most expensive village; the supply of precast stairs and decorative cladding for projects at Cambridge University; and our

newly started contract providing bespoke precast for the renovation of the famous Burrell Collection Museum in Glasgow.

The secret to success is…

Dedication. Everyone who works at Topflight Precast has one thing in common: 100% commitment. All of our team have a strong desire to make precast staircases that are of the very highest quality. The experience we have gained over decades in the precast industry has led to the formation of a team who have the cumulative knowledge and expertise to allow a new standard in precast to be achieved.

From the work of the master craftsmen building bespoke timber moulds to the finesse of the concrete finishers and concrete polishers, anything less than 100% is simply never an option.

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Elegantly curved stair designs, as well as modern-looking styles with glass balustrades, feature in a mix of residential spaces including luxury developments; top middle: a sawtooth-edge external stair for a period renovation

What inspires your designs?

We never try to impose designs or styles on our clients. Rather, we see our role as being here to work with them and to help turn their desires into reality. From day one, when a client first contacts us, we will be very happy to offer advice and support to ensure they never have to compromise on either quality or creativity when it comes to the finished product. It is this willingness to remain true to the client’s vision that makes us a truly bespoke manufacturer.

What is the company’s main strength?

As strange as it may sound, our biggest strength is undoubtedly our relatively small size. Because we specialise in bespoke projects, we have a small but highly skilled workforce. Everyone in the Topflight team is involved at all stages of the design and production cycle.

When you call Topflight, you will never speak to a salesperson or an estimator. You will directly contact one of our skilled craftsmen who will be able to provide the expert advice you require right from the start.

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WORDS TO SUM UP THE BUSINESS

CREATIVITY

INTEGRITY

RELIABILITY

The Old Sawmill, Cloburn Quarry, Lanark ML118SR office@topflightprecast.co.uk 01555 663444 • 07774 705835 www.precastconcretestairs.co.uk BUILDING & RENOVATING GUIDE 2019

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BUSINESS PROFILE

VELUX Who are your customers?

Our core customers fall into four broad groups: window installers, who are often responsible for selecting and advising on roof windows; builders’ merchants, who stock and promote our products; specifiers such as architects and builders who advise homeowners at the early stages of a building project; and finally homeowners themselves, who are increasingly becoming involved in the specification of their homeimprovement projects.

What sets your company apart from the competition?

What makes us stand out is the quality and range of our roof windows, underpinned by our ability to provide customers with practical advice and technical support. For more than 75 years, VELUX has been helping homeowners to create better living environments by making the most of daylight and fresh air through roof windows. So we really do have a well-established heritage in providing the very best roof windows.

What inspires your designs?

Daylight and ventilation are at the

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WORDS TO SUM UP THE BUSINESS

DAY L I G H TEXPERTISE CUSTOMERFOCUSED

QUALITY 32

heart of what we do. We know that natural daylight and ventilation are essential to good building design and that both are crucial to the wellbeing of a property’s occupants.

Our overarching aim is to provide unobtrusive solutions that maximise daylight and ventilation. It may seem that our products have changed little over the years, but in fact our most recent generation of roof windows deliver more light than previous windows of the same size.

The secret to success is…

Staying ahead of the competition!

At VELUX, we have always sought to look ahead, by anticipating new homeowner trends. For example, the launch of VELUX ACTIVE gives homeowners access to a ‘smart’ app-controlled product, which can easily be added to electric windows to monitor temperature, humidity and carbon-dioxide levels and thus create a healthier indoor climate. It’s another innovative step forward for our business, further improving the

functionality of our windows for the benefit of our customers.

What has been your biggest commission to date?

One of our biggest projects in Scotland was the building of the Commonwealth Athletes’ Village in Glasgow. A total of 787 VELUX roof windows were installed in the complex and we’re delighted to have been involved in creating the perfect indoor environment for these brilliant sportsmen and women.

What is the company’s main strength?

For over 75 years, we have led the UK roof window market, filling millions of homes with daylight and fresh air. That has enabled us to develop the widest range of roof windows available, in all sizes and finishes, to suit every customer requirement.

Whether it’s windows for flat roofs, sun tunnels, blinds or shutters, we have developed solutions to fit all needs and demands for better living through natural daylight.

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ESSENTIAL TIPS FROM

VELUX

1. If you’re looking to create a bright and light space, VELUX roof windows will let in twice as much daylight as a conventional vertical windows of the same size.

2. Choose the right windows for the right space. For example, top-hung roof windows are ideally suited to loft conversions, where space is usually at a premium.

3. Make sure you install the right number, type and size of roof windows to get the daylight in your new space just right.

MyDaylight App by VELUX can help you visualise your project.

Left: This kitchen extension is beautifully illuminated by its VELUX flat rooflights.

Above: Two roof windows have been hung one above the other, saving space and opening up this attic bathroom.

Bottom: These two loft conversions show different types of VELUX roof windows. The ones on the left are top-hung, while the ones on the right are centre-pivot, accompanied by blackout blinds.

4. The number, positioning and size of the roof windows will maximise your daylight. Your VELUX roof windows should take up an area equal to 15 to 20% of the room’s floor space.

5. Control the amount of heat and light coming in by using the right blinds and shutters.

These well help to complete the look of your new space.

Woodside Way, Glenrothes KY7 4ND sales@velux.co.uk 01592 778 225 velux.co.uk BUILDING & RENOVATING GUIDE 2019

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BUSINESS PROFILE

VICTOR PARIS Who is your customer?

Our customers are people who want a stylish, well-designed, high-quality bathroom. We have a wealth of experience in dealing with customers across a wide range of budgets and are able to provide sound advice and recommendations on the best layouts and design to tailor the room to each customer’s taste.

What sets your company apart from the competition?

Victor Paris is a recognised and respected name in the industry. We are a family-run business that has been serving Scotland for well over 40 years. We pride ourselves on the choice and quality of bathroom

VICTOR PARIS’S ESSENTIAL TIPS 1. Dimensions. Simply jotting down the measurements of your bathroom is a great way to kickstart the process of your new bathroom journey.

2. Discover bathroom longevity.

Buying high-quality products will last longer and look better than cheap alternatives. They are an investment in your home.

products in our large showroom spaces and the free specialised design service that is offered to all our clients.

What inspires your designs?

We are inspired by the incredible selection of top designer bathroom brands that we have on display in our showrooms. This gives customers access to all of the latest products and designs as soon as they are launched. Our staff are up to date with technology developments; they don’t simply know what’s available – they have the ability to combine designs in order to come up with unique and tailor-made bathrooms for our clients.

The secret to success is…

Our talented workforce – we have very skilful and knowledgeable people with a wealth of experience in creating dream bathrooms.

What is the company’s main strength?

Alongside our brilliant free design service which allows you to visualise your new room in advance, Victor Paris has an extensive range of different products that appeal to a wide range of client tastes. From ultra-modern to the kind of traditional fittings that suit Georgian and Victorian properties, there will be something for every home. We sell freestanding baths, showers, tiles, furniture, accessories, radiators, wetrooms, spa areas and much more.

3. Design to suit your bathroom.

No bathroom is too small or too big. Making the best use of the space is the most important factor.

4. Matching your style. Creating a bathroom that is in harmony with your personal style is key to a design that you’ll love.

5. Put accessories to work.

A uniform style of accessories such as taps, toilet-roll holders, mirrors and bathroom essentials will give you a cohesive overall look.

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WORDS TO SUM UP THE BUSINESS

LONGEVITY

QUALITY

TA I LO R E D

This page and opposite: A visit to a Victor Paris showroom is an eye-opening experience – there is so much more to bathrooms than a three-piece white suite. Freestanding furniture and gorgeous accessories can transform your space

Dundee 92 Albert Street, Dundee DD4 6QH. 01382 721494 Edinburgh 178 Dundee Street, Edinburgh EH11 1DQ. 0131 297 2894 Glasgow 60 Washington Street, Glasgow G3 8AZ. 0141 648 8894 www.victorparis.com BUILDING & RENOVATING GUIDE 2019

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architecture The right architect can unlock the potential of your existing home or turn your dreams into three dimensions in a brand-new house. Three practices with experience of doing both share their advice on how to get started What are the most common mistakes – by architects and clients – when a home is being designed?

the process from drainage to door handles. Only then will you know the true cost of your build, which will go a long way to avoiding stress and disappointment at a later stage.

Andrew McAvoy, director, founder and principal architect, Retool Architecture, Glasgow: People make lots of mistakes: having no respect for regional culture, local skill bases or materiality; not spending enough time at the start working through different options; not spending enough time on site; letting computer design rule the process; not thinking about climate, environment, energy, habitual behaviours, sensory awareness; forgetting that architecture is not a raw construction process – where it is good, it will always stem from the unselfconscious process of consideration, thought, poetry and a sense of nature.

What is the secret of successful home design?

David Blaikie, founder, David Blaikie Architects, Edinburgh: Building a home is an exciting dream and, for most, a oncein-a-lifetime opportunity. Getting a clear understanding of all the costs involved from the very beginning, and undertaking good financial planning, is critical to stopping it turning into a nightmare. Once you’ve chosen the architect you want to work with, I would strongly recommend employing a quantity surveyor with experience in one-off, private home projects to prepare a comprehensive cost plan covering every aspect of

Andrew McAvoy: Accept the nature of the original building and do not override that.

Andrew McAvoy: Intuition and slow process.

David Blaikie: The secret of a successful home design is communicating your aspirations and dreams to your architect, and allowing them to create a rich and rewarding setting for you and your family to live and grow up in.

What are the fundamentals of a successful extension or renovation project?

Craig Amy, founder, Craig Amy Architect, East Lothian: For me, it’s a seven-point process: (1) Start by appointing the right architect for you: you’re going to be working closely with them for months, sometimes years, so try to get a feel for them as a person as well as a good appreciation of their ideas – and talk to them about their fees. (2) Consider all the options: you will have your own ideas before you start – it’s your A striking new-build home on one level home, after all, and you spend with generous sized windows every day using it. But so often clients say to me, “We would never have thought of that.” Explore the opportunities – something might just surprise you and transform your home. (3) Think about your budget. Obviously, the bigger the project, the bigger the cost.

But we always say, “Go with the dream option in the beginning, within reason,” as it’s easier to scale things back rather than add them later. (4) Rooflights are great: windows and glazed doors are for views out; rooflights are for bringing in natural light. They will transform your home. (5) Talk to other professionals, even just to

BUILDING & RENOVATING GUIDE 2019

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architecture explore ideas: you’ll need an engineer, which your architect will organise, but interior and landscape designers can make a big difference. Some of my own favourite projects wouldn’t be nearly as good without their input. (6) Get the right builder: doing so will mean everything runs more smoothly, making the whole process a more enjoyable experience. Ask around for recommendations, and try to see some of their previous work. Don’t simply go for the cheapest quote. (7) There is no such thing as a stupid question. Always ask. It’s the best way to get problems resolved quickly and easily.

An interior of a modern masterpiece; its floor-to-ceiling windows frame the garden view

David Blaikie: Altering and extending a home provides an opportunity to fix any fundamental problems a house has, such as an unused, gloomy room, a lack of connection with the garden, or a lack of evening sunlight in the living spaces.

Working with a creative architect who has good experience and understanding of making rich and stimulating spaces within homes and of the planning policies will ensure the success of your project.

Should a house enhance landscape and culture as well as its owner’s life?

David Blaikie: Historically, private homes have been a driving force in the development of style and taste: classical Georgian homes led the way with daring, exotic interiors; grand Victorian homes gathered influences from around the world; Arts and Crafts homes took influences from the local vernacular and artisans; and Art Deco homes wowed us by bringing the International Style to our shores. When building a home for yourself, you have the opportunity to continue this historical development of our culture and landscape – you should take it!

Do architects offer a full service, from initial idea through planning all the way to build?

TOP TIP

“There is no such thing as a stupid question. Always ask. It’s the best way to get problems resolved.”

Andrew McAvoy: Yes. It’s best if the client has trust in the fact that the architect has a suite of buildings that are related in ethos and deserve to be finished – so all stages to completion is wise.

Craig Amy: The simple answer is yes.

All architects offer a full service from your initial meeting, discussing your brief, surveying your property and presenting various options up to an agreed final design. They will then take the project forward starting with

Craig Amy

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the preparation and submission of the statutory applications to the council, then leading the tender process and helping select a builder, and, finally, regularly inspecting the building works and answering queries (yours and the builder’s), right the way through the build to a successful completion and sign-off. Depending on the scale of the project, your budget and your own confidence to oversee the building works, you can take the project forward yourself once planning is approved; some architects may offer a reduced ‘on the end of the phone’ role to answer queries if required throughout the build.

David Blaikie: Most good architectural practices will guide you through the process of building a new home from the development of the brief and site analysis, through the statutory consent processes, the competitive tendering process and finally inspect the works during the construction phase through to completion. Choose an architect who produces work that excites you and who has good experience in all the stages of a project. The Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland produces a helpful guide to choosing and appointing an architect – www.rias.org.uk/app/assets/downloads/why-usea-chartered-architect.pdf

BUILDING & RENOVATING GUIDE 2019

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gardens

Turning your backyard into a peaceful retreat – or a cool hangout for entertaining, or a veg patch, or any combination of the above – starts with careful planning. Here’s how to let your garden flourish…

What is the key to planning a garden well?

Holly Nairn: You must have a clear idea of what you want to achieve, and you must be realistic about what is needed to attain that, be it time, money or labour, and whether you need help from a professional such as a garden designer, a drainage company, a lighting expert or even a water feature specialist. Paying for professional services means paying for knowledge and experience, which may save you making costly errors.

The Greenhouse People: The key to planning is practicality.

There are many fun aspects of garden design, like choosing your plants and poring over garden books and websites for inspiration. More serious aspects include creating a budget for the changes you intend to make and finding out if you need planning permission to remove trees, build walls or lay paving.

Even if you only have limited space, it doesn’t mean your options are limited.

This is especially true if you take the time to plan your garden properly.

If you’re unsure what to do, lean towards a classic layout that uses clean lines and symmetry to create the illusion of extra space.

outside space, you can take the DIY route or enlist the services of a professional. Either way, thorough planning is vital to create an area that complements your home, meets your family’s needs and gives you years of enjoyment. It’s best to plan out your garden in winter, when there’s less maintenance to do outdoors. You’ll be able to look back and assess your garden over the past year. That way, you have an idea of which plants did well, which areas were lacking and what you really want from your garden.

What should I do in the pre-planning stage?

Holly Nairn: Garden designers can help with every stage of garden creation – from planning, building, planting and maintenance. Before I start a design, I undertake a full consultation with the client to get a clear idea of what they’re looking for, their style, how they’ll use the space and how ‘hands on’ they’ll be in its upkeep. Before pencil hits paper, I need to assess climate, light, wind exposure, proximity to neighbours, access, existing services (phone lines, electricity cables, water and waste pipes, drainage), soil type and how the garden will be used (for play, entertaining, working, eating, swimming, relaxing, growing veg, drying washing…). And that’s all before any thoughts about aesthetics.

TOP TIP

When should I start planning?

“Take a look at your neighbours’ plots or ask their advice on what grows best in your area” The Greenhouse People

Holly Nairn: If you’ve got a new-build, garden planning is really important and the process should ideally start when the house itself is being designed. That way, you can plan the installation of water pipes for outside taps and electricity for outside lighting before you install your hard landscaping and planting. If you’ve moved house and have inherited a garden, I would advise living with both for around a year before you think about making any drastic changes. This will give you time to take stock of how the light falls, what’s in the garden and how it looks from the house. Take lots of photos and keep notes of what you like and don’t like. At the same time, start to collect images of plants and gardens that appeal to you and use this to form the basis of your new garden. Then be brave, make changes and be patient.

The Greenhouse People: If you want to create your perfect

The Greenhouse People: Understanding the local quirks of your environment will help you create the healthiest and most manageable garden. That means considering the plants that would naturally thrive in this climate. Choosing plants based on this will make for easy gardening and reduce treatments and watering.

Take a look at your neighbours’ plots or ask for their advice on what grows best in your area.Part of planning involves understanding the type of soil you have and accepting that some plants will thrive in it but others won’t. Roses flourish in a clay soil, lavender loves a chalky soil and rosemary thrives in dry, sandy soil. An easy way to discover what you’ve got is to fill a jar with a sample of the soil. Shake vigorously then let it settle overnight. The next day, the different components of your soil type – like sand, chalk and clay – will have separated and you’ll be able to see its composition.

BUILDING & RENOVATING GUIDE 2019

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gardens

Aspect is a key consideration when designing and planning your garden. The aspect affects the amount of light and heat your plants will receive. A southfacing garden will receive more sunlight and tend to be hotter, so you can grow plants like Mediterranean herbs that love the heat. North-facing gardens get less sunlight and tend to be cooler. Many native British plants enjoy the shade, so include lily of the valley and snowdrops for winter and early-spring interest.

Two styles of garden design showing the advantages of considered outdoor spaces

What are the best lowmaintenance designs?

The Greenhouse People: A lowmaintenance garden is good if you’re new to gardening, or if you’d prefer to spend more time enjoying your outdoor space than working on it. The design will depend on which elements you prioritise.

You can still have a vegetable patch – just minimise activity elsewhere. Some techniques to cut down on garden maintenance include: (1) Lose the lawn. One of the most time-intensive areas in a garden is the lawn. You could reduce the size, or even replace it with artificial turf. This will save your water and electricity bills, as you’ll have less lawn to mow and water. The more ‘hard’ landscaping you have, the lower the workload, so consider replacing the lawn or beds with paving or gravel. (2) Perfect placement. By carefully placing your garden features, you’ll save time and make outdoor work easier and simpler.

Place potted plants close to your water supply, as they require the most watering in the summer months. (On the subject of watering, make this job easier by putting a tap outside and having a hosepipe handy.) Your garden supplies should be kept in accessible storage in the garden, so everything stays together and is within easy reach. A shed or greenhouse is the ideal place for your tools and supplies. (3) Take a seat. One

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of the most important aspects of a low-maintenance garden is having areas to sit back and enjoy your work. By zoning your garden into different spaces – for relaxation, for entertainment and so on – you can cut down on the amount of gardening needed in less-utilised areas. Prioritise the areas you use and enjoy the most, spending more time planting and maintaining them.

What are the current trends in garden design?

Holly Nairn: Many clients have asked me recently about making their garden insect-friendly. I always try to incorporate plants that will encourage birds and insects into gardens. It’s great to see clients wanting their children to engage with plants and wildlife – insect hotels and bird feeders are now higher on the agenda than swings and slides.

Trees, hedges and shrubs form the backbone of my designs and the building blocks of a micro-climate, offering yearround interest, shelter, accommodation and food for us and for wildlife. I am passionate about plants that give a long season of interest, particularly those that shine in the winter months – either with glorious coloured bark or with sweet scented flowers. To be able to pick a flower from your garden every month of the year is a joy.

BUILDING & RENOVATING GUIDE 2019

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interior design Interior designers do far more than just help choose nice cushions. They play a crucial role in ensuring your new space works for you on every level, turning a house into a home and making it a pleasure to live in What are the benefits of using an interior designer?

Anna Campbell-Jones, Habitus, Glasgow: Personalisation is really important. An interior designer can help you to work out the best way A classic interior designed bedroom complements the room’s proportions and scale of expressing your personality and your passions.

Their service is not a luxury – they will be able to Habitus: As early as possible. If it’s an extension, the designer help you find cost-effective ways of achieving what you want will help work out the impact the new space is going to have and will have access to tried and trusted tradesmen, and you on the rest of the home. If it’s a new-build, they’ll take a holistic will be far less likely to spend too much money on things you approach to the whole house. later regret.

O&A Design: Ideally, the interior designer should get involved at the very beginning. Just like the architect, builder and Anna Agapova, O&A Design, London: A good designer is an engineer, they will offer a different perspective and have an artist and a psychologist. They study their clients, their rhythm important influence on the finished product. The designer of life, character, dreams and desires. And then they reflect will draw up a work plan with a description of what needs this in the design, creating spaces that go far beyond simply to be done when. They’ll also assist with costs and can help an idea of comfort. I want my rooms to be like art – to inspire steer you away from impulsive decisions that may break the people and bring out different emotions. It’s a myth that budget. Most importantly, they will help create a space that hiring a designer is expensive. A good designer will find the truly reflects who you are. best combination of price and quality. They will know the characteristics of building materials and will tell you how these behave and whether their cost is justified. That way, you can avoid irreversible mistakes and unnecessary expenses. Also, many shops give designers discounts, which will help to keep your project on budget.

Sarang fabric

When should the interior designer get involved in a build or renovation project?

in fuchsia from Designers Guild

Gillian Gillies, Gillian Gillies Interiors, Toronto: An interior designer should be hired at the same time as you hire the other key people in your renovation or build, such as the architect or builder.

That way, you benefit from everyone’s individual skills from the start. It’s a lot like building on strong foundations. It pays dividends to build a strong team from day one.

Why do you think people care more these days about interior design?

Habitus: People are spending more time at home – and entertaining at home – no doubt as a result of such things as streaming services for movie nights and restaurant-quality food delivery services.

The general increasing interest in interior design, and the greater accessibility of a wide range of styles of furniture, fabrics, wallpapers and decorative items to suit all budgets, has made it easier for people to have fun with design at home.

I need more storage. How do I get more out of redundant corners and spaces such as eaves and under the stairs?

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interior design Gillian Gillies: All our A free-standing contemporary clients start by telling us bath in bright white works they want more storage. with wood and slate grey We always ask that they edit their belongings before we begin our designs. It turns out that often more storage space is not required; it’s just that the storage space they do have is not tailored to their needs.

Once their belongings have been edited and we can see what they really do need to store, we usually design custom interiors for closets and spaces.

Habitus: Being clever with storage is the key, especially in a family home. A designer will look at the layout and position of limiting elements such as doorways to maximise every nook and cranny. A bespoke solution is usually required, even if this is only well-designed painted MDF.

What are the top trends for kitchens and bathrooms?

Gillian Gillies Interiors: Sustainability paired with timeless selections is (thankfully) a huge trend. Clients want to, and should, invest in these rooms, as these are the most used and abused areas. Working with materials that are maintainable and classic will result in spaces that transcend the date they were installed. We mix metals and woods and finishes in our kitchens and the overall look is effortless and elegant.

Habitus: Colour and pattern, eclecticism, mixed materials and individuality are what my clients seek more and more. For example, the sheer range of tile designs available in recent years has gone through the roof – if you’ll excuse the pun!

In most of our bathroom projects, the preference is for a freestanding bath. These make the space look more elegant, tailored, modern, personalised and luxurious.

O&A Design: For bathrooms, I’d say the main trends are wood, wallpaper and freestanding basins. Adding something natural and organic makes the bathroom feel accessible and welcoming. Try a combination of different colours and styles of timber, a high-quality hardwood floor or wooden panelling. The latter can add tradition but changing the colour will freshen things. Consider wallpaper, especially a flower print, which is very on trend. Papers are easy to replace

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when – much easier than removing tiles. Papering just one wall is effective, particularly if it is something glamorous and with a sheen. The latest collection by Antonio Lupi, an icon of bathroom design, is proof that freestanding washbasins have become the focus of contemporary bathrooms.

Models made entirely of marble are especially stylish. Lightness and solidity are balanced by natural forms and streamlined shapes.

For kitchens, contrasting textures and smooth finishes are in vogue – a glossy splashback or marble countertop matches rough wood drawer fronts. Lighting is always crucial but we are seeing far more demand for statement pendants and chandeliers, rather than simple task lighting. Green and olive are the most popular colours for the new-season, combining with rough natural materials such as wood, stone, jute and leather. People are gravitating towards warm, tactile and above all natural materials. Waste segregation systems are no longer an optional extra; it is essential that designers make these invisible and highly functional.

Any design advice on windows and how to dress them?

Habitus: For replacement windows, I’d recommend any colour except white. Most double-glazing companies offer dark grey, which is really popular. Black is also a trend, especially in aluminium-framed industrial-looking Crittall-style windows.

Newly made double-glazed timber sash-and-case windows are always a good choice – they last for years and you can paint them any colour you want. Adding a toplight with a fixed or opening window such as Velux can transform a room. In one recent project, I added sash windows to a traditional stone building. Done with care, this can look like the window has always been there.

O&A Design: We usually take a three-layer approach to dressing windows. We prefer a Roman shade from natural monochrome cotton as the outer layer; in the middle, we always put a blackout blind; and we finish this curtain pie with a decorative drape, which is made from natural materials such as silk or wool. This combination helps to control the light in the room, and shades the room easily in the summer.

BUILDING & RENOVATING GUIDE 2019

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hi-tech

The latest advances in smart technology for the home puts convenience and heightened security within reach of more households than ever.

We look at what going wire-free could mean for you What is a wire-free home and what are the benefits of installing such a system?

A contemporary cinema room and a Smarthome Control 4

Allan Boyd, Loud & Clear: When clients refer to a wireless or connected home they generally mean wireless control – or control from an app on a phone or tablet.

Many of today’s smarthome systems let you control your home environment from the comfort of your armchair, whether you’re actually sitting in your living room or two thousand miles away in a hotel room.

Smarthome systems such as the market-leading Control 4 can control a host of home technology including multi-room music, TV and video distribution, lighting, heating, blinds, curtains and CCTV – all from a powerful but simple-to-use app.

App-controlled lighting from the likes of Rako and Lutron can change the ambience in your room at the press of a button. Individual lighting circuits and sources can be controlled individually or grouped together to form a preset scene. For example, scene 1 in the kitchen is for preparing food; scene 2 dims the lights as you sit down to dinner; then scene 3 creates a warm, snug setting for after-supper drinks. This is all achieved without the need for a bank of dimmer switches or physically going round the room turning on table lamps. The capacity to open and shut curtains and blinds can be added to make life even easier.

What else can these systems do?

Allan Boyd, Loud & Clear: Many of these systems offer timer controls, not just for convenience but to enhance security.

Once set to your preferences, the curtains will open and shut, and the lights will come on and go off at specific times.

The more sophisticated systems will remember how the lights have been used in the previous week – repeating the sequence while you are away to give the impression that the house is occupied.

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Your central heating can be programmed easily to give the ideal temperature and maximum comfort at any time of the day or night.

If you go away for a long weekend and forget to turn the heating off, all is not lost – you can remotely change the programme via your mobile phone. Systems such as Google Nest or Hive from British Gas are available for between £200 and £300, and it is estimated they can save the average household 10 to 20% on heating bills alone per annum.

CCTV and video doorbells can sense motion and send the video feed to your smartphone, making it easy to see who is at the door – or to work out if it’s just the neighbours’ cat in the back garden.

Although the control itself might be wireless, many systems will work much better if their base components are on a wired network – as with any smarthome project, a certain amount of wiring is preferable. So it’s well worth doing a bit of pre-planning and sitting down with a knowledgeable adviser to discuss the options and explore how the system could work for you.

BUILDING & RENOVATING GUIDE 2019

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The Arns, Auchterarder Perthshire PH3 1EJ T: 01764 663271 E: info@jmlcontracts.co.uk www.jmlcontracts.co.uk

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Pencoed Bridgend CF35 6NY T: 01656 862621 E: info@rockwool.co.uk www.rockwool.co.uk

SHOWROOMS: • 19 Feus Road, Perth PH1 2AS • 42 Baird Avenue, Dryburgh Industrial Estate, Dundee DD2 3TN • 10b Borthwick View, Pentland Ind Est, Loanhead EH20 9QH

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FINANCE

THE HIGHLANDS SMALL COMMUNITIES HOUSING TRUST

7 Ardross Terrace, Inverness, IV3 5NQ T: 01463 572030 E: selfbuild@hscht.co.uk www.hscht.co.uk The Self Build Loan Fund was established by the Scottish Government to support and encourage the self build market at a time where securing mainstream finance can be difficult.

FLOORING

SCOTTISH BUILDING SOCIETY SBS House 193 Dalry Road Edinburgh EH11 2EF T: 0345 600 4085 E: mail@scottishbs.co.uk www.scottishbs.co.uk

Scottish Building Society is Scotland’s only independent building society.

Our flexible Self-Build mortgage could help you build your dream home in Scotland.

MCKAY FLOORING LIMITED 8 Harmony Square Govan, Glasgow G51 3LW T: 0845 602 7694 E: enquiries@mckayflooring.co.uk www.mckayflooring.co.uk

McKay Flooring are a family business and have been installing wood flooring, sanding wood floors and fitting traditional parquet since 1972.

Our showroom in Govan has over 200 wood floors on display.

Open 7 days.

KITCHENS

THE WOODEN FLOOR STORE

413 Hillington Road, Glasgow, G52 4BL T: 0141 892 0022 110 Salamander Street, Leith Edinburgh, EH6 7LA T: 0131 555 1122 11 Scott’s Rd, Paisley, PA2 7AN T: 0141 887 0422 Unit T, Middlefield Industrial Estate, Etna Road, Falkirk, FK2 9EG T: 01324 620022 www.thewoodenfloorstore.com Our England stores - London, Reading, Peterborough and Manchester coming soon.

ASHLEY ANN LTD.

Unit 4, Airport Industrial Estate Wick, Caithness KW1 4QS T: 01955 604433 E: enquiries@ashleyann.co.uk www.ashleyann.co.uk Along with superbly manufacturing kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms at our base in Scotland, we’re experts at working with homeowners and architects on new build and renovation projects. Visit our website to find your nearest showroom.

CAMERON INTERIORS

458-462 Crow Road, Glasgow 31 Dundas Street, Edinburgh T: 0141 334 9532 / 0131 556 2233 www.cameroninteriors.co.uk Cameron Interiors is renowned amongst its clients and contemporaries as purveyors of professional and personal luxury interior design. We provide design and project management for all aspects of the interior creation of kitchen, bedroom and living spaces.

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LISTINGS KITCHENS ctd

KITCHENS INTERNATIONAL

SELAN DESIGN LTD

At Kitchens International, we can help you create a new way of living.

Our award-winning team will work with you to create your dream kitchen, designed in harmony to your home, to your life.

Discover the art of kitchen.

Family owned business with 29 years experience. No obligation design consultation with award winning graduate designers. Innovative design features and storage solutions within your budget.

Aberdeen | Broxburn | Edinburgh | Glasgow | Tillicoultry T: 0845 074 0022 E: info@kitchensinternational.co.uk www.kitchensinternational.co.uk

KITCHEN WORKTOPS

STONECARE

Unit 7-8 St Luke’s Business Estate St Luke’s Place Glasgow G5 0TS T: 0141 429 1144 E: mail@stonecare.co.uk www.stonecare.co.uk Scotland’s established supplier of solid surface and stone worktops.

Stonecare have a team of exceptional craftsmen who combine their skills to produce a truly unique and stunning product which will enhance and add value to your chosen room.

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KITCHEN APPLIANCES

30-40 Union Street Broughty Ferry Dundee DD5 2AU T: 01382 480321 www.selandesign.com

LIGHTING

COTTERELL & CO

28-30 Carnoustie Place Glasgow G5 8PH T: 0141 429 5648 122 Causewayside Edinburgh EH9 1PU T: 0131 662 0000 E: sales@cotterellandco.com www.cotterellandco.com Custom made lighting, pendants and lampshades, handcrafted in our Scottish design studio, for projects of all sizes. Tailored and designed just for you. Beautifully curated lighting, furniture, accessories and fabrics.

QUOOKER

Beaumont Buildings Great Ducie Street Manchester M3 1PQ T: 0207 923 3355 E: enquiries@quooker.co.uk www.quooker.co.uk THE TAP THAT DOES IT ALL. 100°C BOILING, CHILLED AND SPARKLING. You can now also dispense chilled and sparkling water from your Quooker tap. That means that a single tap gives you everything you need.

STAIRCASES

STAIRCASE RENOVATIONS SCOTLAND T: 07977 531 666 E: info@staircaserenovations.scot www.staircaserenovations.scot

Fife-based staircase renovation specialists with over 40 years’ experience in high quality joinery.

We specialise in quality upgrading of existing staircases using polished timbers, metal spindles and glass panels - giving your existing staircase a bespoke look.

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STAIRCASES CTD

TOPFLIGHT PRECAST

The Old Sawmill, c/o Cloburn Quarry Lanark, South Lanarkshire ML11 8SR T: 01555 663444 | 07774 705835 E: office@topflightprecast.co.uk www.precastconcretestairs.co.uk Topflight Precast are the UK’s premier supplier of bespoke precast stairs and landings. A range of top quality bespoke concrete staircases, unique to each individual project. From design to manufacture, we ensure only the highest standards at each and every stage of the process. Creativity not compromise.

TIMBER FRAME

WINDOWS

OAKWRIGHTS SCOTLAND

CR SMITH

From garden buildings, garages and extensions to our beautiful oak frame homes, your self-build journey starts with us. Visit our website to read how you could take advantage of our ‘all under one roof’ service.

With over 45 years’ experience we’re experts in designing and building stunning, contemporary living spaces, including orangeries and sunrooms, that let the light flood in and stay cosy in winter months for year round enjoyment.

T.J. Crump Oakwrights Ltd 21 Portland Road Kilmarnock KA1 2BT T: 0141 309 9237 E: enquiries@oakwrights.co.uk www.oakwrights.co.uk/scotland

Gardeners Street Dunfermline Fife, KY12 0RN T: 0800 200 444 E: info@crsmith.co.uk www.crsmith.co.uk

WINDOW TREATMENTS

VELUX COMPANY LTD Woodside Way Glenrothes, Fife Scotland, KY7 4ND T: 01592 778225 E: sales@velux.co.uk www.velux.co.uk

For more than 75 years, the VELUX Group have led the way in designing innovative roof windows, blinds, shutters and accessories to promote bright and welcoming spaces and create happier, healthier homes.

VENTROLLA, THE SASH WINDOW SPECIALISTS

The Old Wool Mill, Sydney Place Lockerbie, DG11 2JA E: info@ventrolla.co.uk www.ventrolla.co.uk With over 35 years’ of experience and over 18,600 sash window renovations per year, we’re the experts when it comes to sash and case windows.

Whether you want to breathe new life into your old timber windows or upgrade to slim double glazing, we can help.

THOMAS SANDERSON

Unit 2 Churchill Park Private Road Number 2 Colwick Industrial Estate Nottingham NG4 2JR T: 0800 688 8118 E: info@thomas-sanderson.co.uk www.thomas-sanderson.co.uk Thomas Sanderson shutters, blinds and curtains offer bespoke window furnishings that can elegantly tie a room together. Bringing together over 25 years of product innovation and crafting expertise, offering you a beautiful addition to any room.

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LISTINGS 50 Architects

52 Kitchen Appliances

50 Bathrooms

52 Kitchen Worktops

50 Builders Merchants

52 Lighting

50 Building Services

52 Staircases

51 Finance

53 Timber Frame

51 Flooring

53 Windows

51 Kitchens

53 Window Treatments

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INDEX 51 Ashley Ann Ltd

50 ROCKWOOL Limited

53 C R Smith

51 Scottish Building Society

51 Cameron Interiors

52 Selan Design Ltd

52 Cotterell & Co

50 Sidey

51 The Highlands Small Communities Housing Trust

52 Staircase Renovations Scotland

50 JAMStudio Ltd 50 JML SIPs

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52 Stonecare 53 Thomas Sanderson

52 Kitchens International

53 Topflight Precast

51 McKay Flooring Limited

53 Velux Company Ltd

50 McNairs Building Supplies

53 Ventrolla, Sash Window Specialists

53 Oakwrights Scotland

50 Victor Paris

52 Quooker

51 The Wooden Floor Store

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5:08

THE TAP THAT DOES IT ALL 100°C BOILING, CHILLED AND SPARKLING WATER With the new Quooker CUBE, you can now also dispense chilled and sparkling water from your Quooker tap. That means that a single tap gives you everything you need: 100°C boiling, hot, cold, chilled and sparkling water.

Limited offer-£99 install* Interested? visit quooker.co.uk or call 0345 833 3333.

*Usual price £295 Connection to existing services.

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Mckay Flooring display the full range of Moduleo in their Govan showroom

Glasgow Office & Showroom, 8 Harmony Square, Glasgow G51 3LW

www.mckayflooring.co.uk | 0845 602 7694

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