ISSUE 05 | 2023
FLEXIBILITY WITH TIMBER FRAMES
Bold or bijou kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms
FROM FINDING LAND TO FEELING AT HOME
Jane Austen said ‘Ah! There is nothing like staying home for real comfort.’ And we definitely agree. Being at home should be the ultimate luxury. Especially in today’s world, where our house is not only shelter for our bodies and a refuge from the world for our souls, but it is just as likely to be our workplace. And over the past few years, smart technology has come a long way. Features that looked like the Jetsons before are now widely available.
That’s why, despite the cost of living crisis, it seems our enthusiasm for self-building or renovating is still as strong as ever. But the way we do it is changing, from more of us performing more of the labour ourselves, to installing energy saving features throughout the property.
It’s a myth that you have to be wealthy or young to create the perfect home for your and your family. According to a recent survey, most self-builders, for example, have a household income of less than £50k a year and work with a relatively modest budget. Nearly 70 per cent are at least 55, and more than a third of them are retired.
The time to start your journey to a happy home is now. So whether you are looking for the convenience of a kit house, the flexibility of a bespoke design or just want to transform your existing home into a space you really love, our guide is full of tips, trends and fantastic businesses that can make it happen.
Advertising director: Nicky Murphy
Design: Kevin McCubbin
Editorial: Michelle McNally
here will you start on your journey to self-building your dream home? With the land it sits on, of course. And how do you prepare for this daunting task? We got some tips from the Federation of Master Builders, the folks who know a bit about these things, to find out.
Work out your budget first and how you will finance the land purchase. You can get a mortgage for land, but the lender will want to see that you intend to build on it. The Scottish self-build loan fund does not cover land, only construction.
Engage a solicitor that is experienced in land sales. They will be able to spot issues such as site access or water rights, and see about planning permissions.
Narrow down your search area. It’s better to concentrate on the postcode that you really want, at least at first, and exhaust all possibilities in that area. Otherwise, you might miss out on a golden opportunity.
Land auctions are a good way to find suitable plots. However, transactions are conducted on a ‘sold as seen’ basis and therefore require a quick sale, leaving little time for research.
Once you have done these things, it’s time to start your search. There are several websites that allow you to search for details of plots for sale, although for some of these you need to pay a fee for membership. Traditional routes to find a plot include contacting your local property solicitors and estate agents or browsing their websites. Some kit home companies have a list of available self build properties that may have planning permission already in place. Then there’s the age-old method of driving around looking out for ‘For Sale’ signs. If you don’t get any joy using conventional methods, get a bit creative. There are alternate routes to land ownership, sometimes in unexpected places.
Utility organisations such as water, gas and electricity companies have surplus land available to buy, as do ScotRail and Network rail.
Many private residential homes have large gardens with building potential. Churches and charities sometimes sell land, as well. Approach private developers with undeveloped or partly developed land to see if they would consider selling you a plot.
Cash strapped organisations such as Councils or trusts often have parcels of land they are willing to sell. In addition to your council, others that sell land include harbour authorities, the Forestry Commission, churches and the lighthouse board.
Consider a site with a derelict structure on it that could be demolished or substantially renovated. Just make sure there are not planning restrictions due to it being a listed building.
What exactly is planning permission? Simple- it means asking the council to allow you to carry out major building construction, whether self build or renovation. Even if you own the property, the council has the final say on what you can build on it, and how. Do you need planning permission for your home project? If you answer ‘yes’ to any of these questions, you probably do.
• Am I self-building?
• Am I making a ‘major’ change to an existing house, more than a small alteration- i.e. an extension or changing the use of the building?
• Is the property listed or in a conservation area?
Some properties may already have planning permission in place, so be sure to check. You can also apply for planning permission on a piece of land before you buy it, as long as you inform the owner. This can be a good idea, because if your application is refused, you may be paying for a parcel of land or a building contract that doesn’t meet your needs.
And if you go rogue and plough ahead without obtaining the right paperwork, the council can order you to tear down what you just built!
• You should obtain planning permission as soon as possible, because the procedure takes time.
• Before submitting your application, speak with a planning officer at your local authority. If there are any potential problems or limitations you need to be aware of, they will let you know.
• You can save some hassle by asking your architect, solicitor or builder to submit the planning application on your behalf.
www.edevelopment.scot is a great planning tool and resource
Your home is a big investment, and unless you are sitting on a pile of cash, then you will need to take out a mortgage loan. No matter which way you go, it’s important to start early, because it can take four to five weeks for the approval process. And always add a 10-15 per cent contingency to your budget for overruns.
There are different types of loans available, depending on whether you are self-building or renovating, so let’s break them down.
Mortgage experts Hanley Economic Building Society can help you - visit www.thehanley.co.uk
Assuming you already own a plot and have planning permission, your next step is a specific self-build home loan. These are more rare and harder to get than traditional mortgages, so you may have to shop around.
You will need to have detailed plans, permissions and budgets in place to show the lender, as well as risk assessments and contingency plans. They will usually only lend if a professional architect or consultant is heading up the build. You may also need to show that you have enough funds to have somewhere else to live in the meantime, even if it’s in a caravan on site. And last, but not least, you will need a good deposit saved up- Money Supermarket suggests at least 25 per cent.
The funds for this type of loan are generally released in instalments, as the building stages are completed. Some loan companies will release funds in advance of each building stage, but others will reimburse you after you fork out for the work first. Your lender may keep a percentage of your loan total until the house is signed off as complete.
If all other avenues are explored to no avail, you could apply for the Self-Build Loan Fund from The Communities Housing Trust. Up to £175,000 is available and can be used in conjunction with the Croft House Grant Scheme. Apply before 31 August 2025. Check out www.chtrust.co.uk
According to data from Together, almost one in ten, or 9% of UK homeowners plan on making home renovations this year instead of moving, due to rising living costs. A renovation mortgage enables you to borrow money against the value of your property to pay for house upgrades. These might range from minor structural adjustments to cosmetic alterations. Interest rates on mortgages for renovations are often higher than those on regular mortgages. This is because by lending you money to enhance your house, the lender is taking on greater risk. You should also expect to put down payment of 25 per cent for a renovation mortgage.
Remortgaging or refinancing your existing home loan for renovation is taking advantage of the equity you have built up in your home, which is the difference between the market worth of your house today and the balance owed on your mortgage. The size of that difference will determine how much you can borrow. Adding the cost of home improvements to your mortgage can be cheaper than other forms of finance such as a personal loan or maxing out your credit cards.
According to Checkatrade, these are ballpark figures to expect for some home improvements in 2023:
• Three bedroom house total renovation: £76,900- £138,800
• New kitchen: £17,500/Extension: £19,500
• New heating system: £5,500
• New windows: £4,250
Your home is probably the biggest investment you will ever make. So unless you are an expert or the project is very simple, the first stop in a self-build or renovation should be a chartered architect (CA). When you hire a CA, you’re getting at least seven years of education and experience- and not just on drawing schematics. The CA will guide you through all the steps, from initial concept and planning permission to financing and grants, to helping you pick the best contractors. They can get you started with permits and advice, or take you all the way through the process, managing every last detail, down to the budget.
As they say on the designing shows, good architects will more than pay for themselves. At the very least, you will save money and time on amateur mistakes. Find the right CA match to your project on websites such as the Royal Institute of British Architects, which is free to use.
Usually, the architect’s fees are calculated based on a set percentage of the final cost of construction. This can range from 10 per cent right up to 25 per cent depending on the type and scale of the project. Final cost includes not just the build, but ‘soft’ costs such as fees and testing. Plan for about 25 per cent of your total budget for these types of expenses.
Once you see how involved the phases of construction are, you will appreciate the help of a good architect. The main steps for your architectural design project include:
Your chosen final design will be tweaked to your satisfaction and budget needs, and the cost will be updated. The architect can help you bridge the divide between dreams and practicalities, keeping your budget uppermost in mind.
Bidding is a complicated phase with several steps. Your architect will prepare a bid package, do the math and provide a list of qualified contractors. Forget cowboy builders, an architect can make sure you choose the best bidder for your project, one who will provide an accurate, honest bid and has a proven reputation.
This is where the rubber meets the road- finally! If you don’t want to have to administer every little detail or be on the building site every day to assure quality control, let your architect oversee the actual building. If any issues arise, they will be able to recognise and mitigate them right away.
The architect will start researching and designing your new home or renovations, letting you choose from a few options and estimating costs. A good architect will listen to your needs and ask you questions about your lifestyle.
Unicorn Architecture was founded by Sirus Jafari in 2002. Sirus is a chartered architect with a wide range of experience in architectural projects and in project management.
Sirus qualified as an architect from Mimar Sinan University in Istanbul in 1991. During his time in Istanbul he worked with the highly- regarded Turkish/American firm, M&N Butler, who specialized in restoration and residential projects. In 1991 Sirus re-located to the U.K., opting to study at the University of Strathclyde where he graduated Bachelor of Architecture in 1993. He then undertook further study in the then developing field of Computer Aided Building Design and obtained his master’s degree in CABD from the University of Strathclyde in 1994. He qualified as a chartered architect in 1995. Since qualifying, Sirus has worked on a large number of varied projects in Scotland. Prior to setting up his own practice, Sirus worked with a number of firms including Covell Matthews and Weddell and Thomson where he led a number of projects in the commercial and residential fields. With Unicorn Architecture he has continued to work in both these areas and some of his projects are listed in the Project Portfolio Area of the site. A number of Sirus’ most recent projects have been in Argyll and Bute, where he also has a base.
The whole philosophy of our practice is based upon a quality of service to our clients. We adhere to this ethos consistently across our whole body of work, from the smallest job to the practice’s larger work on public and commercial buildings.
We are accustomed to acting as design leader for projects, collaborating with leading engineers, cost consultants and other specialists.
Our work successfully balances imagination and creativity with functionality, commercial awareness, and construction expertise. We strive to design buildings that lift the spirits and meet our clients’ aspirations in every way.
W.D. Harley are an established Architectural practice who have over 40 years’ experience in residential, commercial and domestic projects throughout Scotland.
Due to the variety and diversity of our client base we have worked with every local authority building control and planning department in Scotland and gained valuable experience and contacts over the years.
We approach every project individually and its success is based on a partnership between the client and architect, we bring design and technical experience to the client and work with them to achieve a successful outcome. Our design skills and experience can be used to guide the client through the whole process to provide a project which is sustainable in every use and aesthetically pleasing both internally and externally.
Sustainability is very important to the practice and finding the right solutions to energy use, costs and maintenance is considered on every project.Solutions of course may vary depending on the site location (urban / rural) and the building use.
We have worked with various larger client frameworks over the years and further information on past projects and clients can be issued on request, as well as a larger commercial team, we also have a designated small works and residential team, who give a full service for a range of domestic projects.
So whatever project you are considering WD Harley would be happy to share our experience and discuss your plans
Prefabricated homes have come a long way since the humble single-storey bungalows erected in response to Britain’s post WWII housing crisis. In 1944 Churchill announced the Emergency Factory Made (EMF) housing programme. Like today’s timber frame homes, EMF houses used off-site construction. However, while both have prefabrication at their core, modern timber frames are designed and built to stand the test of time.
A kit home is a modern method of construction (MMC). Manufactured within a factory environment, it is flat packed, making it highly transportable. It can then be delivered to site on a lorry. Kits are also exceptionally fast to erect. Like a huge jigsaw the panels fit together making it easy to achieve a wind and watertight dwelling within 2 weeks, depending on the size of the home. Kit homes often use a timber frame structural system although there are other methods such as SIPs (Structurally Insulated Panels). Both timber frame and SIPs are highly thermally efficient.
Yes, absolutely. However, it’s not as simple as hitting the comparison websites to find what appears to be the most competitive mortgage deal: you will need to take a more specialist approach. Stage payment mortgages are specifically designed to suit the needs of homebuilders. They differ from traditional mortgages in that they release funds in defined phases – either in arrears or in advance - based on your build programme. A great place to start is Buildstore, a UK brokerage specialising in mortgages and finance for homebuilding projects. Nowadays, all of the major insurers offering building warranties accept timber frame kit homes as an acceptable method of construction.
Here are just a few of the many benefits to kit homes. As mentioned earlier, the structures are highly thermally efficient. There is also scope to integrate renewables into the specification which further improves energy efficiency and leads to lower energy bills. Secondly, the speed of erection means self-builders have more control over their build programme making it easier to schedule trades and bring their build in on time. Speed also means less noise, dust, traffic and disruption for neighbours. Manufacture in a factory allows for material optimisation and up to 40% less waste on site. Timber is also a renewable resource and, with the lowest CO2 of any build material, it is a sustainable choice. Perhaps
the most significant advantage is the consistent high quality achieved with a product produced within a factory.
Flexibility is another reason to build a timber frame kit home. You can opt for an off-the-shelf design, or create a bespoke home designed to your specific requirements. Some kit companies will have their own in-house design team, or you can work with the architect of your choice. Self-build is no longer associated with DIY. You can choose to do as much or as little as you like and different build routes support this. Some people prefer to hire a main contractor and defer the responsibility to them. Alternatively, you can project coordinate your build and manage your trades yourself. Obviously the more you can do yourself, the more money you save. There really are options available to suit an enormous range of circumstances and budgets.
the exact requirements of the self-builder. Accredited to international standards with ISO 9001:2015, we have gained a sterling reputation for the quality of our work since establishing in 1986. Today, our mission is to help make self-building more straightforward.” Sarah Mathieson, MD Fleming
Homes
We aim to support our customers from the outset of their self-build project with a range of services which starts with the design of your new home. From there, our experienced team can help you through the planning and building regulations phases. If you already have architect’s drawings, we will simply jump straight to the construction design phase. Each one of our homes is manufactured in our factory and every prefabricated panel is hand-crafted by an experienced maker. Once complete, our accredited erection team will quickly and efficiently progress your project to the wind and watertight stage. Alternatively, we can supply your kit to be erected by your own team.
We are especially proud of the feedback we receive from our customers. Here are just a few examples to give you an idea of what you can expect:
“Working with Fleming Homes was a pleasure. They clearly love what they do and seek to deliver the house of your dreams. Who could ask for more.”
Aileen DownieAn award-winning company based in the Scottish Borders, Fleming Homes has been supplying bespoke timber frame houses to the self-build market for over 37 years.
“Each one of the homes we manufacture is unique, a one-off created to meet
“Fleming Homes have been exceptionally helpful in all aspects of our build. We felt we could always phone for advice, and someone would be able to help us out. Everything was clearly explained from start to finish. Cannot fault the company and cannot recommend them highly enough.”
Karen and Martin YoungWe’ve made over 2000 beautiful homes for happy clients throughout the UK. Putting you at the very heart of your project, you will find us there for the whole journey – not just for your timber frame. For more information visit www. fleminghomes.co.uk or call Fiona Brewer on 01361 883785.
Established in 2003, SIPS@Clays is the UK’s leading provider of Structural Insulated Panels (SIP). As the original delivery partner of the market leading Kingspan TEK® Building System, SIPS@Clays designs, fabricates and installs SIPs for self-build and commercial projects across the country.
Working with SIPS@Clays couldn’t be easier. From initial design and fabrication right through to on-site installation, we carefully guide you through the process; working hand in hand with you, your chosen architect or your main contractor.
With everything under one roof, including our own in-house design studio where we push the boundaries of SIP designs, our streamline procedures ensure an end to end service that is hard to beat.
We stylishly design using CAD and interactive 3D modelling; we precision engineer with the latest cutting technology and expertly install your structure using our own teams of qualified installers. We strive for excellence in
every aspect of our business and have been awarded one of the top accolades within the structural timber sector – STA Assure Gold.
From our HQ and factory in Skipton, North Yorkshire, we apply our many years of experience, both in SIP and traditional construction, to provide technically sound, straightforward solutions that are individually tailored to your needs.
We take a fresh approach to homebuilding, so if you have plans you’d like to discuss, send them to SIPS@Clays.com for a speedy and reliable quotation.
Contact details: SIPS@Clays
Unit 3 & 4 Jaycee Business Park
Snaygill Industrial Estate
Keighley Road
Skipton
North Yorkshire BD23 2UR
Tel: 01756 799498
Web: Clays.com
Email: sips@clays.com
With energy costs so high, in 2023 we are all searching for ways to reduce our usage and improve our home’s energy efficiency. And as part of their efforts to meet Net Zero targets for 2050, the government outlined that all new homes must produce 31% fewer carbon emissions than was previously acceptable. By 2033, all
residential housing in Scotland is expected to have an EPC of at least C. In Scotland, less than half of private homes currently meet this requirement, so it seems we have a long way to go. Not to worry, however, as we are seeing some trends for 2023 that address this issue, whether you are building from scratch or undertaking a retrofit.
Underfloor heating
More and more people are opting for electric heating solutions – and electric underfloor heating is proving to be a popular choice. Increasingly, electric underfloor heating is paired with renewable energy sources, such as solar panels or heat pumps. As it is suited to new-build homes and renovations, the popularity of electric underfloor heating is increasing for those preparing for Net Zero.
Heat pumps
Heat pumps powered by clean, renewable energy can be the way forward for UK homes in a Net Zero future. There is virtually no property type or architectural era that is unsuitable for a heat pump. From new builds to Victorian mid-terraces to pre-WWII semis and a 1960s block of flats, heat pumps can be successfully installed in homes from almost every style and era. The range of different heat pumps include low and high temperature air source, ground source, or geothermal and hybrid heat pumps incorporated with a gas boiler.
norm in new build homes and renovations, putting you in full control of your energy usage- anytime, anywhere. Wi-Fi enabled technology connects your heating to your mobile phone. It will track your energy usage and learn your habits to provide a customised heating schedule. Or you can adjust the system manually from anywhere using the app. This makes it easy to save energy when you are not home and get it nice and cosy when you are ready to return.
Don’t skimp on the insulation
Did you know that poorly insulated walls account for 35%-40% of a home’s heat loss? And that 25% of heat is lost through the roof of a poorly insulated home? Blanket, board or blown insulation will help make sure you are not paying good money to heat the great outdoors.
underfloor heating is increasing for those customised heating schedule. Or you can adjust the system Did you know that poorly insulated walls account for 35%-40% of a board or blown insulation will help make sure you are not paying good money to Solar PV - climate friendly homes
Smart meters
Smart heating or cooling systems are becoming the
Solar PV - climate friendly homes
Solar PV is a green buzzword in home building and renovation circles these days, but what exactly is it? PV
stands for photovoltaic, and this is technology that converts sunlight into electrical energy at the atomic level. A single PV device
stands for photovoltaic, and this is technology that converts sunlight into electrical energy at the atomic level. A single PV device is called a cell, made up of semiconducting materials that are as thin as only four human hairs. The cells are connected in chains to form larger panels and sandwiched between glass or plastic to protect them from the Scottish weather.
Consumers can now apply for:
or plastic to protect them from the Scottish weather. for:
A grant of up to £7,500 to install a heat pump; if the household is eligible for the rural uplift, the grant value is up to £9,000.
the remaining cost of a heat pump installation. A grant of up to £7,500 to cover up to 75% of the combined cost of home energy
An optional interest-free loan of up to £7,500 towards the remaining cost of a heat pump installation. A grant of up to £7,500 to cover up to 75% of the combined cost of home energy efficiency improvements; if the household is eligible for the rural uplift, the grant value is up to £9,000.
An interest-free loan of up to £6,000 for battery storage systems.
An interest-free loan of up to £6,000 for battery storage systems.
To find out more, visit the Home Energy Scotland website. Advisors are also available to guide you through the process.
To find out more, visit the Home Energy
WITH funding available from the Scottish government, now has never been a better time for homeowners to consider going solar. And for more than 17 years here on the West Coast, Kenneth Ferguson Electrical is the go to for award winning service, whether it’s installing solar PV panels or simply adding some new sockets.
‘We’re a local family business based in Connel,’ Kenneth said. ‘We cover a large area of the West Coast of Scotland dealing with all of the electrical needs of our domestic and commercial customers, new and existing, from new builds to renovations.’
More and more of Kenneth’s clients are choosing features such as solar PV panels and energy storage batteries when self building or renovating their home, because they are a smart choice for the family budget. The sun is also a green source of energy, as the typical home solar PV system saves around one tonne of carbon per year from entering the earth’s atmosphere.
‘You can generate your own electrical units throughout the day when it’s daylight, even when it’s cloudy, harnessing your own energy and using that in your house,’
explained Kenneth. ‘You can expect a 60 to 80 per cent average reduction in your electric bills per year. Plus there is financial help out there for homeowners when they install renewable energy saving features like solar PV panels.’
Grants for solar PV panels are available through Energy Saving Trust Scotland. There are also zero per cent finance options and cash back offers for home energy efficiency improvements. To find out more about applying for financial assistance with solar PV systems and other energy saving features in your home, visit www.energysavingtrust.org. uk, and then get in touch with Kenneth Ferguson for a detailed quotation to send in with your application.
The kitchen truly is the heart of your home. A room designed to nourish not just the body, but also the soul. The kitchen should be both comfortable and practical, and should be such a joy to be in that cooking doesn’t seem like a chore. To that end, we’ve been scouring the best kitchen trends for 2023 with ideas to incorporate into your self-build or renovation.
As the cost of food, fuel and energy rises, make your money go further with energy efficient appliances. Smart ovens and cookers are in more demand than ever, and we’re also seeing smart kitchen tools, such as mixers, food keepers and cutting boards. Smart tech features such as boiling water taps and filter taps make life a bit easier.
Not just for Downton Abbey, anymore, the butler’s pantry is the new designer’s darling. A butler’s pantry is technically a separate side room with a sink, and maybe a dishwasher. But you could also have one corner of the kitchen lined with distinctive shelves and cabinets to store dining and serving ware. If you entertain a lot, this will allow to you to host with ease.
Forget that avocado from the 70’s, today’s hottest shade for the kitchen is emerald green. Other jewel tones like aquamarine blue, lilac, teal and pink are also trending for 2023, so don’t be
afraid to make your kitchen unique, an expression of your personality. Combine two tones for a colour on colour splash. Dark, heavy grain wood or marble will give a luxe feel to the room.
Mixing metals is hot for 2023, providing an eclectic, ‘more is more’ finish to the kitchen, to create a sense of vibrancy. Brass is a perennial favourite for fixtures, because it goes well with a variety of colour schemes. Consider mixing in bronze, copper, stainless or blackened steel for a swish look.
Range hoods are the new backsplashes. Top your stove with a stunning range hood that sets the tone in your space. In addition to traditional copper and stainless steel, range hoods are available in a vast array of bright, cheerful colours. You are only limited by your imagination!
Take your cue from the chefs with catering kitchen style additions. Glass door fridges are making a big comeback, where the beautiful food is the star of the show. Or choose an Instaview refrigerator, which turns transparent when you touch it so you can see inside without opening the door- Jetsons stuff! Double stainless steel sinks or an island with a separate sink are also super handy, especially for cooking together as a family.
Let’s face it, we spend a LOT of time in there. For many of us, it’s our favourite room of the house, a place we go to escape. We’re talking, of course, about the beloved bathroom. We’re seeing a trend towards treating the loo as more than just a convenience, but rather as a place to escape and relax. Who wouldn’t want their very own home spa? A welldesigned bathroom could also increase a home’s worth by up to 6.1%. So it pays to put some effort into the lavatory, for your enjoyment now, and for later, when you sell the property. We combed social media for expert advice and hot trends.
Biophilic designthere’s that buzzword again- emphasises the connection between nature and interior spaces. Homeowners are increasingly seeking to incorporate the outdoors into their bathrooms to promote relaxation and well-being. Include features such as natural light, large windows and live plants to create a calm and rejuvenating atmosphere.
The colour palette for bathrooms is moving towards softer shades that evoke a sense of tranquillity. Soft pastels like blush pink, sage green and powder blue help create a gentle and soothing ambience. Earth tones such as warm beige, terracotta and rich brown ground the space and connect it to nature. These colours work well in combination with natural materials and understated designs to create a harmonious and serene atmosphere.
More homeowners are choosing sustainable and eco-friendly materials for their bathroom designs. For those of us trying to lessen our environmental footprint while keeping aesthetics and practicality, recycled glass tiles, repurposed wood and water-saving fixtures are popular options. Look for vintage stand-alone tubs that need a new home. You can refurbish them yourself or find them in upcycle shops.
home. shops.
High-tech features are becoming increasingly popular as homeowners look for ways to incorporate technology
into their bathroom designs without compromising style. Smart mirrors display the time, weather, and personalized notifications, while providing adjustable lighting for makeup application or shaving. Touchless faucets reduce water waste and improve hygiene (great for little ones!) Waterproof speakers bring your favourite music or podcasts to your daily routine.
Minimalist and Scandinavian styles focus on simplicity, functionality and the use of natural materials. We’re talking clean lines, frameless glass showers, and a neutral colour palette. Incorporate elements such as light
wood tones, white tiles and minimal ornamentation to bring a sense of balance and harmony. Matte black faucets, showerheads and hardware provide a sleek and contemporary look. Trendy gold fixtures introduce a touch of glamour and elegance.
We are increasingly seeking ways to create a sanctuary within our bathrooms, turning them into havens for rest and rejuvenation. Features such as built-in seating, cosy nooks, natural baskets and integrated storage solutions will make your bathroom more versatile as it accommodates activities like reading, meditation and home spa treatments.
William Wilson are one of the largest suppliers of plumbing, heating and bathroom materials in Scotland. With 21 trading locations throughout Scotland, they are uniquely placed to help the Scottish self-build community. William Wilson have many unique services ideal to help you turn your self-build dream into a reality including:
• Free of charge heating system design and technical advice.
• Free of charge bathroom design service. *
• Free delivery to most areas of mainland Scotland.
Plumbing
William Wilson have 21** trading locations in Scotland, stocking a comprehensive range of plumbing fittings and products from brass fittings to renewable heating systems. The company aim is to provide an excellent service to customers as well as having the right products in the right place at the right time.
William Wilson can provide a free of charge heating system design and technical advice service. Renewable technologies such as ground or air source heat pumps are becoming ever more viable and cost effective, particularly when installed in a new or self-build situation. Whatever the technology and whatever the consumer requirements William Wilson can provide the right solution. Fully trained heating design engineers have the expertise to design and supply any of the renewable energy systems currently available in the marketplace and can incorporate underfloor heating into most designs.
Bathrooms
William Wilson have 17** bathroom showrooms throughout Scotland, each with eye-catching displays filled with ideas to inspire you. Room set displays in each showroom feature both contemporary and traditional bathroom suites from manufacturers such as Ideal Standard and Roca. William Wilson also have a comprehensive range of bathroom accessories, furniture
and tiles.
Building your own house can be made easier with William Wilson. Visit www. williamwilson. co.uk to find a location near you. Ask about our Self-Build Purchase Account facility.
Visit us at Scottish Self-Build and Renovation, Macdonald Aviemore Resort, Saturday 16th September.
*Does not include a site visit. **Bathroom showrooms only at Aberdeen Altens, Aberdeen Mastrick, Aviemore, Ayr, Dundee, Edinburgh, Elgin, Fraserburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, Inverurie, Kirkcaldy, Kirkwall, Perth, Portree, Stornoway and Thurso.
We have an extensive selection of bathroom fittings and fixtures to help you get the finish you’re after. If you’re looking to create a contemporary wet room, freestanding, or over-bath shower, you’ll want to explore our showers and accessories and shower trays – whether you’re building from scratch or looking to replace parts, you’ll find everything you need.
Update your bathroom instantly with our bathroom taps and create a bespoke bathroom suite. Our toilets and basins come in a variety of styles and can help tie the bathroom concept together. Choose
the right bath for the space you have. Our collection of freestanding baths offer a luxurious feel, straight baths add a modern design twist, and corner baths can help for those tricky spaces.
Our extensive range of bathroom furniture and accessories includes all the finishing fixtures you need, including bathroom countertops, mirrors and lighting. And our tiles, panelling, and heating selection has all the design features you could want.
Okay, we admit it. Roofing isn’t the sexiest of topics when it comes to building or renovating your dream home. But the most important thing protecting your family- and your investment- is your what is over your head.
The industry is adopting a defensive posture due to growing real estate prices and an increase in severe weather events. Residential rooftop decks are still generating some buzz, but in the future, you can expect to see more homes built with tough, long-lasting materials that can withstand fire and moisture. According to Roofing Today, these big trends are dominating roofing in 2023.
With property prices and mortgage costs soaring, along
with everything else, homeowners are looking for ways to not only boost curb appeal, but also save money on everything from utilities to home insurance. To the rescue are durable roofing materials that provide fire resistance. Your insurance company will love you for it.
Mitigating moisture with good quality roof crickets, cover boards and gutters are not only important for the structural integrity of your home, but controlled flow of roof runoff will prevent groundwater contamination. Superior materials do mean higher upfront cost, but the benefits will pay for themselves over the years when
you factor in fewer repairs, less maintenance and lower insurance premiums.
If you are looking to squeeze every square metre out of your property, why not include a stylish rooftop deck in
Your choice of roof style and building materials make a big impact on your home insurance premiums. Important factors that your insurer will consider include:
Materials
Some insurance carriers may not cover a roof if it has wooden shakes because they consider that to be a fire hazard. Consider more durable materials that insurance companies consider to be fire-safe, such as metal or slate.
Shape
The shape of the roof may affect
insurance rates, depending on the geographical area. For instance, in coastal areas, hip roofs often tolerate strong winds better than gable roofs.
Age
your plans? No longer the domain of high rises or Gothic mansions, the rooftop deck is perfect for creating a functional outdoor space, even when space is tight. Just make sure there are no zoning restrictions and that you have planning permission in place before you even think about your dream deck in the sky. upfront the
Providers have been known to deny or discontinue coverage for homes that have antiquated roofs, such as basic asphalt with a warranty of 20 years or less. Consider renovating with more modern materials that have longer warranties.
2023 is a fun, new age for interior design. Fashions come and go, so instead of buying into fads for your walls, why not incorporate colours and textures that spark joy and speak to your personality? As interior designer Billy Baldwin once said, ‘Be faithful to your own taste, because nothing you really like is ever out of style.’
Here are some top interior wall covering looks to embrace for your self-build or renovation in 2023.
The experts say while there are no rules for selecting the right colour for a home, warm and vibrant colours are making a comeback after taking a back seat to the cool greys, whites and neutrals that have dominated for a long time now. In fact, the Dulux Colour of the Year for 2023 is a warm tone called Wild Wonder ™, described as a ‘glowing and uplifting tone’. Textural paint finishes are a low-cost, yet effective, way to add visual interest to a room.
There is a wallpaper style for you, whether you
want to make a strong statement or have a more understated backdrop. That said, pattern on pattern and clashing colours are having a moment. Say goodbye to boring and forget minimalism! Think statement wallpaper and printed fabrics, like botanical prints, wavy lines, dramatic graphics, largescale prints, as well as retro designs.
Should I paint or put up wallpaper? It really depends on the look you are going for, but there are pros and cons to each.
• Paint is initially less expensive than wallpaper.
• Wallpaper is more durable, lasting up to 15 years, whereas paint needs a touch-up every year or two and a repaint every five years.
• If damaged, however, paint is much easier to repair than wallpaper.
• Wallpaper is suitable for bedrooms, living rooms and hallways.
• Paint is more suitable for kitchens, bathrooms or other areas of high humidity.
Whether your vibe is Coastal Grandmother or Whimsigothic, the way you feel in your home environment has a direct impact on not just your comfort, but your health and happiness. A thoughtfully designed home, starting with the architectural plans, right through to flooring materials, furniture textures and lighting choices, can actually contribute to your general wellbeing. With that in mind, we talked to the experts about the newest interior trends, and found out what’s still hot- and what’s not- for 2023.
Remote and flexible work is here to stay, so why not incorporate office space- or spaces- into your architectural plans, instead of labouring on a laptop over the kitchen island? If you don’t have an extra room to dedicate, or if there are multiple people working from home, you can opt for what designers call ‘tech spaces.’ These are small alcoves that make the most of square footage while offering a sense of comfort and privacy when working from home.
Organization is key to wellbeing, especially with so many of us living and working in a hybrid environment. When you have a home that is in order, it creates a calm and relaxing environment. You can spend more time with family and less time tidying or stressing over your space. Clever containers, attractive baskets, built in cupboards, functional closet space and lots of pegs make it easy to keep all of your stuff relatively in order.
Biophilic is from the Greek, meaning a love of living things. Biophilic design goes hand in hand with an increased focus on sustainability in home interiors. You can use outdoor elements, such as organic and nature inspired features to decorate. Large, floor-toceiling windows showcase our amazing Scottish landscapes. Coordinating décor, paint and flooring in earth and sky tones, especially in rooms with lots of
windows, blurs the line between indoors and outdoors, giving an illusion of openness inside your home.
This popular ‘Core’ trend has been around for a few years, but Cottagecore seems to be here to stay, at least for a while. You don’t have to live in a cottage to love this look- it’s a welcoming vibe for our British weather! Think nostalgia meets cosiness, in a welcoming interior warmed by a centrepiece wood stove or fireplace. Embrace the trend with floral or tartan inspirations, creams, browns, roses and baby blues, wood and copper combos, warm, low level lighting, vintage furniture touches, warm wool throws and chunky knits.
A simple colour palette of bright whites and cool greys has been on trend the last
few years. Now moving away from this fashion, many interior designers are opting for more colourful alternatives. For those of us who designed our homes around the all-white trend, and are now seeing this phase out of style, adding soft, warm tones and light wood accents can immediately add warmth and bring cool tones up to date.
Dark interiors, ranging from deep green to charcoal to the deepest black, even in wall colours, are all the rage this year, and are surprisingly inviting. But if you aren’t quite ready to go full on Wednesday Addams, weave darker tones throughout your decor with dark-coloured bed linen or accessories. Accessorise with vintage prints and candelabras, slightly untidy bookshelves and unusual ornaments.
No matter how much effort and money you spend on buying new homeware, transforming your walls or choosing lustworthy furniture pieces, designing your living space should always start with the basics- your floors. We got a few tips from Craig Smith at Flooring Superstore about the hottest flooring trends for 2023.
Earthy and natural tones are big for 2023, and golden metallic hues are the perfect match for neutral wall shades. Nothing beats treating your tootsies to warm, plush carpet, especially in the bedroom. Luxurious carpets with a subtle shimmer are a great way to embrace this trend, while adding a dash of indulgence and warmth to your finished look.
With all the stresses of daily life, creating a space that provides peace and refuge is a big trend for 2023. Natural colours, fibres and texture create a gentle aesthetic that is the perfect ambience to relax and unwind. Natural wood flooring is the perfect base for your relaxing space.
Tiles in 2023 are all about making a statement. Whether it’s a dramatic geometric pattern or bright and bold dashes of colour don’t be afraid to push the boat out with your tiled flooring. Team with neutral shades and low-key accessories to make your flooring pop.
We’re seeing resurgence in popularity for bold, yet minimal monochrome flooring, especially for bathrooms and kitchens. From traditional Victorian or retro tiling to the ultimate in contemporary design, there’s a black and white flooring option to suit all tastes.
Make a statement with
From classic marble countertop to regal marble flooring, stone finishes are sure to make a statement and remain a top choice for interiors in 2023. Opt for finishes that have pronounced natural marbling to
really capture the latest trend.
Before the development of modern heating, British homes used wool rugs to retain warmth in the home, and they are still a great choice. They are strong and long lasting, add comfort and can help with heating costs. Today’s area rugs are more vibrant and beautiful than everand our favourites are even washable! Botanical inspired blues, greens and golds are on trend this year.
We provide our clients with a comprehensive range of products and fitting services within a 50 mile radius of our premises. For your added convenience, we are pleased to offer a supply and fit service. Whatever your requirements, you can trust in Carpet & Flooring Services (Oban) to stock the ideal flooring to meet your individual needs.
We stock all leading brands, and if you want a product we do not have in stock, we can order it for you from our suppliers!
We are a friendly and professional firm with over 40 years’ experience to call upon ensuring our team of fully qualified carpet fitters always provide our clients with the most appropriate solution to meet their individual flooring requirements.
We offer a complete service from point of sale through delivery and fitting your desired flooring, and always review our pricing to ensure our rates are competitive and our customers receive a value for money service.
The huge range of products we stock coupled with the service provided by our fully trained team of carpet fitters creates a complete service that is extremely competitive and offers a value for money service to our clients.
Our staff are all fully qualified and highly skilled, taking great pride in their work which is reflected in the high standards we continue to achieve. What’s more, our aftercare service ensures our customers are satisfied with the products and services we supply, as we are not happy unless you are delighted.
Products:
• LVT Flooring
• Carpets
• Vinyl Flooring
• Commercial Flooring
• Samples Available
• Special offers Available
(Visit our store or contact us for further details)
Finding a builder can be stressful. And a rogue trader can leave you with a devastating financial loss. It’s not always easy to find your dream contractor in a largely unregulated market. With Citizens Advice seeing an 18 per cent rise in contractor complaints year-on-year, you need to be careful whom you hire.
That’s why, unless you get a good word of mouth referral, it’s best to use a service that lists qualified contractors. For example, the HomeOwners Alliance and the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) offer a Find a Builder website, which will help homeowners find qualified builders who have been properly inspected and vetted at www. hoa.org.uk/services/find-a-builder.
According to Citizens Advice, there are important steps you can take to avoid this headache.
Get references and ask to see two or three examples of similar work. Ask to see copies of their qualifications, such as an NVQ in construction, and make sure they are members of a professional organisation. Interview potential contractors before you hire them. Ask lots of questions and take notes.
Get quotes- in writing- preferably from three businesses, if possible. This should be a proper quote, not an estimate. If the contractors do the math right, they should not charge you more than the written quote, unless the scope of work goes beyond what you agreed, or material prices rise.
Things do go awry, but help mitigate your loss. Make sure your contract is water tight and in writing. This includes a breakdown of the work and supplies, total price, time frame to complete the work and for how long the quote is valid from the date received. And while the builder, by law, is required to hold employer’s liability insurance, ensure there is also public liability insurance in place. If not, consider getting your own, in case someone else’s property is damaged during your build.
There’s no dancing around the fact that the cost of materials have been rising at an alarming rate over the past few years. There are many reasons for this, mostly having to deal with shortages and supply chain issues. The bottom line is that we are seeing material prices approximately 25 per cent to 28 per cent higher than they would have been by equivalence in 2020. The cost for things such as screws, insulation and gravel has skyrocketed. Not to mention, there has been a long lead-time for ordering materials because of shortages.
However, the lead-time problem looks like it will ease somewhat in 2023, and some costs are actually easing off. Prices for wood, reinforcing concrete bars and particleboard, for example, are down over the
In the face of these challenges, we just have to be prepared. It’s always good to order materials as far ahead as possible, but now, it’s imperative. And keep an open line of communication with your contractors, who will know about upcoming price rises before you do.
Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword anymore, we are all doing our part these days. Your garden space doesn’t have to just be pleasing to the eye- it can also help save the planet. Think water features, native plants, recycled landscaping materials and non-toxic weed and pest control. And mowing every square inch is out- leaving areas of wildflowers, tall grasses and the odd pile of leaves is in. This provides much needed resources to our friends such as the bees, hedgehogs and birds.
If the past few years have taught us anything, it’s that the more we can contribute towards our own food supply, the better. Nothing beats home grown produce, and even the smallest spaces can be put to culinary use, with touches ranging from herb gardens and berry bushes to asparagus beds and fruit trees. For some people, that means shunning grass lawn and pavements for a completely edible landscape. For others, it means a small chicken coop or polytunnel, along with some beautiful, edible flowers.
Gardening is fun and good
for our mental and physical health, so there shouldn’t be barriers to getting out there and getting our hands dirty. Designing and maintaining a garden that everyone can enjoy has never been easier, with technology such as smart sprinklers and electric tools, as well as helpful landscaping, such as wheelchair accessible paths and raised vegetable and flowerbeds that are custom made to a height just for you.
Outbuildings aren’t just for potting sheds anymore! Workshop, gym, home pub or man cave, there are so many uses for a wee building of your own. And with more people working
remotely, many of us could use a home office. If you have room on your property, consider setting aside some room for a small building. These days, you can even find kits or sheds that are site ready, complete with sky lights and electric fittings. Just make sure you have any planning permissions in place.
Solo Stove designs simple, ingenious outdoor products to help you create good moments that become lasting memories. Their re pits, camp stoves, pizza oven, grill and accessories are designed to help you get in touch with whatever is ‘good’ for you. Lightweight and low smoke, Solo Stove Fire Pits feature a double-wall design with a 304 Stainless Steel build for uninterrupted enjoyment in any outdoor space.
Now we are bringing warmth to the table.
The new Mesa XL is the tabletop re pit made to elevate your space’s aesthetic. With Dual Fuel capability and Signature 360° Air ow, anyone can easily ignite and enjoy a smokeless re.
Find more info at eu.solostove.com
Which brand designs low smoke fire pits to create lasting memories?
To enter, send entries with your name, address, telephone number and email address to Scottish Field Competitions, e North Quarter, 496 Ferry Road, Edinburgh EH5 2DL or enter online at www.scottishfield.co.uk.
Closing date, unless otherwise stated, is Friday 28 July 2023.
