i-Build October 2021

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CASE STUDIES

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INSPIRATION

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Cover story:

Matthew Giles Architects has redesigned and upgraded a six-bedroom Victorian house in Wandsworth.

tiWed or' s lcome I - B U I L D O C T O B E R 2021

N

ow that the full stamp duty holiday has come to an end, we’re starting to see the effects of the incentive, with many ŁÆÆ foot onto the property ladder. For many new homeowners, this has resulted in the purchase of an older, run-down property with the intention of modernising and renovating to, ultimately, increase their equity. Take a look at social media platforms, such as Instagram and TikTok, and they’re chock-full of inspirational home renovations that give mediocre ‘transformation Tuesdays’ posts a run for their money.

To help the new home renovators and DIYers amongst us, we’ve talked to MyJobQuote. In this month’s edition, building and construction expert Thomas Goodman at MyJobQuote runs through the most common building Ł that you can steer well clear of potential pitfalls. Grab a notebook, turn to page 16 and write everything down to ensure your home renovation is a smoothsailing process.

Alternatively, if you’re at the end of your home transformation journey and you’ve been left with a blank canvas, LOFT is here to help with the interior design process.

Whether you’re looking to put your newlyrenovated masterpiece on the market ŒŁŁŁªÆ an eventual sale, Lauren Maylor, Creative Director at LOFT, offers her top tips on styling your home to its full potential. Turn to page 30 for the full article.

Meanwhile, for those that are halfway through restoration and need that inspirational pick me up, head over to page 18. Here, Ed Pateman-Jones runs me through the beautiful extension project his family conducted on their remarkable 2500ft2 Æ Ø bedroom, semi-detached, south-facing house in Streatham Hill, South London.

Rebecca Rebecca Kemp Editor

@ibuildmagazine

@ibuildmagazine

ibuildmagazine

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

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30 The Shoreway, St Mary’s Island, Chatham, Kent, ME4 3SL 01622 946150 moc.aidemtuhder.w

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DESIRED DESIGNS

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n just a few short days, our screens will be awash with cosy autumnal snaps of

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Y O U R S TO BU Y

1. Happy Halloween mat, HomeSense, £7.99

elements of the outside world into our homes. During this period, we accessorise our interiors with an abundance of ripe shades, introduce fresh, natural decorations – like pumpkins, conkers and squash ÆŁŒ woody, warm scents of spiced, potent candles. There are so many details to love about autumn. Here, we’ve picked a few seasonal items that are on our wish list this October.

6. Small, tall orange pumpkin, B&M, 2 £ .00

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Light-up happy Halloween 7. Autumn foliage garland, banner, Lights4fun, £19.99 Ginger Ray, 1£ .4 99 3.

Halloween boo basket, Bellybambino, £36 4.

Emma Bridgewater Halloween cocoa mug, Daisy Park, £22.95 5.

Emma Bridgewater Halloween bucket, Daisy Park, £6.00

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8. Pumpkin cake wax melt segment pot, Sassy Shop Wax, £3.20 9.

Pumpkin oil painting Æ ªÆ Abstract House, £3.00 10.

Two-pack ‘creep it real’ tea towels, HomeSense, 5 £ .99

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IzBUILDbOCTOBERb 13/09/2021 11:55:13

DESIRED DESIGNS

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U R B AN S A NC T U A R Y

A celebration of materials and crafts M a t h e w G i l e s Ar c h i t e c t s h a s r e d e s i g n e d a n d upgraded this six-bedro m Victorian house i n Wa n d s w o r t h w i t h s u r g i c a l c a r e a n d a c l o s e study of the site levels.

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he London-based practice has lavished care and attention on this home. Almost like a stage set, levels have been used to create a space that is both singular and comprises three distinct parts.

The first faces onto the street, the second acts as a reading nook, then the final sunken space looks out over the garden.

The kitchen sits within this last space.

White oak joinery and railings define the upper spaces.

Here, expressed Douglas fir timber cranked beams add warmth and texture to the area. The kitchen acts as a point around which other activities flow. The exposed beams create an enhanced light quality and sense of order when looking along the length of the house towards the garden and framing views as you move through the house. The kitchen features timber cabinetry and white Carrara marble surfaces, and the exposed London stock brickwork covering the sidewall matches the restrained colour palette of the rest of the house.

Polished concrete floors flow from the ground floor to the external terrace, helping blur the boundaries between inside and outside spaces, especially when the full-height doors are opened. The design has been executed so that in all areas, there is an intimate connection with nature. Seated within the lofty, vaulted dining space, the view is framed by two in-situ cast concrete columns that are filleted to broaden the surroundings.

A new ‘den’ adds to the mix of living spaces in the basement, brightly lit by openings in the floor above and a capping skylight. The lightwell also creates a visual connection between the playroom and the kitchen. Behind the playroom, a new en-suite bedroom and utility room have been added to enhance the living space.

This project is a celebration of materials and crafts. The combination of raw materials and their refinement elevates the everyday. The effortlessness of the composition allows simple things like the quality of light and visual connection to others comes to the fore.

Here, i-Build Editor, Rebecca Kemp, talks to homeowner, Amanda Young, about her and her husband, Kevin’s, project and finds out what drove them to extend their family home.

RK: WaQ "IB Ee d q)V Q) Qae )" Q I BE) e c Q \ AY: We saw what some of our friends had achieved with

their refurbishment schemes. Therefore, we knew that we could deliver a dramatic transformation if we approached the project well.

RK: Haje q)V a kaqI ka"Qe d Q) BVEIVe q)VE )k" BE) e c Q \ AY: No, not really! But with our family being so young, we thought it was now or never.

RK: P e aIe Qa VI Q E)Vg Q e d e a b e "d e pQe "d "g Q I )VIe U AY: We had a home in the right area but situated on a tight, constrained site with limited access. We approached the project with hopes that an extension and reconfiguration would help accommodate our growing family.

RK: WaQ IQqe a"d age I Q e )E g "a b V d "g \ AY: It’s a 19th-century Victorian terraced home.

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U R B A N S A N C T U A RY

RK: H)k d q)V c )!b "e Qe b V d "g RI IQqe kQ Qe epQe "I)"\ AY: Timber, stone, concrete, brick and Corten

steel contrast with the external and internal fabric, and inside, the new parquet flooring guides the eye through the lobby towards the light that floods in from the garden.

RK: WaQkaIQejI)" a"d "IBEaQ)" be "dq)VE"ek)!e\ AY: We needed to expand the useable space

in the home and improve the perception of space within the house’s social areas. We also sought materials that would provide a refined, contemporary feel.

RK: H)k d d q)V aBBE)ac f "a I "g q)VE d e I g" b E e f \ AY: We discussed everything with Matthew Giles Architects, collaboratively looking at what was achievable with our budget and looking for ways to push beyond the things we see ‘everywhere’.

RK: H)k )"g d d Q Qae Q) ga " B a"" "g Be E! II )" \ AY: Matthew Giles Architects were appointed on 31st January 2018, and planning was granted on 30th May 2018.

RK: We Ee Q e Ee a"q c a e "g "g aIBe c QI Q) Q e BE) e c Q \ AY: In the early stages, we were unsure how

we’d be able to increase the size of the house.

RK: D d q)V BE) e c Q !a"age Q e b V d q)VEIe f \ AY: No. Matthew Giles Architects project

managed the build. The team helped us formulate our ideas into a meaningful plan and maximise the house’s potential. The new layout is a vast improvement, and there is a balance between the amount of space gained and the loss of garden area. Although modest, the internal work has given us an exciting place. It’s Æ Ł Œ Œ Æ fi º Æ ÆÆÆ Œ throughout the ground and basement levels.

RK: H)k d q)V aBBE)ac !aQe Ea a"d BE)d Vc Q IBe c fc aQ)"\ AY: Two of the critical parts of the brief were

Æ Œ ŁŁÆÆ spatial quality and to improve the visual ÆÆ Æ Ł Ł ŁÆ ¡ ˙ consistent use of timber helps to tie together the separate parts of the house, and the tone of the natural materials also helps to add Œ ŒÆ Ł Ł ¡ What’s more, all the materials had to be robust, able to withstand the considerable wear and tear of a large family.

RK: A Ee Q e Ee a"q BaEQ c V aE !aQe E a I q)V Ee c )!!e "d Q) )Q e EI \ AY: Tadelakt, which is the polished plaster

that we used in the main family bathroom.

RK: We " kaI Q e BE) e c Q c )!B e Qe d \ AY: We completed the project in March 2021,

and we moved in towards the end of April 2021.

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U R B A N S A N C T U A RY

RK: D d q)V Ee !a " k Q " Q e )E g "a b Vd ge Q \ AY: We did go a little over budget. The costs increased due to the tight and constrained site that had limited access – this added difficulty and cost to the build process.

RK: H)k d )e I Q e b V d "g Ee IB)"d Q) QI IVEE)V"d "g a"d Ic aBe \ AY: Corten steel was chosen to clad

º ª Æ Œ º Æ Æfi its mottled colouration will age well and integrate with the buff brick of the surrounding properties.

RK: II Q e f " I e d IBac e e je EqQ "g Q aQ q)V )Be d Q k)V d b e \ AY: It still amazes us how subtle the works are Æ Æfi Ł know we have added two extra bedrooms.

RK: W aQ d ) q)V )je !)IQ ab )VQ q)VE "e k )!e \ AY: The materials and surfaces change

every single day. As the light changes throughout the year, it brings out different aspects of the grain and variations.

RK: W aQ R I q)VE faj)VE Qe E))! \ AY: The kitchen is essential to us as a family.

Yet, the den has quite a lot of drama, with shadows drifting down the brickwork wall and clouds that are framed in the skylight two storeys overhead.

RK: W)Vd q)V d ) Qe k)e Q "g aga"\ AY: Though we knew that we would have to

do some renovations when we first bought this property, we aren’t serial renovators.

For us, the goal was to increase the number of bedrooms for the growing family and relatives coming to stay. Now that the fourbedroom house has become a six-bedroom house with excellent open-plan living space, it really works for the way that we live. All services and storage are in the basement. and we have a tranquil area on the ground floor that’s free of clutter. Perhaps if we needed to increase our space even further, we’d consider taking on another project.

RK: W aQ ad j c e k)V d q)V )ffe E Q) a"q)"e )) "g Q) Ee ")jaQe \ AY: Even before you engage an architect

or builder, it is essential to know what you are willing to sacrifice. We wanted an improvement internally, even if that meant sacrificing a small part of the garden. By occupying the infill, more space has been provided to accommodate our family.

We have a small courtyard garden at the rear, so the space gained feels balanced.

We prefer the exterior spaces to be easy to manage, so our courtyard is low maintenance, meaning it’s always ready to host our outdoor meals and entertaining.

www.matthewgilesarchitects.com

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V I EWP O INT

Viewpoint Thnomcts e

s Æ Ł Æ ŁÆ º upper’ to get on the property ladder, many are ªÆ •… ¡ » ŁÆ and construction expert Thomas Goodman at MyJobQuote presents the most common building mistakes that Ł¡

Firstly, you must check prospective tradespeople’s accreditation. If they themselves, or the company they are registered to, do not have any sign of legitimacy, then Ł ¡¿ Ł Æ the National Federation of Builders, Federation of Master Builders and TrustMark, and ensure all plumbers are Gas ˘ ¡ …Æ Æ Æ ªÆ ÆŁ Æ registered business address. If they can’t give you this, then it’s best to avoid this business.

I Ł Æ Œ Ł Æ ªª you have chosen are not delivering the job which you agreed on, then there are ways to rectify this. Speak to the tradespeople and try and put the problem right. If they are reputable, then they will work to sort out any issues or potential misunderstandings as early as possible. Communication is always key.

If, however, this does not solve any issues or in other circumstances of unprofessional behaviour or mistreatment, then contact the Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB). CAB will look through evidence and inform you of anything you are entitled to.

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It i s n o t u n c o m o n f o r f i r s t - t i m e b u y e r s t o se k a property that ne ds some renovating.

Wi t h i n t h e l a s t m o n t h a l o n e , t h e s e a r c h t e r m ‘fixer up er’ has se n a 230.2% uplift, reflecting property buyers’ desires to obtain a premises that is an investment as wel as a home.

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Once you have decided on the work you want to do, the next and most important thing to do is choose the best tradesperson for the job. Whether you need a painter or an architect, the right person for the job can make your life much easier. Yet, choosing the best possible tradesperson can be Ł Œ §£ ªª Æ ¨ Æ Ø bad experience with a tradesperson.

IzBUILDbOCTOBERb

The saying ‘If it’s too good to be true, then it probably is’ can, unfortunately, ring true in many building circumstances.

When choosing a builder, you should shop around and get ŁÆ Ø Ł Æ ªÆ Æ ª ¡… Ł Æ Ł Ø within similar price ranges, but one is much cheaper, then you must try and resist temptation in booking that company

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VIEWPOINT

If you know you can get supplies cheaper, and they can arrive correctly and on time, then there is no harm Æ Æ fi Œ Ø Ł Æ doing this to save money, then you would be better off allowing your tradespeople to buy the materials themselves. This will also be one less thing for you to worry about.

5 U R VI "g " straight away. Research more about the company, the tradespeople and read reviews about them.

More often than not, the much cheaper ªÆ ŁŒ not be inclusive of all the labour required.

If, after substantial research, you still feel as though the cheaper company may be the best, then it would be worth asking them outright why their prices are so low.

A reputable company will be able to offer a cost breakdown and explanation to support its pricing strategy.

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Everyone loves a bargain, and there is no better feeling than getting something for a lot less than expected.

However, when it comes to building work, it’s important to set a healthy budget for your building costs, as opposed to an optimistic one. Two in five house renovators overspend their Ł Æ Ø ¥£ Æ is something that can easily be avoided by planning prior to starting the work.

Before starting any work, you should itemise all the costs involved and also, ideally, include a bit extra in case

of an emergency. By doing this, you are avoiding yourself being halfway through a job and finding yourself out of money.

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To save money and avoid company or tradesperson mark-ups, many renovators opt to buy materials themselves, from materials for structure to paints and carpets. While this can be a good way to save a bit of money, buying your own building materials requires extensive research and a solid understanding of the work which needs to be done.

You must also purchase the right amount of materials and ensure they arrive in good time for the builders. A risk with this is that if your materials do not arrive in time, when the tradespeople turn up so they can’t start work, they will charge you a ‘standing time’ and leave. You will then need to pay for them to turn up another day, which means more money will be spent than you originally planned.

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Once you have moved into your home, it is easy to become too excited about potential plans and wanting to rush and get everything completed as quickly as ª fi Œ Ø Ł Æ Æ Æ Ł in improper work, and you may change your mind and realise something doesn’t look as nice as originally Æ ¡ §§ Æ Ø they were unhappy with the results of their work, which is estimated to be Œ ı§¡‹ Æ Æ Œ Æ ¡ … Ł change your mind soon after, then not only is that a waste of money, but you will then end up spending more to change the design, resulting in you definitely over-spending.

Prior to starting any work, you must take some time to think the plans over and discuss with builders what will work logistically and aesthetically. A reputable builder will be honest and tell you whether your ideas will work on a day-to-day basis, and not just look nice. Changes in aesthetics are less detrimental than changes to the Ł Ł Æ ª Æ fi Œ Ø cost of aesthetic work can still cost a lot more money.

www.myjobquote.co.uk IzBUILDbOCTOBERb

IMUL RIBPG RH EAN S TING I V ES AINNOV NC & ELTEU AC TR Y AR I TION CALS

Th e S e l f - B u i l d D i a r i e s :

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Follow this self-build story on Instagram

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ere, i-Build’s Editor, Rebecca Kemp, talks to Ed PatemanJones about his family’s home ÆØ Æ ª Æ Æ out what drove him and Katie to take on this property to extend.

houses, and so the prospect of a renovation was always something I was enticed by. Fortunately, Katie and I share very similar architectural and interior tastes – which, we learned on our house hunt, was not shared by many others (or at least within our limited budget!).

RK: WaQ"IBEeq)V d Q)Qae)"QIBE)eQ c \ EP-J: For us, it just didn’t feel like good

RK: H)ka"dkqq)V d ))Ie c QIBE)BeEQqQ)Ee")jaQe\ EP-J: Prior to buying this house, we had put

value to buy a house that was already ‘done-up’, particularly as it would then likely be to someone else’s tastes. Because of this, we inevitably ended up looking at properties that needed a bit of TLC. Comparatively, this house required less work than many others we saw, allowing us to concentrate on the things we wanted rather than essential repairs.

RK:Hajeq)VakaqIka"Qed Q)BVEIVeq)VE)k"BE)eQ c \ EP-J: I studied for a property development degree at university and so always had some ambition to renovate a property.

My mother has also renovated several

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offers in elsewhere, which were (very fortunately) rejected. In hindsight, we know that we had Æ Ł Łª Æ Ł Æ everything seems to be selling at double speed as soon as you start looking. This house had been taken off the market by another buyer who, ŁÆ Ł Ł Æ ÆÆ together, so the estate agent called us up, and we bit his arm off! In our eyes, it was the best value house in the area and represented everything we wanted (at least four-bed, southfacing, good-sized garden and at least 2000ft2), Æ Æ Æª that allowed us to release some equity from our previous property, thus enabling the renovation to happen.

I M P RES S I V E I N O V A T I O N

RK: W aQ IQq e a"d age I Q e )E g "a b V d "g \ EP-J: It dates back to around 1900 and is Victorian in style – high ceilings, fireplaces, architraves, picture rails etc.

RK: H)k d d q)V c )!b "e Q e )E g "a b V d "g R I IQq e k Q Q e e pQe "I )" \ EP-J: We love the London yellow bricks, so we designed the

extension to blur the old and the new. That blending of existing and new-build elements also spilt over to how we incorporate the theme of inside/outside with the glazing ‘cutting’ through the bricks and allowing us to view up the side of the house, seeing where the old bricks and new bricks merge.

RK: W aQ kaI Q e j I )" a"d "IB EaQ )" b e "d q)VE "e k )!e \ EP-J: We absolutely love the exposed bricks and black

window frames found on canal houses in Amsterdam – and the minimalism and clean lines of Scandinavian design. We have combined these two architectural types with traditional Victorian London architecture to create our dream home.

C O S T (A V T INCLUSIVE): Design and surveys:

RK: H)k d d q)V aBBE)ac f "a I "g q)VE d e I g" b E e f \ EP-J: With such a huge opportunity to do something

Construction:

Flooring materials: £10k

Lighting: £2k

Glazing:

Carpets:

£39k

Kitchen: £40k Bathrooms:

exciting and unique, there was no way we were going to follow the status quo. So, we were always encouraging the architect to push the boundaries of what he thought we wanted. Initially, we wanted traditional Crittall windows (or replicas), but including them in the design created a number of restrictions for us – in terms of how the glazing functioned within the space. We also realised that we wanted to veer away from anything that was very in vogue at the time – in case it didn’t age well. Once we had made this decision,

£19k

£128k

£5k

Paint: £1k £8k

Total: £252k

we (and the architect) were much more creative with the glazing’s design and functionality without compromising the rest of the space. As soon as we knew there was an option to have an opening corner of glazing, ‘up-and-over’ glazing and a separate skylight, all against a gorgeous, exposed brick wall, we were determined to make that happen.

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I M P RES S I V E I N O V A T I O N

RK: H)k )"g d d Q Qa e Q) ga " B a"" "g Be E! II )" \ EP-J: Faster than expected!

Although, because of the redesign after changing the concept away from Crittall-style windows, we went back through planning permission for a second time. We found that calling the planning officer directly to encourage progression helped speed the process up by a few weeks.

RK: We Ee Q e Ee a"q c a e "g "g aIBe c QI Q) Q e BE) e c Q a"d b V d \ EP-J: Many! The seamless threshold

between the kitchen and the patio tiles is complicated to design, mainly because the glazing is on a corner. This took many conference calls with the glazier, architect and builder to finally agree on how this could work.

Finding well-priced glaziers was extremely difficult. We had quotes back at twice the price of what we ended up securing, for what we believe to be, an identical product.

RK: D d q)V BE) e c Q !a"age Q e b V d q)VEIe f \ EP-J: Our builder managed the build, although we sourced most of the finishing materials.

RK: D d q)V k)E k Q a" aEc Qe c Q aQ a"q B) "Q " Q e BE)c e II \ EP-J: Yes, until the builder was

appointed and then again when we ran into difficulty with the glazing design.

RK: H)k d d q)V aBBE)ac !aQe Ea a"d BE)d Vc Q IBe c f c aQ )" \ EP-J: We did this as we went along,

without any advice. Hats off to anyone who can do it all upfront! We are pleased with the end result, having done it this way, but it was highly stressful as the decisions seemed never-ending at the time.

RK: A Ee Q e Ee a"q BaEQ c V aE !aQe E a I Q aQ q)V k)V d Ee c )!!e "d Q) )Q e EI \ EP-J: Our exposed brick wall

characterises our build. If you can find a way of integrating the clean lines of glazing with the rough lines of brick, I think your project is likely to end up looking great.

RK: H)k )"g d d Q e BE) e c Q Qae \ EP-J: Eight months. We had planned

for about five. Excavation during very wet weather took longer than expected. We also increased the size of the renovation to improve the rooms throughout the house, including another bathroom, whereas we had initially just planned to do the ground floor.

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I M P RES S I V E I N O V A T I O N

RK: We"kaIQeBE)eQ c )!Be c Qe\d EP-J: It was completed in June 2021, but we

moved in a month before, as it was habitable. Katie’s parents had already put up with us living with them for eight months! I’d certainly recommend being Æ ¡ … Æ ÆŒ Œ ŒŁ have happened if we hadn’t moved in because the tradesmen seemed to be asking us questions every Ł ÆÆ¡

RK: Ddq)VEe!a"kQ"Qe)Eg"aVd b geQ\ EP-J: I don’t think we had ever appreciated the

cost associated with the pre-build work of design and surveys. We initially hadn’t planned to do the whole house, but we managed to save enough money to do more work than planned which, obviously, increased the budget quite a bit.

RK: H)k d )e I Q e b V d "g Ee IB)"d Q) QI IVEE)V"d "g a"d Ic aBe \ EP-J: Our extension and patio sit slightly lower

than the surrounding gardens, which means it fits in very well. Whilst there is a lot of glazing, there are some very mature large trees at the end of the garden, which affords us all the privacy we need.

RK: II Q e f " I e d IBac e e je EqQ "g Q aQ q)V )Be d Q k)V d b e \ EP-J: Very much so, although it has taken some time to settle in again and de-stress from the experience.

RK: WaQ)d q)V)je!)IQab)VQq)VE"ek)!e\ EP-J: The lighting. We gave it loads of thought

before and during the process and were very reluctant to compromise – even when we had some pushback on the complexities of what we wanted. Now the atmosphere at night is very unique and can change at the flick of a switch.

RK: WaQ R I q)VE faj)VE Qe E))! a"d kq \ EP-J: The kitchen extension, being the core of

what we have done. It has such a ‘wow factor’ and is truly one of a kind. It’s bright and airy but cosy at the same time. All the materials feel high quality, and it just feels like you’re somewhere special.

RK: II Q e Ee a"qQ "g Q aQ q)V k)V d aje d )"e d ffe Ee "Q q \ EP-J: We get asked this a lot. We could have done

things differently, but we had considered them before we proceeded, which meant that we ended up making the best decisions for us and how we would use the space.

RK: W)V d q)V d ) Q e k) e Q "g aga " \ EP-J: Yes, but I think if we do it again in the

next six years, it would be for the purposes of ‘flipping’ a property – which would be far more straightforward and less stressful than what we have done here.

RK: WaQ ad j c e k)V d q)V )ffe E Q) a"q)"e )) "g Q) Ee ")jaQe \ EP-J: Don’t underestimate the cost of all the

finishing materials, because they are often not part of your glazing and construction quotes.

It’s easy to have a figure in mind that can be vastly below the reality once you actually start buying everything! Think carpets, light switches, plug sockets, light fittings, handles, tiling, paints, electricals and, of course, furniture.

IzBUILDbOCTOBERb

S T AIR S , BAL U S T R A D E S & BAL C O NIES

Glas balustrades: t h e i d e a l p ro d u c t fo r modern interiors Wi t h t h e i r s l e k a n d m o d e r n a e s t h e t i c , g l a s balustrades have become increasingly p o p u l a r o v e r t h e y e a r s . He r e , F . H . Br u n d l e ’ s He a d o f M a r k e t i n g , P a u l S m i t h , s h a r e s h o w you can tap into this trend.

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o one can be exactly sure when the first balustrades were built, but it’s safe to say that their history goes back centuries.

The style of different balustrade systems used through the ages has often been determined by the materials in fashion at the time – Ancient Greeks and Romans would add ornate stone balustrades to their outdoor balconies as a symbol of wealth, wooden balustrades became popular in Renaissance Europe, and by the Victorian era, wrought iron had become the most widely-used material as a symbol of prosperity and good taste.

In the second half of the 20th century, more materials entered the world of balustrades – stainless steel, aluminium and glass. Prompted by efficient modern manufacturing techniques, its strength, flexibility and versatility, glass has since then become a popular option for balustrades, both in the private and commercial markets. Like other materials before it, glass balustrades today represent the current age and architectural style – with clean, sharp and bright aesthetics, they define the modern design.

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One of the main reasons that glass elements are so popular today is that they help to create more space – making areas appear larger than they really are, which is something that cannot be achieved by using other materials.

It seems the benefits of glass balustrades are endless – they’re ideal for modern interiors, easy to clean, strong and durable, safe and secure. Homeowners can’t seem to get enough of them, which is why F.H. Brundle, a leading supplier of handrailing and balustrades, includes them in its extensive range, helping installers tap into this lucrative, growing market.

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The company offers a wide range of glass balustrade systems, ready to meet any requirement. With its Liveconfigurator tool, you can design and configure glass balustrades to your own sizes from a wide range of products and accessories – choose from the options, add your dimensions and design. You’ll receive free CAD drawings, as well as a fully detailed quote.

STAIRS, BALU S TRADES & BALCONIES

Firstly, choose from F.H. Brundle’s extensive range of preassembled posts. Round or square profile posts with glass clamps can be used with or without a handrail and are a cost-effective way to achieve a stunning balustrade. Quick to install with the option of bolt-down, concrete-in and side-fix, they offer great onsite flexibility – up to 1190mm post centres can be achieved with standard glass panels from stock, in 10mm thickness and 100mm increments with bespoke glass available to order.

Next, spigots are also a simple way to achieve an open glass balustrade. With the advantage of only being visible towards the base, they keep views open and clear. These are quick to install with only one fixing per spigot, are available in round, square, with Duplex 2205 or PCC matt black options, and come in 10 to 21.5mm thickness glass from stock, in 100mm increments up to 1200mm wide, with bespoke glass available to order.

Glass stand-off adaptors are another great way to create a glass balustrade with the adaptors invisible from the inside. These are suitable for glass thicknesses up to 25.5mm, and glass is available to order complete with pre-drilled holes. Frameless glass balustrades provide spectacular views, with clean lines and simple installation, and F.H. Brundle has several systems available.

Firstly, the PanelGrip system, when assembled with 15 to 21.5mm tempered monolithic or tempered laminated glass, enables the installer to fabricate a structural glass railing system with a significant reduction in labour. The mill/raw channel can be clad in a satin or mirror polish finish.

Next, the Wedge-Loc system is available in satin anodised for use without cladding or a mill/raw finish for use with stainless cladding, and comes with pre-drilled channel fixing holes and is easy to install.

The Posi-Glaze system is F.H. Brundle’s innovative aluminium channel system that holds glass panels in place and allows installers to easily adjust them, saving both time and money. This is available in a satin anodised finish as well as PPC-coated back. Standard glass panels in 12 to 21.5mm thicknesses and 100mm increments can be supplied for all systems next day direct from stock with bespoke glass is to order up to 33mm thick.

F.H. Brundle’s Head of Marketing, Paul Smith, comments: “Glass balustrades have become extremely popular in recent years, and it’s no surprise, as they offer so many benefits to a modern installation. At F.H. Brundle, we’re always keen to offer our customers the best products on the market, and with so many glass balustrade systems to choose from, we can help you tap into the trend.”

www.fhbrundle.co.uk IzBUILDbOCTOBERb

K I TC H ENS , BED R O OM S & BATHR O OM S

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Space-saving solutions in the bathro m

ccording to Which?, British Æ Œ ª ¥£ smaller than in the 1970s, with houses built in the last decade now averaging 67.8m 2 of living space. To put this figure in some context, the size of both decks of a London bus is 55m 2.

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KITCHENS, BEDROOMS & BATHROOMS

With this restriction on space, it is inevitable that the bathroom is one area to have been squeezed with the 2 Ø Æ Œ Ł §¡§ , and we all know what 2m looks like after the last 18 months.

Despite the downward trend in size, demands continue to change. As people get used to spending more time in their home, the ways in which they use their property is shifting.

Buyers and self-builders are increasingly seeking bathrooms that are not only functional but inspirational too, providing a place of sanctuary away from the buzz (and sometimes chaos) of family life, home working and entertaining.

New YouGov research from Geberit shows more than a Ł Ł ¥“ Œ Æ Ø Œ or more and half of us are spending more time on our selfcare routine than we were before the pandemic. The home has become something of a sanctuary – more so now than ever before.

With all this in mind, the challenge of creating luxurious yet practical spaces within increasingly smaller rooms has placed a renewed emphasis on the significance of product and design innovation to help maximise space. Here’s how manufacturers are helping developers and self-builders to meet that challenge.

effective way to enhance hygiene too. With no hard-toreach areas, cleaning is easier, and dirt/dust accumulation is significantly reduced. Geberit’s KeraTect Glaze also offers a non-porous and smoother surface to help prevent staining of the ceramics and create a high-gloss effect, while Geberit’s Rimfree ceramic appliances can also eliminate tricky corners and hard-to-reach areas around the pan – further supporting customers to maximise hygiene in the bathroom.

And for that extra design versatility, wall-hung furniture offers the opportunity to add the finishing touches to a project with the option of adding stylish flush plate finishes, such as textured rustic wood or slate designs that blend harmoniously into any decor style.

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The other big opportunity to save space through product innovation is by specifying short projection basins. In addition, back-to-wall toilets with concealed cisterns are another effective and stylish way to streamline the space. By hiding the cistern in the wall or furniture, it can offer a simple, yet effective, solution for smaller spaces.

Intelligent storage solutions can also make better use of space, reducing unnecessary clutter in the room. This includes vanity units or mirror cabinets, designed to offer practical, dual-purpose usage and make sure homeowners don’t need to make compromises.

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One of the most effective solutions is to specify a wallhung WC – reducing the outward projection by concealing the cistern behind a stud wall and lifting the pan from the footprint of the floor.

Wall-hung ceramics offer a premium look and feel in smaller bathroom spaces, creating the illusion of ‘floating’ above the floor. Offering a space-saving alternative to traditional close coupled toilets, they can open up the bathroom space by allowing flooring to run underneath the toilet, whilst offering a sleek, streamlined design.

However, it’s not just all about space. Hygiene and ease of cleaning is now a huge consideration for homeowners – and lifting the toilet from the footprint of the floor is an

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Fuelled by the rise of social media and reality TV shows showcasing aspirational properties, consumers increasingly want design-led, ‘Insta-ready’ solutions throughout the home, and that includes the bathroom.

With smaller spaces to work in, budget is no longer the biggest restriction – but by working with leading manufacturers to identify space-saving solutions, you can find the balance in almost all cases.

www.geberit.co.uk

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IzBUILDbOCTOBERb

F L O OR S , WAL L S & C E IL I NG S

Cho sing the best t i le s fo r yo u r h o m e He r e , C a m e r o n F r a s e r , D i r e c t o r o f C e r a m i q u e In t e r n a t i o n a l e , t a l k s i - B u i l d t h r o u g h t h e dif erent tile types available on the market and how best to use them.

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iles are often seen as the ÆÆ Ł Æ ª ¡ However, the visual impact a decorative covering can have on a room is huge and should be incorporated into plans and designs as early as possible. It is also widely accepted that investing in the quality of your kitchen, bathroom and other highÆ Æ Ł Æ ÆŒ build adds value.

However, with the wide range of tiles on the market, choosing the right ones – in terms of size, colour, material, effect and Æ Æ ŁÆ Æ ª can be daunting. But they can create a real statement on any new build or renovation, so spending time researching and selecting is worth it.

Advancements in printing technology now allow tile manufacturers to replicate a whole host of natural materials – from marble to limestone, dozens of wood effects, through to slate and more. This allows homeowners to achieve a highÆÆƪ natural materials, with the added bonus of higher resilience and less maintenance.

Porcelain tiles are perfect for use in ÆÆ density make them durable and hardwearing, while their resistance to chips, stains and scratches means that they look good for years. They also make effective temperature regulators as IzBUILDbOCTOBERb

ÆŁ Æ Æ Ł Œ ŁÆ Æ offering a cool surface underfoot in the Ł Æ Œ Æ ŒÆ – something that is worth considering when planning bathrooms, kitchens, living areas and conservatories.

As one of our planet’s natural resources, supplies of natural stone can be limited and, as such a timeless material, it is highly sought after and rarely goes out of fashion. Thanks to hyper-realistic reproduction techniques, stone-effect tiles offer a more affordable, easier to maintain option without sacrificing any of the design impact or beauty.

As an example, French limestone – a hard sedimentary rock formed of calcium carbonate – denotes sophistication and decadence, used across the centuries on the walls and floors of castles and abbeys. But the qualities that make French limestone unique – such as its colour and mineral content – are also the very things that make it difficult to work with. It is porous, so requires substantial care and protection to avoid damage from dirt and stains. Fortunately, there are a plethora of porcelain tile reproductions with countless colours and textures, enabling you to recreate that sophisticated, ancestral look without the maintenance.

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When it comes to luxury finishes, white marble is always up there – with Carrara and Statuario the most popular choices, and this is another natural material that has inspired a huge market in natural stone-effect tiles. Marble takes its colouration and unique veined appearance from the minerals in the ground local to its origins. Well-known examples include black Nero Marquina marble, which is extracted from the Markina region of the Basque county in Northern Spain, and white-grey Carrara marble, quarried in Tuscany, Italy.

Tile replication has also introduced an expansive, vibrant colour palette of marble effects. Following years of minimalism, refined stone effects are emerging with new vibrancy and verve as interior designers seek bright colours and exciting effects in green, blue, orange, silver and white. The design opportunities are limitless with strong or mild veining, cloudy effects reminiscent of onyx or bold, striated surfaces.

An additional benefit of porcelain marble-effect tiles is the variety of finishes available – not just the sought-after, highly-polished finish, but matt and honed surfaces and the semi-shiny Lappatto, which can all be used to create a luxurious feel along with depth and contrast.

FLOORS, WALLS & CEILINGS

To add to the startling realism of these tiles, non-repeating patterns can be used to create unique, seamless-look living spaces. Or, if you wish to create a statement, you can choose a classic ‘pattern’ option, such as book match – two tiles which are mirror images of each other – or end match, which is a pattern that runs across four tiles. These striking effects would be impossible to create without the technology to print two or more identical or symmetrical stone-effect tiles – thus taking natural stone to a new level of design.

Size also matters when it comes to tiles. Large-format tiles – usually up to 60 x 120cm – have been ‘big’ news in recent years. And while some believe large formats are only suited to large rooms, the opposite is, in fact, true. Large-scale tiles are ideal for use in bathrooms and other compact spaces, as they create an illusion of scale by tricking the eye into believing an area is much bigger than it actually is.

At one of the major Italian tile shows, just months before the pandemic, another new trend at the larger end of the scale was prevalent – the production of ‘artwork’ tiles. Exhibited as enormous formats of up to 1.6 x 2.8m – these were tiles with patterns that are more usually found on

wallpaper, ranging from tropical prints to abstract shapes and panelling effects. Again – an opportunity to really make a statement.

Of course, new builds and renovations are not just about the inside. The penchant for creating a seamless living spaces that flow from the inside to outdoor areas continues to grow. Outdoor areas are increasingly becoming spaces that we consider as additional, external rooms – including dining spaces, living spaces and even games rooms – and the focus on creating seamless integration between internal and external spaces with flooring is critical to mastering this trend.

As such, many manufacturers are now adding 2cm-thick versions to their collections, making them suitable for use outdoors, allowing homeowners to extend their interior living spaces outside, creating integrated patios and al-fresco dining areas. This 2cm thickness is suited to outdoors as it is resistant to thermal shock, heavy loads and stresses. Outdoor tiles such as these will also have an R11 A+B anti-slip rating, meaning they are safe even in slippery, wet weather conditions (which, of course, is extremely beneficial in Britain) – often an advantage over natural materials.

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In essence, the improvement of technology to increase the range of aesthetics and the areas they can be used both inside and outside the home presents homeowners and developers with limitless opportunities to tile things and create a perfect finish.

www.tilesandmosaics.co.uk IzBUILDbOCTOBERb

I- S C A P E -

DRIVEWAYS SURESET

spit y a w e vird nuob-niseR Don’t jus e l for a ti ed bl ck tarm o c l ur es con te f r h ont f your h se. Your h me s ould b a st em n , a d wh t be r way to m ke hat sta em n h wit a s un i g a d ful y c stomi ed r v way?

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n this article, SureSet has put together some important factors and top tips on installing a successful resinŁÆ ØŒ ¡ ˙ Æ everyone wants to know is cost.

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There are a number of factors that can affect the price of a new driveway – all of which can alter plans to suit your budget.

These can include: The size of your new driveway The material you choose to build with The cost of local labour Whether or not you need to create a dropped kerb to allow for easy access The current state of your existing driveway foundations The design of your new driveway.

The best way to get a more accurate idea of just how much your new driveway will cost is to ask for a direct quote. Remember, you’ll be getting a long-lasting driveway to enjoy for many years, which is an investment well spent.

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Planning permission can be a bit of a pain for any building works, so being able to avoid them is always a perk. If you use a permeable surface, it makes it a lot easier to steer clear of lengthy planning permission processes. For example, SureSet’s resin driveways are easy to install, making your building works far easier. It uses a natural aggregate that can be laid over a cellular grid, asphalt or concrete. If you have these existing, it must be in good condition, however, it will make installations quicker – and cheaper. You also won’t have any loose stone on your drive, so your vehicle won’t be damaged by pesky gravel and stones.

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A neat and tidy driveway that’s in good condition and paved with the right material can add kerb appeal to your property and increase its value. Your driveway can be used to complement the colour and looks of your home and create a lasting impression that will keep making an impact for many years to come. There’s more to the type and colour of the paving material, of course.

What’s more, other elements can transform the area into more than a standard drive, and one that not only enhances the beauty of your home but also increases its value.

These elements could include: Incorporating edging Adding lighting Framing your driveway with borders Installing a water feature.

www.sureset.co.uk

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DRIVEWAYS

S U R ES E T

10 top tips

for installing a SureSet resin-bound driveway 1. Work on a dry day You should lay SureSet paving on a dry day.

Postpone your project if the day that you plan to do it is wet or threatens to rain or snow. The resinbound paving will cure faster on days that are warm and sunny.

2¡ ˆª Ł If you’re installing over an existing driveway that is paved with tarmac or concrete, prepare the surface by cleaning. Sweep away all debris, such as stones, twigs, leaves and bits of paper, plastic, or other matter that drifted into the driveway.

Don’t lay your new paving on a surface that hasn’t been prepared.

3. Position edging if necessary Edging prevents the resin-bound paving from spreading out of shape before it sets, and minimises the risk of various types of damage long after the paving has cured. You can lay SureSet against almost any type of secure edging, such as aluminium or stainless-steel edging, timber edging, walls and brick pavers. If you’re also installing edging, position it before you start paving.

4. Protect the edging where possible Some types of edging may be stained by the resin.

Mask any exposed areas of the edging in a way that will make it easy to remove the masking once the new paving has dried and cured.

5. Mix the resins you received in their tubs Mix the resins that were included in your SureSet paving kit in a container. Ensure they’re mixed thoroughly.

6. Add the resin mix to the aggregate Add the mixed resins to the aggregate (in a large gorilla tub) and blend thoroughly. Ensure the particles of aggregate are fully coated, or you risk causing blisters in the surface once it has cured and/or compromising your driveway paving’s life expectancy.

7. Pour the mix onto the surface and level When the resin and aggregate are correctly mixed, pour it onto the prepared driveway and, using a spazzle and float. Spread the mix around and level it to create a flat surface. You have between 10 and 20 minutes to work with the resin aggregate mix after blending them, so you may need to work in sections, depending on the size of the driveway. If you cannot complete the project in one day, use a piece of timber to create a day joint (temporary edging) that you can remove to continue paving the following day.

8. Leave to cure for 24 hours Leave your newly-paved driveway to cure for ¥§ Ł Ł Æ ¡ … Æ Æ Ł Œ Æ §« Ł Æ Ł Ø ¡ 9. Remember your maintenance A SureSet driveway only needs periodic sweeping and occasional power washing to keep it looking as good as new. The technology of SureSet minimises the number of voids through which weeds can grow.

10. Enjoy the fruits of your labour Last but no means least, enjoy your hard work!

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I-BU I LD LOFT

10 tips

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If you’ve recently completed a renovation on an older ‘doer-upper’ and you’re struggling to style it for the market, look no further. In this article, Lauren Maylor, Creative Director at LOFT, offers her top tips on styling your home to its full potential.

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Normally, the advice is to save as much money as possible on furniture without skimping on quality, but high-end pieces buck the trend.

If a property is being sold with a high valuation, convenient but cheap furniture packs should be avoided. No one that is investing heavily in a property will want those kinds of furniture pieces.

That does not just mean buying a slightly more expensive furniture pack instead. Rather, pieces should be sourced that fit the bill entirely in terms of style, durability, practicality and cost. In short, properties must provide great value for money where furniture and the interior design ooze high quality, or potential buyers will go elsewhere.

Style without substance is pointless. A beautiful table with a crystal top may look nice, but if a coffee cup cannot be put down on it, then it is impracticable and probably not suitable for the space being designed.

Furnishings have to do more than look pretty. Each piece needs to have a purpose and add to the space it is in. When thinking about style, remember it is the little things that make a house a home. Cosy lighting, a few house plants, a vase full of bright and Ø Æ Œ fi ÆŒ Æ making the property feel like the ideal home.

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What is defined as quality is usually up for interpretation, but when furnishing a property for the high-end market, it is a straightforward concept.

A high-quality piece of furniture not only looks the part, but is built to last. These items are hard to find — especially at a great price.

Not only are interior designers best placed to find these pieces, but they can usually get them at a much better cost, as suppliers recognise that they get a lot of high-end custom through having a great working relationship with industry professionals.

A contemporary look is a popular choice for luxury properties, but it is not to everyone’s taste. Before sourcing any furniture or designing the interior, it is vital to understand who the potential buyers for the property are and what style and design they will be interested in.

Statement pieces make a property stand out, but don’t overdo things. Keep the overall feel homely yet cool. Walking into a beautifully-styled space can evoke positive emotions, and help instil a desire for a buyer to live in that space. As such, it can often drive up the price if multiple people can picture themselves owning the property.

IzBUILDbOCTOBERb

The topic of sustainability is one that is continuing to become more impactful, and this is filtering through to interior design.

There are always new and innovative ways to reduce carbon footprints and limit the effect we have on the world around us.

By working with interior professionals and suppliers, properties can have sustainablysourced materials and pieces that are still fit for purpose and improve their sustainability credentials.

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PERI O D & L I S T E D PRO P ERT I E S

LOFT

At LOFT, we have worked on properties across the country where all items are hand selected by our team of highly-experienced interior designers with a wealth of knowledge on home staging and property presentation. This extra attention to detail can be the fine line between selling a property with ease and having it unsold for months while listed.

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Biophilic designs are becoming ever more popular by the day. The positive impact of surrounding ourselves with nature on our mental health has seen this trend surge in popularity over the past year.

Studies show that plants help reduce stress and anxiety, and they improve our cognitive abilities. But they have another key function, which is helping to maximise space in small areas.

House plants are great for adding depth and character to a room, softening corner spaces and convincing the eye into thinking there is more room than there really is.

Incorporating nature into the property that will be renovated is a good way to maximise space and show that wellbeing has been a design consideration for those looking at buying the property.

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Natural light is integral to interior design and highlighting focal points within a property. Sunlight is great for making a space feel less confined and can help lift the mood of a room. Sunlight is thought to increase the amount of serotonin released in the body, helping to make a person feel calm and focused.

When designing a property, it is important to find ways of introducing as much natural light as possible to improve mental health. This could mean installing large windows, bi-fold doors or skylights and placing furniture, such as a sofa or desk, in a place where it can catch the most light.

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As a result of the recent lockdowns, there has become an increased desire to live in spaces that are functional, flexible and, ultimately, support our changing day-to-day emotions and needs.

The rise of co-living and the need for creating more flexible interior spaces should be thought about when designing spaces in properties that can be adapted around the resident. ¨Æ ªÆ Ø Æ easy way to create a visible divide in a part of a room, while still looking stylish. Sofas and seating areas can also be used to create a ‘border’ around an area in an easy and flexible way.

At LOFT, we have been working on designing and furnishing a variety of flexible living spaces, and we are seeing more and more residential builds incorporating these new ‘borders’ to make the most of each space.

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Often, it can be easy to go with the easy design that takes the least effort. However, when selling a property and trying to secure the highest return, that can often be the worst thing to do.

Design inspiration can be found all around, whether it is seeing a breathtaking location, visiting a gallery or museum, or just experimenting with our own homes. Inspiration comes from the human experience and how we interact with the world.

When creating interiors for a property, always have it in our minds that they should enhance living for the people who live there – that is the key.

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¨ Ł Æ Ł Ł ŒŁ should be renovating your property to maximise its value, you should be asking for expert advice.

The fees that you will pay for the services of an interior design expert will be recouped once you sell the property.

www.loft.co.uk IzBUILDbOCTOBERb

I NES S PL RE OG A D U C TL & BU G U I DS E AD V E R T OR I AL : OS M O

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Replenish and r e n e w w i t h Os m o Wo o d e n w o r k t o p s l o k s t u n i n g i n a l m o s t a l k i t c h e n s t y l e s a n d colours, of ering a warm and stylish finish and timeles ap eal. Like al kitchen surfaces, worktops take the brunt of the wear and tear in a b u s y h o m e , s o t h e y n e d t o b e c a re d f o r p ro p e r l y .

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ver time, water damage and mould can affect wooden worktops, especially around areas like the sink, so prevention is better than cure. To keep wooden worktops at their best, treat with Osmo TopOil. Newly-oiled wooden surfaces using TopOil require approximately two to three weeks to completely cure and harden properly before normal usage.

T Æ Œ ªŁ that TopOil is extremely water repellent, helping to make surfaces more durable. It is resistant to common liquid spillages such as water, juice, tea and wine, making it ideal for the kitchen. It ªŁ Æ Æ ª ¡¨ Æ the product regularly can prolong the life of your worktop, so you won’t need to replace it.

To get the best performance from TopOil, you need to get an optimal volume of this hard wax oil into the fibres of the wood.

To help with performance on worktops, the wood will normally require the surface to be sanded to a maximum of a P150 grit grade (depending on the wood species).

To deliver the ideal amount of the finish into the absorbent wood surface, it’s recommended to apply the first coat thinly along the wood grain with an Osmo microfibre roller, flat brush or oil finish applicator fleece. Allow to dry for approximately eight to 10 hours and ventilate the room well while drying.

Then, apply the second coat with an Osmo oil finish applicator fleece or a lint-free cloth.

It is possible to spot sand and repair any watermarks. It’s necessary to use the same finish sanding grade to sand back, then retreat those spot areas using the same application technique originally carried out. Once these areas have been allowed to dry, apply a little more oil to build Ł ª ª Æ¡ ¨ Æ Osmo applicator fleece/pad for this procedure.

Finally, care must be taken with the cleaning and maintenance of the TopOil. For regular cleaning (perhaps daily or weekly), this should ideally be carried out with products like Osmo Wash and Care or Osmo Spray Cleaner. These products clean the surface without breaking down the natural oils and wax in Osmo finishes. The soaps within these products contain a tiny amount of natural oil to help nourish the surface over time. Products, such as washing up liquid, are designed to strip away oils and waxes, therefore, the finish will require topping up if there is high exposure. You could top up thinly with a cloth to the clean, dry surface using Osmo TopOil or Osmo Maintenance Oil products. Osmo Maintenance Oil is very practical as it is much thinner than TopOil, and there is less risk of building up too much wax on surrounding treated areas.

With the right care, Osmo TopOil can enhance the natural beauty of your wooden worktop and keep it looking new for many years to come. w .osm uk c info@ sm uk.c

IzBUILDbOCTOBERb

01296 48 0

PRODUCT GUIDE AD V E R T OR I AL : AQ U A L I S A | M A R L E Y | WES T F R A S E R

The Norwegian Experience...

Aqualis launches Q artz ˘¯ Shower ang

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athroom product specialist Aqualisa

has introduced the Quartz ˘ ¯ ˘Œ Æ all-in-one upgrade solution that transforms almost any make of exposed mixer shower into a voice-activated, smart digital shower system, without the need to disturb the current bathroom decor or re-tile the shower enclosure. For homeowners or renovators who do not wish to completely replace their shower, but are ready to convert to a smart showering experience, the

AWARD WINNER ‘BEST STOVE’ The award-winning Ecodesign Nordpeis ME represents over 30 years of quality Norwegian design and technical expertise, guaranteeing the finest standards in heating technology.

Find out more at: nordpeis.co.uk/me

˜Ł ˘ ¯ ˘Œ Ø ª Æ Æ effective solution that will complement any bathroom style. It also provides the homeowner with a handy storage shelf

w .aqu lisa.co uk

for bathroom accessories and toiletries.

enquir es@aqu lisa.co uk

0195 60 1

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s lockdown measures begin to ease, roof systems manufacturer

Marley has published an in-depth whitepaper that brings together the opinions of both homeowners, tenants Æ ª

2019 WINNER Best Stove

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new whitepaper, entitled ‘Raising the ¯ › » Æ ŁÆ Æ ª ¶´ …• ¨ Œ survey 2000 homeowners, social and private housing tenants to understand how the way they view their houses and local communities has changed following the last 12 months. In addition, the whitepaper unpicks how this may influence decisions around home improvement priorities, demands for local infrastructure development to build better communities, and where they see Government support having a role.

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01283 7 5

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est Fraser’s panel products are net-

carbon negative. This means the company’s activities go beyond achieving net-zero Æ Æ Ł Æ ÆØ Æ Æ Æ by locking up carbon within the panel product range, thus not

Find Your Retailer

You can find your nearest retailer by visiting: www.nordpeis.co.uk/retailers

releasing it into the atmosphere. West Fraser is celebrating its product range’s net-carbon-negative status with a dedicated website page where visitors can download a factsheet, check out ŁÆŁÆÆÆÆŁ help understand what West Fraser has done to achieve carbon negativity and what using its products means to the environment.

West Fraser’s product range now holds a net-carbon-negative

www.nordpeis.co.uk

status, locking up more CO2 than it emits.

uk.westfra .com/ rb n- egativ

01786 29

IzBUILDbOCTOBERb

I NES S PL RE OG A D U C TL & BU G U I DS E AD V E R T OR I AL : AU R U B IS

P h o t o c o u r t e s y o f Aa r o n G r e n

No r d i c C o p e r f o r e v r Fo r o n e Ne w Z e a l a n d f a m i l y , ‘ f o r e v e r h o m e ’ m e a n t j u s t t h a t w h e n t h e y a n d t h e i r a rc h i t e c t c h o s e No rd i c C o p e r f o r t h e e x t e r n a l s k i n o f t h e i r n e w h o u s e o n t h e f o r e s h o r e o f C a s Ba y , n e a r C h r i s t c h u rc h . Th e h o u s e ’ s o r g a n i c d e s i g n i s a n e x e m p l a r f o r c o p e r i n c o n t e m p o ra y a rc h i t e c t u re w h i l e c e l e b ra t i n g a s t ro n g t ra d i t i o n o f c ra f t s m a n s h i p .

H

aving transformed their previous house over 20 years, Aaron Green and his family turned their attention to creating a very personal new home to make the most of a challenging plot with a stunning sea-front location.

Close collaboration between the family and their architect, Michael O’Sullivan of Bull O’Sullivan Architecture, characterised the design process. Without a detailed brief, careful consideration of what the whole family wanted from their new home developed ŁÆŁ Æ Æ its natural wave-like plan, spatial complexity and organic form.

The main living level is set into the sloping site, before emerging, reaching out towards the sea and elevating to take in expansive panoramic views towards Quail Island. The curvilinear plan – with a fluidity influenced

IzBUILDbOCTOBERb

P h o t c o u r t e s y o f Aa r o n G r e n

by the architect’s watercolour sketch design methodology – wraps around the plot to maximise accommodation, punctuated by a mullioned, semi-circular stair tower. The building’s organic form generates double-height living areas and distinctive spaces, with extensive timber surfaces adding warmth. Discrete views of the surrounding hills, sky and coastline are curated and perfectly framed with distinctive rooflights and windows.

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Although initially conceived as an entirely cedarclad building, this material was considered to be too complicated and costly, and alternative solutions were sought. Architect Michael O’Sullivan comprehensively explored with his clients how Nordic Standard copper would naturally change and develop over decades in this specific

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location, using his trademark watercolour sketches and copper samples – including one from the original roof of Christchurch Town Hall, salvaged following the 2011 earthquake.

Many benefits of copper were identified, including lighter weight requiring less steel structure, durability with no maintenance and a naturally developing surface appearance. As Aaron comments: “The copper will become more beautiful with time and an asset that we never have to touch again. It fits in with our aim to create a building that will last for literally hundreds of years.”

Copper is a natural element, one of the first metals used by man and one of our oldest building materials, with a fundamental appeal. Aaron adds: “Copper is something that reminds me a lot of my childhood. I have fond memories of stocking up

PRODU C T GU I DE ADVERTORIAL: AU R U B IS

© T he Architectural Roofing Company

the fire under our old water boiler – simply known as ‘the copper’ – boiling hand-spun woollen jumpers with green walnut husks to dye them many shades of green and yellow. I also had an old wire-wound crystal set from my great grandfather, which I loved listening to, with a long copper antenna strung out between trees to catch faraway radio transmissions.”

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Nordic Standard is ideally suited to this dramatic copper carapace emerging out of the seashore, providing a weathertight external skin that can be adapted to all the building’s geometric complexities.

With detailing and installation, again close collaboration was key and copper details were agreed on site between the architect and specialist fabricator/installer The Architectural Roofing Company (TARC).

Nordic Standard 0.7mm-thick ‘mill finish’ copper was used throughout, using a combination of modern longstrip technology and hand-worked traditional details ranging from copper louvres to a rainwater hopper with lipped weir overflow. Elements such as the cave-like entrance, with subtly inclined walls clad inside and out in copper, are a showcase of craftsmanship and testament to TARC’s exceptional care in execution. TARC’s Jordan Ross comments: “This project was a massive challenge but the most satisfying thing that we’ve done.”

Photo courtesy of Aaron Green

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Copper’s unique characteristics are Æ Æ Ł Ø ªÆ patina, which provides impressive protection against corrosion and can repair itself if damaged, giving exceptional durability, sustainability and maintenance-free longevity.

Within a few days of exposure to the atmosphere, a copper surface begins to oxidise, changing from the ‘bright’ Æ ÆŁ ŒÆ Œ gradually darkens to a chocolate brown.

Over the years, with continued weathering, the distinctive green/ blue patina seen on older roofs can eventually result. This is influenced by specific local conditions and particularly likely in exposed locations, with the patina taking on more of a blue hue in marine environments.

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Photo courtesy of Aaron Green

More information on the evolution of copper surfaces in different environments can be found at: https://www.nordiccopper.com/wpcontent/uploads/2020/05/SurfaceEvolution.pdf.

The Aurubis Nordic Copper range provides all these surfaces straight away. The processes involved are generally similar to those taking place over time in the environment, utilising copper mineral compounds, not alien chemical processes. To explore other inspirational Nordic Copper building studies, visit the website below.

www.nordiccopper.com 01875 812144 g.bell@aurubis.com

IzBUILDbOCTOBERb

I NES S PL RE OG A D U C TL & BU G U I DS E AD V E R T OR I AL : D R S C H U T Z

Ex e p t i o n a l r e s u l t s f o r R h i n o Rocks, thanks to Dr Schutz R h i n o R o c k s i s a p r o f e s i o n a l f l o r c l e a n i n g b u s i n e s b a s e d i n o rY k s h i r e , s p e c i a l i s i n g i n b o t h re s i d e n t i a l a n d c o m e rc i a l f l o r c l e a n i n g . A family-run busines which prides itself on its excel ent customer service a n d q u a l i t y o f w o r k , t h e t e a ’m s e x p e r t i s e c o v e r s b o t h i n t e r n a l a n d external flo ring surfaces.

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prospective client contacted Rhino Rocks regarding the restoration of a residential care home in Leeds which was nearing completion. The building contractors wanted to find a reliable company that could clean and restore some very tired old vinyl floors, within a relatively tight timeframe.

The floors were dry and scratched and needed a substantial amount of care and attention. The contractors had considered various options and were undecided about whether to replace or restore the old flooring.

However, the Rhino Rocks team were confident that by using the right products on the floor, they could deliver brilliant results, without the outlay of buying and fitting a new floor.

Martin Beanlands, Team Coordinator at Rhino Rocks, explains: “We knew that the product applied must be super durable and hardwearing to accommodate wheelchairs and older people, who would be using walking accessories directly over the floor daily. Our choice was Dr Schutz because we’re confident their products

deliver fantastic results. Dr Schutz products tick all of our º fi Ł easy to apply and produce a fantastic finish.”

The Rhino Rocks team used Dr Schutz Turbo Strip to fully remove all the old sealant with 36kg machines, combined with 10kg added weight to fully remove all the wax and residue.

Dr Schutz Turbo Strip is ultrafast and exceptionally effective in stripping surfaces thoroughly and mechanically clean, ensuring they are free from all dust, grease, oil, wax and care films, residues and finishes.

The team’s ultra powerful, truck-mounted floor cleaning machine at 1300 PSI was then used to rinse the floors with a vortex extraction tool. A powerful drying machine was then deployed to dry the floor areas.

To complete the project, three •˘Ł ¨ » Shine Hard Sealer was applied to the floor for maximum shine and a quality finish.

D˘Ł ¨ » ˘Æ Hard Sealer is a hardwearing and highly scratch-resistant polymer sealer for the protection of vinyl and linoleum floors. It creates a shiny, nonslip protective film ensuring a high degree of safety.

The project from the start to the application of the final coat, took three members of the Rhino Rocks team six hours, followed by a visit the next day to complete the finished floor.

After the final coat was applied, the area was left overnight to dry and set.

Martin continues: “The results we achieved with Dr Schutz products were superb, and the contractor that employed us was delighted, not to mention the customer who had trusted the work to us, he knew we wouldn’t let him down! We were also delighted that Dr Schutz was able to deliver additional products to site, at very short notice to make it possible to complete the project. w .drschutz o. k

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01296 4378

PRODU C T GU I DE ADVERTORIAL: MILLBOARD

However, there have been many cases of timber subframes that have failed within six years of being installed, often because of a lack of understanding of the requirements of timber, incorrect timber being used in the wrong location and bad workmanship. Timber is inclined to rot, and care must be taken to ensure the structure is adequately ventilated. It is a common belief that all treated timber is suitable for decking subframes, however, this is incorrect as the classification of pressure treatment can make a big difference on the longevity ¡„ º ª Æ Æ ¨ ¶ ¥ ¨¶¥ ª Ł Æ º ¨ ¶ § ¨¶§ ª Ł timber, however, they carry very different classifications and are designed for use in different locations.

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Plastic subframes can be an excellent alternative for constructing the framework for decks, seating, planters and more. For example, Plas-Pro is constructed from recycled plastic and is strong, versatile and easy to work with. Available in a range of sizes to act as posts, joists and bearers, it can be fitted in a similar way to wood yet never rots, even when placed in water.

The benefits of a product like Plas-Pro are that it can be used in contact with the ground and in water without Æ Æ Œ Ø Æ Æ ª fi Æ Ł Æ into the ground and surrounded fully with moisture without adverse effect. Being a non-rot system, it can also be used in areas where the subframe is likely to constantly get wet.

DuoSpan

Decking subframes: build them to last

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A combination of superior strength aluminium and flexible plastic can provide distinct design opportunities for decking and outdoor structures that would be impossible with timber subframes.

A poor subframe choice or installation can lead toDuoSpan is a unique landscape construction frame decking being damaged or can even result in decking made with aluminium joists and beams, aluminium becoming structurally dangerous and eventuallybrackets fail. and plastic support profiles.

With so many different subframes to choose from, Being made from aluminium, the joists are resistant which one is best and what should you look out for? to rotting or moisture ingress, negating the need for Here we look at three options. airflow gaps to the framework or end-grain preservative treatment. With other solutions, the profiles aren’t T !b e E IVb fEa!e I always straight, leading to numerous noggins being Softwood timber is the most common material used for required to help in the installation, whereas with decking subframes. Timber is easy to work with, generally DuoSpan, the aluminium joists and beams are almost readily available and is a naturally strong product with a perfectly straight, resulting in a faster install. Æ Œ ¡˚ Æ ª Æ The DuoSpan subframe system comes with a range of installed, timber subframes can have a long service life. fixed and flexible brackets that allow the components to be connected at almost any angle. These brackets are uniquely designed to fit perfectly into the side of the joist, helping each joint sit flush. Screw-locating grooves on the side of the joists and self-drilling screws ensure fast, consistent fitting. The self-drilling screws provided Œ ·§ Æ stainless steel, and they are coated in a cathodic barrier coating to minimise the potential for galvanic corrosion between the aluminium and stainless steel.

In conclusion, timber, recycled plastic and aluminium subframes all have different attributes and being familiar with the benefits of each and knowing what to use and when can add years to the deck’s longevity. www.millboard.co.uk 024 7643 9943 enquiries@millboard.co.uk

Plas-Pro

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IzBUILDbOCTOBERb

I NES S PL RE OG A D U C TL & BU G U I DS E AD V E R T OR I AL : P R E M I ER L O F T L A D E R S | WES T F R A S E R | EAR T HBOR N

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Carpenty M R K s y a s

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hether working on a new build, an entire refurbishment project or an extension or loft conversion, KRM Carpentry from Gillingham, Kent, always uses West Fraser’s CaberDek flooring. “We undertake various jobs in the Kent area and always Ł ¶ • ¡ ˚ º Œ ¶ „ º •§ as it gives a good bond and creates a watertight seal between the panels. The boards are really hardwearing, and it’s good to leave the protective film on until the end of the job, so we leave the build with a nice clean floor,” said Kai, Owner of KRM Carpentry. “Over the years, we’ve tried other products.

We found that plywood delaminates, so it’s no good in the British weather, whereas the protective film on CaberDek works well at keeping the rain, snow and muck off until the roof goes on. We also use SterlingOSB Zero when constructing a flat roof as the rubber membrane bonds well to it,” explained Kai. Samples of CaberDek, and West Fraser’s other construction panels, can be ordered on the website.

Loft lad ers fo Pas ivhaus projects

uk.westfra .com

Th e d r i v e t o w a rd s c u t i n g e m i s i o n s a n d t h e enhanced focus on sustainability means buildings c o n s t r u c t e d t o P a s i v h a u s t a n d a rd s a re b e c o m i n g i n c re a s i n g l y p o p u l a r . C h o s i n g t h e r i g h t p ro d u c t s f o r t h e s e b u i l d i n g p ro j e c t s i s e s e n t i a l , e s p e c i a l y when aiming to achieve Pas ivhaus certification.

01786 29

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s such, Premier Loft Ladders offers three loft ladders that pass the strict requirements for passive building standards and are certified by the Passivhaus …Æ Ł fi • Æ ⁄'£ Æ ¿˚˙¡ ˙ designed to offer high thermal insulation and an airtight seal. However, what differentiates them from other loft ladders are the extra steps that have been taken to minimise thermal bridging.

Its entry-level Passivhaus loft ladder is the LWT, which features a folding wooden ladder and is available in a range of standard sizes. It boasts an 2 ª Ø ¨ Ø Ł £ ¡¤ ⁄ ˚ ¢ K. The Designo is supplied made-to-measure to suit a wide range of aperture dimensions and ceiling heights of up to 3.3m. It also has an innovative six-point locking mechanism for a window-tight seal all the way around the hatch, as well as a patented sealing and insulation tape pre-assembled to the outside edges of the hatch box, which offers an airtight seal with the building.

For more demanding situations, the Klimatec 160 offers not only superb thermal insulation and an airtight seal, but it also benefits from 30-minute fire protection. Furthermore, the high-strength steel ladder is finished in a durable powder coat and is rated for up to 250kg per tread. As such, the Klimatec 160 is an ideal solution for commercial and industrial use. w .premi loft ad ers.co uk sale @pr mi loft ad ers.co uk

IzBUILDbOCTOBERb

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arthborn believes that paint has the ability to transform our spaces for the better. A beautiful dose of its uniquely-formulated colour can improve anyone’s surroundings and uplift their mood. And its paints are eco friendly and virtually VOC free, with no nasty paint smells or harmful emissions. But where to start? If you’re looking for a brand-new colour scheme and don’t know where to begin, or even if you’ve chosen your wall colour but are stuck on what to put with it, help is at hand in a new simple guide. Earthborn has created a mood picker that will generate a choice of colour palettes that match your chosen mood. Try it.

It might even give you some ideas and paint colour combinations that you love but would never have thought of. Go to https://earthbornpaints.co.uk/colourpicker/ and click on the ‘Colour Guide’ link at the w .earthbo np i s.co uk foot of the page.

01928 734 sale @ rthbo npai s.co uk

0345 9 1

%

Counter-balanced for ease-of-use

Highly insulated hatch to keep in the warmth (U value of 0.63 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...

www.premierloftladders.co.uk/designo-ph 0345 9000 195 | sales@premierloftladders.co.uk

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IzBUILDbOCTOBERb

The new Ultimate 2

In hindsight we wouldn’t have called it the Ultimate.

Because we just made it better.

High Heat Output ‘Screed heat diffuser’ improves contact with the pipe, which has a higher heat output and faster warm up than typical low build-up castellated screed systems, as well as minimising thermal striping.

Ultimate 2 High Performance Panel

Impressively thin 18mm highcompressive strength insulation provides an excellent substrate for the 9mm thin levelling screed, giving an overall system height of just 27mm – including insulation.

One panel Unique pattern minimises hand-routing and eliminates the need for separate ‘straight’ and ‘loop’ panels.

Generic Low Build Up Screeded Panel

Peel & Stick 50% faster to install with our self adhesive panel. Simply peel and stick to the subfloor and pour the levelling screed over.

Pre-Primed Pre-primed at the factory to save you time and cost.

Got a project in mind?

Call 01392 36 36 05 or visit omnie.co.uk

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MADE IN GREAT BRITAIN

© OMNIE Limited 2021. All information correct at time of publication. Product information and performance characteristics are subject to change without notice. Please see omnie.co.uk for the latest information or contact your local representative.

OMNIE Limited, Unit 18, Apple Lane, Exeter, EX2 5GL 01392 36 36 05 customer.service@omnie.co.uk www.omnie.co.uk LowBoard®, TorFloor® and OMNIE® and the OMNIE logo are registered trademarks.

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