I-Build February 21

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COVER STORY

DREAM KITCHEN RENOVATION After 12 years of living in their lateVictorian East Dulwich home, Paul and Lindsay Davies were forced to admit that their kitchen was no longer fit for purpose F E B R UA R Y 21 - I S S U E 79

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CASE STUDIES

CASE STUDIES

INSPIRATION

MATERIALS

ADVISORY

AYE, AYE, CAPTAIN

THE SEASON OF LOVE

COLOUR OUTSIDE THE LINES

HOME SWEET TEMPORARY HOME

Faded Blackheath Grade II Listed captain’s house receives £1m makeover

Hand-picked Valentine’s Day accessories to inject some passion into your interiors

How do you decide on a colour scheme for your home? We talk to Lick for expert advice

Temporary living – making two 40ft shipping containers feel more like home

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E

ditor's Welcome

I-BUILD FEBRUARY 2021

EDITORIAL: Rebecca Kemp

rebecca@crossplatformmedia.co.uk

Hannah Woodger

hannah@crossplatformmedia.co.uk

PRINT & DIGITAL ADVERTISING: Sam Ball sam@crossplatformmedia.co.uk

Jim Moore

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PRINT DESIGN MANAGER: Jack Witcomb

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DIGITAL DESIGN MANAGER: Matt Morse

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ACCOUNTS: Rachel Pike

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SALES SUPPORT: Klare Porter

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PUBLISHER: Sam Ball

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Contributions are invited and when not accepted will be returned only if accompanied by a fully stamped and return addressed envelope.

No responsibility will be taken for drawings, photographs or literary contributions during transmission or in the editor's hands. In the absence of an agreement, the copyright of all contributions, literary, photographics or artistic belongs to Cross Platform Media Ltd. The Publisher accepts no responsibility in respect of advertisements appearing in the magazine and the opinions expressed in editorial material or otherwise do not necessarily represent the view of the publisher. The Publisher does not accept any liability of any loss arising from the late appearance or non publication of any advertisement.

Cover story:

After 12 years of living in their late-Victorian East Dulwich home, Paul and Lindsay Davies were forced to admit that their kitchen was no longer fit for purpose.

A

sk any successful selfbuilder or home renovator if there were – or are – any challenges in their project, and the majority will have an arm's length list. The hurdles, however, don't just start when the build commences.

For some, merely finding a suitable plot can be the most gruelling and time-consuming of tasks. Still, if you want something that much, you'll go to any length to make it happen – with some determination and a positive attitude.

Ade explained: "After over 100 letters and many nos, we got one maybe and eventually a yes!" – and Ade's innovation doesn't stop there. His family's temporary accommodation, two 40ft shipping containers, are a sight to be seen. With ultra-modern interiors, bright and airy spaces as well as on-trend furnishings, this is the most Instagram-worthy shipping container you'll come by. To read Ade's fantastic story and for inspiration on making temporary living more liveable, turn to page 12.

Ade Sosanya is a first-class example of how hard work, perseverance and a few thinking-outside-of-the-box moments will eventually pay off and help you land on your feet. Currently awaiting planning approval for the transformation of their Kent-based 18th-century barn, the Sosanyas have had a far from straightforward journey.

After three years of searching for the right plot at the right price, Ade decided to get creative. Using Google Earth and whilst out and about, Ade would look for redundant sites and, upon finding suitable plots, he’d write letters to the owners asking if they'd be interested in selling their land which, extraordinarily, landed them with the plot he owns today. In his own words,

Elsewhere in this issue, we look at two beautiful extension projects. One ultra-modern transformation worth over £1m in Blackheath's Shooter's Hill and another enviable £75k kitchen extension for a late-Victorian East Dulwich home, which has transformed the way the homeowners use the space. Turn to page 18 to head over to Shooter's Hill and page 24 for East Dulwich’s kitchen extension.

Rebecca @ibuildmagazine

@ibuildmagazine

ibuildmagazine

Download the i-Build app for iPhone, iPad and Android. Search 'i-build'.

E

ditor's Picks

See page 24.

Barham Court, Teston, Maidstone, Kent ME18 5BZ 01622 232723 www.crossplatformmedia.co.uk

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February 2021 ADVISORY

INSPIRATION

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Desired Designs:

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Desired Designs:

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The Look of Love: Love it or loathe it, it's that time of year when pinks, reds and novelty love heart graphics take over and red roses are sold by the dozen. Here, we’ve selected a handful of interior accessories inspired by Valentine’s Day. Daring Doormats: Add some style and colour to your front door with these quirky, attentiongrabbing doormats.

Style Guide:

Crazy About Clay?

With an abundance of benefits, as well as their Mediterranean good looks, it's no wonder we're all crazy about clay tiles.

Here, we've picked out some of our favourite tiles on the market.

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I-DEAS

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i-nterior:

Fires & Stoves: Are you renovating your fireplace and about to start your journey towards a new stove or fireplace?

This month, Annabelle Carvell, PR Officer at the Stovax Heating Group, has offered us her top 10 elements to consider to help you understand your requirements.

Viewpoint

While Ade Sosanya and his family await planning permission for their barn-style build, they’re living in two 40ft shipping containers. Having lived on-site for two years, they have transformed these containers into one luxury living space.

Here, we talk to Ade about making temporary accommodation feel like home and his grand build plans.

Floors, Walls & Ceilings

CASE STUDIES

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Dan Greatrex, Manager of online builders’ merchant Insulation Superstore – part of CMOStores.com – looks at some of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to update and enhance your self-build project.

i-Build:

Oak Frame: Thinking of working from home more often, but need a new space to make a perfect office? Here, English Heritage Buildings offers 12 reasons why you should build that space in your own garden.

MATERIALS

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Paints & Finishes

One of the most creative things you can do in your home is to add colour.

How do you decide on a colour scheme though?

This month, we've talked to Lick's resident Lead Colour Specialist, Tash Bradley, for her paintpicking advice.

Impressive Innovation Located in Shooter's Hill, one of the oldest parts of London's Blackheath, Steven Hobbs’ Grade II Listed captain's house was more than a little faded, and in many ways unsuited to modern family life. An innovative design approach from Matthew Giles Architects has introduced dramatic changes to the rear.

Urban Sanctuary

After 12 years of living in their late-Victorian East Dulwich home, Paul and Lindsay Davies were forced to admit that their kitchen was no longer fit for purpose. With little room to appreciate the heart of their home, the pair turned to Plus Rooms for help. Here, we talk to Lindsay about the stunning transformation and find out more about the space the couple lived in for over a decade before deciding to take the home improvement route.

NEWS/PRODUCT GUIDE

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Product Guide

i-Build rounds up the latest innovative products in the marketplace, designed with your self-build in mind.

Bricks & Blocks

Sarah Viney of Marmox explains how you can overcome some of a home’s trickiest technical challenges with a surprisingly simple solution.

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I-B U I L D/ F E B/21

DESIRED DESIGNS

esired esigns

©GINGER RAY

THE LOOK OF LOVE...

Love it or loathe it, it's that time of year when pinks, reds and novelty love heart graphics take over and red roses are sold by the dozen. Whether you're a hopeless or hopeful romantic, there's no reason why Saint Valentine himself can't inspire your interior scheme.

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f you're a fan of changing your interior accessories to correspond with seasons and national celebrations or if you prefer a more low-maintenance, steady aesthetic in your home, the romantic trend can be as low-key or loud as you like. What's more, an interior plan inspired by Valentine's Day doesn't necessarily mean diving into the deep end and painting your home top to bottom in a deep, passionate red (unless you're feeling bold, of course). Striking I-B U I L D/ F E B/21

YOURS TO BUY

typography, for example, is a fantastic means of displaying the trend in a stylish, laidback manner – particularly for those shy romantics. You can incorporate those cliche Valentine-themed phrases, such as 'love, or heartshaped designs into homes in the form of cushions, doormats, kitchen crockery and romantic-styled art prints for a more timeless aesthetic – all without the cringe. Here are a few 'love' and Valentine's Day-inspired designs that may look perfect in your home.

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1. Love block letters doormat, Red Candy, £18

6. Vegas metal LED circus light, Cult Furniture, £14

2. Hearts knitted picnic blanket, Sophie Allport, £39

7. Red Milagro heart cushion, Red Candy, £54.95

3. Embroidered heart love upholstered bench fuchsia, Bombay Duck, £225

8. Red flocked winged heart bookends, AUDENZA, £38

4. Heart embroidered cushion, Red Candy, £29

9. Valentine's Day flower arrangement with faux red roses, £POA, VG New Trend

5. Lovely table, Roberta Rampazzo Design, £890

10. Saturday loveseat in claret cotton matt velvet, Sofa.com, £1190

DESIRED DESIGNS

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OUR BRAND PICK

lbert Moon

Available via Etsy, Albert Moon was formed by long-time friends, Simon and Victoria. Simon puts pencil to paper, and Vicky feeds him with silly ideas. According to Simon and Victoria, Albert Moon's designs are similar to its owners – bold, quirky and a bit rude! Designs are available to order online or download and print yourself at home.

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04 YOURS TO BUY

1. Toi et moi French poster, £4.50 2. Love downloadable poster, £4.50 3. Love poster, £4.50 4. Little spoon poster, £4.50

HOT PRODUCT

Romance in the kitchen

TOP TIP

Love hearts and Valentine's Day-themed kitchenware doesn't have to mean kitschy, over-the-top cups, plates and teapots. If you look in the right places, you can find more simplistic, minimal designs for your kitchenware. Here are a few we've seen.

YOURS TO BUY

1. Favourite cups 'love' nude Becher Design Letters, einrichten-design.de, €19.50

3. Maxwell & Williams white basics heart 21cm bowl, Kitchen Craft, £7.50

2. Artesà appetiser slate serving platter, Kitchen Craft, £5.99

4. Sweetheart dish purple, Made by Hand Online, £40

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Show them you care whilst simultaneously supporting small businesses?

If you're struggling for gift ideas for your better half this year, and you're looking for something sentimental, head over to Etsy. From personalised tea towels to bespoke printed cushions – all hand-made by creatives from around the world – there's something for everyone and every home.

I-B U I L D/ F E B/21

DESIRED DESIGNS

esired esigns DARING DOORMATS

Add some style and colour to your front door with these quirky, attentiongrabbing doormats.

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DESIRED DESIGNS

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CONSIDERING CLAY? There are many reasons why self-builders, home renovators and architects choose clay as the material of choice for roof tiles.

Not only do clay roof tiles form an attractive appearance above, echoing the sea of terracotta roofs you'll find in Mediterranean countries such as Spain, Greece and Cyprus, but they also offer a host of benefits to homeowners in terms of durability and upkeep. With a long lifespan, clay tiles aren't prone to rot – unlike other materials on the market – and, therefore, require less maintenance to keep them looking good throughout the seasons.

It's recommended that you take a trip up to your roof twice a year – in spring and autumn – to look out for any damages and keep roofline items debris-free. As well as being low maintenance, clay tiles are also known to withstand hot and cold weather as well as ultraviolet (UV) rays. What's more, because air can move easily beneath the tile, they help regulate the temperature above and within the home. With all these benefits and good looks, it's no wonder we're all crazy about clay tiles!

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05 06 1. Redland Rosemary Clay Classic – www. redland.co.uk 2. Redland Rosemary Clay Craftsman – www. redland.co.uk 3. Sandtoft Humber Plain Clay – www. roofingsuperstore.co.uk

I-B U I L D/ F E B/21

4. Marley Canterbury Handmade Plain Clay – www.roofingsuperstore.co.uk 5. Marley Ashdowne Clay Plain Roof Tile – www. roofingsuperstore.co.uk 6. Marley Ashdowne Clay Plain Roof Tile – www. roofingsuperstore.co.uk

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Counter-balanced for easy operation

Highly insulated hatch (U value of 0.60 W/m K)

High strength wooden ladder (load rating of 180 kg/tread)

6-point latching system for an airtight seal (class 4)

Learn more about the Designo loft ladder...

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I-B U I L D/ F E B/21

VIEWPOINT

Viewpoint

@ threeacrebarn

Follow this self-build story on Instagram

Making the most of temporary living

Programme manager by day and an architectural designer by night, Ade Sosanya and his family are awaiting planning permission for an inspirational self-build project in the Kentish countryside. A family of four, the Sosanyas moved from East London to the picturesque ‘garden of England’, and after five years of renting a property to learn from the area, Ade and his wife, Ola, purchased a plot for the eventual construction of a contemporary barn-style self-build.

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hile the family awaits planning permission for their build, they’re temporarily living in two 40ft shipping containers. Having lived on-site for two years so far, the family have truly put their own stamp on the temporary accommodation. With ultramodern interiors and a cosy aesthetic, the fully-insulated shipping containers are a true sample of what’s to come from this creative family. Here, i-Build’s Editor, Rebecca Kemp, talks to Ade about the family's current accommodation and plans for the ambitious build.

RK: Please tell us a bit about your grand self-build project.

AS: We are proposing to transform a

derelict 18th-century barn we bought in 2017 – within a farmstead – into a contemporary home incorporating traditional and modern features.

After we decided to follow our dream of building our own house, it took three years of searching to secure the plot. It didn’t take so long because there were no building plots for sale in the open market, it’s because the plots that ticked all our boxes were twice our budget.

I-B U I L D/ F E B/21

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Like the saying goes, use what you have to get what you want. Since our land budget could not buy our dream plot in the open market, we decided to get creative. Any time I was driving across the area, I’d always look out for potential land. I also used Google Earth to spot redundant land that may be available for sale. On identifying a potential plot, I would write letters to the owners introducing myself and ask whether they were interested in selling the land or part of their farm. After over 100 letters and many nos, we got one maybe and eventually a yes! We got our dream plot on a budget.

The journey has been that of dream, hope, uncertainty, despair, disappointment, frustration and renewed hope. However, one thing has remained constant throughout the frustration of waiting to secure planning permission to transform the derelict barn into an incredible contemporary eco-barn - our determination and resilience to build. We are committed to secure the future of this barn for another generation.

RK: Please tell us more about the plot.

AS: The land is about an acre with a derelict barn within a small farmstead.

We have a fantastic far-reaching countryside view to the north, east and south of the plot and we hope to maximise these views in our proposal to rebuild the structure.

VIEWPOINT

The barn had lapsed planning permission when we bought it. Our proposal has been submitted to our district council, and we’re currently awaiting the permission to build.

RK: Why did you decide to build your own home?

AS: I am a firm believer that there is at least one self-build project/renovation project in everyone. Designing your house with the help of an architect or designer will help you consider everything from your lifestyle, the site’s unique features and, most importantly, how the house could be orientated to make the best of daylight. The worst of standard boxes is when your openings are facing north.

After a few renovation and remodelling projects, we decided to build and create a sustainable home with a layout that responds to our contemporary lifestyle while maximising the building’s positioning and orientation to harness daylight and solar energy.

RK: Please talk us through your temporary accommodation.

AS: When it became apparent that

the planning application process for our building plot was going to be a marathon and not a sprint, we decided to move to the site to save money.

Deciding on the mobile home was tricky. We have seen the woes of living on-site in a caravan from watching property and building programmes, and we were determined not to repeat the same mistakes. After weeks of research, we decided to fabricate a two-bedroom (all en-suite) accommodation using two 40ft shipping containers. The shipping container home (fully insulated) was designed around our needs and became a cosy family space.

Though the shipping container accommodation is more expensive than a site caravan, the comfort we get living on-site is priceless. Most of the time, it feels like we are on a short holiday break in the countryside. And the best part is that we could sell the container home after our adventure to another aspiring self-builder or someone who wants to use it as a holiday home.

RK: Why was it essential for you to make your temporary accommodation cosy?

AS: Before we decided on temporary

site living, we knew we could be in temporary accommodation for at least two years – that’s three winters!

It was important for me to create a cosy accommodation – though temporary – for my family to weather through the planning delay and build.

It has been a long, stressful journey,

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but we are hopeful that it will turn out well and it'll be worth the wait in the end.

RK: What elements have you incorporated into this space to make it feel more like a home?

AS: The interior looks similar to a London

new-build flat with an open-plan kitchen/ living room with two en-suite double bedrooms. We used a spray foam insulation for the walls, floors and ceiling.

All the interior elements we have are standard sizes that you will find in any regular house. Our family and friends that have visited have been surprised by our internal space.

RK: What advice do you have for others looking to make the most of their temporary accommodation?

AS: Identify how long you may need

temporary accommodation before deciding on the type. If you choose to get a caravan, try and insulate it to make it more comfortable for living during the winter seasons.

I-B U I L D/ F E B/21

INSULATION PAINTS & FINISHES

How to commit to your home’s colour palette with confidence

It’s important to have that answer firmly in your head before you start scrolling through swatches.

How do you want the room to feel most of the time?

Sure, you can liven up a calming palette and vice versa, but there should be a fundamental feel to the space that your palette can help you to create.

One of the most creative things you can do in your home is to add colour. Better still, it’s also one of the most cost-effective updates in the world of home improvements. A lick of paint will transform a space, reset the mood and express your personality all without blowing your budget.

How do you decide on a colour scheme though?

How do you make a final selection out of those dozens of swatches you’ve been staring at for hours on end? How do you pick a palette that you can be confident is 100% right before cracking open the paint tin and reaching for a roller? Over to Lick’s resident Lead Colour Specialist, Tash Bradley, and her paint-picking advice.

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efore you dive into the kaleidoscope of colour options out there, it’s important to first get into the right mindset. Choosing paint colours for your home can feel overwhelming, but flip that thought on its head and try to focus instead on how transformative a handful of these will be on how you’ll feel in your space. And remember, above all else that paint isn’t permanent. If you’re drawn to lots of different colours, it’s important not to forget that in however many years’ time, you can redecorate and get creative I-B U I L D/ F E B/21

2. At what time of day will I spend most time in that living space?

Is this mainly an evening room when you’re going to want to just hunker down?

Or, if it’s a bedroom. Ask yourself if it matters more to you that your colour scheme is dark and zen to help you drift off? Or airy and calming to put a spring in your step early in the morning?

all over again. With these 10 considerations, you can dip your toe into colour, safe in the knowledge that your palette is going to be one that you’ve picked thoughtfully and thoroughly.

3. Which direction does my room face?

1. What vibe do I want this room to have?

This question comes down to the all-important natural light so that you can understand which undertones you need to look out for (and avoid) in your paint choices. The more that you can work with your room’s natural light, the better the colours will suit the space.

“A south-facing room will receive warmer light, and a north-facing room

Colour sets the tone of a room more so than any other element in the space.

You may have a sitting room with a bar trolley and atmospheric lighting that suggests it’s designed to bring people together. Paint it in vibrant hues, and it will feel much more upbeat than it would if it were in whisper-soft neutrals.

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will see cooler light and is typically darker. Westfacing rooms tend to be better with cooler tones to balance out the warm light, whereas easterly rooms are the opposite and suit warmer colours,” explains Tash. “By paying attention to the finer details like this, you’ll know if a warm white will thrive in your room or if a grey-based white is better. Similarly, if you’re torn between two greens, knowing more about their undertones and your room’s natural light can make that decision for you.”

4. How do my fixed elements fit in?

Paint palettes should always be sympathetic to what else is in the room. Identify your fixed elements in your space, such as floorboards, tiles or a kitchen’s countertop and think about what relationship you want those to have with your colour scheme.

Take a marble work surface, for example.

Do you want to match and emphasise its cool undertone through your paint choice? Or do you want to contrast it with something warmer? For balance, you can pick out a complementary undertone, and your room will feel in natural harmony.

PAINTS RENEWABLES & FINISHES

5. Which are the colours I really love most?

We all have favourite colours. So, take note of which ones you naturally gravitate towards and then jot down how they make you feel so you can pick out paint colours that will stir the same emotion.

Tash says: “My favourite is burnt buttercup yellow.

It makes me feel so happy and reminds me of my childhood. My mum is an Interior Designer and uses it in hallways and front doors as a cheerful, uplifting hue to welcome you home. My own home is more neutral, but I’ve brought it in as an accent colour, so there are pockets of buttercup yellow that make me smile every day.”

You don’t have to limit yourself to one favourite colour – have as many as you like. But if you have a fair few, it’s a good idea to note the colours that you like less and why – to make sure there’s no risk of you going off-piste.

6. What do I want as my neutral?

Every room needs some form of neutral, even if you’re only using it in a small way.

Remember that neutrals don’t have to be white or beige. Tash uses Lick’s palest pink, Pink 01, as her neutral in her London studio apartment. A neutral can

that will create a natural flow between your rooms. In terms of splitting multiple colours in one room, use an interior designer’s rule of thumb – 60% of the room in a dominant colour, 30% in a sub-dominant colour and 10% in an accent hue to establish softness and structure.”

even be a stronger colour than you’re using in a neutral way. A deep and dark blue could be a neutral that you can use throughout your home to connect your colour palette. In the sitting room, you might have used it on the skirting boards, and then that same blue is what you use on your kitchen cabinets and then as a feature wall in the bedroom.

In terms of classic neutrals, the most popular are: Warm neutrals – whites, soft pinks and beiges all with warm undertones Cool neutrals – greytinted whites with a blue or black base Greige – typically grey or green-based neutrals that sit between grey and beige and work with both warm and cool colours.

8. How many colours are too many colours?

“The number of colours that you have in your colour palette is very personal. Some people find too many hues too chaotic whereas others find it energising and playful,” Tash explains. “As a guide, I’d suggest between eight to 10 colours for a whole home scheme, but if you’re just working on a palette for one room, I’d say no more than three to five. You can even stick to one colour family but create a palette made up of tones from within it, like Pink 01, Pink 02 and Pink 04 which creates a beautifully balanced palette that’s full of depth.”

9. Have I ordered paint samples?

The answer should always be yes. Even the most visually minded will make a more informed colour palette choice if they’ve tried out their colours using samples. By this point, Tash suggests ordering no more than 12 samples for a whole home’s scheme and if you can stick to five in a one-room palette so the process doesn’t become overwhelming but enjoyable.

Lick’s peel-and-stick samples mean you can put them onto your walls and leave them there for a day or two to appreciate them at different points of the day and in different lights. Then, when you’re happy, simply peel them away and you’re not left with splashes of paint on your walls until decorating day comes.

7. Are my colours harmonious?

So you’ve narrowed down your colour options, but now you need to see if they complement one another. Perhaps you have a selection of pastels – if you were to then add in a dark green, it would throw your colour scheme completely as it’s got much more depth and most likely a different colour temperature too.

Tash advises: “Choose colours with the same weight and undertone, and

10. Does this feel like me?

The golden rule is to make sure your palette makes you happy, and it feels just right for you and only you. It’s all too easy to be persuaded by trends or what’s going to add the most value to your home, but this is your space; your sanctuary; your walls, and you need to know these colours are going to lift your spirits every day of the week. If not, go back to point one and repeat. But all being well, now’s the time to bite the bullet and get creative in your home with Lick.

www.lickhome.com

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INSULATION FLOORS, WALLS & CEILINGS

Flexible ways to stretch your self-build budget Whether you’re renovating a property to sell or let, or you are just looking at ways to improve the look and feel of your home, there’s lots that can be done without exceeding the limits of your budget or technical expertise.

Dan Greatrex, Manager of online builders’ merchant Insulation Superstore, part of CMOStores.com, looks at some of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to update and enhance your self-build project.

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etting and sticking to a budget is one of the most essential elements of any renovation or selfbuild scheme. Still, it can also be one of the most challenging, and prioritising where money would be best spent – and where it can be saved – is the elusive secret of success. Many of our customers come to us for expert guidance on which building products fit their budget and offer the best value for money, but we also discuss that other precious resource – time. As lengthy build programmes can result in spiralling costs and unwanted disruption and mess, it’s always worth considering how you I-B U I L D/ F E B/21

can save time and money. Here are just some of our most popular hacks that can add value without the need to cut corners in terms of performance or aesthetic appeal.

Getting on board

Before any interior design scheme is considered, checking the integrity of interior walls and ceilings is critical. If they look a little worse for wear, re-plastering the whole area is not the only option. The use of plasterboard can help reduce the time and mess associated with traditional wet trades, and as it’s much easier to install, it can also reduce labour costs.

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There are several different types of plasterboard available, and the choice of material will depend on where you intend to use it as much as your budget.

For example, you may want to consider moistureresistant plasterboard for kitchens and bathrooms or other humid areas. Some products offer soundproofing and fire-resistance as well as insulated boards for improved thermal performance.

Whereas plastered walls and ceilings can take a long time to fully dry, plasterboards are ready for finishing as soon as they are installed so you can start the interior decoration much sooner.

If you are tackling an installation for the first time yourself, it is always best to get some advice before you start and where possible, buy only what you need to avoid waste. It’s important to remember that plasterboard, including all the small offcuts, isn’t suitable for landfill so have a plan in place. You can get plasterboardonly skips and waste bags where all offcuts can go for large projects, but for small projects, you could contact a local waste collection or recycling company.

Carbon-saving investments

One area where it is always worth assigning a large chunk of your budget to is energy efficiency and looking at ways to reduce a scheme’s carbon footprint is one of the best ways to add value and make long-term cost savings. If you are considering using plasterboard, then that is the perfect time to think about adding insulation to your walls and ceilings.

FLOORS, WALLS RENEWABLES & CEILINGS

By helping to retain heat, the use of insulation can help reduce energy bills as well as lowering carbon emissions, helping to ensure that your selfbuild project is as kind to the environment as it is to your bank balance. There are many different products to choose from so again, it’s worth seeking out some technical advice to ensure that you select the best insulation for your needs.

Rooms for improvement

No matter how big or small your project is, some areas will require more attention than others and, as well as making sure you address the overall efficiency of the building, it’s important to invest in the rooms that will give you the best return for your money. Whether this is in terms of increasing the property’s value to yield a higher future sale price or rental income, or whether you want to create your own dream home, it’s

essential to prioritise. In many cases, this means focusing on the kitchen and bathroom areas.

If your budget won’t cover a full re-fit, you can still make some changes that won’t break the bank.

One popular solution is to update your walls by creating a tiled splashback.

This can be done in both kitchens and bathrooms and offers numerous benefits, not least that it is a cost-effective way to disguise unsightly walls and create an attractive focal point. The use of patterned or coloured tiles can draw the eye away from the room’s less impressive elements, and you could also consider using contrasting coloured grout to maximise the impact.

Although this is a costeffective way to update the walls, don’t be tempted to cut back when buying tiles.

It’s always best practice to purchase a few more than you need so that you don’t

come up short if there are any accidental breakages. It’s also worth investing in tiles that are specifically designed for use in kitchen and bathrooms so that they offer longterm durability, so consider products that are hardwearing, non-porous and water-resistant.

Attention to detail

Sometimes it’s the small things that make the most significant difference, so don’t forget detailing. Installing new skirting boards and door architrave will instantly refresh a room, and with a variety of design options available, it can make a real style statement. Ensuring all your interior doors are in good condition – both in terms of their decoration and operation – is also essential. If your budget won’t stretch to new doors, why not consider updating what you have with new door furniture? Simply changing the handles can make a huge impact and free up budget to be used on external and patio doors instead, adding greater value to a property.

Added value

It’s always worth shopping around for building materials, but cheapest doesn’t always mean best. If you are taking on a big project or one that you have never tackled before, technical help and bespoke advice are invaluable. Ensure that you take advantage of the full range of support available from product manufacturers and suppliers.

www.cmostores.com

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IMPRESSIVE INNOVATION

Aye, aye, captain Located in Shooter’s Hill, one of the oldest parts of London’s Blackheath, this Grade II Listed captain’s house was more than a little faded, and in many ways unsuited to modern family life. An innovative design approach from Matthew Giles Architects has introduced dramatic changes to the rear.

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ere, i-Build Editor, Rebecca Kemp, talks to the homeowner, Steven Hobbs, to find out more about the build process.

RK: What inspired you to take on this project?

SH: The building was a

beautiful old house. It wasn’t in a brilliant state and needed some serious tender loving care. A messy tangle of stairs diminished the grandeur of the rear elevation – we knew we would get a lot of joy out of bringing it back to life.

The location, opposite Blackheath Common, was also part of the reason we were drawn to the house.

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RK: Had you always wanted to pursue your own project?

SH: Initally, we weren’t

looking for a project, but couldn’t find anything with the right type/amount of character. We realised we would have to try and work with what we could find.

We knew the house had something special from the start.

RK: How and why did you choose this property to renovate?

SH: Due to its exposed,

elevated position, the house enjoys excellent views over the heath.

However, its grandeur and charms faded due to clumsy additions over the

years. A three-storey side extension, for example, and intrusive venting equipment, such as a wallmounted condenser unit.

RK: What style and age is the original building?

SH: The original building is a

Grade II Listed captain’s house located in one of the oldest parts of Blackheath, Shooter’s Hill. Like its neighbours, it was one of a group of Neoclassical Victorian Regency homes built in 1839. It has a medium-sized mature garden to the rear, and a front garden.

RK: How did you combine the original building’s style with the extension?

SH: Overall, the

renovations and additions are relatively restrained; this is sensitive to the house’s heritage and the Blackheath conservation area. From the street, the main elevation remains mostly unchanged with prominent Neoclassical elements including a deep entrance canopy, flanked by intricate plasterwork and a pointed pediment

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roof. A new extension has been built in place of the former side extension that steps forward at ground and basement levels.

Featuring white stuccowork and architrave detailing that is sympathetic to the style of the main facade.

The new side extension is also positioned to give the original structure dominance.

The changes are more dramatic to the rear, where zinc profiles cap full-height glazing to create a highly transparent element. The glazing allows the space to be flooded with natural light despite the rear elevation’s north-facing aspect. A tension cable guarding to the upper terrace and stairs down into the basement is a whimsical nod to the area’s nautical heritage.

Natural stone steps spill onto the lower terrace and the planted garden, beyond which, a raised height boundary wall heightens the sense of privacy and enclosure.

IMPRESSIVE INNOVATION

RK: What was the vision and inspiration behind your new home?

SH: We gave Matthew Giles Architects a free

hand regarding the design because their conceptual design portfolio attested to their skill. Our only proviso was that there should be a clearly defined kitchen and dining area and that the entrance should be an expansive and welcoming space. In terms of forms and aesthetics, the architects proposed that the rear extension should read as a transparent glass box, that was to be distinct from the original listed building. They’ve shown keen attention to the vital components that have given the home a new lease of life. The ground floor’s entrance sequence has been reordered while new floor space has been created for contemporary living spaces and a sweeping open-plan kitchen and dining space that unfolds into the garden.

RK: How long did it take to gain planning permission?

SH: Roughly three years. We

were initially granted planning and listed buildings consent on 22nd June 2017 for: “The demolition of existing three-storey side extension and construction of a new three-storey side extension, reorganisation of basement level and installation of rooflight at second-floor level”.

Following this application, we submitted three further applications to make minor alterations.

The last of these was approved in April 2018.

These were then consolidated in May 2018, with one final alteration to improve the flow and circulation in the open-plan living areas.

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IMPRESSIVE INNOVATION

RK: Were there any challenging aspects to the project and build?

SH: Dealing with a listed

property and the building’s original fabric and working around this – especially when it wasn’t in a brilliant condition in places. There were a few surprises along the way.

RK: Did you project manage the build yourself?

SH: No, we’re both pretty busy, so we decided to hire Matthew Giles Architects – who had years of experience working positively through tricky planning. They were instrumental in helping us to achieve the fullness of our initial vision.

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RK: How did you approach material and product specification?

SH: We had the help of Interior

Designer Clare Weeks from My Studio.

We have mixed contemporary design, generally within the house’s central parts, with some more classic elements. Existing reception rooms, and first-floor bedrooms etc., stayed fairly traditional but paredback. Newer spaces are now more contemporary. We looked for highquality materials and sourced locally, where possible.

RK: Are there any materials that you would recommend to others?

SH: Our light fittings by a familyrun company, which are factorybuilt locally (www.phos.co.uk). Also, our glazing by L2i Aluminium.

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RK: How long did the project take?

SH: 13 months on site, which is probably

one month longer than the original programme (with some planning delays). We completed in November 2019.

RK: Did you remain within the original budget?

SH: We more or less stuck to the budget, with some extra costs due to on-site design changes and specification choices. Our original budget was just under £1m, and we ended up spending just over.

RK: Take us on a tour of the new space.

SH: Internally, there is a marked contrast

to the house’s former condition where a dark internal hallway linked disjointed living spaces. The entrance now features a generous lobby that directs the eye from the front of the property towards the rear garden’s sanctuary. As part of the works, functionality has been improved with new storage and utility rooms.

IMPRESSIVE RENEWABLES INNOVATION

Matthew Giles Architects have made the most of our 1830s home’s voluminous shell. Above the main stair, light streams in from a high-level punched opening.

Further renovations have been carried out on the upper levels to complement the ground-floor living spaces. A rich palette of materials has been introduced that creates a lively contrast between rooms. For example, one of the en-suites is topped by a large heritage rooflight and features plush pink tiles that reflect the sky’s passing motion.

As well as having improved accessibility, the home has been

insulated for improved thermal efficiency and to reduce the impact on the environment. Glazing has also been refurbished as part of the designs, with new highly insulated sealed double-glazed units with solar reflective coatings to help combat overheating issues.

RK: What do you love most about your new home?

SH: The improved connection to the garden. This space

was previously challenging to access (through a small back door, just off the hallway, and down some steps). The new extension and layout alterations have opened up the garden.

RK: What does the local community think of the refurbishment?

SH: Neighbours and passers-

RK: What’s your favourite room?

SH: The kitchen will be an excellent

room for entertaining and dining in the summer. With the wrap-around glazing, it will be great to have panoramic views to feel connected to the guests both inside and out. The thin aluminium frames that Matthew Giles Architects have chosen mean that even when the sliding doors are shut, there is minimal obstruction of the views onto the garden.

by have commented on the new pastel pink facade – generally everyone approves.

The spruced up facade improves the whole row and outlook from Blackheath.

www.matthewgilesarchitects.com

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BRICKS & BLOCKS

Building smarter junctions

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In this article, Sarah Viney of Marmox explains how some of a home’s trickiest technical challenges can be overcome with a surprisingly simple solution.

chieving compliance with the different parts of Building Regulations while keeping to cost and programme targets can be difficult enough for volume housebuilders, let alone selfbuilders that are generally undertaking a unique development with a system they’ve only seen in YouTube clips or static displays at a trade show. Consider also that some of the key decisions to be made concern the narrowest lines on drawings, where different elements to the building envelope meet at potentially vulnerable interfaces such as the floor/wall junction.

The Building Research Establishment – or BRE – first highlighted their significance some three decades ago in a document I-B U I L D/ F E B/21

unambiguously called ‘Avoiding Risks’, highlighting the extent to which heat is lost in such areas and the contingent problems which can result.

Since then, successive revisions to the regs have brought significant improvements to the performance of doors and windows and walls and floors. As is covered in the 16-page brochure on Marmox Thermoblock, up to 30% of total heat loss can occur at the junction between the latter pair.

Even more daunting in design terms is the fact that the Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) penalises the use of insulation measures which have not been entirely thermally modelled, by applying a punitive ‘default figure’ within the

calculations which can make it almost impossible for the building as a whole to achieve compliance.

It is imperative then to tackle what is often referred to as perimeter or linear heat loss at this junction while ensuring that your insulation measures do not compromise the capacity to carry the structure’s load above.

The ideal solution to this challenge is to utilise a composite product around the floor/wall junction, which provides both strength and excellent energy performance.

Another consideration for self-builders is that the solution should be straightforward to understand and install, either for themselves or their groundworks contractor, many of whom are unlikely

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to be fully conversant with the many different practices encompassed by modern methods of construction.

Again, you want a quick and straightforward product to fit in normal British weather conditions, which is equally suited to either masonry builds or the various types of timber and other framing systems.

Importantly, it should ensure good continuation between the footings and blockwork or alternative structure above.

By utilising a suitable solution, all of these challenges can be addressed simultaneously: satisfying building control and budgetary and programme constraints, while preventing the very real problems that can result when linear heat loss does occur.

BRICKS RENEWABLES & BLOCKS

For around what is otherwise a well-insulated building envelope, the occurrence of cold bridging encourages condensation to form on the wall’s inner face or even interstitially. Inevitably such damp problems will lead to degradation of plasterwork and interior finishes and unsightly mould growth, which can have the most severe effect on indoor air quality, exacerbating such conditions as asthma. Therefore, it is vital at the earliest stage of planning your project to consider not just what main building methods you wish to adopt, but also how you will unite the different elements successfully.

www.marmox.co.uk

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URBAN SANCTUARY

Cooking up a storm After 12 years of living in their late-Victorian East Dulwich home, husband and wife Paul and Lindsay Davies were forced to admit that their kitchen was no longer fit for purpose. With little room to appreciate the heart of their home and difficult spaces in general, the pair turned to Plus Rooms for help.

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s a specialist in improving and enlarging residential properties, Plus Rooms has addressed the Davies’ spatial and aesthetic issues, improving the natural flow of the ground floor and increasing sought-after daylighting with an extension that complements the character of the original house with an eye-catching, striking design.

Here, i-Build Editor, Rebecca Kemp, talks to Lindsay about the stunning transformation and finds out more about the space the couple lived in for over a decade before deciding to take the home improvement route.

RK: Tell us why you decided to take on this project?

LD: All our cupboards were full to

bursting, we had no work surface space, and the garden entrance was poky and awkward. The side return had become a dumping ground and was being used as a collective litter tray by all the neighbourhood’s cats! To top it off, every kitchen appliance seemed to break at once, so we had to replace them all anyway. It felt like a sign.

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RK: How did you combine the original building’s style with the extension?

LD: Externally, we kept the

same style of brickwork, using modern ‘aged’ reproductions of old London stock bricks which look virtually indistinguishable from the originals. Inside, we wanted to open up the back part of our living room so that it flowed through to the kitchen. We extended the floorboards and stained them, so it looked seamless.

RK: What was your vision and inspiration?

LD: We had a Pinterest board

that changed over time – we started off wanting to replicate our original kitchen (which had quite a ‘cottagey’ vibe), but we kept finding ourselves drawn to more dramatic, darker colours.

We found a black freestanding cabinet we liked, and the rest of the kitchen’s look followed on from that.

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RK: How long did it take to gain planning permission?

LD: It did take a while, though I don’t remember exactly how long. Plus Rooms guided us through the whole process.

RK: Were there any challenging aspects to the project and build?

LD: The most challenging

thing was living and working at home while it was all going on. I’m a Book Editor, and I work from home most of the time, so there was no getting away from the noise and chaos. The builders did a good job trying to protect the rest of the house. However, it was still very challenging spending three months cooking on a little two-ring electric stove balanced on top of a makeshift work surface in our living room, with all of our stored food covered in a layer of dust!

In terms of the actual build, the hardest thing was getting the huge steel beams through the house. I thought the builders were going to have to saw our bannisters off at one point or dismantle our original Victorian sash window in the living room (over my dead body!). Luckily, they managed to get them in, but that was a hugely stressful moment.

RK: Why did you choose to work with Plus Rooms?

LD: Two of our friends had done kitchen extensions with Plus Rooms, so we knew they were good. Both friends had used a particular build team, so we requested to have the exact same one – we waited until they were free as we wanted to go with a team that had been personally recommended. We liked the fact that Plus Rooms assigned a project co-ordinator to oversee the project, so we had someone with technical knowledge we could go to if we had any problems.

RK: How long did the project take?

LD: The main build was pretty

much completed to timeframe – eight or nine weeks if I remember rightly. We started on 1st April 2019, and we were in by July. But there’s always a ‘long tail’ of little jobs at the I-B U I L D/ F E B/21

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We were initially quoted (£43,800), but there were lots of extras, e.g. £2k for removing a chimney breast, £3800 to raise the steels into the ceiling, £7k for the doors/ windows etc.

end of any build, so I think we still had people coming in to finish bits and pieces in August and even September.

RK: Did you remain within the original budget?

LD: We deliberately overbudgeted for

everything and had a contingency built in, so we were technically within budget.

Still, we spent an eyewatering amount!

The basic build was what we were initially quoted (£43,800), but there were lots of extras, e.g. £2k for removing a chimney breast, £3800 to raise the steels into the ceiling, £7k for the doors/windows etc. The main building costs, including a party wall surveyor, fees, plumbing and electrics, new boiler etc. came to just over £75k. Then there was the cost of the finishing team and all the fixtures and fittings on top.

RK: How does the extension respond to the landscape?

LD: I’m thrilled that we’ve managed to

make accessing the back garden much easier. It’s a cliche, but it really has opened it up and brought the outside inside. I’ve had so much pleasure sitting and looking out over the garden over the last year.

RK: Is the finished space everything that you hoped it would be?

LD: Yes. It’s quite a pressure to design your ‘dream kitchen’ from scratch, having never done it before, but we’d spent a lot of time planning it, and in the end, it was exactly what we wanted. I don’t think there’s anything I would change.

RK: Have you found a change in the way you use your kitchen?

LD: We all spend so much more time

in it. It’s a much more sociable space.

And it’s been a lifesaver during lockdown as my husband has been using it as his base to work from home.

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RK: What do you love most about it?

LD: Sitting on the sofa in the

morning with a coffee, looking out at the garden and having a few minutes of quiet before the day starts. That was the image in my mind that kept me going throughout the difficult times in the build.

You literally couldn’t see the garden from our old kitchen unless you were standing at the sink; now it’s always in our sight-line, and I get so much pleasure from it.

RK: Is there anything that you would have done differently?

LD: We spent a lot of time

discussing the height of the floor with the builders, but somehow we still managed to get it wrong, and they had to cut down some doors in the hall as a result. I still don’t quite understand how that happened. But it wasn’t the end of the world.

RK: Would you do the whole thing again?

LD: Not in any hurry, thank

you! I’m very happy to take some time to enjoy what we’ve got. That said, I’m delighted we did it, so no regrets on that score.

RK: What advice would you offer to anyone looking to renovate?

LD: Go with people who

are recommended to you personally. Having a good build team and project manager made all the difference to us. Also, it’s worth micro-planning how you’re going to use your kitchen.

We spent ages figuring out exactly how we wanted to arrange the cupboards, where we would stand when emptying the dishwasher, what our view would be when we were sitting on the sofa etc. and drawing out different configurations of how the kitchen would be laid out until we got it right. Where will the cling film go? Where will the cat’s food bowl live? Is there enough space to get past easily if the dishwasher is open? It’s all that attention to detail that’s paid off in how we use the kitchen now.

www.plusrooms.co.uk I-B U I L D/ F E B/21

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stovax.com i-build_stovax_HPH_Feb_21.indd 1

21/01/2021 09:16

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I-NTERIOR - FIRES & STOVES STOVAX HEATING GROUP

10

elements to consider when choosing a stove or fire

Are you renovating your fireplace and about to start your journey towards a new stove or fire? Annabelle Carvell, PR Officer at the Stovax Heating Group, offers her top 10 points to consider to help you understand your requirements.

1. What fuel type are you looking for?

One of your first considerations is likely to be the fuel type you are looking for. Are you set on a real woodburning stove, with authentic flames from log burning, or perhaps you are drawn to the convenience of gas? On the other hand, electric heat offers an entirely different aesthetic and lends itself admirably to well-insulated properties. Deciding your fuel type early on may help you

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work out more about your project, and will also assist with budgeting for the work required for your unique needs.

2. What’s your style?

Today’s stoves and fires come in a host of different shapes and sizes, from inset industrial-chic woodburners, such as the Vogue 700 Inset from Stovax, to tall, Scandi-inspired freestanding models like the Loft from Gazco.

Whatever your home interior, there is likely to be a style to suit.

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3. Do you have a chimney?

Woodburning fires and stoves need a chimney or flue system to operate. Likewise, conventional flue gas fires also need a flue for the combustion gases to escape.

If you do not have a chimney but are set on a woodburner or gas log burner, there are options available to you – depending on the level of budget and work you are happy to carry out.

If you don’t have a chimney, you may be able to have a pre-fabricated one installed that works in the same way as a standard chimney. There are options for you to have a chimney system that either runs internally or externally to your property, allowing you to enjoy a woodburning stove or conventional flue gas fire in your home.

Alternatively, many gas fires and stoves come as balanced flue versions which allow for a chimneyless installation, using a twin-wall pipe to vent directly through an exterior wall.

For complete ease of installation, electric stoves and fires do not require a chimney at all and can be simply plugged into the mains to function.

I-NTERIOR - FIRES & STOVES STOVAX HEATING GROUP

8. Get to grips with maintenance

A solid fuel stove requires an annual service, including stripping and cleaning the appliance thoroughly and removing all excess ash. It will also need to be checked for any broken or damaged parts that need replacing, and the door glass will need cleaning. Like your stove, your chimney also requires maintenance, as along with obstructions, deposits and tar can build-up in your chimney over time, reducing the draw, making the stove run less efficiently and putting your property at risk of a chimney fire.

If you are burning wood, ensure your chimney is swept at least twice a year; this can be reduced to once if you are using a multi-fuel stove to burn fuels other than wood. It is also essential to have your stove serviced by a qualified installer to ensure you see the best performance from your appliance.

A gas fire will also need servicing and its glass door cleaning – it is possible to clean the glass yourself, following instructions supplied with the product.

It is recommended that gas appliances are safety checked and serviced at least once a year by a registered gas service engineer.

Maintenance of an electric fire is easy and straightforward. It usually just involves dusting and cleaning the fuel effects, plus any accessible air inlets and outlets to maintain the optimum heat output and efficiency from the fire.

4. Understand smoke control areas

If you live in a town or city, you likely live in a Smoke Control Area. To meet the smoke emission standards for these areas, you can only burn authorised smokeless fuels on a multi-fuel appliance – a list of which can be found by visiting the DEFRA website. If you want to burn wood, your appliance must be suitable for use in Smoke Control Areas, which you can find on your manufacturer’s product information.

5. Check the latest regulations

The latest regulation you may have heard of is the Ecodesign directive. While this does not affect you as a consumer, it may help you make a more environmentallyconsidered choice when looking at woodburning or multifuel stoves and fires.

Ecodesign will become law for solid fuel stove manufacturers from 2022, requiring them to adhere to stringent emissions rules, helping to improve air quality.

Ecodesign Ready stoves and fires reduce emissions significantly compared to older models, so it is worth keeping this in mind when looking at solid fuel appliances.

9. If burning wood, burn right

If you opt for a new and efficient woodburner, it is worth looking after your investment by feeding it the right fuel.

Poor-quality wood tends to have a high moisture content. When wet wood is burnt, such as freshly felled timber, a large amount of the heat energy created by the fire is wasted burning off the excess water, resulting in poor combustion. Aside from wasting energy, burning wet wood results in tars and creosote production, which can damage a flue and increase the risk of chimney fires.

6. What heat output do you need for your home?

Your installer and retailer will be able to help best with determining the heat output you need, as factors such as the windows and age of the house can all affect the outcome. As a rough guideline, to achieve a relaxing room temperature of around 21ºC when the air outside your house is at freezing (0ºC) you will need approximately 1kW of heat output for every 14m 3 of space. Measure the length, width and height of your room and multiply the three figures together – and then divide the sum by 14 for a guideline.

10. Shop local

Shopping local is more and more at the forefront of our minds, but aside from supporting your local economy, visiting your local retailer has many further benefits. They can help you to choose the best options for your home by demonstrating live burning products and offering advice, alongside arranging site surveys, recommending installers or even offering bespoke installation packages. Additionally, your local retailer can provide aftersales support, servicing, often enabling you to extend your manufacturer’s warranty – all helping you to take the very best care of your new home investment.

7. Choose a professional for installation

Installation of your stove or fire, be it woodburning or gas, is a job for the professionals. You can generally install electric appliances with ease by simply placing in the space desired, but some more elaborate installations – like TV media walls – can involve a fitter.

When installing a stove or fire, safety standards are paramount, so we would always recommend getting your product installed by a qualified installer, whether that is

by HETAS if installing wood or solid fuel products, or Gas Safe if installing a gas product. The installation will need to meet the minimum hearth, distance to combustibles and ventilation requirements, and comply with local building control rules.

www.stovax.com

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fantastic benefits of working from home in a garden office

Thinking of working from home more often, but need a new space to make a perfect office? Here are 12 reasons to build that space in your own garden.

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n September 2020, it was reported by finder.com that 60% of the UK’s adult population were working from home.

Many of these will be working from bedrooms, kitchen and dining room tables, or even an office somewhere in their main property, but there has also been a rise in popularity for the garden office. But what makes garden offices, or shed offices as some specialists call them, such a great option when working from home?

Below, English Heritage Buildings has given just a few of the fantastic benefits you’ll discover when you choose to add a garden office to your property.

1. You’ll enjoy the freedom

When you work from home, you’re likely to find that any rules you had in the office can be relaxed. You may choose to wear more casual clothes, take lunch at a different time, or even take regular breaks that you may not have been able to while in the company office. A garden office lets you take control of your schedule, so you can have a little more freedom while still doing your job.

2. You’ll save money

By cutting out your commute, you’ll also be saving money which would normally be put towards travel expenses, such as the price on train tickets or petrol. This can then be put towards other things.

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3. You won’t have a lengthy commute

Having your own garden office takes away the time you’d normally spend commuting. This means you get to choose whether to arrive at work early and get more done for your job, or arrive exactly on time and have a more relaxed start to your morning.

4. You can customise your space

When you choose to build an office space in your garden, you can make sure it’s built exactly as you want it. Many construction firms are happy to offer bespoke designs for outbuildings, built to your specifications, and once you’ve bought and built your very own, you’ll be able to decorate the space to suit your tastes.

This can be kept as simple or made to be as elaborate as you wish, so you can paint the walls any colour you like, set up shelves with books or find spaces for plants as you see fit.

5. It still separates your work life and home life By having a home office a little bit away from the rest of the house, you can still separate your work life and your home life. You’re more likely to relax, unwind and spend time with friends and loved ones indoors, and you’ll be less tempted to have a quick check of your emails late in the evening if your work computer is out in the garden.

6. You can make the most of peace and quiet

We know that sometimes offices can become crowded, noisy places, which don’t always offer you the quiet space you need to hear yourself think when concentrating. By adding a garden office to your property, you’ll be the only employee around and can make the most of the peaceful atmosphere. You can even have music if you’d still prefer some background noise, and this can be at a volume which suits you best.

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7. It’s eco-friendly

When you cut out your commute, you’ll be making your own carbon footprint smaller. This is because it reduces the amount of pollution your car will be contributing to the atmosphere, and if many workers in your area have the same idea as you, it could help to reduce the number of cars on the road in general.

8. You can have your office ready in no time Many garden buildings, especially if they’re made from oak or timber frames, can be put together in a short amount of time. In some cases, such as when buying from firms that supply building kits, you may be completely in charge of the installation process. This means that you’ll be able to set your own deadline from the moment the work has been signed off and delivered to you.

9. It’s a more professional look

Having a home office is often more impressive to clients and customers than sitting at a desk in your bedroom, or at the dining table. It makes you appear more professional, and can often become a more productive space as a result.

10. It helps improve your health and wellbeing

Research has shown that having a separate workspace greatly improves your wellbeing and lifestyle. For instance, it may end up improving your sleep quality by getting you out of your bedroom, because research has shown that working where you sleep allows your body to start associating that space with being awake. This makes you take longer to ‘switch off’ and go to sleep when you need to.

By having an office in your home, you’re also more likely to be sitting at a desk, which will help to improve your posture.

11. You won’t need planning permission

It may be a relief to know that most garden buildings, including home offices, will not normally require planning permission. There are some occasions when they will, such as if they are over 3m in height or over 15m2 in floor area, but these can easily be avoided when building your own space.

To avoid the hassle and frustration of applying for planning permission, you should always check the requirements against the specifications you have planned. This can be done by speaking with your local planning authority.

12. You can add value to your home

Studies have shown that adding and maintaining an outbuilding can add up to 5% onto the value of the overall property. This is something to consider, if you ever plan on selling your house.

Plan your garden office with professional contractors

By speaking with an experienced firm, you may be able to plan out and purchase your perfect garden office at a budget-friendly cost, using a material that can be built into a stylish space in the shortest amount of time. There is a myriad of reputable names just waiting to offer you garden offices across the UK. All you need to do is find the one that suits you best.

www.ehbp.com References https://www.greenretreats.co.uk/the-benefits-ofhaving-a-home-based-business/ https://www.thisismoney.co.uk/money/ mortgageshome/article-8471577/Shed-offices-newconservatories-outhouses-increase-popularity.html https://www.gbcgroup.co.uk/blog/10-benefits-ofhaving-a-garden-office https://www.finder.com/uk/working-from-homestatistics https://www.healthline.com/health/workingfrom-bed-isnt-doing-you-favors http://hrnews.co.uk/the-benefits-of-having-agarden-office/ https://www.leaders.co.uk/advice/how-much-valuedoes-summerhouse-or-garden-building-add.

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LEGAL & BUSINESS PRODUCT GUIDE ADVERTORIAL: FORTICRETE | ALUK | EARTHBORN PAINTS

On-trend colour choice for ALuK windows and doors

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ith Ultimate Grey and Illuminating Yellow declared as the Pantone Colours of the Year for 2021, AluK is showcasing a recent installation which showed how the combination can be used in windows and doors. The owners of a luxury refurbishment in Whitstable, Kent, chose AluK products on the basis of the contemporary sightlines, quality and proven durability in a coastal location, as well as the vast colour choice. They chose windows in AluK’s slim sightline 58BW system throughout, four tested, tried and trusted BSF70 bi-folding doors and a structurallybonded aluminium panel front door in a suited AluK 58BD frame. The large expanses of glass meant the thermal efficiency of the AluK windows and doors was paramount to ensure that the house could comply with Part L1A of the Building Regulations. Double glazed, the BRE Green Guide A-rated uk.aluk.com 58BW windows and BSF70 bi-folds info.uk@aluk.com achieved U-values of 1.4W/m2K. 01291 639739

Forticrete’s Architectural Masonry extends to home renovations

When architect firm O’Sullivan Skoufoglou was commissioned to design a rear extension as part of the significant renovation of an end-terraced property in Hackney, London, it utilised the opportunity to undertake an alternative approach to the types of building products specified and their corresponding methods of installation.

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dding an additional 15m 2 to the property, the single-storey rear extension was constructed utilising Forticrete’s Architectural Masonry Blocks, which were installed to the rear and side of the house to create a new kitchen and dining area, which overlooks the garden.

Specified in a Straw Shot-blasted finish, the concrete blocks were employed to construct the rear wall of the new volume. The result is a unified, homogeneous visual that facilitates a seamless transition between the interior and exterior living spaces.

Further animating the rear facade is the construction of an arch around the doorway, which is also complemented by an angular bench under the window, to provide the homeowners with a secluded place to enjoy the outside area.

The Straw Shot-blasted finish of the concrete blocks delivers a tactile finish that reflects a contemporary terrazzo-style aesthetic, whilst still complementing the existing brickwork for a cohesive visual effect.

The installation of rooflights throughout the roof of the extension also floods the internal spaces with natural light to highlight the unique texture of the new concrete structure, providing the owners with www.forticrete.co.uk an inviting and engaging 01525 244900 dining space. caststone@forticrete.com I-B U I L D/ F E B/21

Earthborn paints pass the latest Toy Safety Standard

E

arthborn is known for its distinctive paints that are better for the environment and healthier to live with.

And its environmentally-friendly formulations are now certified as child-safe paints too. Independently tested to meet the latest Toy Safety Standard (EN71-3:2019), this means they are safe to use in babies’ and children’s rooms as well as on toys and furniture. The standard tests coatings to ensure there are no elements that could harm a child or release anything harmful into the atmosphere. Many people choose Earthborn paints because they’re free from harmful emissions and nasty paint smells. Two things that are hugely important when looking for child-safe paints. More than that, Earthborn’s paints are Eco Label-accredited and virtually VOC-free. So whether you’re preparing a nursery or revamping children’s furniture following years of wear and tear, you can be assured that Earthborn’s paint www.earthbornpaints.co.uk finishes are child safe 01928 734171 and healthy. sales@earthbornpaints.co.uk

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