i-Build January 2021

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FOCUS:

SELF-BUILDS

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RENOVATIONS

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CONVERSIONS

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EXTENSIONS

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HOME

IMPROVEMENT

COVER STORY

BACK TO THE DRAWING BOARD

JA N UA R Y 21 - I S S U E 78

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This stunning four-bedroom detached property in a rural village near Southampton already had two rear extensions, however, they were so poorly thought-out; they created more problems than they solved.

CASE STUDIES

CASE STUDIES

INSPIRATION

MATERIALS

ADVISORY

ROOM TO GROW

NEW YEAR, NEW COLOURS

THINKING OF SIZING UP?

2021 KITCHEN TRENDS

More space was just one of the driving factors behind one couple’s decision to extend

The best Pantone Colour of the Year 2021-themed interior accessories

The main aspects you need to examine when opting for large-scale rooflights for your project

What trends are cooking in the kitchen this year?

Wren Kitchens explores recent design changes

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E

ditor's Welcome I-BUILD JANUARY 2021

EDITORIAL: Rebecca Kemp

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Hannah Woodger

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Cover story:

BBD Architects talks to i-Build about the work the firm completed on an inspiring juxtaposed 'cube' extension for a fourbedroom Edwardian family home.

W

elcome to the very first edition of 2021. On behalf of the entire team at i-Build, I hope that you've all had a lovely Christmas and New Year. However, now that the season is well and truly over – and we've all enjoyed that well-deserved festive break from work, chores, DIY and home-building projects – it's time to look forward and prepare our plans for the year ahead. Suffice to say, 2020 is a year we'll always remember and, although things are looking up, we're still set to feel some consequences of the coronavirus pandemic across the next few months.

January's traditionally the time for resolutions, change and improvements to our health and everyday lives. With such a surge in home improvements last year, and enhanced recognition of the influence our indoor spaces have over our wellbeing, homebuilding projects are set to continue as we prepare our homes for the spring and summer months. In this issue, we've explored Pantone's Colour of the Year for 2021. On pages 06-07, we’ve picked a selection of

dove grey and vivid yellow interior accessories for inspiration for your home. Meanwhile, on page 10, we've selected six fireplace designs that will ensure your home is warm and comfortable for the crisp months of January and February. Lastly, on page 08, we've looked at some dining table designs that suit an array of home styles.

Elsewhere, on page 14, Verity Lovelock of BBD Architects talks to me about the work the firm completed on an inspiring juxtaposed 'cube' extension for a four-bedroom Edwardian family home near Southampton. Mr and Mrs B, the homeowners, had lived in the property for eight years before approaching BBD Architects after driving past one of their home-building projects in the area. Verity explains how the practice swapped two ill-designed extensions for one contemporary structure that satisfactorily meets Mr and Mrs B's needs.

Rebecca @ibuildmagazine

@ibuildmagazine

ibuildmagazine

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

E

ditor's Picks

See page 14.

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

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January 2021 I-DEAS

INSPIRATION

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08 10

Desired Designs:

It Takes Two: Last month, Pantone revealed not one but two anticipated shades for its Colour of the Year for 2021. Here, we look at a few accessories that will help you incorporate the look into your home decor.

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i-Scape: Outdoor Living:

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i-DIY:

Desired Designs:

Table Manners: With the hope that social gatherings will be permitted by the summer months, now’s a perfect time to start thinking about that dining table.

Style Guide:

Fires & Stoves: Today's fireplaces and stoves don't only offer a useful source of heat and provide a homely, cosy atmosphere in these colder winter months, but they also create fantastic centrepieces and points of interest for all styles of homes.

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Viewpoint

In this article, Darren Watts, Wren Kitchens’ Showroom Development and Design Director, reveals the changes to kitchen design buying habits following the global pandemic.

Security

In this article, Jacksons Fencing talks us through the most prominent garden trends you should look out for in 2021.

Conversions: In this article, Architect Sophie Nguyen offers her professional advice on converting lofts for optimum spatial and aesthetically-pleasing, relaxing areas so you can make the most of your space.

i-nterior:

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Floors, Walls & Worktops: Kitchen surfaces need to be highly durable, simple to clean and in keeping with the style of the space overall. CRL Quartz from CRL Stone ticked all these boxes for a stunning farmhouse-style property which revealed a surprising feature as part of its revamp.

MATERIALS

ADVISORY

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CASE STUDIES

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Doors & Windows

Are you considering large-scale rooflights for your project? If so, have you thought about the practicalities involved?

Here, Paul Trace from Stella Rooflight lists the main aspects you need to examine.

Impressive Innovation

A stunning four-bedroom detached property in a rural village near Southampton already had two rear extensions, however, they were so poorly thought-out; they created more problems than they solved. With a focus on converting their Edwardian house with innovative design, Mr and Mrs B sought to transform their family home with an extensive renovation.

Rural Retreat

More square footage to enjoy as a family was just one of the driving factors behind one couple’s decision to extend the ground floor of their Manchester home, with the opportunity to make the most of the views of their gorgeous gardens too good an opportunity to pass up.

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.

With three-quarters of break-ins in the UK happening via the front door, Victoria Brocklesby, Founder and COO at Origin, explores the security elements that are most frequently overlooked in selfbuild projects.

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I-B U I L D/ JAN/21

DESIRED DESIGNS

esired esigns

©ATKIN AND THYME

IT TAKES TWO Last month, Pantone revealed not one but two anticipated shades for its Colour of the Year 2021. Together, ‘Ultimate Grey’, described as a pale shade of dove, and ‘Illuminating’, recognised as a buttercup yellow hue, will be used by designers across the globe for this year’s interior schemes.

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omically, the two shades have been compared to the colours found on a hi-vis jacket. However, used sensibly, Ultimate Grey and Illuminating can be paired as a dynamic duo throughout a home. For those that are a little dubious about using such a bold colourway for their pristine, brand-new interiors, there are less invasive methods of incorporating these colours on a smaller scale. For example, in the kitchen, yellow and grey china and dinnerware sets can be

I-B U I L D/ JAN/21

YOURS TO BUY

stored out of sight so that you can enjoy this daring colour pair without it taking over your home. If you’re not easily scared by strong colour choices and you’re a bit of a gambler when it comes to bold interior spaces, there are several designs on the homewares market to create the ultimate Pantone Colour of the Year 2021-inspired home.

Longer-lasting furniture and accessories such as sofas, metal dining chairs, wall paint and chest of drawers, for example, can be perfect pieces for the interior daredevil.

1. Yellow ‘peace’ candle hand, AUDENZA, £34.95 2. Del Mar porcelain cereal/ soup bowls, ProCook, £32 3. Knightsbridge grey velvet dining chair (pair), Modish Living, £295 4. Kickmaster bin by Wesco i, designbotschaft GmbH, €149 5. Refrigerator FAB28RYW3, SMEG, £POA

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6. Dorset mid-grey ceramic wall tiles, Porcelain Superstore, £33.66 7. Vitamin Ninety stool in yellow, Setup-design.de, €380 8. Macaron floor lamp in yellow and black, Nedgis, €422 9. Nordic Chic daybed grey, Tom Tailor Home, €849 10. Contemporary yellow no2 poster, Desenio, £9.95

DESIRED DESIGNS

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L

oaf

02

03

04 YOURS TO BUY

OUR BRAND PICK

Having lost a whole Saturday trying to buy a bed, Charlie Marshall decided to make the process as quick and hassle-free as possible. So, two years, 187 mattress factories and some exceptionally comfy beds later, Loaf was born in December 2008. In 2012, the brand added sofas to its repertoire and continued its quest for world domination as an emperor of comfy, laid-back furniture and squishy stuff for the whole home.

HOT PRODUCT

Baby it's cold outside Christmas is over, and the festive connotations have sadly melted away. Windy, cold weather and no sign of sunshine means we're all really feeling the January blues.

So, treat yourself and pick up a Pantone Colour of the Year 2021-inspired blanket. Not only will they inject a splash of vibrant colour into your home, but they'll also offer warmth and cosiness in these chilly evenings.

YOURS TO BUY

1. Evening Tales – pure new wool blanket, Heating & Plumbing London, £89

3. Super-soft reversible throw in earl grey, Tolly McRae, £132

2. Portofino cotton waffle blanket or throw, The Fine Cotton Company, £80

4. Winter warmer grey faux fur blanket, The French Bedroom Co, £80

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1. Munchkin chair in bumblebee clever velvet, £825 2. Truffle love seat, £1245 3. Slow-Mo love seat, £1145 4. Smooch love seat, £1145

TOP TIP

Use Ultimate Grey as your base colour and complement your scheme with Illuminating as an accent hue? Bold and vivid, the buttercup yellow shade will accentuate your scheme providing a modern yet interchangeable interior with yellow accessories that can be temporarily removed or replaced to suit different seasons or holidays. Opt for smaller, less permanent accessories if you're unsure on such a bold shade.

I-B U I L D/ JAN/21

DESIRED DESIGNS

esired esigns TABLE MANNERS Now we’ve seen the new year in; there’s much to look forward to in 2021.

With the hope that social gatherings will be permitted by the summer months, now’s a perfect time to start thinking about that dining table.

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DESIRED DESIGNS

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FIRES AND STOVES The Christmas tree and decorations may be settling back into their regular place in the loft, however, the colder season is unfortunately here to stay a little longer. If you're still in the planning stage of your home-building project, this weather may have you considering your heating options. Today's fireplaces and stoves don't only offer a useful source of heat and provide a homely, cosy atmosphere in these crisp winter months, but they also create fantastic centrepieces and points of interest for all styles of homes. From sleek, ultra-modern varieties to rugged, period-style models; there's something for every property.

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VIEWPOINT

D arren Watts

is Wren Kitchens’ Showroom Development and Design Director

Viewpoint

The new normal: how a pandemic has shaped kitchen design Darren Watts, Wren Kitchens’ Showroom Development and Design Director, reveals the changes to kitchen design buying habits following the global pandemic.

Believe it or not, technology works wonders with helping around the kitchen, especially when it comes to saving time, and customers now more than ever are embracing it to make life easier and more efficient

I

t may be too early to truly say the permanent design changes brought about by the pandemic, however, at Wren Kitchens, we have seen an increase in specific trends since lockdown first began.

Multi-functional spaces

With so many venues closed and options for socialising outside the home limited, most people in the UK have spent more time in their house than ever before.

Since the pandemic, the kitchen now more than ever has several uses such as an office, a bar, space to play games, watch TV or even a gym. People are designing their kitchens with multifunctional uses in mind and are much more free-flowing.

An open-plan design with plenty of designated seating and worktop space is key in achieving this. Islands and worktop overhangs are perfect ways to integrate these new zones, as well as the ability to be flexible with the space such as fold-up chairs.

L-shaped and peninsula layouts are popular

People are looking to get the most out of their spaces now more than ever as they spend more time in their kitchens to eat, work and play.

I-B U I L D/ JAN/21

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We have seen a rise in incorporating L-shaped or peninsula layouts, which expands the surface space beyond that of a normal kitchen counter and creates extra seating in small spaces where an additional table would not fit.

This layout is perfect if you can’t fit an island into your design, as it still offers similar benefits with extra worktop space and seating areas.

More efficient appliances

As well as getting more out of their space, people are also looking at getting more out of their appliances as they spend more time at home and appreciate the potential for modernisation.

A growing trend is hot water taps, self-cleaning ovens and induction hobs.

As well as optimising appliance use and saving time, these appliance upgrades also save space; with a hot water tap, there is no need for a kettle on a counter surface, and a self-cleaning oven negates the storage space needed for extra cleaning materials. People are now looking for a slicker, cleaner and more efficient kitchen design.

Keeping it clean

Of course, hygiene is paramount now more than ever, and we’ve seen a surge in kitchen design specifically around this aspect.

VIEWPOINT

Sleek, handleless designs are paramount especially those that are clean-faced – for daily cleaning tasks, this creates effortless work; with one clean swoop you’re done, rather than trying to clean more intricate designs in and around grooves and handles.

Non-porous worktops are also key in creating a hygienic kitchen. We’d advise our Xena Quartz which is not only on-trend and aesthetically pleasing to the eye, but it’s incredibly dense and compact, so it inhibits the growth of bacteria or its transfer on to foods and objects.

There’s a reason why chefs use stainless steel in professional kitchens, and it’s because it’s an excellent material to clean down easily, plus it doesn’t have any pores, so it’s virtually impossible for dirt or bacteria to gain a foothold. It’s certainly making a comeback for splashbacks and appliances.

Integrated storage for cleaning products is also becoming popular such as our broom tower which houses all those taller items such as mops and brooms and also has shelving to accommodate all your cleaning products.

Smart technology enhances convenience within the kitchen Believe it or not, technology works wonders with helping around the kitchen, especially when it comes to saving time, and customers now more than ever are embracing it to make life easier and more efficient.

You can remotely use your smart device to control functions on your washer, fridge oven or microwave (to name a few!) whether you are at home, in the office or on the road.

Smart ovens and ranges are rising in popularity. And, we can see why – you can preheat your meal, check cooking status, receive real-time notifications and save custom cooking instructions for your favourite recipes; all done remotely through the appliance app.

To get on top of the laundry, smart washing machines are a great option as you can track progress and start or pause cycles as you’re getting on with your day.

It’s so simple to use; you don’t need to be a tech expert – simply connect your appliance to your mobile device by following quick and easy instructions to get going.

More affordable designs

With everyone inside for long periods, it seems people who may not have considered a kitchen upgrade before are now envisioning the advantages of investing in their home. Homeowners have found that funds which were saved to spend on holidays or events have been unexpectedly available to enable them to make a difference to their home and lifestyle.

At Wren, we have seen our most affordable designs most popular this year such as the clean-lined Infinity J pull and the traditional Infinity Shaker. It’s all about offering people affordable, bespoke luxury which is designed specifically for them, their family and their needs.

www.wrenkitchens.com

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I-B U I L D/ JAN/21

IMPRESSIVE INNOVATION

Righting a wrong This stunning four-bedroom detached property in a rural village near Southampton already had two rear extensions; however, they were so poorly thoughtout; they created more problems than they solved. So, with a focus on converting their Edwardian house with innovative design, Mr and Mrs B sought to transform their family home with a comprehensive renovation.

W

ork involved knocking down the existing extensions and adding a new contemporary ‘box’ extension clad in cedar, with a master bedroom suite, including a bathroom and separate dressing area upstairs, a play area and kitchen/family room below, and a sub-basement area leading out to the garden.

The original Edwardian part of the house was also renovated throughout with new bathrooms, wooden sash windows, a bespokedesigned hanging staircase and the remediation of jarring alternations made over the years, such as a flatroofed bay to the front of the property.

The build is also notable for how the architect practice, BBD Architects, and homeowners, Mr and Mrs B, embraced the difference between old and new; the rear of the home now is striking and very contemporary, while the frontage remains classic Edwardian – a ribbon window between them delineates the two parts of the house.

I-B U I L D/ JAN/21

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Talking of the project, Architect Verity Lovelock from BBD Architects says: “One of the biggest challenges for clients with a project like this is investing a lot of money when you’re not adding enormously to the square footage or adding another bedroom. It may seem like there is no value to what you’re doing. But when you have existing extensions that are so ill-conceived and ugly, it diminishes the value of the house, and it certainly impacts your experience of living there. While on paper, we took away a kitchen-diner and master bedroom and replaced them; in reality, this project has transformed this family home.”

Here, Verity talks i-Build Editor, Rebecca Kemp, through the ins and outs of this extensive project.

IMPRESSIVE INNOVATION

RK: What was the vision and inspiration behind the extension?

VL: As an architect, it

was a fascinating project because it involved both the restoration of the period property and the design of something new.

Mr and Mrs B had a clear vision for what they wanted to achieve; they were looking for a large family space where together they could cook, eat, live and play – along with space and a bit of luxury in the master suite.

Beyond that, the couple were very open about what the extension would look like. Our design was informed by what Mr and Mrs B wanted to achieve – as well as by keeping a firm handle on costs.

The beauty of this ‘box’ extension was its simplicity and flexibility, which helped us to satisfy both elements while maintaining a high quality throughout.

RK: How did you approach finalising the design brief ?

VL: The design process

RK: What inspired Mr and Mrs B to take on this project?

VL: The couple had lived in the

home for eight years, yet they knew from the outset they wanted to do work to it. They felt they could turn it into their dream home. The location is perfect for the family. It’s in the exact area they wanted to live within, has impressive views, is very peaceful and backs on to woodland.

The property itself had a lot of period charm and original features.

It had a lovely feeling to it; however, it came with a lot of problems.

Two poorly thought-out rear extensions had served to create disjointed and impractical spaces. The master bedroom was in the eaves, so it was very cold with no room for wardrobes.

Thermally, it was poor. There was a lot of condensation throughout.

Also, there were columns in the way and not quite enough space.

It was a real mishmash that just wasn’t working.

The clients held off doing any work for years because they wanted an extension. By the time they came to us, their family had grown, and they understood everything that frustrated them about the house.

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

VL: Rather than trying to combine the extension’s

style with the original property (as had been done so unsuccessfully with the pre-existing extensions), our approach was to maintain a clear distinction between the two. It was essential to make the extension different from the original house, so it would be evident that it’s an extension. One of the first things we had to do was to find where the original house ended and the later extensions began. We took down the building’s additions and extended the gable roof at the back to restore its original shape. The idea then was to ‘plug in’ an extension that would sit beneath those gables without overhanging.

We kept the design very simple. We used diverse materials, a different roof shape and varying ceiling heights to help keep the extension distinct. We also stripped the windows to separate the two parts of the building. The scale of the extension itself was also significant; it is roughly a third of the original building, so it’s in balance.

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was quite lengthy. We looked at several ideas, balancing what Mr and Mrs B wanted with the potential costs. At one point, a balcony was in the plans.

The sub-basement was designed and priced in isolation, which allowed for a final decision between including it or not. By taking the time to consider the options, we avoided significant changes and redesigns once the build began.

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

VL: About six months. An

initial design with a roof terrace was withdrawn when it raised concerns with planners, and a revised set of plans were submitted.

Objections were presented of the contemporary design at a parish council level, but because the design met all the local planning requirements, it was approved without any real hitches.

I-B U I L D/ JAN/21

IMPRESSIVE INNOVATION

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

VL: A survey found bats nesting in the building,

which resulted in alterations to the design. Leaving space between some of the vertical boards allowed them to continue to have access under the cladding. From Mr and Mrs B’s point of view, this was an unexpected spanner in the works which they found a bit frustrating. The quirks of working with an Edwardian building, where the walls aren’t necessarily uniform or straight, also created one or two issues. Thankfully, because we were involved in the project throughout the entire build, we were able to resolve them and avoid any compromises to the design.

RK: Who was involved in the project?

VL: Mr and Mrs B worked with us at BBD Architects from start to finish. They found us after driving past one of our projects in the area. They loved it so much they went online to the local authority planning portal to find out who the architects were, and then gave us a call. The main contractor, Blaydon Developments, also had an on-site manager.

RK: How did you approach material and product specification?

VL: We knew we didn’t want to use brick. Because

it was used for the original building, it would add more mass and bulk. The timber cladding has a different tone, and it will silver beautifully as it ages, blending in with the tone of the aged brick.

Also, at their request, Mr and Mrs B wished to source the internal fixtures and fittings themselves – the tiles, the flooring, the sanitaryware, etc. They liaised with the suppliers and the builders.

RK: Are there any particular materials that you would recommend to others looking to renovate or self-build?

VL: Timber cladding. There is a misconception that

you have to maintain it – but if you don’t treat it, you don’t have to upkeep it – it naturally weathers over time. It looks beautiful and can last for 20 years.

RK: How long did the project take?

VL: The build lasted a year as planned – from

March 2019 to March 2020 – and finished on time. Mr and Mrs B moved back in just before lockdown, with some decorating and finishing still to complete.

Main suppliers/consultants: Architect: BBD Architects Main contractor: Blaydon Development Stair design: FivesStars Kitchen and utility: John Lewis of Hungerford Bathrooms: Pipescenes Ecologist: Hampshire Ecological Services Structural engineer: Wedeman Consulting I-B U I L D/ JAN/21

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IMPRESSIVE INNOVATION

RK: Did the clients remain within the original budget?

VL: The budget was £500k. The construction cost

was £410,000 (excluding VAT); however, because the client sourced and purchased some items out of contract, it kept the costs down. In total, they came in very close to their initial budget.

RK: Please provide an overview of both the interior and exterior finished space.

VL: The project involved restoring the existing

property – removing two flat roof bay windows to the front which were not original, and replacing wooden sash windows throughout. The stairs were moved, and a new bespoke suspended staircase was installed in the extension. That removed the pinch point at the front door, creating a lovely big hall. This allowed a bedroom in the original part of the house to almost double in size – and an en-suite to be added to another bedroom. A new boiler was put in, a new family bathroom installed, and the original part of the house was also replastered and decorated.

The extension is a contemporary two-storey ‘box’ extension clad in cedar, with a master bedroom suite, including an en-suite and dressing area above and a kitchen/family room and play area below. The play area and family room are separated with doors that can be folded back to create one large space.

Sliding glass doors open onto a terrace area overlooking the garden. And, a sub-basement games room below is accessible by ‘hit-andmiss’ stairs and leads out on to the garden.

Challenges have been overcome with smart design features – such as ‘hit-and-miss’ cladding over the bedroom window, which would otherwise be overlooking the neighbouring property.

RK: How does the building respond to its surrounding landscape?

VL: The property is in a rural woodland setting, so the timber cladding (mainly the fact that it is vertical) means it echoes and sits well within that landscape.

RK: What was the feedback from Mr and Mrs B? VL: They are delighted – absolutely over the

moon with the results. We love receiving photos and updates from them about how they’re enjoying their home. Mr and Mrs B love the family space – they spend all their time here and appreciate how they can open up the back of the house and enjoy the garden and the views in a way they couldn’t before. They are a very outdoorsy family, so that’s been lovely for them.

RK: What advice would you offer to anyone looking to renovate or self-build?

VL: To understand the value of an architect

and bring them on board earlier in the process.

Thinking about a big project can be completely overwhelming, and an architect will work with you to help you decide what you want, understand what is affordable and translate your ideas into a workable design. They can help you avoid dead-ends and costly mistakes, as well as bring your vision for your dream home to life.

www.bbd-architects.co.uk

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I-B U I L D/ JAN/21

INSULATION DOORS & WINDOWS

The elephant in the roof Paul Trace from Stella Rooflight discusses the practicalities involved in specifying large rooflights.

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s a bespoke rooflight manufacturer, we often see grand plans with expansive areas of roof glazing, as architects continue to seek innovative ways in which to exploit natural daylight. As much as bespoke rooflights can certainly help bring these designs to life, there are some important factors that need to be considered when the glazing is turned from drawing to reality.

In recent years, we have noticed a trend towards larger rooflights, with sizes regularly exceeding 2500mm in width, height or both. While Stella can certainly accommodate these, one has to appreciate the practicalities of weight, transportation and cost.

It stands to reason that the larger the rooflight, the thicker the glass will need to be, therefore, as rooflight sizes get bigger, their weight can increase exponentially.

In context, our doubleglazed units comprising 4mm-thick glass weigh 20kgs per square metre, and those using 6mm are I-B U I L D/ JAN/21

30kgs per square metre.

Triple-glazed units are 30kgs and 45kgs, respectively. Add the stainless steel frames and hardwood liners into the equation, and you can start to see how even a modest-sized rooflight can weigh something akin to a small elephant! Indeed, it’s not uncommon for us to produce rooflights weighing in excess of 200kg.

The reality is that when you scale things up, even the simplest plans can start to become complex. But before drawing that large rectangle on a roof plan, it is important to consider how the rooflight is going to be lifted from the ground to roof level and what the weight implications might be for the structure. Stella can weld stainless eyelets to the rooflight frame to aid the lifting process, and we would suggest doing this on frames which weigh in excess of 100kg, which is the point where we expect a crane might be required.

However, does the site have suitable access for any specialist lifting equipment, and has this additional cost been budgeted for?

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The weight of an opening rooflight will also determine whether it is manually operated or requires electric actuation. We would suggest that our largest manually operated rooflight be around 1000mm wide or 1400mm high. Anything over this size will generally require electric actuation to lift the weight and in the instance of wider casements, to provide a tight seal. Manual operating casements are less expensive than electric, so there is a cost element that also needs to be considered when specifying larger opening rooflights.

There is no maximum size in terms of what is possible to manufacture, although it is worth keeping in mind that a single piece of glass with an area over 5m2 becomes significantly more expensive.

Fortunately, there are alternatives to using large, expensive single panes of glazing, such as introducing glazing bars to reduce the unit sizes, linking frames and having more than one casement. This not only makes the rooflights easier to transport, lift and install but can also reduce the price.

If a large, single rooflight is the only option for your project, then you must also make sure that it is safe to install. While rooflight manufacturers will be able to provide advice on a suitable specification for the job in terms of materials, glazing thickness, functionality and installation, it is ultimately the responsibility of a structural engineer to ensure that the product being specified is fit (and safe) for the building that it is fitted into.

DOORSRENEWABLES & WINDOWS

To avoid any ambiguity, it is fairly essential that the architect, structural engineer and rooflight manufacturer discuss large rooflight installations, likely weights, load-bearings, site access and lifting capacity at an early stage to avoid any problems down the line.

It is not advisable to leave this for the builder to deal with at the last minute.

Another area for consideration should be the safety of large areas of glazing situated high up in a roof structure. Again, much like an elephant, there is a lot of grey area here.

Regardless of its size, your rooflight should meet the BS 5516-2: 2004 patent glazing and sloping glazing for buildings standard.

This code of practice for sloping glazing defines that

inner panes must always be laminated wherever rooflights are more than 5m above floor level (increased to 13m for panes less than 3m 2) or are located over water (e.g. swimming pools).

The standard permits the use of toughened inner panes in other applications (for example, where rooflights are less than 5m from floor level), but only where a stringent risk assessment for the particular application has been completed and has concluded that the use of toughened glass does not give any additional risk to those below the rooflight.

No glass is impervious to breakage, so it is important to remember that roof glazing can, and often does, sit high above common areas in a home or office,

so there will always be an element of concern if a unit were to break.

Certain industry bodies are calling for all rooflight glazing to include a laminated inner pane to provide greater security in the event that the glass breaks. Much the same as how car windscreens are required by law to be laminated to protect passengers from shattered glass in the event of an accident. There can be no dispute that laminated glass is safer because it forms a net when broken, which remains in one piece, whereas toughened glass breaks into little cubes and will fall down onto whatever is below.

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While there is a growing trend for projects to include more and larger rooflights, it is not as straightforward as just adding them to the plans.

Clearly, there is so much more to specifying large rooflights than meets the eye and while your rooflight manufacturer will be able to provide recommendations, ultimately having a better understanding of what glazing is required and involving a qualified structural engineer in the early phases will resolve any issues you may have further down the line.

www.stellarooflight.co.uk I-B U I L D/ JAN/21

RURAL RETREAT

A room with a view More square footage to enjoy as a family was just one of the driving factors behind one couple’s decision to extend the ground floor of their Manchester home, with the opportunity to make the most of the views of their gorgeous gardens too good an opportunity to pass up.

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s part of the work, the couple wanted to create an additional dining and seating space within the extended kitchen, while ensuring that the garden can be enjoyed by all come rain or shine too. One of the biggest decisions of the entire project was even based on this requirement, with the AGA being sited under the kitchen window so that the chef looks directly out to the rear of the property. “Most clients might feel nervous about taking such a step and would choose to have an extractor or chimney breast and treat it as a main feature, but, in fact, if an AGA is used in the way it’s intended to, most of the fumes and cooking smells are extracted from the ovens and ducted out,” explains Designer Andrea Hardaker of Drew Forsyth & Co. I-B U I L D/ JAN/21

Decision made, the cooking zone was established in this section of the extension, with the sink integrated into the island, leaving the remaining wall for tall storage and cooling. The perfect, if unconventional, working triangle.

That wasn’t the only big decision that the couple made. By changing the entrance and front door, the hallway is now flooded with light and creates a sense of grandeur upon entrance to the property.

“Often, extensions are added to properties and in themselves are successful, but it can be to the detriment of neighbouring rooms which can end up losing light and become out of scale,” Andrea explains. “This property increased in size to the extent that a new large front door and entrance was appropriate. Leading on to the kitchen-diner, it creates a great sense

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of harmony through the Crittall doors from the hallway.”

The kitchen area itself remains unchanged in terms of footprint, and because of its relatively compact size, the challenge was to use the space well, maximising storage without overcrowding it with furniture. The brief was for a pared-back, elegant design after all, and the size of the room was the main challenge, ensuring that the homeowners had adequate space to store everything, include all the appliances but still have a calm and simple design.

“Making sure that everything had a place in the storage was the biggest challenge,” admits Andrea. “It’s always difficult to empty cupboards and guess where things will go in a new kitchen, so we laid out the crockery in another room, and that helped to assess our needs.

“We chose a painted style in the frame but with flat drawer fronts and crisp edges to the pilasters,” explains Andrea. “We avoided using a cornice by taking the furniture up to the ceiling to create a sharp contemporary feel that doesn’t lose the hand-made aesthetic of really good joinery.”

RURAL RETREAT

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I-B U I L D/ JAN/21

RURAL RETREAT

A hand-painted finish meant the couple could choose the exact colour and finish, in Farrow & Ball ‘Worsted’ and ‘Pitch Black’.

Choosing timber means the furniture has a tactile feel of traditional joinery, in keeping with the style of the house overall. The cooking section worktop with the AGA is dark ‘Belgravia Grey’, a contrast to the Westminster White quartz on the rest of the project.

With black AGA tops, this avoids a chop and change of colour on this section, particularly as the upstand at the back of the AGA runs up to the underside and across the windowsill, creating a seamless look.

In such a characterful property, it was important to the owners that the new extension reflected that personality too, something that was made possible by having the kitchen made bespoke. “A ‘goal post’ was made to house the tall pantry, fridge-freezer and base and wall cabinets section, with light washing down the quartz splashback.

This meant end panels and cornice could be excluded from the design, allowing us to maintain simple, clean lines,” comments Andrea.

“The pantry and island were very carefully kitted out with exacting requirements for storage; something we could achieve as we make all the internal fittings ourselves from timber, which is colour-matched with the carcases – internal pull-outs, knife drawers, spice drawers, pull-out shelves and non-slip mats to name a few.”

Even the smallest details are catered for, helping to pull the design together, including a pull-out bin that suited the couple’s recycling needs, with a little compost bin to keep the floor and work surfaces clear.

The finished project is an extension to be proud of, with stunning views of the garden beyond the kitchen window and inside a beautifully designed family kitchen living space in which to spend time together.

www.drewforsyth.co.uk I-B U I L D/ JAN/21

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Benfield ATT, Caldicot, NP26 5PR info@benfieldatt.uk www.benfieldatt.uk 01291 437 050

SECURITY

The most commonly overlooked home security features With three-quarters of break-ins in the UK happening via the front door, Victoria Brocklesby, Founder and COO at Origin, explores the security elements that are most frequently overlooked in self-build projects, and offers her advice for choosing doors and windows that will keep homes safe and secure.

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ere, Victoria runs through her top eight tips to ensure your new home benefits from optimum security and keeps potential intruders at bay.

01. Materials

When it comes to keeping a home secure, materials matter, and it is worth investing in this area to avoid compromising security later down the line. Doors and windows are the most common access points for intruders, so it is essential that the frames are made of a strong and durable material in order to withstand potential attacks.

Aluminium is one of the strongest options available as it combines robustness with a lightweight structure that weighs 67% less than steel. Unlike wood or timber, it won’t weather and warp, and it is far more impenetrable than uPVC.

02 . Locks

In addition to strong frames, locking systems are also vital for keeping doors and windows secure and mustn’t be overlooked during a build. Self-builders should look for systems that lock at as many points as possible for the highest level of security.

I-B U I L D/ JAN/21

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The weakest areas for doors are often the cylinder/locking barrel. So, renovators must ensure they opt for tamper-proof barrels. High-quality doors will offer either a three-star barrel or one with coded magnetic keys for the highest level of security. Both are proven to protect against snapping, picking, drilling and bumping. Cheaper alternatives that don’t offer protection against tampering should be avoided.

03. Handles

After the cylinder/barrel, the handle is considered the next weakest part of the door and should also be prioritised. Intruders have developed methods to exploit all potential weaknesses, so a truly secure door handle will need to offer protection in all these areas. A solid-cast metal body secured with hardened metal bolts will protect against brute force.

A cylinder guard covering the handle will offer resistance against lock snapping, whilst a rotating cylinder shield will protect against attempts to drill the lock. In addition, a chamfered backplate will make the handle difficult to grip, stopping thieves using mole-grips or clamps to detach it from the door.

RENEWABLES SECURITY

04. Hinges

Whilst easily overlooked, hinges are typically positioned outside the home and are, therefore, particularly vulnerable to burglars looking to break in via doors and windows. Hinges become an even easier target if they are poor quality, damaged or worn. The securest hinges will be made of a strong metal, such as zinc, and will be fitted with special bolts and screws that make it much more difficult for the frames to be levered off the hinges, a common tactic for intruders. Hinges made with strong, corrosion-resistant materials will also be better able to withstand bad weather, making them less vulnerable to damage later down the line.

05. Glazing

It is now a legal requirement that doors that feature large expanses of glass, such as bi-fold doors, are installed with toughened safety glass as standard. However, for those looking to maximise security, we would recommend opting for laminated glass.

Laminated glass has a thicker, layered structure, making it more resistant and better able to withstand damage. As an added bonus, it can also make doors more thermally-efficient.

06. Front doors

With the vast majority of break-ins happening via the front door, this should be a top priority for selfbuilders. As well as ensuring the door includes the most secure materials and components, renovators and self-builders should also consider the additional safety features that could make a big difference to the security of a home. For example, quality front doors can be fitted with a security bar restrictor to limit how widely they can be opened when answered to visitors.

Spyholes are a great way to enable homeowners to identify their visitors without having to open the door and can be incorporated into door knockers for a sleek and subtle finish.

07. Garage

Whilst the doors and windows leading directly to a home are important, self-builders mustn’t overlook garages, as these tend to house a wealth of expensive items, including vehicles, bicycles and tools, and often connect to the main house. Therefore, homeowners should look for a garage door that incorporates all the safety features they would expect from a front door, being careful not to compromise on materials. Internal doors that lead from the garage to the main home should also be secured with multi-point locks for absolute peace of mind.

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08. Certifications

Establishing which doors and windows offer the highest level of security can be overwhelming, but accreditations offer a quick way to identify quality. Self-builders should look for frames that are PAS 24 certified as a minimum. For extra assurance, homeowners should opt for doors and windows that have the police-approved Secured by Design accreditation. The accreditation uses rigorous testing methods to ensure doors and windows are sufficiently robust to resist attack by opportunistic burglars and has been credited with helping decrease new home break-ins by up to 87% since its launch.

www.origin-global.com I-B U I L D/ JAN/21

I-SCAPE -OUTDOOR LIVING JACKSONS FENCING

All dressed up and nowhere to grow: 2021 garden trends While the events of the last year have shown us we can never truly predict what will happen, 2020 undoubtedly highlighted the importance of the home, garden and personal wellbeing.

T

he pandemic has encouraged more homeowners and occupants to turn to their back gardens and balconies for recreation and escapism. Outdoor space has become a vital part of the ‘work from home’ culture many of us still find ourselves in.

Throughout 2020, we saw a massive spike in demand across the garden sector, with many using lockdown as an opportunity to enhance their outdoor space. They invested time and money into their homes and gardens, in the place of holidays, events and days out.

With restrictions and lockdown measures of varying degrees predicted to continue into spring, the desire to turn to home and garden improvements and create spaces which are increasingly becoming allweather alfresco extensions of the home, will surely continue across 2021.

I-B U I L D/ JAN/21

Bringing inside, outside

As we move into 2021, we’re likely to see a continued focus on bringing the inside, outside.

Sheltered outdoor zones, comfy deep-seating spaces, and alfresco dining areas with robust furniture like teak sets from Barlow Tyrie, or aluminium sets by Charles Bentley are likely to feature, with an increased interest in creating unique, and characterful gardens.

Select neutral tones or colours that reflect your indoor decor, and design any planting you add to help create a seamless, natural flow from indoors to outdoors.

Timber pergolas are ideal for creating the illusion of an outdoor room as the height acts as the ‘ceiling’ or ‘roof’ in the garden. Available with single or multiple bays, a pergola can frame your seating area effectively, regardless of its size.

Once you have the initial structure up, the fun can begin. Create a cosy winter wonderland for the cooler months by adding luxurious garden sofas, warm blankets and atmospheric lighting.

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The snug feeling can be enhanced when a semi-solid fence panel is added to one side of the structure to enclose the space. Then, during the summer months, this pergola can be transformed into a recreational area of shade, providing welcome escape should the sun be intense.

Alternatively, to create a more intimate outside area, consider installing a garden shelter. Venetian or woven panels are ideal for covering two or three sides of the shelter. This will add a significant degree of privacy, and both styles of panel create a beautiful backdrop to the seating area.

Raised planter beds

While this trend is nothing new to keen gardeners, it is perfect for budding garden enthusiasts. Raised beds allow you to create an ideal growing environment for your chosen plants, from the soil through to the drainage.

Experiment with different vegetables, fruit or flowers in manageable, controlled areas to find what you grow best. Timber soared in popularity throughout 2020, thanks to its beautiful aesthetic, robust durability and sustainable credentials.

I-SCAPE - OUTDOOR LIVING JACKSONS FENCING

Nurturing nature

Sustainability will continue to be a firm focus of the coming year, governing all decisions, from what’s going into the materials used in our houses and gardens, to what type of plants you choose for the flowerbeds.

This also extends to being conscious of the impact we are having on the animals we share our outdoor areas with. We can all help our local wildlife by being conscientious and designing-in havens for them throughout our gardens.

Here are a few simple ways to do this. You can choose early or long flowering plants, to help bees and insects in the early months of the year.

It’s also helpful to create a basic insect hotel.

This can be as simple as a pile of logs and twigs in the corner of your garden.

Installing a hedgehog hole or a hedgehog gravel board will offer the vulnerable hedgehog population a helping hand in their search for food and mates. With their diet of slugs, snails and insects, hedgehogs are extremely useful for helping to control pests in your garden.

Create DIY bird boxes. Nesting boxes will encourage local birds to find a home in your garden.

Lastly, wildflower gardens not only look picturesque, but they help the local wildlife flourish. Wildflower seeds are inexpensive and can be found at your local garden centre.

Noise nuisance

Noise pollution is an increasing concern for many, especially in urban areas. Given the increased time spent at home over the last year, it is not surprising that more of us have come to realise the damaging effect excess noise has on our wellbeing.

Your outdoor space risks being far from an oasis of tranquillity if it is located in an urban area, close to public transport, or near a busy road.

Solutions such as acoustic fencing around the perimeter of your property can help mitigate this problem. It is explicitly designed to reflect

or absorb unwanted sounds, and significantly reduces the impact of environmental noise.

Timber acoustic fencing is a brilliant option; not only is it useful in reducing noise, but it also maintains an attractive and ‘natural’ facade, while also being an environmentally-conscious option when correctly treated for a long life.

Maximising your outdoor space

You can take advantage of any outdoor space, no matter how large or small, and transform it into an oasis that works for you.

Vertical growing is just one of the ways to utilise unappreciated tight spaces with a vertical emphasis. Using trellis or fence panels as a support will work wonders in encouraging these plants to grow and flourish.

Venetian fence panels are particularly effective for this use as the gaps allow vines to grow up in between the slats by intertwining and eventually creating a green screen.

The winter months are the best time to start thinking about a garden renovation or uplift.

Working on improvements now will ensure it’s ready to enjoy fully as soon as the weather gets warmer.

These are just a few of the many emerging garden trends for the New Year. Hopefully, the tips mentioned will enable you to create your ideal garden to enjoy in 2021 and beyond.

www.jacksons-fencing.co.uk

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I-B U I L D/ JAN/21

I-DIY - CONVERSIONS SOPHIE NGUYEN ARCHITECTS

Loft conversions 101 with Sophie Nguyen In this article, Sophie Nguyen, Director at Sophie Nguyen Architects, offers her professional advice on converting lofts for optimum spatial and aestheticallypleasing, relaxing areas so you can make the most of your conversion.

What are the main reasons we all want to convert our lofts?

Converting a loft can: Add extra floor area and potentially increase the value of your house Create more floor area without the need to create an extension Create more living space such as an additional bedroom, a study room or family room, without the need to extend your home.

These lofts are usually uninsulated, as they are not used for living spaces.

A quarter of heat you generate to keep warm will be lost through the roof in an uninsulated home. Therefore, insulating your loft is very important as it will reduce heat loss and lower your heating bills. Once the space is insulated, it makes good sense to use it for a living area.

How can you transform your loft?

Add an en-suite bathroom With an en-suite bathroom, the loft conversion becomes a precious private bedroom that your teenager has been longing for. Or it could be the personal space highly appreciated by your guests.

I-B U I L D/ JAN/21

Adding a rooflight or a dormer window will radically transform this small shower room into a charming room, as it will be flooded with natural light. Also, it will contribute to feeling healthy with plenty of natural ventilation. Good use of a full-height mirror can also add a sense of depth.

Create a view and add natural light

The daylight that floods into a room is a connection to the natural environment and its benefit to our mental health is well known. Furthermore, the sunlight transforms the room spatially, as the light changes through the day. Dormer windows will increase the usable space by adding height. And a rooflight will increase the sense of height – the sky is the limit. In both cases, it will create a space flooded with natural light. A dormer window or a rooflight will generate a connection to the outdoors and will add views of your surroundings.

The ability to see nature from a room is a healing element, whether it is the sight of a surrounding park or the views over the street below.

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TOP TIP:

When choosing rooflights, it is advisable to use standard skylights, double-glazed or triple-glazed, with integrated blinds (manual or electrical), top-hung with hinges, allowing central rotation for ease of cleaning without having to go on the roof.

I-DIY - CONVERSIONS SOPHIE NGUYEN ARCHITECTS

Don’t forget storage space

As the loft is an area under a pitched roof, the space where the roof meets the floor could be perfect to create a line of low cupboards, with shelves and drawers. It is also where the water tank could be tucked away.

Finishes

New roof insulation can be hidden by plasterboard, with a polished plaster to create a modern feeling. Or it could also be covered with white-washed timber panels to give a Scandinavian feel to a new room.

How can architects help you design your dream conversion or renovation?

Here is my general approach using these five tools:

01. Puzzle

The process of designing a home is similar to a puzzle.

The pieces are elements – such as sunlight, views, planning matters with your local authority and the budget you want to allocate to the construction. The challenge is to find a design that makes the best of the elements that matter most to you, within your budget and time constraints. This is achieved through a discussion about your aspirations and the way you would like to live – and site constraints. And, it is through designing various spatial combinations that all the pieces eventually come together to create a unique home.

02 . The ‘Sunday afternoon test ’

I have what I call the ‘Sunday afternoon test’. When it is grey outside – perhaps it’s raining – and the next day is Monday – ask yourself, ‘do I feel happy in this space?’ If I can imagine simply being content to spend my time in a space, with family or friends or on my own, when the conditions are not perfect, then I am reassured that it is a space that will work over the longer term.

03. Let the sun shine in

When I work on a project, I like to focus on the sunlight, its orientation and how I can maximise its entry into the volume. I believe natural light adds another dimension to a space as well as increasing our wellbeing.

04. Revealing spaces

I am interested in revealing spaces that you would not imagine were there. A builtin cupboard in the wrong place can be an obstacle to a wider room. A corridor or a staircase, once relocated, can create an open-plan living room. Rooms should be part of an overall project, where the spaces in between are appropriately considered so that we can create a flow through the different rooms like an architectural promenade.

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I-B U I L D/ JAN/21

I-DIY - CONVERSIONS SOPHIE NGUYEN ARCHITECTS

5. Sketching and modelmaking

When I design a home, I like to explore ideas through making models and drawing sketches. It is an exciting way of allowing time to reflect and visualising the solutions. Physical models are a great way to give you a better idea of the proposal, and by moving the model around in the light, you can get an idea of how the sunlight will play with the space.

Top tips when planning a home renovation 01. Dream! It’s your house,

and it is a wonderful opportunity for you to think about how you want to live.

02 . Think of the Sunday

afternoon test. Am I content to sit here when it’s raining outside?

03. Set a reasonable

budget. The design and construction process needn’t be scary. It can be a pleasure, and matching your budget to your aspirations is an excellent way to reduce the stress of the process.

04. Hire an architect. I would

say that wouldn’t I! However, a good architect brings both experience to the construction process and creativity to the design process.

I-B U I L D/ JAN/21

And, during the build stage:

01. Get a contract. Even the most straightforward contract will bring clarity to the process and will stipulate your rights in the event of issues arising. If a contractor does not want to work with a contract, then you should not want to work with them.

02. Ask the contractor questions that you may feel are too naive to be asked. Is this a fixed price or an estimate? What might make the price increase? Is there any information that you need that you do not have? When is your finish date? Can you give me a copy of your insurance policy?

03. Be fair. It is generally better, and less costly, to reach an agreement where both sides come away with some level of satisfaction.

www.sophienguyenarchitects.com

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The Norwegian Experience...

A Change is in the Air...

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Prepared for print 22/10/20

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I-B U I L D/ JAN/21 10:33 17/12/2019

I-NTERIOR - FLOORS, WALLS & WORKTOPS CRL STONE

Adding timeless style to a farmhouse kitchen Kitchen surfaces need to be highly durable, simple to clean and in keeping with the style of the space overall. CRL Quartz from CRL Stone ticks all these boxes and more, making it the natural choice for a stunning farmhousestyle property which revealed a surprising feature as part of its revamp.

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enovating a period property will inevitably present challenges if any of the original features are to be preserved. Ensuring that the finished design is in keeping with the character of the building means taking care not just to select appropriate materials but also to make the most of any existing features.

This was very much the case when the owners of a country farmhouse unearthed an old water well in the middle of what was to be the new kitchen floor. Rather than covering it over, the couple topped it with glass and made it into a focal feature of the newly-designed space.

While the eye is naturally drawn to this area of the room, it also made the selection of other materials for elsewhere in the kitchen of even greater importance. CRL Quartz from CRL Stone was chosen for the work surfaces for many reasons, not least because this is a material that combines brilliantly with the glass-topped well, and fits seamlessly into this farmhouse-style property.

The kitchen remodel came about 15 years after the owners originally purchased the house, as a result of the couple’s requirements for the space evolving. Their goal was to create a light and airy, open-plan space for entertaining and socialising.

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I-NTERIOR - FLOORS, WALLS & WORKTOPS CRL STONE

In terms of surfaces, CRL Stone offered several options for the couple to choose from once they had worked with their kitchen supplier to finalise an overall colour palette. “From very early in the building stage, we had begun to put together our colour palette,” homeowner Richard explains. “Whilst choosing the kitchen tones, several CRL Stone surfaces stood out as bringing together our mixture of colours, and when we saw the large slabs in person at the showroom, we fell in love with CRL Quartz Colorado.”

Longevity in kitchen design is essential; kitchen surfaces are one of the most-used fixtures in the home, so they should be able to withstand wear-andtear and be long-lasting. A new kitchen is a big investment, so the surfaces chosen, whether for floors, walls, worktops or all three, should also offer longevity in terms of design.

The CRL Stone collections offer this, with surfaces that respond to the latest design trends while boasting a timeless quality that ensures they won’t date too quickly or go out of fashion.

Stylish and hard-wearing in equal measure, CRL Quartz, an engineered quartz stone, is scratch-, heat- and stainresistant. This is a surface that never needs to be sealed, unlike natural stones such as marble, and requires minimal maintenance to keep it looking as good as new. The nonporous surface is not only suitable for wet areas of the home such as the kitchen, but it also makes cleaning simple too, with soap and water or a mild detergent all that is needed.

Offering a versatile design solution appropriate for any setting, CRL Quartz is available in a wide choice of colours and thicknesses of 20 and 30mm.

CRL Quartz Colorado, chosen for the farmhouse kitchen revamp, features dark veins, soft brown flecks and white swirls that offer a sense of texture and style. Emulating the luxury look of real marble, Colorado is simple to maintain, making this the ideal surface for the couple’s new kitchen. As Richard comments: “Its moody patterning brought all the kitchen colours together and added a subtle touch of ‘bling’ with its sparkle flecks.”

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With a keen cook in the family, plenty of worktop space and lots of storage were a priority in the newly-shaped kitchen, with Shaker-style doors and limestone porcelain tiles creating a warm, traditional farmhouse kitchen look that is suitable for modern-day living.

With the water well taking centre stage, instead of a kitchen island, the couple opted for a breakfast bar in contrasting oak, which provides a connection with the adjacent dining area and ensures the chef is always part of the entertaining too.

Richard explains: “We love oak and the warmer tones of grey, so the kitchen was planned to incorporate both in the units.

This blended with the oak interior of our windows and the green oak-frame room divider between the dining area and sitting room.

“We are over the moon with the whole remodel, we absolutely love it,” concludes Richard. “It’s given us everything we wanted. We are really pleased with our choice of colours, and the CRL Quartz surface brings everything together to create a beautiful space.”

www.crlstone.co.uk I-B U I L D/ JAN/21

LEGAL & BUSINESS PRODUCT GUIDE ADVERTORIAL: HD SERVICES

Golf course irrigation and water supply boreholes

“Golf courses wouldn’t survive without an effective irrigation system.

Without irrigation, greens, approaches and tees would look very different,” states BIGGA.

Water supply boreholes: sustainable and practical

Many golf courses opt for a water supply borehole to feed their irrigation systems, as they offer more long-term benefits than taking a water supply directly from the mains.

Boreholes allow a golf course to extract water directly from the ground, which is a sustainable water source that can be used time and time again. Water supply boreholes require minimum maintenance and can often exceed the required amount of water to satisfy the greenkeeper’s needs.

As well as being self-sufficient and practical, many golf courses can achieve long-term financial benefits over using a mains supply, due to the high volume of water required to maintain the courses – the more you use, the more you pay. This continues to be more, so year-on-year with mains water prices increasing. With a borehole, you are not charged for your water usage; you incur only the running costs of the pumps and alarms.

So, if you are paying more than a few thousand per year for water, it may be useful to get a consultation for your very own water supply borehole.

Greys Green Golf Club: water supply borehole

Not far from Henley-on-Thames, Greys Green Golf Course offers terrific views and challenging play for golfers at every skill level. However, the well-groomed fairways and greens do not happen by chance.

Greys Green Golf Club has a fully functional water supply borehole achieving up to 20,000 litres/day to feed the irrigation system for its greens.

HD Services: one company for sustainable water supply

The team at HD Services can provide the full package when it comes to a sustainable water supply to feed your irrigation system.

Similarly to Greys Greens, Hazlemere and Sandy Lodge Golf Club, the HD Services team can provide a complete service for your course, including: Site surveys Construction of water supply borehole Installation of liners Borehole pumps (including replacements) Test pumping Commissioning EA application support Aftercare and maintenance contracts.

For a consultation or site survey, please contact the HD Services team to discuss your water supply options.

www.hdservicesltd.co.uk 01494 792000 enquiries@thehdgroup.co.uk I-B U I L D/ JAN/21

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LEGAL & BUSINESS PRODUCT GUIDE ADVERTORIAL: BLANCO | F. BALL AND CO. | OSMO | OMNIE

A gamechanger amongst smart taps

U

nique to the market is

BLANCO’s new easy-to-use, four-in-one

water-saving boiling water tap, the EVOL-S Pro Hot and Filter.

Boasting the revolutionary EVOL rotary dial, allowing you to set precisely the amount of filtered boiling or filtered cold water you choose. The Pro Hot and Filter four-in-one tap joins the EVOL-S family alongside the three-in-one Pro Filter and the

original EVOL-S Volume mixer with pull-out spray. The EVOL-S

Pro Hot and Filter is a stunning semi-professional mixer tap, in stainless PVD steel finish, which delivers standard hot and cold

New-generation OMNIE home heading the field

water with two spray options via the mixer lever on the right.

www.blanco.co.uk 01923 635200 info@blanco.co.uk

F. Ball achieves first-class result at Plymouth College of Art

With many more building services specifiers, installers and occupants embracing internet technology to cut domestic energy usage, OMNIE has responded by developing its own innovative new range of controls, offering enhanced connectivity and functionality over its predecessors: with the potential to set new standards in heating performance.

H

A

s an industry leader in the supply of ground and air source heat pumps, as well as highly energyefficient underfloor heating and MVHR systems, OMNIE has become known for delivering whole-house solutions. Now, though, the development of the bespoke new OMNIE Home controls’ package offers the potential to deliver even higher energy savings through cutting-edge connectivity and super subzoning of interior space.

Significantly, the programmable thermostat controls are ready to take full advantage of the latest modern assistive technology developed for smartphones and virtual AI assistants, such as Amazon’s Alexa.

There are a wide number of practical and even aesthetic benefits to the innovative new OMNIE Home controls, which are far simpler to install and commission, with no need to input codes, reducing the set up to simply pressing a button.

Other tweaks to make life easier for the installer and occupier include the fact that the on-screen set-up instructions are in plain English. Previously, codes had to be input alongside the use of a manual – while pairing was undertaken using the same commissioning approach.

However, for the new Home control, pairing has been made far easier employing RF connectivity.

The changes include a more modern, sleek look too for the control panel itself. For example, the new control is just 10mm thick, with a thinner rear terminal block fitting a standard 25mm back box – overall, 18mm slimmer than its www.omnie.co.uk predecessor.

01392 363605 projects@omnie.co.uk

igh-performance floor preparation products and adhesives from F. Ball and Co. have been used to

transform Tavistock Place, the main undergraduate building at Plymouth College of Art, into an inspiring learning space. The

refurbishment took place during the summer break, meaning

a quick turnaround to upgrade the campus gateway for staff and students was required before the new academic year

commenced. Specialist F. Ball products enabled contractors

to install safety vinyl sheet and carpet tiles, using Styccobond F49 pressure-sensitive adhesive and

Styccobond F41 tackifier, respectively, in the independent art school’s reception, gallery, cafe bar, offices and conference rooms.

www.f-ball.co.uk 01538 361633 mail@f-ball.co.uk

Custom colour mixing with Osmo

C

ountry

Colour

just got even

more exciting.

Along with the

19 standard colours Osmo offers, the exterior wood finish is now

available in over 2000 custom colours, which are made to order

from your local Osmo dealer. No matter what finish you want to give your life – Osmo has the right colours. The best part is you get to

choose: soft, warm or bold. The company's do-it-yourself mixtures make it all really easy to create new colours. Country Colour will

bring out the best in wood surfaces in the home and garden. Also, from January 2021, any custom colour ordered from the RAL classic and NCS

colour charts can be delivered in only three to five business days.

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www.osmouk.com 01296 481220 sales@osmouk.com I-B U I L D/ JAN/21

OAK FRAMED BUILDINGS

QUALITY CLADDING & DECKING

HOME & GARDEN FEATURES

OAK FLOORING

www.roundwood.com Tel: 01435 867 072 Round Wood | Newick Lane | Mayfield | East Sussex | TN20 6RG I-B U I L D/ JAN/21

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ÖÖD HOUSES