i-build August 2015

August Issue 13

i-build www.i-buildmagazine.com

i-build i-nterior i-scape

AWARD-WINNING INSPIRATION

Three innovative self-build projects presented with prestigious award

BRINGING THE INDOORS OUT

Top tips for transforming your garden into a space of comfort and style

COVER STORY:

Family dream home

CONSTRUCTION METHOD FOCUS

Pre-manufactured homes prove popular choice for self-builders

Bungalow renovation turns into full-scale self-build

EXPERT INSIGHTS:

l FINANCIAL l LEGAL l PRACTICAL l PRODUCT INNOVATION

Delivering British architecture with German technology Hanse Haus is a leading German turnkey supplier of bespoke, pre-fabricated, timber framed homes, currently building ultra-high efficiency and Passivhaus standard homes across the UK. Contact us today to learn about the latest build site or open day.

Hanse Haus Email info@hanse-haus.co.uk Telephone 0845 658 9780 (Local rate) www.hanse-haus.co.uk

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Welcome to the August issue of i-build

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T Cover story: A young family’s bungalow renovation resulted in a self-build project in their own garden. See page 20.

Editor:

Emily Smith

emily@mixedmediainfo.com Print & Digital Advertising:

Sam Ball

sam@mixedmediainfo.com

Steve Gull

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Michael Abrahams

michael@mixedmediainfo.com Studio Manager:

Chris Lilly

chris@mixedmediainfo.com Senior Editor:

Hannah Frackiewicz

hannah@mixedmediainfo.com Production:

Jack Witcomb

jack@mixedmediainfo.com Artworker/Sub-editor:

David Perry

david@mixedmediainfo.com Accounts:

Simone Jones

simone@mixedmediainfo.com Managing Director:

he first comprehensive survey of custom and self-build activity has exposed that many councils are taking action to boost home-build opportunities, with England’s custom and self-build housing sector looking to double by the end of 2018.

This is great news for the self-build sector, but it unfortunately coincided with a reduction in the Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive tariff for biomass boilers and stoves – ­ put into effect on 1st July – which some might view as a step backwards for eco-encouragement.

The lowered tariff rates only apply to new applicants, so, with another tariff degression scheduled for September, now is the time to apply for the Domestic RHI. Don’t miss this month’s Green Living on page 14 for more information on these changes.

Utilising renewable technology has become a key concern for many self-builders.

Kirsty and David Gordon, who have built a family dream home in their garden, were keen to take advantage of renewables and a modern method of construction. They wanted a SIPs build with many ‘green’ elements, such as solar thermal panels, an air source heat pump and a heat recovery and ventilation system. However, finding tradesmen that were confident to work with these technologies created an issue.

Read about how they overcame this on page 20.

Elsewhere, as always, this issue is packed full of inspirational projects and advice to help make your home-build or renovation as smooth as possible. Highlights include three self-build projects that were among 37 UK buildings awarded the RIBA National Award 2015 on page 28, daylight solution advice from VELUX Product Manager Grant Sneddon in this issue’s Rooflight focus on page 36 and financial advice from BuildStore’s Group Sales Director in this month’s Viewpoint.

If you are coming to the end of your self-build journey and would like to offer your home as an inspiration for other budding self-builders, then get in touch at the usual address with a brief overview of your project. Don’t forget that you can access this resource on the move via i-build’s dedicated App – simply search ‘i-build’ in the App Store or Googleplay to download for free.

Emily Smith Editor emily@mixedmediainfo.com @ibuildmagazine

/ibuildmagazine

Sam Ball

ibuildmagazine

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

sam@mixedmediainfo.com

Editor’s picks Pear Platt, Woodfalls Farm, Gravelly Way Laddingford, Kent, ME18 6DA T: 01622 873229 F: 01622 320020

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Bathroom furniture by Duravit: See page 53

Doors & windows by Apeer: See page 54

Kitchens by Stoneham Kitchens: See page 53

3

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PROJECTS | PRODUCTS | INSPIRATION | INFORMATION The smarter way to plan, design, and decorate self-build homes. With its easy-to-navigate format, users can benefit from a variety of useful tools, such as the magazine’s latest issue, digital archive, suppliers and newsbank. The App is also synced with SBP Library (sustainablebuildingproducts.com) providing an essential specification portal.

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The latest innovative, on-trend designs that will complement any home.

Will Tell 12 Time Each issue i-build follows Will Anderson on

i-build

his self-build journey as it unfolds.

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i-build i-nterior i-scape

Desired Designs

Contents

7

10

14

Green Living

16

Viewpoint

18

Contracts & Legalities

20

Rural Retreat

28

Impressive Innovation

36

Rooflights

38

Insulation

Changes to the Domestic RHI tariff have resulted in a reduction in cost for some renewable technologies.

Self-build finance expert, Buildstore offers advice for ensuring your money lasts the duration of your project.

Top tips on how to document the renovation or conversion of a listed property.

A young family’s bungalow renovation project resulted in them building their own dream home in its garden.

Three outstanding self-build projects have been awarded the prestigious RIBA National Award 2015.

Grant Sneddon – VELUX Product Manager – offers advice on specifying the right daylight solutions for your project.

An Isle of Wight self-build has been fitted with renewable technology and energy efficient insulation.

40 Heating New renewable technology systems are allowing

14

self-builders to build to zero carbon without breaking the bank.

42 i-build Pre-manufactured homes are a popular choice for self-builders with many benefits, especially cost and time frame.

20

46 i-nterior A luxury new home benefits from the latest

28

50 i-scape

in home control and automation technology.

Top tips on how to transform your garden into a space of al fresco comfort and style.

: crets e S e r Trad out for ou ted

Look crets’ dot e.

Se issu ‘Trade hout this sider g n u i o e thr are th n be These s which ca ding t d insigh able to bu ! s u r l a e v d in uil self-b

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Desired Designs

Using your grey matter

1 2

3

Use on-trend grey accents within your interior design scheme.

4

Linear Grey Wall Tiles, £17, Tile Mountain

5 6

7 8

G

rey tones have dominated the interiors market over the last few years and this doesn't look to change any time soon.

It is neutral yet contemporary and is a surprisingly versatile tone.

Because the hue is neither black nor white, it lacks emotion and oozes a calming neutrality. Some colour psychologists have claimed its popularity reflects a response to the UK's unpredictable economic environment; our collective psyche is creating a protective cocoon to shelter from the unknown.

There is a big difference between warm and cool greys. Yellow based greys are warm and blue based ones are cool. Pair pastel greys with soft colours and pale wooden furniture for a simple and sophisticated look. Darker shades work best in larger rooms and bold oranges and reds work excellently against rich shades of grey.

As grey lacks its own personality, it is the perfect backdrop for other colours, especially if you have a vibrant statement piece that you want to become a focal feature.

1. Grey Belle Birdfeeder, £26, Green&Blue

2. Merle Grey Metal and Wood Pendant Light, £192, Artisanti

3. Open Minded Grey Side Table, £168, Red Candy

4. Chateau Grey Wool Rug,

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£250, Upcycled Studio

5. Portsmouth Grey Range, £478.95, Melody Maison

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6. Chloe Grey Blue Furla Button Back Club Chair, £629, Artisanti

7. Charles Eames Style Kids

DSW Chair, £29, Cult Furniture

8. Newton Bed Grey, £879, Living It Up

9. Industrial Grey Coffee Table, £285, Alexander & Pearl

10. Grey Paper House

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Cushion, £32, In-Spaces

11. Grey Boat Bath, £1559, BC Designs

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Desired Designs

Don’t lose your marbles

Use marble patterns to make a statement, from elegant and traditional surfacing to playful and contemporary furniture designs.

1

Elegant surfacing

Textured walls

Calacatta Marble from Italy is one of the most famous marbles in the world. Here it has been carefully replicated for Tile Mountain in this beautiful white porcelain tile. Its subtle veining combined with a high gloss finish creates a stunning effect, and unlike natural marble it doesn’t require sealing. (www.tilemountain.co.uk)

There are many wallpapers that mimic marble effects. The marble fabric backed vinyl wallcovering by Tektura presents a dramatic, smooth textured marble effect, with tiny flecks of mica. (www.tektura.com)

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2

8

4

Colourful mix

Bold statement

Although inspired by swirls of oil and water, the Oil Punk collection of wallcoverings by Tektura bring a vibrant marbled effect. We love this blue and white mix – the perfect backdrop for any room. (www.tektura.com)

The unique texture of marble makes for an interesting bold statement. This modern 3D pattern by Milton & King incorporates an authentic marble texture alongside clean, crisp lines and contrasting tones. Printed on a nonwoven wallpaper, this contemporary design is a natural fit for an organic modern style. (www.shop.miltonandking.com)

3

6

Modern twist

Timeless style

Marble is an elegant and timeless material that works well alongside modern accents. Pair with copper accessories to bring a fashionable and contemporary edge to your interior. (www.norsu.com.au)

No two pieces of natural marble stone are the same, with veining effects creating unique statements. Shown in this image is Original Style’s Viano White Mixed Marble. It is available in various formats including polished or honed bricks, bevel bricks, mosaics, bevel mosaics and larger sizes. (www.originalstyle.come)

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Desired Designs

Boho-chic

1

Embrace this nomadic style in your home with vivid colours and vintage furniture.

2

11

3

4 5 6

7

8

9

10

10

B

ohemianism is the practice of unconventional lifestyle, often related to those with musical, artistic and literary pursuits. The original bohemians were central European people that travelled and upheld a non-traditional lifestyle. They were often associated with unorthodox viewpoints and sometimes connected with Romani gypsies.

The Bohemian style of these unconventional characters was nomadic and non-bourgeois.

Originally known to be unconcerned with fashion, the early 20th century bohemians liked to use their clothing to make a statement about their lifestyle and beliefs, from the bobbed hair and cross-gender styles of the 1920s to the colourful patterns of the 1960s. In more recent years, ‘boho-chic’ has become popular – associated with celebrities such as Kate Moss and Sienna Miller – boasting an effortless and understated style.

In interior design, creating a modern boho living space means creating an absolutely different and personalised atmosphere. Typical features of this style are floral patterns, warm colors, embroidered details, patchwork of multiple patterns and crochet work. You can use any art piece you like alongside your favourite mix of colours and materials.

1. Malika Crochet Light, £70, Hamimi

2. Madeline Chair in Lovari Floral – Midnight, £899, Marks & Spencer

3. Indigo Bamboo – Coin Cushion, £31, Barefoot Gypsy

4. Bohemia Bowls, £18.50, Berry Red

5. Julie Dodsworth – New England, £66.15, Direct Blinds

6. Peacock Rattan Chair,

£530, The French Bedroom Company

7. Elma Chai Pouffe,

£145, The French Bedroom Company

8. Mystic Table Lamp,

£96, Dar Lighting Group

9. Vintage Kilim Ottoman Coffee, £572, Eco Chic

10. Cushion Series, from £20, HOCK

11. Boho Rug,

£225, Luku Home

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Sub-brow TimeEyebrow Will Tell

Unveiled at last

Every issue we follow Will Anderson as his self-build journey unfolds.

This month he celebrates the disappearance of his scaffold.

W

e bade a final farewell to our scaffolders this month. They first arrived nearly a year ago when our timber frame got beyond the ground floor. Thanks to a harsh party wall award, we had to work fast with this scaffold, getting the frame up, the roof on, the windows and doors in and most of the brickwork complete in a mere fourteen weeks. When this scaffold came down – and we no longer had to pay weekly fees to either the scaffolders or our neighbours – everything slowed down.

The scaffolders came back in February when we started building the porch and conservatory at the front of the house. These two rooms are key to the look of the house, but were built last because they are outside the insulated envelope of the building and so not part of the timber frame. The porch is built of solid brick and the conservatory is a traditional construction of green oak and leaded windows.

Fortunately the scaffold for this part of the build stood entirely on our own land, so no more money was lost over the fence. We did, however, go well over our three month contract with our scaffolders, mainly because

12

the conservatory took much longer to finish than planned. Making all the windows by hand was not on the original schedule but – as they had to be installed into rebates on the outside of the oak frame – it was obvious that we would be in trouble trying to put them in once the scaffold had gone.

Now that the scaffold has come down, we can stand back and admire the building for the first time. There is still an ugly plastic skirt hanging off the conservatory to protect the bricks and mortar below from the natural oils that leach from green oak. Nonetheless it’s looking good. Our Arts and Crafts focus on traditional, high-quality materials has paid off.

The beautifully variegated hand-made bricks from Northcot Bricks, laid using blue-white lime mortar form Mike Wye & Associates, bring real character to the building and are the perfect foil for the oak conservatory. Although the leaded windows of the conservatory took ages to make, their delicacy is a striking contrast to the chunkiness of the oak. I’m also pleased with tiling detail round the windows, not least because I did all this tiling myself and more than once I wondered if it would be worth the considerable effort.

Above: The conservatory – formed of green oak and leaded windows – sits above the brick porch Below: Now the scaffolding has gone, Will can finally see his new home in its entirety

So now all I have to do is fit out the inside. Hah! Unfortunately this task is now almost entirely down to me, not least because there are few unspent lines left on my budget. But that’s okay; I always intended to try my hand at as many building crafts as possible and plenty of opportunities await me.

With the scaffold down, I feel newly energised, which is a good thing as I’m going to need all the energy I can get as the months roll by.

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Green Living

Last month the Domestic RHI tariff for biomass boilers and stoves was decreased from 8.93p to 7.14p per kilowatt hour for all new applications. The tariffs for air source heat pumps, ground source heat pumps and solar thermal have not been affected by this degression.

Once someone joins the Domestic RHI, they will stay on the same tariff rate for the full seven years of membership. A tariff reduction only affects people who are applying after the degression date. Therefore, if you submit a complete application before the reduction takes place you will not be affected if your application is successful. Your tariff is based on the application submission date. This means that if your application is still being reviewed when degression comes into effect, you won’t lose out. As a consequence, homeowners are urged to act now before the next reduction – due in September.

Easing installation

RHI tariff update Changes to the Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive tariff means that payments for biomass boilers and stoves have decreased for new applications.

T

he Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) is a Government incentive to promote the use of renewable heat. People who join the scheme and stick to its rules receive quarterly payments over seven years for using clean, green renewable heat.

The original RHI tariffs were set by the Department of Energy and Climate Change.

They have to keep the RHI within budget and they do this by lowering the tariff rates for new applicants. This is called ‘degression’ and it happens if uptake of the scheme is higher than the approved budget. Tariffs are subject to review every quarter, but the tariff rate will only reduce if the total amount of payments made is higher than the degression trigger or super-trigger.

Oliver Thyne, Director of renewable energy expert Green Square Kelso, comments: “It is a good idea to get ahead of the game when it comes to making the switch to renewable energy. With the RHI tariff periodically reducing, now is the time to act. Waiting until the winter months could mean risking a period of transition without heating and hot water and a potentially longer waiting time for installation due to extra demand. The peace of mind that comes with having your heating and water system in place and pristine as you head into the winter months is priceless, and the process at this time of year is smoother and stress free.”

Regardless of the fall in funding, with fuel prices continuing to rise and consumer demand for heat efficient products soaring, it is no surprise that a new trend is emerging where biomass stoves and boilers are becoming home heating products of choice. The switch to an environmentally friendly and cheaper renewable energy alternative is often the obvious choice when it comes to installing a new heating and hot water system.

The process of installation in the warmer months presents less disruption to the property due to better conditions. With the heating system out of use and with more day light hours, the fit can be completed with ease and over a shorter period of time.

www.greensquare.co.uk Top: New owners of biomass boilers and stoves will now receive lower Domestic RHI payments Left: It is easier to install a biomass boiler in warmer months

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15

Viewpoint

Making the money go round Rachel Pyne, Group Sales Director at self-build finance expert BuildStore, offers advice on how to ensure your finances last the duration of your project.

W

hile there may be no such thing as a ‘typical’ self-build project – each coming with its own unique set of challenges and opportunities – every project has identifiable stages of development, from the initial digging of the foundations to the final fix. At each stage, as the value of the build

s: ecretblood S e d Tra s the life r

low i uild o Cashf our self-b ct – if it y j ro e of ion p r dries up, t a v o n ren down o ect ca slows hole proj ff w your e thrown o b ule. sched

16

increases, your finance lender will release a percentage of your overall funds, so it’s critical that you understand exactly what your project is going to cost you at each stage, so that you have enough money to meet your expenses.

Make sure that you’ve worked out precisely how much money you’ll need to pay out for materials, tradesmen and specialist services at each stage so that your available funds

match your project. For example, a timber construction is more expensive in the early stages than a brick and block build because you have to pay for the whole system up front.

It’s also essential to have agreed payment terms with builders and other tradespeople in advance of work starting. If you don’t have a good handle on your cashflow – that is, if you haven’t matched your finances to your

Viewpoint

Overview of typical budget allocations: Labour & Materials Land/Project Contingency Finance Insurance Professional Utilities

Left: Every project has identifiable stages of development Right: Thorough budgeting and keeping a record of every expense will help to keep your finances on track

projected expenses at each stage – then you might find that you’re unable to meet your builders’ invoices or pay for the materials you need. Either situation can hinder progress and, in the worst case scenario, your builders may leave your project and move onto another job if they haven’t been paid, or don’t have materials to work with.

Make sure you work alongside your lender to ensure adequate funding is available at each stage. What’s more, if you have a large amount of cash sitting in the bank at the start of your project, make sure it’s placed somewhere with higher lending percentages to help ease your cash flow. Likewise, if you are contemplating funding your project by borrowing against your existing property, expert advisers will be able to impart their knowledge and expertise in cashflow management.

“If the right funds aren’t available at the right stages of the build, delays are inevitable – and often expensive.

In the worst case scenario, materials may not be delivered and your builders may be forced to move on to projects elsewhere.”

Budgeting For many people, the whole point of self-building is to make the expense of a home go further – so it follows that accurately planning and managing a budget should be a primary concern. This process should start well before you even buy your plot of land, and shouldn’t finish until you’ve paid the final contractor and ensured that VAT is reclaimed on your building materials.

When you first begin to work out your budget it makes sense to plan out and weigh up the costs of all the different aspects of your project – even if that means working in round numbers. Whether you are borrowing money or self-funding your project, you should have a total figure in mind that you want to work to, in addition to a dedicated contingency fund of 8-10% of your initial estimate. There are a plethora of online build calculators, that can help to give an indication of costs involved and may serve to re-evaluate materials and methods.

For the self-builder or renovator, it’s absolutely critical that you get your budget right. Once you’ve got the basic figures in place, you’ll then need to spend significant amounts of time planning everything down to the smallest detail – because today it can be difficult to negotiate extra lending if you overspend in the early stages of the build. To find out how much you can borrow, speak to an expert adviser.

www.buildstore.co.uk

17

Contracts & Legalities

Left: Many of Britain's best homes are listed.

However, altering this kind of property is no easy undertaking.

Project checklist: Take photos throughout Create a clear budget Ask neighbours and owners of similar properties for advice Understand the history of your home Respect your home’s heritage by using the right suppliers Keep a diary of time frames and your contact with any professionals, as well as your achievements, frustrations and progress

Documenting your renovation If you are renovating or converting your listed building, the process can sometimes seem rather overwhelming. So to assist in the process, period property expert the Listed Property Owners Club has put together some top tips to help document your property challenge.

T

here are nearly 500,000 listed properties in the UK and many will require a renovation, whether now or in the future. However big or small the project might be, the detail and research that goes into altering a listed building is no easy undertaking. One thing that stands out to us here at the Listed Property Owners Club, is the usefulness of documenting the procedure of a renovation – and the same applies for any self-build, conversion or extension.

Saying “take photos” may sound obvious, but you would be amazed at how many people forget to! Taking pictures at every stage of the project, particularly before you start any work, is one of the most useful al ny leg your a d l u ways to document Sho ncerning g co vin a s it. Images can h e , u e s is f all ct aris also be taken proje d records o rk o e detail ts of the welp. along to meetings aspec a great h with conservation e will b officers, architects

: crets e S e Trad

18

and other professionals involved in the project.

One of the most common issues encountered with a property project is unplanned costs.

Budgeting for a project on your listed building is essential, as costs can easily get out of control.

When putting together a budget source, get a range of quotes for the work involved, so you can account for a best and worst case scenario.

Note every detail, and refer back to it regularly.

Record every detail Your neighbours are a good starting point for information. They may have previously looked into the history of your street or area, or their own house history. As well as helpful tips on their own experiences of local tradesman, they may also have some useful information about the area you live in and local historians and architects, as well as their own experience of dealing with the conservation officer.

Understanding your house history is important before moving forward with any plans. Discovering the antiquity of a home is growing in popularity, as investing in a listed

property means buying into its past, stories and legacy. Looking at the home’s history can provide renovation or conversion inspiration. Start by looking into the title deeds and archives, but professional house historians can also help.

Keeping a diary of your experience is a great way to document your project, and also provides an outlet for your achievements, frustrations and progress. A diary will also help you to stay on track with the original time scale, document how long each part of the project takes and any reasons for delays – this will make it easier to re-estimate a finish date and make up for time. Many owners now choose to keep an online diary via a blog or website, which enables their experiences to be shared.

Should any legal issues concerning your project arise, having detailed records of all aspects of the work will be a great help. A log of your contact with the local conservation officer will be especially important should the permission for work undertaken come into question.

Finding the right suppliers of traditional products and methods suitable for your property’s needs is essential to a successful renovation or conversion. It’s worth keeping a record of everyone that you spoke to throughout the process, including names and contacts for conservation officers, architects, suppliers and tradesmen. A great list of contacts is essential, as you may need to call on their services again later in the process. Plus, another building owner with similar requirements may also need their services, and recommending good suppliers online through reviews will help their own research.

www.lpoc.co.uk

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i-build i-nterior i-scape

Rural Retreat

Two for one When a young family bought a bungalow with the view to renovate, little did they know they would end up completing a four-bedroom self-build in their garden!

20

Rural Retreat

K

irsty and David Gordon bought a bungalow in the village of Wolvey, Leicestershire, with the vision to remould it into their dream family home. The dated property had a huge garden, but it was in a terrible state, with several outhouses and lots of rubbish left by the previous owners.

Kirsty and Gordon hired an architect to visit the property and evaluate how much the extension and renovation was going to cost. Whilst the architect was there, they were keen to discuss a new idea.

Kirsty explains: “When the architect came out to see the property we asked him for costings of a self-build in the garden. He said that a self-build would actually be much easier, because we would need to knock most of the bungalow down to get the home we wanted.”

“We had always wanted to build our own house but thought it was more of a pipe dream than a possibility,” adds David. “Once we looked at the possibilities, it became evident that building in the garden would not cost a great deal more than extending and modernising the bungalow, so sought planning permission and set to work.”

David’s dad – a retired project manager who had completed two of his own self-build projects – was able to pass his most prized possession onto his son – his project spreadsheet.

David explains: “The spreadsheet provided guidance on what needed to happen and a schedule to follow – without it I wouldn’t have had a clue! It was all run like a military operation, just one big spreadsheet sorted it all out.”

The family had a strong vision of how they wanted the house to look. They wanted an open plan familyorientated house with green credentials throughout. The aesthetics needed to be contemporary, whilst suiting the local vernacular. The architect – David Arscott from R M James – came up with a concept and the Gordons loved it straight away. A smooth planning permission process followed suit, taking only three months.

Balancing act The bungalow was to be sold on, but not until the new home was built as the family needed to live there whilst their home took form. However, with two young children and another one on the way, the bungalow needed to be fit for young children. David set to work, gutting and cleaning the property. Clean white walls and functional laminate flooring was applied throughout, as well as a quick garage conversion to

Left: Folding-sliding doors help to bring the outdoors in

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Sub-brow RuralEyebrow Retreat

Left: Expansive timber decking blends seamlessly with the ground floor cladding Below left: The master bedroom benefits from a balcony Right: The home boasts an open-plan layout – perfect for family life Below right: The family love their green roof

create another bedroom for their eldest child, Bethany, who had previously been sharing with her younger brother James.

The bungalow transformation turned into a full-scale renovation, taking place at the same time as the selfbuild project. Kirsty had her third baby in January and work started in March.

Kirsty reflects: “Harriet lived the first six months of her life on a building site! When it came to the work, I obviously had other things on my mind, so it became David’s obsession really – although I did get involved with the interior side of things.”

David runs his own business from home – a carp fishing holiday company – so was able to work at the same time as project managing and overseeing the renovation and self-build.

David comments: “Sometimes it was hard to shut off from it because we could physically see the site through our window, but it was never a burden. The thing is that during the build you don’t know whether things are going to work out. My worry throughout was that we couldn’t go back and re-do, so there was so much pressure to get it right. But we had a lot of luck throughout! Sometimes we were like, if it rains now then this process will take so much longer, but it didn’t rain from when we started to when the final concrete had been poured – complete luck! The main thing was that we needed to be ready for all the different stages, but it all came together neatly and was brilliant,” explains David.

The couple sourced people locally, often coming upon people by chance, such as when David met the electrician when walking the dog and when they discovered that a guy living down the road was a digger driver.

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Rural Retreat

Kirsty explains: “We did try to find people by researching online, but the first carpenter didn’t turn up and other tradesmen didn’t come back with quotes. We ended up thinking that, if we had to chase them for a quote, how terrible would they be on site! Everything just fell into place, for example David knew the owner of the renewables company and the guy who lives opposite owns a building company.”

“Thinking about it now has made me realise that everyone we used were people were knew! It’s pretty handy really, especially as we’re not in the building trade. What’s nice is that we’ve introduced people through this project who are now working together on other builds,” adds David.

Problems of the unknown After extensive online research, David decided a modern construction method using SIPs seemed to suit all their ideals regarding speed and insulation values.

However, finding tradesmen that would work with this material created an issue.

David describes the problem they faced: “A lot of people didn’t want to get involved because they didn’t know enough about it. We also experienced this with the renewables. The team that did it for us actually took courses on how to install the products – we took advantage of being their guinea pig! It would

Project breakdown: Location: Leicestershire Method of construction: SIPs Bought property: July 2012 Land cost: £180,000 VAT reclaimed: £10,600 Construction length: 32 weeks Renovated bungalow value: £293,000 New self-build value: £725,000

Build cost figures: Preliminaries: £10,869 Site prep & groundworks: £42,322 Structure to wind & watertight: £139,894 Floor, wall and ceiling finishes: £23,654 Joinery and fittings: £21,543 Plumbing and heating (includes bathroom and kitchen): £47,862 Electrics: £7900 Renewables: £33,629 Decorating: £4200 External works: £18,600 Total build cost: £350,473

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Sub-brow RuralEyebrow Retreat have been a smoother process if a more experienced company had done it, but we would have spent a lot more. There are so many discrepancies in price for the same systems. There was even a delay with selling the bungalow because we had added solar panels and the new owner’s solicitor needed to research what this meant for them. People just don’t understand

Above: Kirsty chose the grey and yellow kitchen scheme after seeing examples of this trend on Pinterest Below: There are two living rooms – one for adults and the other for all the family

renewables! It is a big problem.”

The finished structure has achieved a pleasing airtight test result of 1.95 and using the low U-value fabric of SIPs has meant that many passive house principles have been met. Other ‘green’ aspects of the house include an air source heat pump, solar thermal panels, underfloor heating on the ground floor, a heat recovery and ventilation system, a solar-orientated gallery window to maximise solar gain and a living roof to provide additional insulation.

Perfect family home The new home is rendered off-white, offering a contemporary look, with cedar sections to soften the overall feel. The house sits down within the slight gradient of the plot which means it's very unobtrusive fitting within the various property styles on the street.

Inside, the home is also contemporary, boasting a light and airy ambiance at the same time as feeling homely. There are separate formal rooms as well as a large open plan living space – perfect for entertaining.

All rooms are spacious with two rooms at the back – used as play and craft spaces – benefiting from large glazed walls, borrowing light from the rear south facing aspect.

The garage is attached to the house thanks to a long

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Rural Retreat corridor – also home to a downstairs bathroom and large utility room. Above the garage is David’s home office – kept separate although still accessible without leaving the house. There are four large bedrooms on the first floor, all with vaulted ceilings. Two bedrooms benefit from en-suites and a family bathroom sits between the other two.

Large bi-folding doors open onto the patio and garden, which benefits from views over the numerous surrounding fields. The large plot has allowed both properties to have decent sized gardens. Although Kirsty and David were concerned that they hadn’t left enough garden for the new home, in reality there is ample for the size of the house.

Above: The family wanted an open-plan living space

Below: Expansive interior glazing opens the play and sewing rooms onto the open-plan space

away easier.”

Kirsty works as a Clinical Scientist at Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham. The long commute to work was beginning to take its toll, so when she was presented with the opportunity to become a Consultant at a hospital in Basingstoke, she decided it was the right move for her family.

Unexpected conclusion Although the family consulted their neighbours about their self-build before the plan was finalised, unfortunately they have experienced some unpleasantness from several neighbours who weren’t keen on the project, even though the new property has no impact upon neighbouring views.

David explains: “It’s a difficult one and I suppose I don’t know how I’d feel about a house going up somewhere where there wasn’t one before. One positive is that this has made the decision to move

25

Rural Retreat Above: All four bedrooms benefit from vaulted ceilings Above right: Solar-orientated glazing floods the landing with natural light Right: Kirsty has made bunting to match the fabric blinds in her youngest's bedroom

26

Kirsty explains: “I’m sad because I love the house. If I could pick this up and move it to where we’re moving then I would. Plus, we can do it again!”

In fact, David has definitely caught the self-build bug as he has already bought another plot in a nearby village. This new project will be built with the view to sell, but David is hoping they will build another home of their own in Basingstoke.

“The reason we’ve bought a plot up here is that we can use the same people again. Finding tradesmen is the big thing and we’ve already built a relationship with all the right people. For us, we’re going to rent for a bit

Rural Retreat Key Contributors: Architects: David Arscott/R M James Structural engineers: JMS Engineers Foundations contractor: Mark Sutton Builders to get to know the area before we decide whether to buy or self-build. It is addictive though!” adds David.

Kirsty explains further: “We talk all the time about whether we will buy or build. I think wherever we go it will need to be a project. Selling this home was difficult for us because it was never built to sell. Everything we put in it was to our preference – it’s my dream kitchen! I suppose if we had built with the intention of moving then we would have done things differently.

I’m pleased that it’s going to a family with the same dynamic as us – a couple with three kids under 10 – I hope they will love it!”

Final words of advice

Above: David's office is above the garage – the new owners will use this as a play room Below: The new home sits back from the road, behind the bungalow

Joinery/carpentry/ stairs/facias & soffits/ Landscaping: Ben Smith/B.S.Smith Ltd Bathrooms & utility/kitchen/flooring: Plug Interiors Windows and doors: Tony James/brillsawmills.co.uk Electrical installation: Matt Chilton/Midshires Electrical Renewables supply & installation: Complete Green Solutions SiPs Installation: White-Haus Garage door: Doorfit Bespoke window: Nigel Seyer

Although the family are looking forward to the move, they are sad to part with years of hard work and a home built to their exact preferences. One positive is that they’ve gained the experience, determination and passion needed to do the whole thing again in the future.

David offers some final words of advice to fellow self-builders: “Plan everything out and be realistic with your budgeting. Above all, make sure you are surrounded by good people! We were lucky in that we found architects who understood what we wanted to achieve from the start, as well as a superb builder who went that extra mile to make sure it came together.”

27

Impressive Innovation

Award-winning inspiration The winners of the 2015 RIBA National Awards have been announced, where three self-build projects were among 37 UK buildings awarded for setting the standard for good architecture.

T

he Royal Institute of British Architects National Awards have been running continuously since 1966 and are judged and presented locally. No matter the shape, size, budget or location, RIBA Award schemes set the standard for great architecture all across the country.

This year's award winners range from a beautifullycrafted wooden fishing hut on a small new estate in Hampshire and a crisp, modern malt whisky distillery inspired by the shape of a barley sheaf, to a patterned red-brick church centre in Hackney and a modest cancer care centre.

One quarter of the award winners are private homes and garden buildings. Ranging from a stone and copper-

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Impressive Innovation clad tiny retreat buried in a Wiltshire garden, to an architect-owned low-energy house on the edge of a Somerset village, these homes demonstrate impeccable domestic architecture design. The following pages present three innovative self-build designs that have been presented with this prestigious award.

Cliff House One of the 37 award-winning projects is a self-build home designed by Hyde + Hyde Architects, which has been awarded the Welsh Architecture Award 2015. Cliff House is perched up high on a limestone cliff overlooking the sea where the Bristol Channel meets the Atlantic Ocean. The new home allows the homeowners to live among the ever-changing light and

Above: Cliff House has an upside-down configuration Left: The property's design makes the most of the stunning coastal views

atmosphere of the ocean.

The building has been constructed using insulated concrete formwork, giving it a highly insulated air tight perimeter. To balance the heaviness of the building fabric, a cedar clad balcony frame has been introduced to focus on sea views, with vertical and horizontal planes creating a series of sophisticated spatial layers.

Elements of the design ensure that the building’s long-term energy performance will be exceptional – such as the air source heat pump feeding a wet underfloor heating system with whole house mechanical heat recovery ventilation. Hot water is stored in cylinder tanks assisted by solar thermal and air source heat pump.

The RIBA judges' notes say: “This collaborative

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Impressive Innovation

project, with the client’s husband having engineered the design, has resulted in a complete yet modest piece of domestic architecture that is exemplary in both process and presence.

“It is a pleasure to walk around, to discover spatial complexities. The upside-down configuration is unforced, with a suite of three generous bedrooms and a study, all spatially unique, and with all their own direct and particular relationship to the garden. The axial view through these spaces makes everything feel connected. Externally a crisply rendered colonnade frames views and brings pace to the composition and structure to the garden.

“All of this is held in a project that is at once strong and singular, yet layered with variety. Nothing screams for attention, but nothing has been overlooked.”

Right: A cedar clad balcony frame has been included Below: The modern property is a contrast to its more traditional neighbour

Project overview: Architect: Hyde + Hyde Architects Client: Private client Awards won: RIBA National Award 2015 Contractor: Self-build Structural Engineers: CD Gray + Associates Ltd Cost Consultant: Mildred Howells & Co M&E Engineers: SABA Consultants Ltd Cost: Confidential Photographer: Hyde + Hyde Architects

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31

Impressive Innovation

Above: The new home is clad in Corten steel Left: A glass encased circulation link connects the property's two wings

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Kew House Designed by Piercy & Company Architects, this self-build sits within the Kew Green Conservation Area of southwest London. The four bedroom family house is formed of two sculptural weathering steel volumes, inserted behind a retained nineteenth century stable wall.

The brief evolved through a series of conversations between the architects and homeowners, which ranged over imagining the children running about the house, summer dinners spilling outside and the balance of quiet nooks with social spaces, to pragmatic concerns like drying laundry and how to build a boat in the basement. In response, Piercy & Company designed the house as a built diagram of the way the family wanted to use the spaces, with an internal landscape of alternative routes and levels connecting expressive spaces aimed at creating moments of delight for adults and children alike.

First and foremost a family home, the spaces are intended to be informal but rich with incidental spaces, unexpected light and complex vertical volumes.

Impressive Innovation

The house is formed of a simple plan to make the most of the constrained site, reduce the building’s mass in the streetscape and respond to the living patterns of the family. Consisting of two rectangles; one slightly smaller, set back and sunken 1m lower, the wings each have living spaces on the ground floor and bedrooms above. Connecting the wings is a glass encased circulation link which allows light to pour into the house whilst providing breathing space between internal spaces.

Inside, oak veneer paneling and Dinesen flooring are the basis of a light, natural and refined palette of materials.

The judges comment: “The house is the product of an unusually close working relationship between the client - a structural engineer and boat-restorer - and the architect, both with an interest in pre-fabrication.

“The result is a bold, highly inventive and wellconsidered intervention in Corten steel in Kew Green Conservation Area – a neighbourhood not known for architectural adventures. The project benefitted from an extremely thoughtful process of neighbourhood consultation which satisfied local conservation and planning concerns.

“The perforated weathering steel cladding not only decorates the interior with dappled light, it is also an experimental sandwich panel roof, with insulation bonded to its underside, fully prefabricated. Gutters and chimneys are formed in the same weathering steel. It is entirely unique, avoiding reference to architectural convention.”

Above: The interior layout has been arranged according to how the family expected to use the space Left: Perforations in the cladding decorate the interior and act as an experimental sandwich panel roof

Project overview: Architect: Piercy & Company Client: Private client Awards won: RIBA National Award 2015 Contractor: Self-build Structural Engineers: Price & Myers Cost Consultant: Mildred Howells & Co M&E Engineers: Arup Cost: Confidential Photographer: Jack Hobhouse

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Sub-brow Impressive Innovation Eyebrow

Dundon Passivhaus Another self-build RIBA award-winner is Dundon Passivhaus by Prewett Bizley Architects. Set at the foot of a wooded hill, the house is designed to take best advantage of fantastic views across the Somerset levels.

Different rooms relate directly to distinct areas of the garden, creating an experiential richness that extends the domain of the interior into the surrounding landscape.

The house has been built to Passivhaus standard which means it achieves very high levels of insulation and air-tightness. The wall construction is vapour permeable to moderate humidity and create a healthy internal atmosphere. A mechanical ventilation system with heat recovery provides constant fresh air throughout the colder months when it is undesirable to open the windows.

By digging the lower floor into the hillside,

34

planning permission was gained for a twostorey house that is only marginally taller than the bungalow it replaced. Its form relates to nearby agricultural buildings rather than the suburban houses in the village.

A gently sloping roof extends beyond the building envelope on three sides to create sheltered outdoor spaces that blur the distinction between house and garden. This welcoming, sheltering gesture works in harmony with the energy strategy by providing summer shading to the large windows. Green oak posts support the roof, tied back to the main timber-framed structure which is also clad in green oak that will patinate and weather over time. Internally, the rooms are lined

in planed oak or painted plywood, a more refined version of the characterful external cladding.

According to the judges' notes: “Dundon Passivhaus is an extraordinarily understated and unpretentious building set in a beautiful rural landscape.

“It is a substantially self-build project by the architect for his family’s occupation, designed and built to Passivhaus standards but with the scope to open windows as you would in any conventional building.

“Entering the house you are greeted with a forest of internal timber cladding. Large sliding folding windows ensure that every ounce of the view penetrates the space. An introverted living

Impressive Innovation Above: The house benefits from views of the surrounding Somerset countryside Right: All rooms are lined in planed oak or painted plywood Below: A balcony wraps around the first floor Below left: The interior is ontrend, yet unpretentious

room has large log burners providing heating and hot water to supplement the solar thermal on the roof and a MVHR system.

“The garden houses a 4500 litre rainwater harvesting tank. The walls are super-insulated using recycled paper.

The internal carpentry, joinery and other features all beautifully detailed and crafted.”

Project overview: Architect: Prewett Bizley Architects Client: Graham Bizley Awards won: RIBA National Award 2015 Contractor: Self-build Structural Engineers: Structural Solutions Interior Design: Emily Bizley Interior Design Cost: £470,000 Photographer: Graham Bizley

35

Sub-browRooflights Eyebrow

Maximising daylight VELUX Product Manager, Grant Sneddon, offers advice on selecting the best daylight solutions for your project.

L

ight plays an incredibly important role in our daily lives. Given that, as a nation, we spend as much as 90% of our time inside, healthy indoor climates are vital in buildings, particularly in our homes. So, how do we gain more light in the spaces we use for living, working and playing in?

One of the primary things to consider when designing with daylight in mind is roof windows. A roof window can typically let in up to twice as much light as a conventional vertical window. This is because the glazing is angled directly towards the natural light source, with very little diffused or reflected light. It can allow daylight to penetrate deep into a room, illuminating areas that might otherwise be quite dark.

Not only that, but roof windows can also enhance views, offer more comfort, improve indoor climate, and even be more energy efficient.

When it comes to roof windows or roof lights, there are a number of options to consider. It’s important to speak to an expert and select the right product to match

36

your living space, as well as the best fit to gain maximum daylight, comfort and energy efficiency.

Choosing the right roof windows The most recognised type of roof window for homeowners is the centre-pivot roof window, but it’s also worth considering top-hung versions, and thinking about whether the positioning will suit manual or remote control operation.

Top-hung roof windows open outwards with a handle at the bottom of the window, making them ideal for installations where the bottom of the window is easily within arm’s reach. VELUX top-hung roof windows open 45° outwards for an unrestricted view and maximise the amount of natural daylight that can be allowed in.

Classic centre-pivot roof windows are ideal for lower installations and feature a top control bar, allowing the user to install the window lower than an equivalent tophung operated roof window. This makes space for living

Rooflights

areas with furniture beneath the roof window and helps create a perfect view of the outside surroundings whilst standing and when seated.

Electric roof windows must also be considered for households, particularly for those who forget to open and close windows during the day and at night. This job is made simpler for homeowners through the use of automatically controlled roof windows, blinds and shutters which can be opened and closed with just one touch of a button. Many products offer quiet and efficient remote control operation and provide an ideal solution for out-of-reach situations.

Some roof windows, such as VELUX INTEGRA, also offer predefined programmes, enabling a range of comfort levels based on specific needs such as ‘good morning’, ‘good night’, ‘ventilation’, ‘on holiday’ and much more. By using a touch-screen control pad, every window can be reached easier and faster – from anywhere in the home or building.

Making the most of your space Sun tunnels provide a natural daylight solution for windowless areas such as halls, storage cupboards or tight areas of the home that have limited access to natural daylight. The product is comprised of a round, rooftop window and a tunnel to transport the daylight inside which allow homeowners to achieve a brighter, more natural indoor environment.

For loft conversion areas in the home, the perfect solution

Left: A roof balcony creates the feeling of more space Above: Centre-pivot roof windows are popular in loft conversions Below: Sun tunnels bring light to rooms without windows Below right: Electric rooflight blinds are perfect for bedrooms

to incorporate extra daylight is to add a roof balcony. Even if the floor space in a loft is limited, it’s still possible to enjoy the added space and light that a roof terrace brings. The roof terrace helps to make the most of unused roof space without compromising the size of the living space.

For example, the New Generation VELUX CABRIO Balcony offers the chance to give areas in workplaces and homes extra space and light. Transforming from a roof window to a balcony in seconds, this window balcony gives even the smallest areas an injection of daylight and space, as well as control of fresher air to add a real wow factor to any home or building.

Expert advice Before you invest in roof windows, balconies or sun tunnels, it’s worth considering all options for both short and long term gain. Every project is different so if you can speak to an expert who has knowledge of all the products available, you can achieve optimum daylight, comfort and energy efficiency.

www.velux.co.uk

37

Insulation

Keeping energy efficiency under wraps An Isle of Wight self-builder has built an energy efficient home thanks to renewable technology and high-quality insulation.

P

hil Clabburn, a civil engineer who for the past 20 years has restored WW2 powerboats, was determined to future proof his Isle of Wight selfbuild as simply as possible.

Protecting his purse from utility companies was the prime driver behind the decision to super-insulate his new build home by the sea.

Phil is aiming to complete his 1900ft2 traditionally styled timber frame home by the autumn. He is looking forward to minimal fuel and water bills over the coming decades thanks to the installation of a wood pellet burner, rainwater recovery system, solar thermal panel and LED lighting. Another key component of his highly efficient house is what he describes as the ‘phenomenal’ insulation.

Phil had a clear vision and passion to create a future proof home, which has nothing but 5000 miles of sea between it and Brazil and receives a battering from 100mph winds!

He explains: “My partner and I were fortunate to stumble upon a fantastic opportunity just 300 yards from the sea. I wasn’t looking to build a new house, but after close inspection the existing one wasn’t up for refurbishment – 70 years of a coastal battering had taken its toll.

“My objective was not to go all eco and save the planet, it was simply to save ourselves from the utility companies! Looking at the project scientifically, I had some key objectives I wanted to achieve – mega insulation, low energy usage and low water consumption. This has been achieved by simple technologies, rather than complicated, expensive ones which consume lots of electricity!”

More than 70 rolls of Actis Hybrid were delivered to the site. Phil had used this product in the past for his boats, so knew its air tightness and ease of use advantages. He has used 120mm Hybris in the timber frame and 240mm in the roof, along with H Control Hybrid. And

38

he says even without the heating installed the temperature in the bedrooms only drops by one degree over night. In fact he used some of the offcuts to insulate the bath – whose water remained at the same temperature for an hour and a half on his first trial!

He continues: “Air tightness is crucial. It doesn’t matter how good you are with a saw, you’ll never get a proper fit with insulation board. Actis expands itself into a void and the ‘blanket’ layer is belt and braces. It was also easy to cut, with no mess and no waste.”

While the majority of installers put the Actis Hybrid range to the use for which it was designed – that is insulating buildings – a number of people have found additional uses for the insulation.

Actis H Control Hybrid is CE marked as a vapour control layer, but is dual purpose and also acts as an insulation, which means the thickness of the main insulation can be reduced to achieve the same required U-value.

It is used on the warm side of any insulation material, behind the internal finish in roofs, walls and ceilings.

A breather membrane is ideal for moisture control. Actis Boost R Hybrid is CE marked as a breather membrane but, like H Control Hybrid, is dual purpose, also acts as an insulation.

Reflective and watertight, yet vapour permeable it’s used on the cold side of roofs and walls. Because water vapour molecules are smaller than those in water droplets, it lets moisture out but doesn’t let water in. It also helps improve the building’s air tightness.

The membrane not only keeps damp out, it boosts thermal resistance, keeping heat in, achieving a declared core R-value of 1.35 m2.K/W with no air gaps and an R value of 2.40 m2.K/W with two air voids.

www.insulation-actis.com

Architect Thomas Wiedmer, Technical Manager at Actis, answers the question: “The fabric of a building is a crucial factor in determining its overall energy efficiency. The target Fabric Energy Efficiency rate stipulates that the physical envelope of the house – the longest lasting element of every new home – plays the greatest part in ensuring this efficiency.

Insulation

What is an R-value?

“The target FEE stresses that greater emphasis must be placed on the U-value of a new build – the lower the figure the more efficient the envelope. A U-value doesn’t apply to any individual material used in the build up, but to each of these elements as a whole. What each material component does have is an R-value – or thermal resistance – which is the resistance to the transfer of heat across the material.

“While U-values need to be as low as possible for maximum efficiency, R-values have to be as high as possible. In order to determine the R-value of each fabric we need to determine the thermal conductivity of each of the materials used in the build up – the lambda value.

“Many materials have a standardised lambda value. A sort of construction equivalent of a periodic table exists to define the thermal conductivity of each material – how much heat is conducted through a cubic metre of material with a one Kelvin temperature difference between side A and side B. The more easily a material conducts, the higher its lambda value.

For example, aluminium, which conducts heat very easily, has a lambda value of 160 W/mK, steel – 50 W/mK and brick 0.72 W/mK. “Thermal resistance is then calculated by dividing the thickness of a material (in metres) by its thermal conductivity (lambda value).

“So when determining U-values one needs to follow the following steps: 1. Note lambda value and thickness of each individual material 2. Work out R-value of each element by dividing the thickness by the Lambda value 3. Add up all the R-values and apply bridging factors 4. Include the R-values of both internal and external surface thermal resistance 5. Divide one by the total R-value to get the U-value”

Images clockwise starting top left: 1. Phil is hoping to complete his project by the end of summer 2. The home is a 1900ft2 traditionally styled timber frame home 3. Actis Hybrid has been used to insulate the property 4. The interior reflects its coastal location 5. 70 years of coastal battering had taken its toll on the original property 6. Phil is a civil engineer

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Eyebrow Heating Sub-brow

ground, and consists of a series of 1.5m deep bores.

When the EEB is combined with a suitably sized Photovoltaic-Thermal array and a water to water heat pump, together the products allow a house to remain self-sufficient for heating, hot water and lighting all year round. Excess energy generated during the summer months is used to warm the EEB, which is then drawn upon in winter to heat the home. Caplin Homes has partnered with other renewable providers to supply all these components in one package called the Zero Carbon Solution (ZCS).

Energy efficient solution

Water-cooled PV-T require less roof space than PV and thermal arrays

The future of zero carbon?

With space heating and hot water accounting for around 60% of home energy use, deciding how to heat your future home is a major consideration for any self-build project. Michael Goddard, Director of timber frame expert Caplin Homes, explores how new technology systems are allowing selfbuilders to build to zero carbon without breaking the bank.

R

enewables are one solution for the ecoconscious self-builder, but the added cost of some installations can mean that a desire to go green isn’t always financially viable. Until recently, to meet zero carbon, the building industry had to rely on a multitude of technologies – including complicated and expensive combinations of PV, solar thermal, ground or air source systems, biomass boilers, MVHR and more. Such systems have not only proved to be expensive, but also often rely on seasonal shortfalls being made up by power from the grid, in return for over-generation during other periods.

The introduction of a patented interseasonal energy store, called the Earth Energy Bank (EEB), offers another eco-efficient heating solution. The new technology preserves heat collected in the summer for use during winter months. Housed between a building’s foundations, the EEB’s design utilises the poor thermal conducting quality and high thermal capacity of the

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The Zero Carbon Solution offers many benefits to a homeowner, not least in the potential for net-zero energy bills. With PV-T eligible for the Feed-in-Tariff (FiT) and owners able to claim the Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) for the ZCS’s heat pump, the system offers significant payback via government subsidies.

When EEB is used alongside water-cooled PV-T, the system can effectively generate both electrical and thermal energy. In fact, water-cooled PV-T require around 35% less roof space to produce the same amount of energy as separate PV and thermal arrays, making them more practical and cost-effective.

The EEB is simple and affordable to install. Fitting the technology can usually be completed within a day and no specialist drilling equipment or long ground loops are required.

For those self-builders at the start of their homebuilding journey, it’s worth noting that the Zero Carbon Solution is suitable for inclusion in a planning application’s design and access statement, in line with the new National Planning Framework’s emphasis on sustainable development.

www.zerocarbonsolution.co.uk

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i-build

What are the benefits of pre-manufactured homes?

When looking to build your own house, effective cost and time are considered to be key components to a successful build. Each factor is minimised when a pre-manufactured structure is specified – just one reason why this method of construction is a popular choice for self-build projects.

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i-build

O

ver recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of UK self-builders opting for a pre-manufactured house.

Pre-manufactured provider Hanse Haus, based in Germany, is one company that has noticed this increase, now delivering a new home to the UK every 18 days.

Overrun costs minimised Regardless of how well a self-build is thought-out, planned and budgeted for, many still face unforeseen and escalated build costs. One benefit of a pre-manufactured house is that costs are fixed from the start.

Although it always depends on the internal fit out and architectural design, the estimated cost of a premanufactured property starts at approximately £1300/ m2. This price can include all home elements, from floors and surfacing to electrical work, plumbing and heating.

Once the initial contract is signed, and despite fluctuating exchange rates, many suppliers offer a guarantee that a house will be delivered, as promised, on budget.

Above: Pre-manufactured homes come in all shapes and sizes Opposite: They can also be built to any aesthetic requirement Below: This passive house design was built in Somerset

headquarters in Germany manufactured 480 homes in 2014 – a highly efficient operation.

Although timings differ between companies, a typical pre-manufactured home-build project's timeframe usually follows the below structure: When manufacturing begins, all components – such as the windows, doors, window sills and shutters – are assembled in the factory. All final measurements are then in-putted to enable precision-engineered machines to automatically build the walls. As soon as the walls are on the assembly line, all other products are added step-by-

Reduced build times The cost and time frame of a conventional build often escalate. The scale and efficiency of engineering a house in a factory setting eliminates wasted time, as well as many of the headaches that are commonly associated with building on site. For example, the Hanse Haus

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Eyebrow i-build Sub-brow

can leak out through joints or gaps. This means that premanufactured homes often achieve outstanding thermal insulation and low space heating requirements. A standard brick built UK property presently consumes around 240 kW/m2, whereas a pre-manufactured home ranges from 60 kW/m2 to just 15 kW/m2 for passive house standard.

Energy efficient solution

step. This takes, on average, just two days. The house is then delivered to site in the UK within just one week.

Once on site, it is possible – depending on the fit out – for a 200m2 pre-manufactured property to be erected in just 10 weeks. The ceiling and roof elements are built with the outside membrane already installed, which ensures the roof is waterproof within a couple of days.

Above: This kind of state-ofthe-art technology deserves an on-trend and modern kitchen Below: Matt and Jo Warnes' pre-manufactured house fits neatly into its end of terrace plot

Bespoke elements A pre-manufactured house provides the opportunity to create a bespoke property, allowing self-builders to easily create their ultimate dream home. The combination of versatile architects and state-of-the-art manufacturing technology means that pre-manufactured housing experts can offer flexible systems.

High levels of energy efficiency are a particular concern for many pre-manufactured homes. Unlike traditional builds, particular attention is paid to the building envelope – the shell – to make sure it’s airtight, ensuring that no heat

: Secreted e d a r T tur anufac

m on A pre- be erected n a c s a home as little site in ks. e e w 10

Matt and Jo Warnes, along with their six-year-old daughter Lauren, now have a three-storey premanufactured home of their own in Putney, London. Premanufactured at the Hanse Haus factory in Germany and built onsite in January 2013, the house blends seamlessly with the neighbouring end of terrace property.

Matt explains: “Due to the limited plot of land on a London street and to the mainline railway right next to it, the planning and logistics of this project required a careful and thoughtful approach as well as a creative and skilled architect. Hanse Haus married the aesthetics we were after with great functionality. They also offered a quick build time on a very difficult site.

“Unlike many new builds, we don’t have a long list of renewable hardware – no solar panels, heat recovery or rainwater harvesting – but the airtight building envelope along with the insulation and triple-glazed windows has proved incredibly effective, meaning we really don’t need them. Bearing in mind we get our fair share of cold, wet and windy weather and that we’re right next to a busy railway line, the house feels consistently warm, without the need for much heating through the winter months. In fact, our total energy bill for the first year was £850 and to offer some comparison, my mum's traditionally built house right next door, which is marginally bigger in size, is costing a hefty £4000 a year to run. She has already asked if we want to swap homes!”

Sustainable ambitions Hanse Haus built its first UK passive house in Somerset last year. Stephen Huber from the Scottish Passive House Centre, points out: “The super-insulated shell and windows, together with a highly efficient ‘Paul’ mechanical ventilation heat recovery system, take the annual heating consumption of this kind of passive design down to 13kWh/m2.

“By using a modern heat pump and a solar thermal system, the primary energy demand for domestic hot water, heating and auxiliary electricity is cut down to 30kWh. This ensures very low running costs and the highest level of emission savings.”

Hanse Haus says that its passive houses only need heating on a few very cold days of the year, and this is provided by a micro heat pump, while solar collectors heat domestic water. The company’s Technical Director, Bruno Kleinheinz, comments: “For a 1800ft2 passive house, the consumption cost for heating and hot water would be just £32 per month, on average.”

www.hanse-haus.co.uk

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LEVATO MONO porcelain paver system The Levato Mono porcelain paver system is the pinnacle of external raised flooring technology; enabling the specification of lightweight, slip resistant and attractive raised flooring solutions, combining incredible technical properties with uncompromising aesthetics; making them the ideal choice for commercial and domestic use alike.

• 20mm porcelain pavers 40x80 45x90 60x60 75x75 30x120 40x120 60x120 • ‘Floating floor’ – installation over single ply membranes • Eternal product - zero maintenance required – offering massive over-life savings • Highly abrasion and stain resistant • Highly slip resistant ; R11 and achieved up to +65 wet in the BS pendulum test • Lightweight – 45kgs per m2 • High load bearing and impact resistance • Timber & stone effects ; 40+ finishes available • Ideal for balconies, roof terraces and piazzas, for both commercial & residential use • Completely non porous • Fire & frost proof

t: 0845 2700 696

e: info@thedecktileco.co.uk

• Height-adjustable support from 9mm up to 550mm

www.thedecktileco.co.uk

45

i-nterior i-build

Total control A stunning new home in Derby benefits from the latest in home control and automation technology.

T

he owner of this family home is himself a tech specialist and runs a number of technology companies. Therefore, when undertaking the building of his beautiful home in Derby, there were two crucial elements on his wish-list. Firstly, a complete, end-to-end, room-to-room control system that would allow everything from channel-surfing to central-heating to be operated at the touch of a button, and secondly, he would personally test all equipment to ensure the best energy-saving components were used throughout.

A Crestron solution takes care of the first element and integrators from home automation expert Custom Controls have incorporated the home’s audio, video, heating and lighting into a single, easy to use system that is accessible by the entire family. In fact, the owner’s desire for a whole-home control system exceeds his brief and takes the tech outside, even being able to control

46

the heated driveway and security system.

“This is the fullest integration possible,” says Custom Control’s Dave Chester. “We had the luxury of being involved with this project from very early on and that is enormously beneficial when owners are looking at sourcing cutting-edge home technology. Working with the architect allows us, as the technology integrator, to keep all the wiring cleverly hidden behind walls and we can incorporate access points and switches for lighting and touch screens into the design of the home. This is all really beneficial in terms of the finished aesthetic and interior design, it means homeowners can have the best technology without disturbing the look of the property.”

Keeping technology accessible is key to the success of this home, as through a combination of touch screens and mobile apps, all of the home’s technology can be controlled. It’s not one controller for lights, one for heating, one for film and one for music. It’s one controller for everything.

Above: The grand new home is in Derby Below: A control App allows the homeowners to control everything from heating to lighting

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i-nterior Above: This self-build boasts the latest in control and automation technology Right: The home benefits from over 400 lamps Below right: 11 touch panels have been installed in the property

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The owner’s second point on his shopping list – testing equipment to ensure suitable energy-saving credentials – was most evident when deciding on his light fittings.

Not content with following his architect’s preferred supplier, the owner decided to source and test a number of light fittings before deciding on which brands were to be used. The test procedure included a detailed analysis of consumption and performance, including energy used, colour and dimming capabilities.

LED was the only choice for a property with this type of green-conscience and the winner of the lamp-off was the CLED range from Crestron.

Dave explains: “During the early stages of the build, the home was running on generator power while we waited for a mains hook up. It was calculated that the generator would need refilling every two days, based on using the lights that were originally suggested. With all the newly sourced lamps on – over 400 in total – our generator ran for 12 straight days.”

Further to the energy efficiency of the light fittings, the scene setting process is also incredibly efficient. Each touch screen in the home, and the connected iPads via the control app, can select a number of preset light scenes. The touch screens all feature the plan of the room overlaid with the lighting plan so setting scenes is intuitive and easy for the entire family. Furthermore, if an existing scene requires tweaking then any of the family members can dim or brighten the lights and then save the new scene for future use.

Energy saving across the home and outside areas is optimised through a network of sensors that detect movement. This allows lights to switch themselves off when there is nobody in that room. After all, even the most efficient lights are greener when switched off.

Earlier this year the house received a large security update. The owner had added new security features that needed to be added to the system, including gate interface changes and creating a security specific control panel for the security office.

As the family explains: “The home was a large selfbuild, so as family have settled in, over the last year or so, they have asked for further customisation of the system – the reason we design and install Crestron is the flexibility – anything is possible.

“A good example is the gate interface – as a default every touch panel in the home has access to the intercom system – someone arrives at the gate and every panel rings and allows two way communication, with gate release if required. Despite a total of 11 touch panels being installed in the property, the homeowners found they were missing visitors whilst they were out on the estate – walking the dogs for example. The new system therefore texts them when the gate intercom is pressed, allowing them to visit their closest panel or go on the app on the mobile to open.”

The second update was to create a security specific control panel for the security office – IP cameras are

i-nterior embedded on to a map of the property allowing complete PTZ control in addition to full control of outside lighting. Custom Control have even utilised the speakers in the garden to allow local security and a remote monitoring station to talk to anyone in the garden. The outside space is also programmed as an intercom zone, so in addition to being able to page between rooms inside the home, the homeowners can page outside – great if a visitor calls when they are relaxing by the pool.

Even with the most exclusive AV equipment, automated heating and security, it is the lighting in this home that showcases its architecture and beautiful interior design. The partnership between the architect and Custom Controls has resulted in the perfect integration between technology and design and this is achieved by incorporating a strong, eco-friendly conscience. It’s a great example of how technology in new-builds is about investing in the environment, as well as enjoyment of the space for years to come.

www.customcontrols.co.uk www.crestron.eu

49

i-scape

12 ways to bring the indoors out This year’s al fresco finds bring the best of the indoors outside, for a space that’s blooming with comfort and style all year round. Here, Joss & Main’s resident interiors expert Nadia McCowan Hill shares her top tips for transforming even the most humble green patch into a glorious extension of your home.

1

Go with the flow

Create a sense of flow from inside to out by choosing furniture and decor for your exterior that complements your interior. Echoing elements from inside the home will bring cohesiveness to your space, making your garden feel like another room.

2

Light up your life

Approach outdoor illumination in the same way that you would interior lighting. Just as table lamps bring ambience to a living room, lanterns and garden fairy lights will create instant atmosphere after dusk. Try stringing fairy lights along fencing to create a pretty perimeter or position lanterns along steps or in the branches of trees to add a magical glimmer.

50

3

Inside out

Look out for touches that you would ordinarily expect to see inside the home to take your garden or patio from blah to brilliant. All-weather garden rugs now come in an array of styles, from bold geometric prints to stylish chevrons. Perfect for bringing a pop of pattern to an outdoor space, they will also anchor the setting making it feel much more like another room.

4

Hot hues

Bring a little zing to your garden by adding a few high voltage hues. Saying goodbye to that all-weather rattan sofa set in muted beige and hello to a splash of neon wicker in hot pink, electric blue or zesty orange will bring instant interest to your exterior, making it feel like much more of a feature space.

i-scape Far left: Make your garden an extension of your interior Left: Use bright and warm vibrant hues to liven up a space Below: Introduce homely elements to create a sophisticated look Below center: Don't let the weather get in the way of your garden enjoyment

5

In the detail

Finishing touches bring character and polish to any setting and this rule applies as much in the garden as it does inside the house. A selection of oversized candlesticks on your outdoor dining table or some hand-blown glass vases filled with freshly cut blooms will make your space feel groomed and grown-up. Ceramic garden stools are another touch that bring a sense of grandeur to an outdoor space. Choose metallic designs for a touch of glitz or a bold bright hue for a pop of colour.

6

Shelter chic

British weather is notoriously temperamental, so don’t fall foul of the inevitably inclement downpours. Install an awning or parasol where you are planning to dine to ensure that you can enjoy the great outdoors come rain or shine.

7

Blanket coverage

Always have a box of blankets to hand, which you and your garden guests can dip into once the sun has set to keep cold shoulders warm.

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i-scape

Right: Outdoor lighting will create an instant impact when the sun goes down Below right: Make the most of this hot weather and create a space to dine al fresco

8

The perfect setting

If you’re entertaining outside, set your table with the same level of finesse that you’d use when hosting a formal dining room dinner party. A plush tablecloth, your best silverware and elegant stemmed glasses will add instant sophistication to a garden soiree, so don’t scrimp just because your bash is taking place al fresco.

9

Dolly trolley

When entertaining outside, consider wheeling your bar cart outside. Beautifully styled with colourful glassware, ice and plenty of refreshments, a trolley will act as a stylish serving station, creating a focal feature within your outdoor space while freeing you up from trips back into the house.

10

Comfort is king

Make sure that your garden is built for comfort as well as style. Pile on all-weather garden cushions, throws and pouffes aplenty, to create a setting where you and your guests will truly want to lounge. If your garden is big enough, create a chill out zone – a clearly defined space where family and friends can kick-back in style.

11

Mirror, mirror

If your garden is on the pokey side, create the impression of extra space by investing in a garden mirror. Ideal for adding the illusion of depth, they also create a real sense of bringing the indoors outside. Position your mirror so that it reflects the most aesthetically pleasing aspect of your garden to really add to the al fresco ambience.

12

Garden getaway

If you’ve got the space, consider installing a shed or summer house in your garden, which you can use to stow all your indoor-outdoorwear. Having everything readily to hand will make you far more inclined to make use of your ‘extra room’ and you can even style the space as your own al fresco retreat.

www.jossandmain.co.uk

52

Duravit’s new L-Cube furniture collection combines perfectly with the ceramics of ME by Starck. Designed

by Christian Werner, L-Cube is defined by geometric lines with rectangular and square furniture fronts. A key characteristic of the range is a shadow gap that surrounds the fronts and sides of the furniture.

With over 30 different surfaces – from high gloss finishes such as Jade or Apricot Pearl, as well as real wood fronts such as brushed dark oak – L-Cube offers a vast number of different design combinations, allowing you to choose the style, size, function and colour to suit you.

Product Guide

Creating individual style in the bathroom

www.duravit.co.uk 0845 500 7787 info@uk.duravit.com

Classic meets contemporary Three new luxury homes in Berkshire have been fitted with state-of-the-art kitchens.

The beautiful five-bedroom homes are finished to an exceptional standard, using the finest materials, and feature stunning Stoneham kitchens inspired by the company’s latest designs. Stoneham’s expertise and experience made them a natural choice for the developers, guaranteeing the quality finish necessary for such a luxury build.

“In terms of style, the Stoneham aesthetic was a perfect fit, offering the combination of contemporary and classic design required for the developments,” comments Sales Director, Howard Stoneham.

Stoneham installed bespoke kitchens from its Mode and Tate Anthracite range to create kitchens that combine interesting materials with innovative design. The Anthracite Oak cabinetry adds drama to the design and is off-set by white, streamlined worktops and dove grey wall cabinets with fully integrated appliances. This scheme is carried through to the central island, which features a breakfast bar ideal for entertaining.

A great deal of attention was given to the lighting, which is integral to the overall concept: glass and worktop lighting complement feature lighting in the bulkhead and the perimeter of the tall units, all working to give the kitchen a light and spacious feel.

Miele appliances were specified to achieve a gourmet kitchen befitting these remarkable homes, and with the added bonus of membership of Miele’s Connoisseur Club, the new owners will have access to in-home demonstrations from the manufacturer’s amazing team of home economists.

www.stoneham-kitchens.co.uk 020 8300 8181 kitchens@stoneham.plc.uk

ShowerSelect thermostats now feature a glass surface White glass and gleaming metal emphasise the clear design language of the latest ‘Select’ shower products from Hansgrohe. A high-quality glass surface, elegant design and intuitive operation make Hansgrohe’s new concealed ShowerSelect thermostats an attractive addition to any bathroom. The working parts of the thermostats are built into the wall, creating space for greater freedom of movement in the shower area.

Its timeless and clear design blends well with modern architectural trends.

The thermostats can be combined with Hansgrohe’s existing product portfolio and the new Rainmaker Select showerheads. Hansgrohe developed the controls with its longstanding design partner Phoenix Design.

www.hansgrohe.co.uk 01372 465655 enquiries@hansgrohe.co.uk

Reliable waterproofing Effective waterproofing is a vital component of construction and fundamental to the building’s structural integrity.

A deck waterproofing system combines two types of product: the waterproofing membrane and the seals used to protect any expansion joints in the deck. When a combined system fails, it is not always easy to determine which of the two products is at fault and confusion arises over which of the two warranties to claim against. This situation cannot arise when the system is supplied by a single source. When two key components are single-sourced like this, with a comprehensive back-to-back warranty rather than two independent warranties, there is no risk of customers finding themselves unable to claim against either of the two warranties.

www.tremco-illbruck.co.uk 01942 251400 info.uk@tremco-illbruck.com

53

Product Guide

Lumi has landed Lumi – the groundbreaking new, structurally bonded window and door glazing system from Apeer – is set to take the market by storm. A first in its field, the new Lumi collection is set to bring the seamless sophistication of iconic glass structure to the residential housing market.

Offering a frame-free, ‘wall of light profile’ the triple glazed system is distinguished by its fused ceramic colour border. This is available in eight different exterior colours and eight further interior finishes. As well as being available in a full suite of matching designs, Lumi has a host of construction and performance benefits and comes with a 10 year guarantee.

www.apeer.co.uk

0845 672 9333

sales@apeer.co.uk

Maintenance free rainwater systems Yeoman Rainguard’s XL Aluminium rainwater systems have been chosen for Bridge House, a stunning new build property in Norfolk. The owners of the home, David Dunnett and Geoff Wainwright, originally saw Yeoman Rainguard rainwater systems at a London building exhibition. XL Aluminium 75mm diameter downpipes along with 125 x 100mm MOG gutters, finished in a Black textured polyester powder coating, have been installed on the property. The powder coating finish ensures that the pipes and guttering will offer years of maintenance-free service and will not be susceptible to colour bleaching. The XL Aluminium range is an ecologically sound choice for any building scheme, as 95% of the materials used to manufacture the gutters and downpipes are recyclable.

www.rainguard.co.uk 0113 279 5854 sallyann@rainguard.co.uk

Hand-crafted timber doors KAT now offer handmade solid timber doors manufactured from Accoya or Engineered Hardwood. The primary KAT offering is four styles of door which probably account for 80% of residential doors sold.

These doors are available in any height and width; the customer chooses size, colour, glass design and hardware. KAT also offers its Design Partners a totally bespoke service where clients are free to create virtually any timber door style by copying a traditional door, a contemporary door or design something completely unique. With a 50 year guarantee on Accoya against warping shrinking and cracking, it’s easy to see why KAT customers are switching on to real timber.

www.katuk.co.uk 01625 439666 enquiries@katuk.co.uk

54

New pod system offers simplified intelligence Creating flexible meeting and working spaces is now simple thanks to the new Qube freestanding pod system from Unifi, part of the Boss Design Group. Providing specifiers with endless scope for design, the introduction of Qube follows the phenomenal success of the brand’s earlier acoustic pod system, Vista. Presenting a contemporary and flexible alternative to fixed partitioning, Qube offers a simplified range of options to enable specifiers to easily design and control office space to suit corporate working patterns and enhance wellbeing. Bespoke options with unlimited design, size and branding possibilities are also available.

www.boss-design.com 01242 584897 sales@boss-design.co.uk

Bigger is not always better Compact spaces do not mean you have to compromise on quality or design especially when it comes to choosing a staircase, which is something Gary and Joanne Moore discovered when they installed their very own bespoke staircase designed and produced by British Spirals & Castings. The Moore's were undertaking a conversion at their home and were looking for a staircase that was not only practical and complied with building regulations, but wanted something modern with a quirky twist that wouldn’t be too invasive. They chose a sleek Scandinavian staircase by British Spirals & Castings because the designs are exceptionally versatile and provide many options for expressing individuality.

www.britishsc.co.uk 01663 750716 sales@britishsc.co.uk

KBB raises Pisa’s game with complementary colours KBB – a specialist in replacement doors for kitchen, bedroom and bathroom cabinetry – has added three critical finishes to its Bellissimo Pisa range to provide the perfect complement to the five woodgrains already offered. White, Cashmere and Cream are the new on-trend solid colours for Pisa’s slab door format. Pisa is made in the innovative new PVC-edged MFC with almost invisible laser edging. There is a developing preference for woodgrains combined with solid colours which tone with them rather than contrast strongly. The new solid colours in Bellissimo’s Pisa range allow homeowners to achieve this contemporary two-tone look in an affordable and timely fashion.

www.kitchenbedroomdoors.com 0800 112 4973 info@kitchenbedroomdoors.com

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