Home Design & Build in Norfolk 2022

ISSN 2044–7965

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IN NORFOLK

A SHOWCASE OF NORFOLK’S MOST TALENTED ARCHITECTS, DEVELOPERS & DESIGNERS

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IN NORFOLK

Welcome

O

ur annual Home Design and Build special edition magazine celebrates the innovative and talented local architects, developers, and specialist trades who’ve helped shape and enhance our county’s built environment.

The unprecedented events of the last few years have posed many industry challenges, so there’s never been a more important time to recognise their extraordinary efforts.

Emerging from the restrictions of Covid-19, the local property market has experienced a great deal of change. With the pandemic encouraging buyers to flock to the countryside, Norfolk saw an increase in house sales last year of more than 20%.

The stunning North Norfolk coast has served as a lifeline for holidaymakers over the past year, with the growing popularity

of staycations driving an ever-increasing demand for second homes and holiday lets. Many visitors have also fallen in love with our captivating county, choosing to move here on a permanent basis.

This soaring demand for new homes has done wonders for our local economy and helped enrich our county’s thriving culture, though it’s also put a significant amount of pressure on our local architects, developers, and specialist trades in already taxing times.

With rapidly rising prices and difficulties sourcing materials, the building industry has been faced with challenge after challenge – though our remarkable and inspiring professionals have continued to enhance our lives with incredible designs and astounding creations.

The following pages showcase everything from award-winning new builds and transformational extensions to sensitive restorations of listed buildings,

and our trusted experts walk you through the finest developments in the county from concept to completion.

You’ll learn how to obtain planning permission against all odds, revive listed buildings in conservation areas whilst preserving their beauty and character, and discover ways to future proof our built environment with the latest sustainable solutions.

For now, we’ll finish by thanking the wealth of skilled specialists who’ve helped fill this special edition with exceptional designs our community can be proud of - and by inviting you to open the door on a treasure trove of building excellence by simply turning the page...

KL magazine team

COVER IMAGE The Ballroom in Blakeney by Chris Taylor | christaylorphoto.co.uk

Meet the team 4

OWNER/FOUNDER Laura Dunn

WRITERS

Katie Lilley-Harris Ellie Senior

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Amy Phillips Lisa Barrett

PHOTOGRAPHER Ian Ward

Contact

2 Thoresby College, Queen Street, King’s Lynn PE30 1HX Tel: 01553 601201 Email: info@klmagazine.co.uk Web: klmagazine.co.uk

KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

Contents 6 12 18 22 26 32 38 42 46 50 54 60 64 70

EASTERLY LODGE Vertex Architecture

AN AWARD-WINNING DESIGN Grocott & Murfit

A PROJECT PORTFOLIO Ian H Bix Associates

HEACHAM LODGE Ayling Construction

CARING FOR A HERITAGE PROPERTY Borough Council of King’s Lynn & West Norfolk

STUNNING BARN CONVERSIONS McNamara

FOUR MILES DEVELOPMENT

74 78 84 88 92 98

THE BALLROOM Kestrel Kitchens and Norfolk Upholstery

HOME FURNISHINGS Aldiss

FABULOUS FLOORS Foras

SEA DRIFT Smith & Williamson Developments and Strata Architects

GORGEOUS GARDENS Dean Price Horticulture

THE BOTHY PiP Architecture

102 106 110 114 120 124 128

MAYFLOWER Harvey Minns Associates and Kestrel Kitchens

GARDEN ROOMS Eastern Frames

ILEX COTTAGE ACS Architectural

OUTDOOR LUXURY Norfolk Leisure

HOLIDAY LETTING Norfolk Hideaways

INDIGO BARN Norfolk Hideaways

DIRECTORY Your local experts

Avada Homes

BUILDING THE FUTURE OF NORTH NORFOLK Holkham Estate

FROM CONCEPT TO COMPLETION Charterhouse Property Solutions

THE OLD GARDEN Atelier Associates

INTERIOR DESIGN Sophie & Boo

CREATING YOUR NEW ROOM Newrooms

THE PAVILION Strata Architects and RobSon Construction

MEDIA WALLS Core Technology Projects

KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

5

Why a second look may always be your first choice With two new offices and a portfolio of projects that extends far beyond Norfolk, Vertex Architecture is continuing to design award-winning homes that push the boundaries

I

t’s something of a trite saying, but sometimes it really does pay to get a second opinion. And that’s certainly the case when it comes to the stunning two-storey Easterly Lodge in Ringstead, which sits around three miles from the award-winning and nationally-famous beaches of Hunstanton.

When Vertex Architecture were contacted by the owners of Easterly Lodge in early 2019 to take a look at replacing the property’s adjoining coach house, the client already had a proposal for remodelling the main house.

But somehow the design didn’t seem quite right.

It didn’t take

long for Director, Jordan Cribb to see the problem. The orientation and focus of the proposal didn’t maximise the site’s location and its surroundings. “It’s called Easterly Lodge for a reason,” he says, “so I suggested making a complete U-turn and extending the property out to face that direction, maximising the impact of the morning light and the amazing views.”

It was an inspired idea that led to Vertex Architecture being appointed to oversee the entire project and maximise the full potential of the plot through the re-design of both the house and coach house.

“We created a design that meant the garden could be accessed from near enough every part of the house,” Jordan explains. “Through thoroughly planning the internal layout of the house, we identified different elements and areas of the garden and how they could integrate with the house, so that there were little pockets of garden that could be used at different times of the day.”

This is particularly evident in the kitchen, where a garden view can be enjoyed from every

window and three bi-fold doors open-up to the outside. “We have placed openings in many different suitable places,” says Jordan, “so that the garden can always be accessed from every side without the need to walk through or around the various extensions.”

“Easterly Lodge sits within the Ringstead Conservation area and it’s quite prominent, so that presented us with a few challenges,” Jordan continues.

“We have a good relationship with the conservation team in West Norfolk so we worked with them on detailing what would be sympathetic to the property’s surroundings and not overbearing.”

“The views as you approach Ringstead are very important. We had to find a balance that met the brief of the client and gave an attractive design but also didn’t cause any harm to the conservation area.” Vertex Architecture achieved this through the way materials were applied and positioned, the scale and form of the additions, and some of the design details including insetting the glazing back into the two-storey extension to reduce the glare that might be caused by the glass as you approach Ringstead.

PICTURES: Natural circulation is a core principle of the design for Easterly Lodge (above). Wide openings on many aspects allow broad views and easy access to outside (left). Vertex Architecture were involved in spatial planning of the distinct garden areas (below).

Internally, pretty much every room of Easterly Lodge has been overhauled and modernised from top to bottom.

The grand master bedroom now has an east-facing inset balcony from which the owners can enjoy the views across rolling fields. The internal layout has been remodelled to improve the circulation throughout and around the house.

“An important element of design for us is circulation and making it easy for people to move around the space and property,” Jordan describes. “For example, you might traditionally expect the staircase to face the front door, but we know that people typically enter a house, then spend a few minutes in the kitchen or boot room before eventually moving upstairs, so the base of the stairs in Easterly Lodge faces the kitchen from which the utility and boot room is accessed instead.”

“Effectively we redesigned the whole house, pulling the various extensions and areas of house together,” Jordan continues, “so that everywhere you turn feels natural and gives you a different view or aspect to enjoy.” Internal glass doors certainly allow fantastic views out into the surrounding garden from every 8

position in the house. This also included adding some elements that the Vertex Architecture team felt were missing. “The house lacked a true entrance, so we created a modern porch design that sits in the corner of the principal elevation and catches your eye as you come down the driveway.”

It’s an approach that has seen Vertex Architecture grow from strength to

KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

“Easterly Lodge looks brand new, but we’ve saved the client a significant figure by working with what was already there...” strength over the last few years. The growing team of technicians, designers and support staff led to the company moving offices in Hunstanton and recently opening a sister office in the centre of Norwich. Jordan and his team work on hundreds of projects every year across the country; an extraordinary

tribute to their architectural and design skills.

“We love working with existing structures,” Jordan says. “Where other designers tend to typically knock things down and build new because it’s easier, we like to work with an existing house and make it better, saving the client money.” Vertex Architecture are skilled in working with constraints such as materials and structure. “As you see here,” Jordan points out, “Easterly Lodge looks brand new, but we’ve saved the client a significant figure by working with what was already there, enhancing the existing structures and site.”

“I don’t think there is anyone out there who can remodel a house like we can,” Jordan adds. “We work hard to design something that not only looks good in this magazine, but that is also cost effective and ticks all of our client’s property needs for the long-term.”

Vertex Architecture Hunstanton: 2-3 Northgate Precinct, Hunstanton PE36 6EA | 01485 532286 Norwich: St. George’s Works, 51 Colegate, Norwich NR3 1DD 01603 576466 Web: vertexarchitecture.co.uk Email: info@vertexarchitecture.co.uk

PICTURES: The spacious master bedroom suite enjoys countryside views (top left and right). The cart shed has a traditional form realised in modern materials (above). Vertex Architecture have transformed the original property of Easterly Lodge (below).

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10

KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

How to

Arrange a self-build mortgage with Allen Tomas & Co

A

t Allen Tomas & Co we specialise in all areas of mortgages, and that includes self-build plans and development finance. We’re often asked by clients to explain the process of buying land and building a house, and they usually have the same questions: What do I need to consider before applying for a self-build mortgage?

There are three key areas that need to be considered when financing and building your own home: Build costs – it’s essential to understand how much the build is likely to cost and to know that every detail of the building plans has been quoted for.

Underestimating the build costs can cause serious problems further down the line - in fact, lenders might not release the funds required to complete the build.

Cashflow - having the money at the right time will prevent the wheels falling off your project and the project grinding to a halt. It’s essential you understand the different aspects of your build, the cashflow requirements and where those pressure points will be.

Construction type - the type of property you’re building is something to consider.

Is it a brick and block construction or a timber-framed property? It matters because lenders will take that into account before making a decision, so it is imperative we know this from the beginning so we are better placed to source the most appropriate mortgage for you.

Do I need to own the land before applying for a self-build mortgage?

In a word, no. You don’t need to own the land because we can source lenders

Allen Tomas & Co Financial Management KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

“It’s vital to understand the costs of your project” to fund both the land purchase and the build. If you’re looking to purchase the land with a self-build mortgage you’ll need to ensure the land has Outline Planning Permission (OPP) and may have to provide the lender with architectural drawings and specifications, approval from Building Regulations, and proof of site insurance and any applicable structural warranties.

How much of my overall costs can I borrow?

Where the mortgage is required to buy land and fund the build you should expect up to 85% of the land price (or value) and up to 85% of the build costs. If you already own the land you can release funds from the value of the land - and you may even be able to borrow 100% of the total build costs. As a general rule, lenders will ask you to put down a

deposit of at least 25% of the total project value, although this can be more.

When will I get the money?

If you’re building an entirely new home, funds will be released in up to six stages - which are generally the purchase of the land, the laying of the foundations, the erection of the wall plate/frame, weatherproofing, the first fix of electrics and plumbing, and finally on completion.

Obviously not all projects fit this pattern, so we’ll always tailor the releases to your specific needs and the demands of your development.

Rachael Smith

SENIOR MORTGAGE & PROTECTION ADVISER

6 St Nicholas Court, Church Lane, Dersingham PE31 6GZ Tel: 01485 541998 / 07957 357212 Web: allentomasfinancial.co.uk Email: mortgages@allentomasfinancial.co.uk

11

Award-winning work voted best in Norfolk Exceptional projects deserve exceptional builders, and having recently picked up a major national award, Grocott & Murfit are continuing to raise the bar for distinctive and unique properties

properties along the north Norfolk coast characterised by beautiful flint cottages, pitched pantile roofs, red brick barns and gabled warehouses, the result is a simply stunning home. It blends in with the local architecture and local landscape so successfully it manages to make a bold statement while remaining unobtrusive.

The build combines traditional materials such as flint with more contemporary and robust materials such as Corten steel which continues into the interior - the choice of materials helping construct a highly-insulated external skin for the building.

Although the property isn’t Passivhaus certified, the design, construction and materials certainly aspire to those standards, with superior levels of airtightness and a high-performing and highly insulated external envelope. It also

utilises MVHR (Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery) to improve the internal environment, harvests solar energy from the PV panels over the bedroom wing, and delivers heating via an air source heat pump - all of which helps drive energy efficiencies and longterm sustainability.

“It was quite a challenging project, but the team loved working on it,” says Daniel Grocott. “With all the different materials it’s almost three independent buildings all joined together - but the result is very cohesive. And now it’s starting to mature it’s looking even better.”

That commitment to high quality and outstanding workmanship played a large part in Grocott & Murfit being appointed to carry out the build - by Norwich based Hudson Architects, who’ve won over 40 awards during the last 30 years for their

IMAGE: JOAKIM BOREN

A

fter a project spanning more than four years, a beautiful contemporary build in Blakeney by Fakenham-based Grocott & Murfit has been voted Best Residential Property: Norfolk and earned 5-star status at the prestigious UK Property Awards - a competition that attracts over 200 nominations and is judged by a panel of 80 industry experts.

“This is completely bespoke, exquisitely detailed and showcases the very highest standards of craftsmanship,” says director Jody Murfit, who project managed the build and founded the company with fellow director Daniel Grocott 14 years ago. “It’s typical of the unique projects we specialise in, and it’s testament to the incredible skills of the team we’ve developed over the years.”

Inspired by the traditional village

groundbreaking designs.

“We were very pleased with our concept, but we’re really impressed with how Grocott & Murfit have brought it to life,” they say. “They understand the latest building technologies such as air source heat pumps and mechanical ventilation heat recovery systems, and their experience with Passivhaus standards means they’ve been able to dramatically reduce in-use energy. It’s an amazing project and it’s a fantastic home.’’

The property makes the most of its south-facing aspect. The bedrooms are located in the east wing to take advantage of the morning sun. All the main living spaces and bedrooms have the sun throughout the day, and the study, snug and living space enjoy the setting sun in the evening.

The outside terrace areas have been carefully positioned out of the shade of the site’s many trees, and attention has even been given to the external lighting, keeping light pollution to a minimum considering the property’s location within a conservation area.

“It’s always rewarding to work on a property that has a highly sustainable design and one which helps minimise its environmental impact,” says Daniel Grocott. “It’s something we’re very

14

committed to through our Building Norfolk initiative and our M&E team, who provide the very best energyefficient solutions across the county. I think we’re all proud of the end result.”

This is an extraordinarily talented team, consisting of a construction estimator, two quantity surveyors, three project managers, nine site managers, and over 30 highly-skilled tradesmen and apprentices.

“It’s very important for us to keep everything in-house because we’ve found that’s the best way to maintain quality and ensure everything meets our high standards,” says Jody. “For us it’s not all about bricks and mortar and glass.

Every project we work on enhances the local area, and we’re committed to supporting local communities.”

Grocott and Murfit are looking to take this inspiring approach into the future, once again collaborating with Hudson Architects (as both the client and contractor) on the UK’s first domestic CobBauge building in Fakenham, Norfolk.

Hudson Architects are key

UK partners in the CobBauge project funded by the EU, which focuses on bringing traditional cob into the 21st century. This involves keeping the positive qualities of cob while simultaneously allowing earth construction to meet modern building regulations.

Together, they are building a highly sustainable, 3 double-bedroom bungalow. Achieving low levels of embodied carbon is a focal point of IMAGE: JOAKIM BOREN

PICTURES: After a project spanning four years, several design variations and a prestigious award win, Grocott and Murfit have completed this spacious and sustainable build in North Norfolk.

A stunning family home, it perfectly combines traditional materials with the latest sustainable technologies.

KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

IMAGE: JOAKIM BOREN

“With all the different materials it’s almost three independent buildings all joined together - but the result is very cohesive” the project, meaning it notably involves looking for ways to avoid concrete. The CobBauge walls will be constructed from three simple ingredients – hemp, earth, and water, and the house will be heated by an Air Source Heat Pump in order to minimise the operational carbon associated with maintaining a comfortable living temperature.

Additionally, an outside green roof will support biodiversity and compensate for the loss of green space on the site. The project has started on site and is planned to be completed in Spring 2023.

Grocott and Murfit are certainly playing a key role in changing the face of Norfolk, and it’s great to see them changing it for the better. For more outstanding examples of the company’s work or for an initial consultation about your next project, please visit the website or contact them using the details below.

PICTURES: Daniel Grocott and Jody Murfit (left) are continuing to set new standards of building. Blending modern technology with Norfolk tradition, this award-winning property (above) maximises energy efficiency and provides occupants with a sense of nature and wellbeing.

Daniel & Jody KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

Hudson Architects

Grocott & Murfit

37 St Andrews Street, Norwich NR2 4TP Tel: 01603 766220 Web: hudsonarchitects.co.uk Email: info@hudsonarchitects.co.uk

Heath Barn, Norwich Road, Fakenham NR21 8LZ Tel: 01328 851420 Web: grocottandmurfit.co.uk Email: info@grocottandmurfit.co.uk 15

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How to

Get it right from the start with Fraser Dawbarns

T

he key with any self-build development is organisation, and this should start with the conveyancing process and run right through the build. Often an owner is so pre-occupied with the plot purchase they don’t evaluate what additional information might be needed moving forward. It’s important to look beyond the conveyancing itself and ask for an enhanced service from your solicitor, which should include a utilities review and a deep dive into planning.

A utilities search is prepared by the solicitor’s search provider. It reveals all existing utilities within the vicinity of the property. Typically, a solicitor will undertake this to ensure there are no utilities running through the proposed site. For the plot owner, the utilities search contains essential information to ascertain the points at which your property will connect to the mains services.

All properties need access to electricity and water, the position of those services have potential cost and time implications.

For example, if electricity and water are located at the property frontage, then it should be a relatively inexpensive job to be connected. However, if the mains water and electricity are located on the opposite side of the highway, then a road closure order would be needed prior to making the connection and cause a delay. The utilities search also reveals those services which are not available, for example foul water drainage. In this case, the plot owner should consider a private sewage system, and this should be included in the plans for the proposed development. This may also require further tests to be undertaken.

You should also ask your solicitor to undertake a deep dive into the planning permission. The property may have the benefit of planning permission and to procure this some surveys may have been

Fraser Dawbarns

“Looking beyond the conveyancing is crucial...” undertaken. The plot owner will want to rely on those survey results; therefore, it is necessary for the solicitor to obtain letters of reliance from the survey providers. In addition, further surveys may be required (e.g., contamination, bat surveys) before work can commence on the development. These conditions can be categorised into pre-commencement conditions and pre-occupation conditions. It is essential you know what the pre-commencement conditions are and what works need to be undertaken to satisfy those conditions.

There is nothing more disappointing for the plot owner to commence work on site, only to have the planning enforcement officer arrive and place a stop notice on the development.

Whilst the plot purchase is

typically seen as only a conveyancing process, it’s a missed opportunity for most plot owners to gather essential information about their project.

Connection fees and additional surveys that need to be undertaken all come at a cost and are a fact-finding mission. Our team have a wealth of experience in selfbuild developments and can assist you with budgeting by identifying those costs which are yet to be incurred.

Jenny Rushmer PARTNER, HEAD OF COMMERCIAL

King’s Lynn | Downham Market | Wisbech | March | Ely Tel: 01553 666600 Web: fraserdawbarns.com Email: info@fraserdawbarns.com

KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

17

LEFT: Contemporary materials make this private home on Avon Road something special.

RIGHT: The design of Hunstanton Pier mimics the setting sun.

BELOW: Smugglers Close in Old Hunstanton is unrecognisable as the 1970s bungalow it once was (left).

Previously derelict, the refurbishment of The Wenns has seen it become award winning (right).

A project portfolio that says it all Hunstanton Pier, Smugglers Close, The Wenns, Pierpoint House… if you know Norfolk well you may be wondering what each of these contrasting buildings could possibly have in common.

The answer; Ian H Bix Associates

A

Chartered Architectural Technologist with over 45 years designing building projects across Norfolk, Ian Bix is Founder and Director of popular West Norfolk practice Ian H Bix Associates.

This varied showcase of projects demonstrates the diversity that is a strength of Ian Bix and his team. “We have taken on a wide variety of projects, from private extensions and one-off dwellings to large housing estates, commercial projects and public buildings, all with great success,” says Ian. Ian H Bix Associates are particularly known for their conscientious and transparent approach with clients, which attracts this extensive portfolio. “We are KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

always honest and up front with the clients that we work with,” Ian explains.

“Our clients can expect realistic and honest advice with each project, using our knowledge and experience to provide the best outcomes regardless of the brief.”

This reputation for sound advice was much needed when the practice worked on the new Hunstanton Pier. Following a fire at the original pier arcade building, there was local resistance to any new revival. The owners approached Ian H Bix Associates to provide a suitable scheme.

“We prepared several designs and concepts which were discussed at length with the planning department and their consultees,” says Ian. The final chosen design mimicked a setting sun to

celebrate Hunstanton’s fame as the only west-facing beach on the east coast.

“The completed building was agreed to be not only a good replacement facility, but also a unique focal point for the Green,” Ian concludes.

Another Ian H Bix Associates design that draws its design from the locality is Pierpoint House on the banks of the River Nar in King’s Lynn. A new office building was required for the Water Management Alliance. “Considering the site’s prominent location, we decided to provide a building of interest rather than a bland office building that would fade into the background,” says Michael Carman, Senior Architectural Technician.

“The building design and colour scheme provide an interesting contrast to the 19

existing industrial area and also reflect the water element that is dealt with by the WMA.” Listed building, The Wenns, is also located in King’s Lynn on the corner of the Saturday Market Place and High Street. This familiar building had been neglected over a number of years when new owners approached Ian H Bix Associates to design extensions and alterations to restore it to its former glory.

“We discussed the planned works at length with the Historic Buildings Officer to ensure that we provided a scheme sympathetic to the listed building status,” Ian describes. “The works were completed to an exceptionally high standard, fitting for its prominent location within the town.”

Once completed, The Wenns was celebrated for architectural excellence and craftsmanship when it won a Mayor’s Special Award at the Design Award ceremony in 2018.

Also winning awards for Ian H Bix Associates is Smuggler’s Close in Old Hunstanton, which took home Best Refurbishment Scheme in the Mayor’s Awards. This project came to the practice as a tired 1970s bungalow which the client wanted to refresh as well as adding additional accommodation. “We created a crisp, contemporary look for the property,” Michael describes, “using cedar cladding and render to the walls and a striking zinc roof covering.”

A similarly contemporary design, Avon Road was a new build that required

some careful planning negotiation.

“The Planning Officers had concerns over the size of the dwelling compared to the site area,” says Michael, “but by providing calculations that compared areas with a previously approved scheme on the site, we were able to secure the accommodation requirements our client needed.”

The owners of Avon Road also had some ambitious material choices that Ian H Bix Associates was able to successfully install. “We liaised with specialist suppliers to ensure a high-quality finish,” Michael explains.

Ian H Bix Associates also design larger developments. Both Avocet Drive in Snettisham and North Street in Burnham Market have seen multiple dwellings completed to a very high standard, resulting in attractive developments that fit well in the locality.

“At Avocet Drive, consideration had to be given to neighbouring properties to minimise overlooking,” says Ian. “We also took care to

design suitable acoustic treatments to protect future residents from the noise of the A149 which passes by the south-east of the site.”

“In North Street the site sits partially within a conservation area and there are a number of listed buildings within close proximity,” Ian continues. “We considered all these factors when preparing the designs and produced a sensitive scheme that both reflected and complemented the locality.”

This impressive body of work demonstrates the skilled and sensitive approach to design that clients have come to expect from Ian H Bix Associates. “If you are looking for any kind of building work to be carried out,” Ian says, “we will provide you with the honest and impartial advice that leads to a successful project.”

Ian H Bix Associates

Sandpiper House, Leete Way, West Winch, King’s Lynn PE33 0ST Tel: 01553 844077 Email: mail@ianbix.co.uk Web: ianbix.co.uk

TOP: This attractive development in Snettisham has been built to a very high standard.

MIDDLE: Pierpoint House provides an office building with a difference to the Water Management Alliance.

LEFT: Ian H Bix Associates design for Burnham Market sits comfortably within the conservation area it forms a part of.

How to

Project manage your build with RGR Developments

A

professional and organised approach is essential for any construction project, as there’s a great deal to coordinate and consider throughout the whole process.

Recent research has shown that around 69% of building projects exceed their initial budgets and nearly two thirds aren’t delivered on time, the main reason quite often being ineffective planning and execution.

Whatever you’re hoping to achieve, having a skilled project manager is highly beneficial for successful work and can help you stay on track, within budget, and prevent any problems arising. If you’re looking for excellent attention to detail, high quality craftmanship, and an efficient fully managed service, you need look no further than RGR Developments.

“Whether you’re planning to renovate, enhance, or extend your home, we can take the stress and hassle away by organising the entire job from start to finish,” says Director, Ryan Rix. “When embarking on a new project, it’s crucial to remain focussed on your expenses and timeline to achieve your desired outcome. However, many people are unaware of where to source the best value materials or when different trades are needed on site. Poor communication and management can end up costing you a lot more in the long term and, with today’s rising prices, that’s best avoided.”

As trusted and experienced builders, RGR Developments have built strong working relationships with highly skilled tradespeople across the county and know precisely what is achievable within a given budget.

“We can take an idea, have it drawn up, obtain planning permission if required and take it right through to completion,”

RGR Developments

“We understand all the different stages of a project” says Ryan’s fellow Director, Gary New. “We understand all the different stages of a project so know exactly when to get people involved and how much notice to give them. It’s essential to ensure everything’s ready for each trade upon their arrival, as if you end up losing someone to another job you often can’t get them back again.”

Fuelled by a commitment to excellence, Ryan and Gary will go the extra mile to make sure clients are fully satisfied and always strive to deliver an attentive service that’s second to none. They’ll keep you fully updated on progress, conduct regular site visits to ensure everything’s running smoothly, and are only ever a call away if you need any support or advice.

“We pride ourselves on providing a complete price for a finished project,” says Ryan. “Unlike many competitors we

never add hidden extras to our initial quotation so, unless you decide to change something or anything untoward happens, then the price we quote is the price you pay.”

It’s just one of the reasons why RGR Developments has built such a strong reputation for work of an exceptionally high standard – completed efficiently, on time, and on budget. Contact Ryan and Gary today for an initial consultation and a free no-obligation quotation – and discover an inspiring new approach to building that puts you and your home first.

Ryan Rix & Gary New

DIRECTORS

8 Mill Road, Wiggenhall St Mary Magdalen, King’s Lynn PE34 3BZ Tel: 07921 910651 / 07817 941897 Web: rgrdevelopments.co.uk Email: info@rgrdevelopments.co.uk

KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

21

Bringing Heacham Lodge back to life In an extraordinary restoration project, Fakenham-based Ayling Construction has returned the grandeur to a grand 18th century property and given it a spectacular presence for the future...

I

t’s probably just as well that carpenter and joiner Darren Ayling spent several years in the Royal Engineers learning how to solve problems, because the transformation of Heacham Lodge from neglected 18th century property to opulent country house presented his family-run company with a number of unique design challenges.

“This is one of the biggest projects Ayling Construction has worked on to date and it’s also been one of the most rewarding,” says Darren. “We always prefer refurbishments to new builds as modern houses can be relatively

straightforward, and I sometimes find that a little dull. There’s nothing quite like working on a listed building because it tends to surprise you all the time and gives you something new to deal with every day - whether that’s an unusual mortar mix or an oddly-shaped window.”

Originally a grand Georgian country home, Heacham Lodge has been a number of things in its time - from farm-house to guesthouse and to a wartime dormitory for the US Air Force during the 1940s. Owned by Cambridge University for several years, it was bought by a refugee from East Germany in the summer of 1961 who fled the country

just a few days before the Berlin Wall was built.

At one time it was even three homes for three different couples, and despite being Grade II listed in September 1984, it was in need of considerable care and attention when Ayling Construction were asked by the current owner to bring it back to life.

“It was really starting to look its age when we first saw it and it required a lot of work,” says Darren, “but that’s what we enjoy. We’ve developed a reputation for solving tricky construction problems and coming up with effective solutions. That’s the most exciting and rewarding part of

“Just because a house was built 200 years ago doesn’t mean it has to be frozen in time and stay there...”

the job - and that’s what we do best.”

Working from the architect’s drawings and CGI visualisations, Ayling Construction worked within the parameters of listed building consent and local planning guidelines, preserving as much of the building’s original fabric as possible and treating its history with the respect it deserved.

But it wasn’t just the building that presented Darren and his team with a challenge. Starting work in the middle of a global pandemic and liaising with an owner who was based in Dubai for most of the build meant the creation of Heacham Lodge was anything but straightforward.

“Because of its listed status many things had to be approved by the local heritage officer before we could start work,” says Darren. “We’re in a conservation area and this is a listed building, so you can’t simply start cutting into the walls. We had to find clever ways of hiding vents, pipes and boxings - and plotting new routes for them. At times it was really complicated, but I think the results speak for themselves.”

They certainly do.

Heacham Lodge sits in grounds of almost two acres with extensive walled gardens, and offers over 5,200ft2 total accommodation.

The stunning hall is the central focus for three versatile reception rooms, a spacious breakfast room, a magnificent 32ft kitchen and an impressive dining room that’s virtually unrecognisable from the dated and tired space it was before Ayling Construction arrived.

The suitably grand staircase leads to six bedrooms, all of them en-suite. And you know you’ve arrived somewhere

exceptional when the master bedroom’s en suite is larger that most properties’ main bedroom.

It’s an extraordinary achievement by a company that’s a genuine familybased affair. Darren’s wife looks after the administration, his son works alongside him, and he’s joined by two of his cousins. The rest of the building team may not be blood relations, but they’re certainly treated as such.

Despite the marble floors, Ralph Lauren wallpapers and luxurious modern touches, Heacham Lodge retains a sense of its place in time.

The ground floor reception room on the property’s northern side features a

PICTURES: Knocking down three smaller rooms to create a spectacular and spacious kitchen, Ayling Construction and Ayling Heritage have given Heacham Lodge a luxurious new lease for life with innovatively reimagined interiors.

Kitchen before & in progress

Master en suite before distinctive frieze from around 1800 and a late 18th century wooden fireplace - and most of the cornices are at least 200 years old.

“We’ve brought Heacham Lodge into the 21st century but in many ways we’ve returned it to the past,” says Darren. “It’s now back to what it was always intended to be - a grand and hugely impressive family home.”

It’s an approach to building that Ayling Construction is now taking at the Grade II listed Pearce almshouses in East Bilney, between Fakenham and Dereham in the heart of mid-Norfolk.

A connected trio of single-room cottages built for “three aged poor couples” in 1838 by William and Rebecca Pearce (a surviving plaque records the rent as being £60 a year) they exhibit three distinct building phases - Georgian, Victorian and mid-20th century.

Discreet new extensions have added extra bedrooms, the original stained glass has been expertly restored and carefully reinstated, the interior spaces have been improved thanks to the slightly raised ceilings, and the revitalised almshouses will shortly be finding a new lease of life as luxurious holiday lets.

While Ayling Construction are undertaking the building side and refurbishment, the finishing and detailing is being completed by Ayling Heritage, a sister company Darren formed with Edward Markham and Paul Chappell after working on their home in the centre of Fakenham, which started life as a Methodist Chapel.

“Just because a house was built 200 years ago doesn’t mean it has to be frozen in time and stay there,” says Darren. “If you understand the story of the property and appreciate why it needs to be protected, you can adapt it to our modern way of life. All you need to do is see it from the property’s point of view.

It was here long before you, and it will be here long after you’re gone. To be honest, it’s a privilege to be able to work on it.”

Ayling Construction Racecourse Road, Pudding Norton, Fakenham NR21 7NA Tel: 01328 851898 / 07766 080545 Web: aylingconstruction.co.uk Email: info@aylingconstruction.co.uk KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

ABOVE: Heacham Lodge has been lovingly transformed from a neglected building into a magnificent country house. The stunning master bedroom boasts a large en-suite bathroom adorned with lavish marble tiles, restoring an element of the property’s 18th century grandeur whilst bringing it into the 21st century.

Darren Ayling 25

Caring for a home in a conservation area Being the custodian of a heritage property can be a real joy, but it also carries a degree of responsibility, as Richard Blunt of the Borough Council of King’s Lynn & West Norfolk explains...

K

ing’s Lynn is a wonderful town, full of medieval history and historic buildings that tell a story almost 1,000 years in the making,” says Cllr Richard Blunt, cabinet member for development and regeneration at the Borough Council of King’s Lynn & West Norfolk. “Owning or leasing one of these unique properties can be a real joy, but it can also be a challenge. After all, you’re the current custodian of a shared heritage, so it’s not surprising that looking after your property is neither simple nor quick.”

It might sound rather trite to say that

26

prevention is better than cure, but there’s a lot of truth in the old adage. Regular inspection of your historic or listed building (something you may be legally required to do) will ensure you become aware of any developing problems as soon as possible and can deal with them before they become serious.

And to draw on another familiar saying, a stitch in time really can save nine - and often a lot more. Poor maintenance is the main cause of deterioration in older buildings, and good maintenance is the most cost-effective way of looking after them. With the right regime you can

often avoid expensive repairs altogether.

The inspiring drive to ‘make do and mend’ worked wonders during the Second World War, but that’s not always the best approach. Well-intentioned but inappropriate repairs can often cause further damage to the property. For example repointing over lime mortar with a cement-based mortar can actually increase the rate of decay.

“It’s only a few years since a couple in London and their chartered engineer were fined almost £100,000 for carrying out unauthorised work on their 1830s property,” says Richard. “If your home is KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

ABOVE: Living in a conservation area means that your house is affected by special controls called Article 4 Directions which restrict the work you can ordinarily do without planning permission such as replacing a door or window or altering gutters and downpipes.

listed or in a conservation area, the very first thing on your ‘to do’ list should be to contact the relevant local authority.”

You’ll certainly need to inspect your whole building at least once a year, paying special (and more frequent) attention to areas at more risk, such as gutters.

In such a low-lying and coastline-rich area as Norfolk, water is one of the most common causes of damage - but it’s also one of the most avoidable. Ideally, you’ll

KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

need to clean your gutters and gullies twice a year, and remove leaf fall where it accumulates as often as you reasonably can.

“There are lots of ways an older property can tell you a repair is required,” says Richard, “and it can save you an enormous amount of time and trouble to be aware of them. If you notice any corroded paintwork, any splashes of soil against the walls, any algae around joints, any stains on the brickwork or masonry, any gullies that are slow to clear, and any areas of washed-out mortar then it’s time to prevent the problem from causing irreversible damage.”

He also recommends checking your property after heavy rain and during sudden cold snaps as these tend to make any problems more apparent.

And while those lovely walls covered with ivy and wisteria might look beautiful, the root systems of such creeping plants are very aggressive and can easily damage your property, causing mortar to crumble and forcing joints to open.

Moving upwards (literally), roof deterioration is another thing to be managed as frequently as possible, especially

as the forces of gravity will ensure any problems will travel down to other parts of the building.

“If you see any broken, slipped or missing slates you need to be aware that they might indicate your fixings are failing,” says Richard. “If you notice any changes in colour, any hairline cracks or any de-lamination of tiles you’ll need to keep a good eye on them – because what might first appear to be a relatively minor annoyance can soon turn into a major problem.”

Joints can be a building’s particular weak spot, especially where the roof meets the walls. Check the flashings to ensure they’re in good condition and haven’t split, developed holes or become loose.

And while you’re outside, you’ll have to take a look at the woodwork - which may have been there for a few hundred years and is one of the most exposed parts of older properties.

“The quality of historic timber is

27

extraordinary and these windows and doors often outlive their modern equivalents,” says Richard. “That doesn’t mean it can look after itself, however.

It needs to be regularly checked and treated to keep it in good condition, and you should look for giveaway clues such as musty smells, flight holes, bore dust and grey/white areas with orange spots.”

The meeting of modern life with the historic built environment can also present you with a problem, since older properties were built before the age of showers, kettles and modern finishes such as impervious flooring. These modern conveniences are less than convenient for older properties as they cause imbalances in moisture levels, which will result in mould, rising damp and a host of other problems.

Unless you fancy turning the clock back and living an 18th century life, try to keep your production of water vapour to a minimum and ensure you maintain good ventilation all year round.

“Before you start any work on a historic or listed property you should always contact our planning department first to check whether you need permission or for advice on techniques and materials,” says Richard. “Modern paints and treatments such as chemically-injected damp proof courses, bitumen coatings and spray-on foams can prevent the evaporation of moisture from walls and make damp worse - and cause wood to decay.”

Much the same could be said of mortar. Traditional pointing and rendering is done with lime-based materials which are soft and porous, allowing walls to ‘breathe’ - an important requirement of older buildings with solid-wall construction. Modern, cement-based products are dense and impermeable, increasing damp.

“You should also take particular care with paintwork, because until the 1960s it contained lead, so sanding should be approached with extreme caution,” says Richard. “Although you can confirm the presence of lead paint with a DIY test kit, it may be safer to renew or overcoat it”.

Further information and advice is available in our ‘Caring for Your Old Building Guide’ at www.west-norfolk. gov.uk or through the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings www.spab.org.uk

PICTURES: Conservation areas exist to protect the special architectural and historic interest of a place and preserve the features that make it unique and distinctive. Living within one is a privilege, but it also comes with a certain degree of responsibility.

METCALFE COPEMAN & PETTEFAR LLP SOLICITORS

Property & Conveyancing Services

When you’re moving house, it can seem as if everyone is so busy ticking boxes on checklists that they don’t really take the time to listen and understand you.

At MCP our aim is to ensure that we don’t lose focus on our individual clients during the conveyancing process. We want MCP’s clients to feel that they are involved, engaged and in control.

A house is one of the biggest investments most people ever make.

We provide our clients with all the information they need to make sure their investment is sound and protected.

If you would like to speak to the team at MCP to find out how they can help you, please contact by telephone on: 01553 778100

MCP can help with a wide variety of property matters including: • Buying or selling your home • First time buyers • Buy-to-let investors and rental portfolios • Re-mortgages • Transfers of equity • Gifts of property • Equity release • Tenancies • Commercial property • Building and boundary disputes • Property on separation and divorce

Or email Helen Robinson: helen.robinson@mcp-law.co.uk

Business | Crime | Conveyancing | Dispute Resolution | Employment | Matrimonial | Wills & Probate www.mcp-law.co.uk

28/32 King Street, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE30 1HQ

Also at Wisbech, Thetford, Peterborough and Ely

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Reclaimed Building Materials & Architectural Salvage tel: 01328 864743

reclaimed bricks, flooring & architectural salvage Essential for renovation of listed buildings

norfolk pantiles Many types of reclaimed and machine-made pantiles in stock

traditional & handmade norfolk reds

TIMBER & FLOORBOARDS A vast range including large oak and pine beams from old buildings, seasoned oak which can be cut to suit individual needs

A range of Norfolk Reds and bricks from adjoining counties in varying shades

Helhoughton Road, Hempton, Fakenham NR21 7DY | www.norfolkreclaim.co.uk

Quality Timber for DIY & Trade

Independent family run timber merchant Est. 2005 Supplying: Sawn & Planed Timber Sheet Materials | Cladding | Fence Panels Equestrian Fencing | Garden Decking Concrete Posts | Gravel Boards & more

Delivery Service With our own vehicles we’re able to provide you with a friendly, reliable delivery service to areas such as Brandon and Thetford, Downham Market and Ely, Swaffham and King’s Lynn & surrounding villages.

We’re here

STOKE FERRY TIMBER

Stoke Ferry Timber Ltd, Boughton Road North, Stoke Ferry, Norfolk PE33 9BF Contact: 01366 500505 sales@stokeferrytimber.com Order Online: www.stokeferrytimber.com

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KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

How to

Bring your stone floors back to life with Xtraclean

R

egardless of whether you’re working on a new build and using reclaimed tiles or undertaking a restoration project on a heritage property, there’s an easy way to bring your stone floors back to life - despite decades or even centuries of ingrained dirt.

In Swaffham, Martin King and his team at Xtraclean have spent over 20 years using some of the most advanced cleaning technology currently available in the UK to revitalise stone, tiled, and solid wood floors and bring them back to their best. And keep them looking that way.

“It’s important to note that most floor cleaners are alkaline-based, and that means they’re only effective in the short term,” says Martin. “In fact, once dry they can actually encourage more dirt to stick to the surface and work its way into the grout lines. The only real longterm solution is to take the professional approach, and that’s what we’re here for.”

Following an initial survey and test to protect the integrity of the floor, Martin and his team at Xtraclean will

Xtraclean

“The long-term solution is the professional one...” get to work, carefully breaking down the dirt and loosening years of soiling with a revolutionary state-of-the-art turbo ‘clean and capture’ system that thoroughly pressure-cleans the floor.

What’s more, the system uses its own water supply and collects all the waste in the process - and the good news for older floors is that Xtraclean’s spectacular results are achieved without the use of harmful chemicals or damaging procedures such as grinding and resurfacing.

And Martin also has a useful tip on how to keep those good looks for longer.

“Natural stone floors are porous and full of tiny holes, which makes them highly susceptible to spills, cooking oil, dirt and grime,” he says. “By using one of our professional sealants you can prevent liquids and oils penetrating the stone surface, leaving

them on top for easy cleaning. It’s an important way of making sure your natural stone floors look amazing for longer and last a lifetime.”

Perhaps best of all, Xtraclean’s troublefree, hassle-free and fully-insured service can usually be completed in a single visit.

“We’re using the most advanced technology, the most professional products and the safest anti-bacterial agents available on the market today,” says Martin. “And don’t forget that even if you’re fitting new stone floors, we can still help you keep them in perfect condition for years to come!”

Martin King DIRECTOR

Unit 3, Jack Boddy Way, Swaffham PE37 7HJ Tel: 0845 3001717 Web: xtraclean.co.uk Email: sales@xtraclean.co.uk

KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

31

RIGHT : Scattered across Norfolk, McNamara have completed over 100 barn conversions to the highest of standards.

BELOW LEFT : Natural materials dominate in the stylish interiors McNamara create.

BELOW RIGHT : Historic Norfolk barns provide lofty double height living spaces.

Discover new life inside the old barns of Norfolk Michael McNamara has been bringing back to life some of Norfolk’s most beautiful historic barns over his 50 years of building and restoration. Now joined by sons Ryan and Guy, family business McNamara continues to flourish as these stunning barns demonstrate

T

he recently converted Shammer Barns, superb properties just minutes from the coastline, have transformed a former working farm into much-loved homes of the highest quality.

“Shammer Barns must be one of our best schemes to date,” says Ryan McNamara. “I first drove past the barns when I was eight years old, and many times since, and I had always looked at them and thought ‘wow, that would be a great project.’

“When we finally had the opportunity to develop Shammer Barns we were delighted to bring this project to KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

life, working with the clients as we progressed. They put in some dramatic extra details, like the glass floor on the mezzanine. It is such a great feeling to share a vision with clients and now it’s completed they are ecstatic.”

The McNamara team, Michael, Ryan and Guy, have completed around 100 barn conversions along with historic house restorations and new builds too.

Founder of the family firm, Michael McNamara, started with a passion for finding new homes within old buildings – a vision that has only grown as the company has expanded.

“The conversion of wonderful rural buildings must be carried out

sympathetically, combining the essential structure of the barn with the requirements of modern living,” Michael explains. “Outwardly the barn is barely changed… simply enhanced.” This sense of responsibility is clearly evident in all of the McNamaras’ work, where their sympathetic designs merge the heritage of the building seamlessly with contemporary living spaces.

The McNamara team love the creative challenge of bringing these historic barns to life again and finding a new living space within the old farm buildings. “We are not making a barn a house,” says Ryan, who believes in celebrating the individuality of the historic buildings. “You 33

“You have to know where to stop.

Bringing that history out through taking a sympathetic approach – that’s what we love...” have to know where to stop. Bringing that history out through taking a sympathetic approach – that’s what we love.”

They may have a love for heritage buildings, but the McNamara’s are also forward-thinking with an ongoing commitment to sustainability. They were early adopters of air source heat pumps and now many of their developments feature air source or ground source heating as well as solar panels. “We just didn’t see the point of burning fossil fuels unnecessarily when there are better products available,” says Ryan.

“Developing technology means these products are extremely effective and quiet.”

When beginning private commissions, the McNamara team are careful to balance their own concepts and thoughts with the needs and taste of their clients.

“Working in this way to create a living space that fulfills the dreams of our clients is an exciting process,” says Guy,

PICTURES : Middle Farm Barns demonstrate McNamara’s impressive attention to detail (top). A private commission, Helhoughton exemplifies how McNamara support their clients to achieve the dream (above).

who has just completed a new build on a well-known country estate in Norfolk, the first new house to be built there for 70 years, which has been much admired.

Exceptionally high-quality design and finish are signatures of McNamara. In Little Massingham, Middle Farm Barns is a development of four unique barns tucked away in the heart of the Norfolk countryside that show exactly what the McNamaras create. It is a stunning spot with undulating valley views across fields and woodlands.

The converted barns demonstrate impressive attention to detail, from the iconic Norfolk brick and flint masonry to the artisan fixtures and fittings. Much of the premium finish is achieved through their selection of natural materials. Exposed brick interiors, limestone flooring and hand-crafted ABOVE : Showcasing preserved heritage features in Shammer oak cabinetry, as well Barn’s bedrooms.

34

as reclaimed materials such as original beams, provide appealing complimentary textures throughout the completed buildings.

The beauty of a Norfolk barn conversion is the sense of light and space that can be achieved through sympathetic conversion and the McNamaras can certainly demonstrate this across their many stylishly completed designs. Superb open-plan living areas are elevated by the double-height roof space of many of these historic barns.

“We have some cracking projects in wonderful locations coming through that are due to be completed in the next year or two,” adds Michael, “and if someone does have a barn which they are thinking about restoring we will always come and look at it because the three of us just love what we do.”

McNamara Park Farm Office, Wolterton Park, Wolterton, Norwich NR11 7LX Tel: 01263 761336 Email: info@mcnamaraproperty.co.uk Web: mcnamaraproperty.co.uk KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

How to

Install cutting-edge air source technology with 4 Way Refrigeration

W

ith the rate that new build properties are being built all over the country, it’s never been more important for developers to rise above the competition by offering something that might tip buyers in their favour. Steve Simpson of the 4 Way Group, who have been designing, installing and maintaining the latest in air source heating systems for the last 20 years, explains why the energy efficient heating solution could take your building project from average to market-leading, at least when it comes to economical heating systems. “We insist on using Fujitsu for all our commercial and domestic installations as they’re considered the best systems available,” says Steve. “Their air source heating systems are extremely energy-efficient, they produce much less carbon dioxide than traditional systems, and they won’t create nearly as much of a dent in your bank balance!”

4 Way Group

We recently installed air source heating at Sea Drift house

“The units we supply are incredibly reliable...”

As proud Fujitsu Infinity partners, the 4 Way Group it’s not just able to supply the best in economical heating for homes and businesses alike; with each installation comes a full 7-year warranty.

So, if the 4 Way Group’s extensive industry experience, second-to-none expertise, and obvious pride in their work doesn’t put your mind completely at ease, you’ll know your purchase is secure.

Although, Steve explains you’ll almost certainly never need to use it: “The units we supply are incredibly reliable. The warranty is really just for peace of mind.”

Amazingly, Steve and the team’s job isn’t over once a system is installed. “When we’ve finished installing an air source heating system in either a new build home or a self-build project, we always meet with the homeowner to explain how the system works, what they have to do to operate it, and even give them advice on how they can get the most out of it energy-saving

wise,” says Steve. “We also make sure the owner knows to contact us in the unlikely event of any problems - it makes the process completely hassle-free for developers, which we know is invaluable with their busy schedules.” From initial design and installation to help and 24/7 service and maintenance, the 4 Way Group can help you elevate your building project by taking advantage of state-ofthe-art heating solutions.

Contact Steve and the team today for an initial consultation and free estimate.

Steve Simpson DIRECTOR

Tel: 01553 767878 Web: 4waygroup.co.uk Email: sales@4waygroup.co.uk

KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

35

Established 1991 • • • • • •

Professional and fully trained workforce Commercial and domestic scaffolding services Exceeding safety standards • In-house design service Work undertaken within a 50 mile radius of King’s Lynn Grown to become a highly trusted firm and experts in the field Scaffolding inspection service

Get in touch to receive a free, no obligation quote

m 01553 777285 k office@wnscaffolding.co.uk Hereford Way, Hardwick Narrows Industrial Estate King’s Lynn, PE30 4JD • www.wnscaffolding.co.uk

BY APPOINTMENT TO HM QUEEN ELIZABETH II WASTE DISPOSAL CONTRACTORS

SKIP HIRE | WHEELIE BIN SUPPLY | LIQUID & HAZARDOUS WASTE REMOVAL | RECYCLING LONG AND SHORT TERM CONTRACTS AVAILABLE sales@baco-compak.com www.baco-compak.com Innisfree Trading Estate, Bawsey, King’s Lynn PE32 1EX

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KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

How to

Step towards sustainable living with 4 Way Electrical

I

n the face of rising prices and soaring energy costs, we’ve become increasingly aware of the need to become more selfsufficient. Inflation is currently running at over 9%(1), and in May, Ofgem’s Chief Executive said the energy price cap is expected to increase to £2,800 a year this October - meaning the typical annual household bill could rise by £800.(2) We all understand the importance of generating energy from sustainable sources, but few people know how to find the right solution for their home, and many are unsure of who they can trust to deliver it.

In these times of uncertainty, it’s good to know that director Stuart Olley and his team at 4 Way Electrical Ltd are leading the way forward with cost-effective and sustainable solutions such as solar power, electric vehicle charging and Electrical Energy Storage Systems (EESS).

Following the high standards of customer protection set by the RECC (Renewable Energy Consumer Code) guidelines, they take pride in designing and installing the latest energy saving technologies and are perfectly placed to develop a system best suited to your individual needs and lifestyle.

“There’s always a great deal to consider when investing in solar technology, so it’s important to choose a reliable installer who’s going to prioritise your best interests,” says Stuart. “Drawing on our experience of using and designing photovoltaic systems, we’ll provide reliable information, honest advice, and an excellent standard of customer service - before, during, and after every contract is agreed.”

Moreover, as fully accredited members of the national Quality Mark Scheme, (qualitymarkprotection.com) 4 Way Electrical Ltd offer an industry-leading 10-year Insurance Backed Guarantee, which includes payment and deposit protection and is transferable if you sell your home.

“Along with providing long term fuel savings and environmental benefits, our fully integrated systems can significantly offset your dependence on

“Reduce the impact of rising energy caps...” the National Grid – therefore reducing the impact of rising energy caps on your monthly bills,” explains Stuart. “What’s more, if your energy provider offers you a SEG (Smart Energy Guarantee) you can even be paid for every kilowatt you export back into the grid.”(3) These aren’t the only reasons people are choosing 4 Way Electrical Ltd, and the current climate has only served to bring the importance of sustainable living sharply into focus. Following a recent government initiative, you won’t need to pay any VAT on the purchase or installation of energy-saving materials in residential homes for the next five years, (gov.uk/guidance/ vat-on-energy-savingmaterials-and-heatingequipment-notice-7086) meaning you’ll enjoy the

benefits of tax savings and lower yearly energy costs.

“We’re not high-pressure salespeople and will take our time communicating with commercial, industrial and residential customers to design a solution that’s right for them,” says Stuart. “We’re also happy to work with architects throughout the planning stage of a concept, helping them design a solar system to suit the look of a home, meet newbuild energy efficiency standards and invest money in the future.”

Stuart Olley DIRECTOR

(1) Inflation rate - UK Inflation Rate | Inflation Rate and Consumer Price Index (rateinflation.com) (2) Ofgem claim - Energy price cap: Typical energy bill set to rise by £800 a year in October - BBC News (3) SEG - Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) | Ofgem

4 Way Group

Tel: 01553 767878 Web: 4waygroup.co.uk Email: sales@4waygroup.co.uk

KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

37

A haven four miles from anywhere Positioned in peaceful countryside, just minutes from many iconic beauty spots, Avada Homes’ Four Miles development nestles on the edge of the rural village of Docking – quickly becoming one of the most sought after in North Norfolk

T

he new hamlet is aptly named,” explains Avada Homes Site Manager Peter Dennis, “It is just a four-mile walk, cycle or drive from lots of popular locations.”

Brancaster beach with rolling dunes and wide golden sands. The former smugglers haunt of Thornham, now a haven for birdwatchers enjoying the atmospheric marshes. Bustling Burnham Market, a treasure trove of traditional shops, specialist boutiques, galleries and eateries. And all this surrounded by the expansive skies and 45 miles of golden

beaches that this uniquely unspoilt corner of Great Britain is famed for.

Avada Homes have been creating beautiful Norfolk homes since 2001 and have constructed around 150 properties in that time. They have built a reputation for developments that are something special, always designed with the homeowner in mind. And this is no small claim when their list of previous projects includes two traditional barns for Her Majesty The Queen in the Sandringham Estate.

The Four Miles properties bring that perfect blend of 21st century living and traditional village charm that is irresistible.

Positioned on the northern edge of Docking, the new hamlet overlooks open farmed countryside with distant sea views

on a clear day. “You are close enough to the coast, but it is better value than other locations around,” explains Peter.

“There will also be two paddocks on the development that will be looked after by a management team,” he continues.

The paddocks will include winding paths, picturesque ponds and a tree lined meadow – perfect for an evening stroll, dog walk or a bit of exercise.

The village of Docking is a thriving community with plentiful amenities.

There is a well-stocked village store, post office, traditional fish and chip shop and a weekly market of local artisan produce.

The highly rated Railway Inn offers Four Miles residents a cozy pub atmosphere and delicious menu just a short walk away.

PICTURES: A Victorian style mews courtyard sits in the middle of centerpiece Granary Court (above). Lavish attention to detail runs throughout the development (right). Spacious living areas enjoy country views from their first-floor position (below).

“This development really is something different from standard build houses...”

40

The hallmark of Avada Homes is the ‘upside-down’ concept of their property layouts, providing living spaces that benefit from the wide, open views of a first-floor position. This approach originated from Managing Director Ian Johnston, who is passionate about creating beautiful spaces that connect to the countryside around. Something which has certainly been achieved at Four Miles.

“Ian has marvellous attention to detail,” Peter says, “and he has a lot of input into the project. I have worked on sites since I left school and, now nearing my retirement, I have never worked on a multi-unit development that is so highspec in everything.”

The centre piece of the development is Granary Court, featuring ten magnificent replica Norfolk Barns. “They are beautifully built,” describes Peter, “with traditional Norfolk brick and flint masonry, natural wood doors and windows with individually made canopies and decorative brickwork on the gable ends.”

“This development really is something different from standard build houses,” Peter says. “As you move around the site you can see that very few of the houses

are replicated, they are quite individual.”

Avada Homes are committed to using only the highest quality materials and this is certainly clear in the premium look of Four Miles. “Virtually every elevation of every house is flint work which is unusual for a development of this size,” Peter says.

“All the houses come with quality oak staircases,” he continues, “and this quality continues even down to the hardwood skirtings, architraves and doorstops some of which are Ian’s custom design, made here on site.” Oak flooring in the living areas transitions to natural stone tiling in the bathroom, hallways and kitchen, and the bedrooms are fitted with luxury carpets.

A glorious open plan living area enjoys the high vaulted ceilings that this iconic barn style is renowned for, some complete with mezzanine gallery trimmed by a glass balustrade. “The high quality is everywhere in these properties,” Peter says. “The bathroom fittings are all Duravit, the electrics are all Schneider and Rangemaster cookers are in the kitchens; all market leaders in their field.” The British-made hardwood kitchens can be tailored to the buyer’s design, but already KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

they feature beautiful granite worktops as standard and are scattered with elegant attention to detail such as the timeless cupboard handles.

It is unsurprising that Avada Homes have excelled in more technical considerations too. The award-winning Mitsubishi Ecodan air source heat pump is installed in conjunction with under floor heating in all Four Miles properties.

This alternative to a more conventional boiler is very welcome as fossil fuel prices rise.

“Every house is almost a bespoke house despite this being a development,” Peter concludes. “They are all individually designed properties with exceptional attention to detail. I think people will be wowed as soon as they make a visit.”

Whether you are looking for a main residence or second home, the Four Miles hamlet is certainly something a bit special. The scheme is set for completion in 2024 and viewings of completed homes are available now.

Four Miles Sandringham Avenue (off Choseley Road) Docking, North Norfolk PE31 8LZ

Avada Country Homes Email: sales@avadahomes.co.uk Web: avadahomes.co.uk

Sowerbys Land & New Homes Specialists Tel: 01328 730340 Email: fourmiles@sowerbys.com Web: sowerbys.com

KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

PICTURES: All Four Miles properties feature the traditional Norfolk flint (top).

Buyers are invited to customise the kitchen design in these luxury properties (above).

These properties are positioned in a beautiful living environment (below).

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RIGHT: Longlands sits at the edge of Holkham’s historic south park and is the home of Holkham Studios – an awardwinning enterprise hub of outstanding businesses rarely found outside of a major city centre. Originally a farm in the 1700s, the old barn now houses a traditional forge as well as Holkham’s property maintenance team.

BELOW : Holkham is proud to be delivering 15 homes in the historic village of Castle Acre.

Designed by Lucas + Western, the appearance and development closely reflects the character of the locality. With sustainability high on the agenda, all houses have air-source heating and hot water, sustainable drainage systems and high performance doors and windows.

Building the future of north Norfolk How the property and land development team on the Holkham Estate is playing a central role in maintaining the integrity and character of north Norfolk’s built environment

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overing some 25,000 acres the Holkham Estate has had an enormously important and beneficial impact on north Norfolk for around 250 years.

It was the base of agricultural innovations that transformed the country’s farming and land management practices. It’s at the heart of a thriving tourist industry, the location of England’s largest national nature reserve, and home to one of the finest Palladian mansions in the country.

It also plays a pivotal role in the local community thanks to its status as the area’s largest private landlord and biggest employer - owning, letting and managing

KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

almost 300 residential and commercial buildings in 12 villages along the north Norfolk coast.

It’s a vast operation, and it’s also one that comes with a degree of responsibility.

“The estate has a family at its core and that underpins everything we do,” says James Bracey, the estate’s General Manager for Land & Property. “One of our most important roles is to sustain our communities by addressing local housing provision and ensuring this is an affordable place in which to live and work.”

Which explains the estate’s long-

held policy of only letting and selling residential properties as primary residences.

For example, currently in progress is Massingham Road in Castle Acre, an exclusive collection of 15 homes cleverly designed to feature five different house types, including a mix of 2-, 3and 4-bedroom homes. Built using a combination of modern and traditional materials such as lime mortar, brick and flint, and clay pantiles, they sit perfectly in this distinctly historical context - while paying attention to modern concerns such as energy efficient insulation, air source heating and sustainability.

43

“Balancing that local need with the impacts of increased tourism on our local infrastructure is vital if we’re to maintain the character of north Norfolk...”

“Even the engineer-designed drainage system has been future-proofed against the effects of climate change,” says James. “The development also caters for the area’s different housing needs with a selection of shared ownership, affordable rental, and restrictive covenant properties.”

The Holkham Estate is also in the process of completing two new barn conversions that will be retained by the estate for full-time occupation or used as holiday lets. They’re the latest in a policy of re-purposing former agricultural barns and redundant outbuildings, several of which are up to 200 years old - a policy that began at Manor Farm Barns in Wells-next-the-Sea back in 2013, the seven homes on the site winning the regional RICS East of England Award for residential homes the following year.

“Many of the older buildings on the estate were built to house carts and tractors, but for many years they’ve been empty because they’re no longer big enough for modern machinery and vehicles,” says James. “They’re still an integral part of the local landscape, and it’s our role to bring them back to life in the 21st century.”

This approach also benefits commercial tenants, with a number of

ABOVE: Higglers Barn had fallen out of use, having been superseded by contemporary farm buildings, so they are being redeveloped into two 3-bedroom homes. The project is due to be completed in autumn 2022.

these former buildings now transformed into modern offices. The most spectacular example is Longlands which was once one of the estate’s principal farmstead and workshop complexes. The 50,000sqft offers a fully self-contained (and multi-award winning) commercial environment, the majority of which forms the headquarters of Monica Vinader - although the estate is now looking into the possibility of extending the site further to offer smaller and more flexible working spaces.

As for the future, James and his team are already thinking about the next five years and beyond.

“In addition to all the projects we have in progress at the moment, one of our primary concerns is with the long-term view and the evolution of the estate,” he says. “A number of the villages around us are now composed of up to 70% second homes, but that’s something we’re in a unique position to address. Balancing that local need with the impacts of increased tourism on our local infrastructure is vital if we’re to maintain the character of north Norfolk.”

Holkham Property Department The Clock Tower Longlands, Holkham Park Wells-next-the-Sea NR23 1RU Tel: 01328 801303 Web: holkham.co.uk/property Email: j.bracey@holkham.co.uk

How to

Insure your home improvements with Adrian Flux

I

f you have plans to give your home a facelift, be it a new lick of paint, new carpets, an extension or even a complete rebuild, you need to tell your home insurer about it before you get started.

Here, the home insurance experts at Adrian Flux, which celebrates 50 years in 2023, offer some timely advice on the DIY jobs you can tackle, and others that you are planning to tackle, that you will need to notify your insurer about. If you don’t you could face disappointment should you need to make a claim on your policy.

All policies are different but you probably don’t need to tell your insurer if you’re doing general maintenance or basic DIY, but they’ll almost certainly want to know if you’re planning something a little bigger.

If you’re planning structural changes such as knocking through internal walls, getting a loft conversion or installing replacement double glazing, you’ll need to notify your insurer before you start the work or commission a builder to do the job. The same will be the case if you are dreaming of a kitchen or bathroom refit.

You’ll also need to let them know if you’re planning something that could affect the value of your home or compromise its security. For example, the loft conversion you are planning will mean your home having a hole in the roof for a while resulting in it being vulnerable to the elements and the risk of flooding and to opportunistic burglars.

You should always talk to your insurance provider before you start work.

Every policy is different, so ensure you read the small print to know exactly

Adrian Flux

“Share your plans with us before the work starts...” what’s covered and which new risks you’ll need to be covered in the future.

We always ask to be notified about any works in your home - that includes fitting carpets, painting walls, installing new kitchens or bathrooms right up to major building works.

Some policies may include £20,000 general refurbishment cover as standard, but we encourage clients to tell us about any alterations so we can be kept in the loop and aware of any amendments we may need to make to your level or conditions of cover.

Your insurance may become invalid in circumstances where building work is taking place and it hasn’t been declared beforehand, especially if they’re major works and you have contractors in - or the home becomes unoccupied as a result.

Genuine DIY problems, such as a nail through a water pipe or putting a foot through a ceiling will

probably be covered, but it’s always worth checking to see if your policy has accidental damage cover.

No matter which home improvements you are working on, we continue to work hard to find you peace of mind insurance cover at a reasonable price. For a swift no hassle quote, call the home insurance experts at Adrian Flux on 01553 400399.

Chelsea Shakespeare HOUSEHOLD UNDERWRITING & PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

Tel: 01553 400399 Web: adrianflux.co.uk Email: contact-us@adrianflux.co.uk

KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

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RIGHT: Charterhouse has expertly transformed this boutique hotel in Burnham Market with the installation of stunning staged decking, an Indian Sandstone patio, Red Cedar fencing and a luxurious hidden area boasting a stylish sunken hot tub.

LEFT: Thanks to the inspiring work of Charterhouse, this beautiful cottage in Old Hunstanton is ready for the busy holiday season. Will and his skilled team completed the full refurbishment including bespoke carpentry, lighting design, bathroom installation, and decoration.

RIGHT: With their passionate approach and excellent attention to detail, the innovative engineers at Charterhouse have the skills and expertise required to transform an unused or awkward space in your home into something truly special. Take for example this bespoke seating and storage unit and beautiful compact cloakroom.

Smarter solutions from concept to completion

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With an honest approach and excellent customer service, Charterhouse Property Solutions takes ambitious visions and brings them to life...

hen planning a new project or refurbishment of a property, it’s often difficult to know where to start, as there’s so much to consider throughout the whole process. Happily, Will Charter and his skilled team at Charterhouse Property Solutions are passionate about communicating closely with clients to solve their problems and bring their ideas to life.

“At Charterhouse we pride ourselves on providing an outstanding standard of service,” says Will. “There’s always a solution without compromise.”

The business was established in 1998 as a maintenance firm called C&M KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

Servicing, although after nearly 24 years of professional trading it’s evolved into an innovative full-service company that manages everything from small projects and general maintenance to bespoke kitchen and bathroom fittings, hard landscaping works, and full house refurbishments.

“When I joined the business in 2018, my ambition was simply to help it grow and develop,” says Will. “I saw a massive gap in the market between building and maintenance, as you find builders would rather construct houses than work on refurbishments and maintenance companies are rarely big enough to do them.”

And that’s the point. Charterhouse fits

right in the middle.

“Our talented group of tradesmen specialises in repair and maintenance work,” says Will, “whilst our passionate project team liaises directly with designers and homeowners to turn their fantastic visions into stunning realities.

We never think a job is too big or too small, and we provide a wide range of solutions under one roof.”

An approved contractor with the NICEIC (the National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting), OFTEC (the Oil Firing Technical Association), Gassafe registered and a proud Norfolk Trusted Trader Charterhouse has always delivered a firstclass service to customers; and ever since 47

“We’ll do whatever it takes to find our clients the right solution rather than the easiest solution...”

the business rebranded and expanded last summer, it’s reached a whole new level of quality and expertise.

“We’ve recently worked on some truly amazing projects,” says Will. “At the start of the year we transformed a beautiful property in Old Hunstanton into a luxurious holiday let. It involved lots of planning, hard work, and careful management, and our customers were absolutely thrilled with the result.”

The skilled team at Charterhouse completed the full refurbishment, which

48

included designing and building bespoke furniture, installing a stylish kitchen and bathroom, creating quality concrete worktops, designing and installing lighting and adding delightful decorative touches.

Additionally, the business has recently managed all the electrical and plumbing works for the new WhataHoot distillery in King’s Lynn, completed some spectacular exterior landscaping for a holiday let in Burnham Market, fully refurbished a four-bedroom house in Holt, worked on several important projects for the NHS and are currently completing weekly electrical works for the Sandringham estate.

“We pride ourselves on being friendly, honest and reliable and we’ll do whatever it takes to find our clients the right solution rather than the easiest solution,” says Will. “Customer experience is at the heart of everything we do, and everyone always comments on our outstanding communication skills. During every project we work closely with clients every step of the way, and we’re always on the end of the phone to provide inspiration and tackle any problems that may arise.”

With their fantastic skills, innovative ideas, and dedicated attention to timescales and budgets, Charterhouse promises clients a high standard of service from concept to completion.

“The business has evolved dramatically in the last few years, and we’ve made amazing progress,” says Will. “We’ve got lots of exciting projects coming up, including several refurbishments in Burnham Market and Brancaster, and we’re hoping to grow our talented team and develop even further in the future.”

Whether you’re planning for a redecoration or a full refurbishment, contact Will and his team at Charterhouse Property Solutions today to discuss your ideas and discover ways to bring them to life.

Charterhouse

PICTURES: Working closely with the homeowners and local interior designers, Charterhouse has helped transform Seagrass in Old Hunstanton into a charming and characterful coastal retreat.

Creating everything from bespoke furniture to ingenious storage solutions, the company have swiftly built an enviable reputation based on outstanding designs, quality craftsmanship, and a customer service that’s second to none.

26 Rollesby Road, Hardwick Industrial Estate King’s Lynn PE30 4LS Tel: 03303 202077 Web: charterhouse.solutions Email: enquiries@charterhouse.solutions

KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

K I T CH ENS & AP P L I AN C E S

Designed and made by Howdens.

Supplied and fitted by your local builder.

Howdens Joinery is the UK’s largest manufacturer and supplier of fitted kitchens, appliances and joinery products. We understand what it takes to make a great looking home, and importantly one that works practically too. That’s why we only sell our products directly to professional tradespeople like your local builder. Our products are from stock in each of our 780 depots throughout the UK, and in each depot trained designers are on hand to design your kitchen and support you and your builder throughout your project.

D O O R S & JOINERY

HAR D WAR E

FLO O R I N G

Visit www.howdens.com to see our full range of kitchens and joinery products, or call 01553 772881 for more information or to request a brochure.

YOUR LOCAL DEPOT:

Unit 3 St Andrew’s Court, Rollesby Road, Hardwick Industrial Estate, King’s Lynn, PE30 4LS

PICTURES: Virtually invisible from the road and defying all expectations the site would ever be built on, The Old Garden in Hunstanton is a supremely successful project by Atelier Associates - the vaulted ceiling giving an extraordinary feeling of space in a relatively small property.

The very small build with the very big story The Old Garden in Hunstanton is a perfect example of how Atelier Associates use a design-led approach to overcome the greatest challenges and work wonders in limited spaces...

T

hey say the best things come in small packages, but that’s never been more true than the development of The Old Garden within the conservation area of Hunstanton. A relatively modest 2-bedroom home, it sits on a site which had been refused at appeal five years ago, faced concerns from the Hunstanton and District Civic Society, and prompted legitimate doubts from the local council.

But that was before architectural designer Stephen Sharp of Atelier KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

Associates demonstrated how to build sensitively and sympathetically within a conservation area.

“Virtually every obstacle can be overcome through good design and this is a classic example,” he says. “This is probably the smallest new build we’ve ever worked on, but I think it’s one of the most rewarding and it’s a great testament to the successful relationship we have with local planning officers.”

Originally forming part of a grand Victorian/Edwardian house that had been converted into apartments, planning

permission for a dwelling on the site had been denied at appeal in 2016 due to the negative impact on the conservation area, and the current owners had consequently bought it with a view to using the site for garaging.

Enclosed by a carrstone boundary wall, the plot contained a mature Scots pine and a young cypress tree with a Tree Preservation Order on it. It seemed unlikely that it would ever be possible to build anything there, but while researching the history of the site Stephen established that by using his 51

ABOVE: The original site of The Old Garden behind the ‘donor’ building, which was initially refused planning permission before Atelier Associates created a sympathetic design-led solution that sits perfectly in the surrounding built environment.

experience and taking a new approach to planning the site could be developed to include a dwelling.

“The appeal statement ran to 15 paragraphs and kept referring to ‘the’

52

development and ‘the’ proposal, but it didn’t consider the impact of ‘any’ project on the site,” he says.

“And that small word made all the difference. We felt that a well-considered and appropriate design that was sympathetic to the original house and lent itself to the character of the conservation area was a very real solution.”

Researching existing local architecture from the same period, Atelier Associates noticed that many older properties had several functional buildings to the side - stables and coach houses constructed from brick and carrstone. They looked at architecture in Hunstanton, Snettisham and Dersingham - and made note of the exterior detailing.

“That provided us with the inspiration, but everything we do is design-led and we generally start with the interior,” says Stephen’s co-founder Sarah Barker-Willis.

“We want to know how the space is

going to be used, and how the building flows. Identifying how people are going to live in a home should be the real foundation of every project.”

That approach resulted in a remarkable design (that gained planning approval in February 2020) that’s very clever. Perhaps the most outstanding feature of The Old Garden is a clever 400m drop in elements of the ground floor that’s minimised the property’s visual impact and reduced its overall height.

The impressive 3m sliding doors only serve to bring more light into the property, and open up the entire interior space to spectacular effect. This is what ‘bringing the outside in’ really means.

“We’ve designed homes with lounges bigger than the entire footprint of this property, but it feels huge,” says Sarah.

“It’s a very clever design and it’s a really

KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

“It’s all about genuine creativity, shared values, and a certain attitude...” lovely space.”

The unusual move of pushing the property to the rear of the site has retained an aesthetic connection to the original house, but it’s also enabled the creation of a private courtyard and an overwhelming feeling of seclusion - with the retention of the garden satisfying the demands of the conservation area.

The Old Garden is also extremely unobtrusive, and has strong environmental credentials - with insulation that exceeds building regulations, air source heating, and a planted ‘green’ roof.

It may also be unique in another way, with the exterior’s use of different cuts of carrstone for different purposes providing a contrasting yet complementary finish.

“The cut blocks of carrstone are virtually impossible to obtain now because all the building work being done locally at the moment means the seam of stone is now very hard to come by,” says Stephen. “We investigated a number of quarries and spent quite a lot of time on site ensuring the blocks were correctly aligned around the windows. It may be a small size, but it was deceptively complex.”

The Old Garden perfectly encapsulates the design-led approach of Atelier Associates - an approach in which nothing is standard and everything is perfectly suited to its environment.

“At Atelier Associates we think there’s a lot more to successful architecture than specific skills or particular qualifications,” says Sarah. “It’s about genuine creativity, shared values, and a certain attitude. Our projects speak to their setting, but they all accept that the local built landscape also has a big say in the matter.”

Atelier Associates Barn B, Home Farm Barns, Common Road, Snettisham PE31 7PD Tel: 01485 542729 Web: atelierassociates.uk Email: hello@atelierassociates.uk KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

ABOVE: Despite being one of the smallest properties the team at Atelier Associates have ever worked on, The Old Garden is a masterclass in clever design decisions and how to work successfully within a designated conservation area.

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OPPOSITE & RIGHT: Apple Tree Cottage a beautiful extension designed to create a light and airy living space to a countryside cottage (opposite). A view into the old part of the cottage which has undergone a complete renovation (right).

ABOVE: The Hidden Hut - Sophie & Boo’s bespoke Shepherds Hut designed in our signature Sophie & Boo Style. Available to rent at sophieandbooretreats.co.uk

LEFT: Vine Cottage - An outside space designed to be used as another room with cladding and outdoor fireplace.

The art of creating feeling through space Transforming a room to achieve the right atmosphere isn’t easy, although brilliant concepts and fantastic designs come naturally to Sophie Allsopp of Sophie & Boo

O

ur homes are incredibly personal parts of our lives we take great pride in, and we naturally want to spend time in a comfortable and attractive space that’s enjoyable to be in.

Many people tend to feel intimidated by the mention of interior design as it brings to mind huge and expensive projects, but the talented Sophie Allsopp of Sophie & Boo is keen to point out that nothing could be further from the truth.

“A carefully planned and expertly designed interior doesn’t have to cost the earth and it can actually raise the KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

value of a property and save you money in the long run,” she says. “From an early age I’ve always been very perceptive of how space makes you feel. There’s a real difference between an interior that’s really amazing and one that hasn’t quite hit the mark, and a single room can completely change your energy and mood. I find it easy to walk into a property and picture exactly how it should look to make the most of the space available and enhance the experience of the people living there.”

Sophie established her excellent business Sophie & Boo eight years ago (Boo was her much-loved and dearly

missed Jack Russell terrier) and she’s quickly earned a reputation for designing stunning and atmospheric interiors for homes and high-end holiday lets across Norfolk.

“I started off independently developing houses” she says. “An estate agent I worked with regularly reported that clients loved the luxurious and peaceful quality of my interiors, and recommended I consider working for other people.”

Using a calming neutral palette and paying attention to the basics, Sophie & Boo takes a remarkably understated approach to interior design - and 55

“It’s best to be subtle, choose soft colours, and layer textures to create a warm and welcoming feel...” the overall effect is nothing short of spectacular.

“Whether you’re at home or on holiday, you want to be in a relaxing and comfortable space,” says Sophie.

“Designing beautiful and timeless interiors is my passion, from plan to execution, and I feel it’s incredibly important to pay attention to every little detail. When presenting an idea, I’ll always put together a detailed mood board with different images, fabrics, materials, and paints to help you visualise the concept clearly and achieve a design in tune with your individual personality.”

Ever since the business began, Sophie has become renowned for her innovative use of lighting and texture – two crucial design elements which are often

overlooked.

“Lighting is very important as it has a huge impact on the atmosphere of a space,” she says. “If the lighting is wrong it will completely change the look of a room, no matter what you do with everything else. It’s best to be subtle, choose soft colours, and layer textures to create a warm and welcoming feel.”

It’s an approach Sophie also applies to her floors and furniture, preferring natural materials to man-made alternatives and working with local and individual brands to ensure every design is unique and executed to perfection.

“I like to have things specially made and collaborate closely with talented businesses in the area to create truly ABOVE: Vine Cottage - a complete renovation adding bespoke interiors,” character back with antiques and a hand carved says Sophie. “Since limestone fireplace. their very beginning we’ve worked with the BELOW: Limestone House - a new build designed high-quality Norfolk and furnished with a clam and neutral scheme (left). paint brand Fenwick Adding texture using panelling and Limestone floor & Tilbrook, and we’ve to create a welcoming entrance (right). just designed our own unique range of colours with them. We’re also communicating with Chapter Organics to create our own the professional aromatherapy business home fragrance, as it’s important to have all the senses working when you walk into an amazing space.”

As if this wasn’t enough, Sophie is also thrilled to add a brand-new element to the business.

“It’s hard to keep a property looking and smelling natural if you’re not there all the time, so we’re launching a service where we’ll decorate holiday homes with fresh seasonal plants,” she says. “Not only will we create stunning spaces, but we’ll also help to maintain them. I’m truly delighted with everything the business has achieved so far and, with lots of exciting projects coming up, I feel we’ve got a very bright future ahead of us.”

Sophie & Boo

Thornham, Norfolk Tel: 07813 177330 Email: info@sophieandboo.co.uk Web: sophieandboo.co.uk 56

KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

How to

Use lighting to create the right environment with Edmundson Electrical

H

ave you ever considered whether a light makes you feel warm or cold?

Edmundson Electrical help us to understand how crucial this question is when planning the lighting for your build.

“Lighting can have a major impact on a building inside and out,” explains King’s Lynn Branch Manager David Grimes.

“It can make a significant difference to how you feel in your home or your productivity at work and can make or break the guest experience in hospitality environments.”

For example, David recommends soft, warm lighting in a restaurant to create an inviting and comfortable mood. Whereas in a work setting, cooler lights, which are brighter, will be more stimulating and provide better visual clarity for tasks.

“In your home you will need some versatility in the lighting you choose,” David says. “You may want your kitchen to be up-lit with bright cool lights, while your living room would benefit from cozy warm tones. Many people make the mistake of installing white lights in their living space which then gives them that cold feeling. It is important to understand the difference between the colour temperature of lighting.”

Edmundson Electrical recommend that lighting should be an integral part of every building design and they work

Edmundson Electrical

“Think about lighting at the very earliest stage...” closely with architects, developers and electrical contractors to supply lighting concepts and products for the interior and exterior of your build. “You should think about lighting at the very earliest stage of a project,” David says, “Edmundson Electrical can help provide the design service if necessary. If you give us the plans, we can use lighting to get the very best features out of a building.”

David also recommends considering more premium products which will mean you save in the long term. “Products at a lower price point will often lack the light output that you need. Life expectancy is an important factor too, as if you end up having to change light fixtures you may find yourself redecorating.”

“Edmundson Electrical is a national company,” David explains, “but each branch is tailored to look after our local clients. I have the freedom to answer to the local market and provide

exactly what you need with stock held at a local level.”

David’s branch is a stockist of JCC Lighting, a leading manufacturer of lighting of all types. They offer a diverse range of commercial and domestic lighting to enrich homes and businesses.

And because their lighting solutions all use cutting edge LED technology, they are effective in tackling rising energy costs and the global climate challenge too.

So if you have a project in the making, contact Edmundson Electrical early for full lighting project support to make your building glow inside and out.

David Grimes MANAGER

Hardwick Industrial Estate, Unit 5 Old Berol Court, Scania Way, King’s Lynn PE30 4LS Tel: 01553 773132 Email: kings-lynn.039@eel.co.uk Web: edmundson-electrical.co.uk

KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

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Ground works, Landscaping & General Maintenance OUR SERVICES INCLUDE Landscaping & Fencing Painting & Decorating Brickwork Carpentry Plastering

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KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

How to

Fix your plumbing issues with A.T Norfolk

W

ater is the number one cause of damage in the home. It accounts for over 25% of domestic property claims, according to the Association of British Insurers, which is an average cost of £3,600 - a price you wouldn’t want to pay even at a time when costs weren’t rising seemingly by the second. And, although the water in our region is perfectly safe, it is classed as ‘hard’ to ‘very hard’ and can wreak havoc on your plumbing system.

But there’s no need for concern as Docking-based A.T Norfolk Plumbing & Heating offers a traditional and reliable service for everything from dripping taps and leaking toilets to replacement radiators and water tanks across west Norfolk and along the north Norfolk coast. And if that’s not enough, they also offer an expert bathroom installation service. So, whether you want to give your en-suite a face-lift, or perform a complete makeover on your family bathroom, Michaela and Adrian are the people to turn to.

“We never promise anything that we can’t deliver,” says Michaela Taverna, who established the company with her husband Adrian just over 20 years ago, “and within a few years of moving to Norfolk from Cambridgeshire we’ve already managed to build a very loyal and strong customer base.”

Much of that success is undoubtedly due to Adrian’s professional approach.

City & Guilds qualified, WaterSafe

A.T Norfolk Plumbing & Heating KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

“It can wreak havoc on your plumbing system...” registered, and with over 20 years’ experience he’s the perfect example of a traditional plumber - calling on a trusted team of subcontractors for any work that requires tiling or carpentry and dealing with the company’s increasing amount of enquiries for complete bathroom replacements.

Amazingly, Michaela and Adrian’s services don’t end there; they can even introduce you to trusted local professionals to help you with any decorating, electrical, landscaping or building work with an exciting new venture called Norfolk Coast & Country Property Maintenance.

“We’ve built up good relationships with efficient tradespeople who produce excellent work and are totally reliable,” says Michaela. “So many customers ask us for recommendations for good tilers, carpenters, and more that

we quickly realised it would work as a standalone service - and it’s got off to a great start.” Like A.T Plumbing & Heating, the various trades comprising Norfolk Coast & Country Property Maintenance never fail to surpass or exceed expectations.

From emergency repairs and small works to complete shower room and en-suite installations, contact A.T Norfolk Plumbing & Heating today for quick, reliable and professional results whatever the job.

Adrian & Michaela Taverna DIRECTORS

The Old Game Wing, Docking Hall, High Sreet, Docking PE31 8NG Tel: 01485 518648 Web: atplumbingnorfolk.co.uk Email: adrian@atplumbingnorfolk.co.uk

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LEFT & RIGHT: The Yorkton kitchen combines elements of luxurious walnut timber with painted Suede cabinets.

The large island makes a statement in the room, whilst providing a spacious seating area for friends and family. A grand canopy was created above the client’s AGA to bring the whole design together, with a beautiful antique mirrored glass splashback as an impressive finishing touch.

RIGHT : On-trend wall panelling was created to match the kitchen’s elegant, Shaker cabinetry painted in Truffle. A state of the art breakfast cupboard was also added; complete with bifold doors, a built-in coffee-machine and solid oak chopping boards and butler trays.

Begin your journey towards your new room After more than ten years of providing exceptional fitted kitchens, newrooms are now heading into a new era with an exciting second-storey to their showroom and an emphasis on outstanding customer service

F

rom its beginnings as a oneman company over 10 years ago, newrooms has grown to be a widely-respected provider of fitted kitchens, with a reputation for high-quality products, fantastic designs and attentive customer service.

Now, by expanding their showroom to include a second storey, founder Jamie Anderson is looking to take the business even further.

“I’ve worked in this industry creating ‘new rooms’ for almost 20 years and am delighted with everything we’ve achieved over the last decade,” he says. “We’ve

KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

always been truly invested in providing the best possible job at the best possible price, and we take pride in delivering a personal and dedicated service to customers. Our success so far has been phenomenal, and now we’re embarking on a new path in our incredible journey by broadening the room-sets we have on display to include both bedrooms and bathrooms.”

Newrooms design and install spectacular cabinetry for customers working on their own renovations, extensions and self-builds and also work with many professional trades such as architects, builders, and developers

to provide outstanding kitchens for development projects in the local area.

They’re always happy to adapt their services to suit any client’s budget, lifestyle and ideas.

Ever since the pandemic, kitchen, bathroom, and other projects have become more stressful due to uncertain lead times and ever-changing restrictions - however, with their professional, reliable, and attentive approach, newrooms aim to help with this in every way they can.

“When it comes to a quotation, we’re happy to provide all levels of service, from supply only for people who wish

61

“We’ve got a very bright future ahead and can’t wait to welcome customers into our new and improved showroom” to fit themselves all the way up to a fully managed project,” says Jamie. “We’ve recently taken on a dedicated Project Manager to run and schedule all trades,

62

TOP LEFT: The gin cabinet of dreams! Painted in Dry Rose - a soft, dusty pink.

ABOVE: This Heritage Green kitchen features a beautiful mix of shaker doors and slab pan drawers on the freestanding island.

BELOW: For those still working from home, this home-office set up is brilliant for both style and organisation.

taking the hassle away from the client as they won’t have to worry about finding and coordinating their own builders, plasterers, plumbers, electricians and other trades.”

The current newrooms showroom in Methwold is an impressive showcase of the company’s diverse range, with nine complete room layouts for inspiration.

“It’s a wonderful place for customers to browse our enormous choice of brands, colours and finishes and I’ve been wanting to utilise its second storey for a while,” says Jamie.

“We plan to display a series of bathroom and bedroom sets, along with a dedicated customer consultation room. The new space will give clients a relaxing environment to choose all of their kitchen finishes, including handles, paint colours, worktops and more.

We’ll also have a large display screen, allowing us to walk customers through their new 3D design.” It’s an exciting

step in the company’s amazing journey, and will enable them to showcase a wider range of room layouts and designs to expand the excellent services they already provide.

Alongside the showroom renovation, the company are currently working on their own new development of homes in Shropham through their sister company newrooms Developments.

“We’ve got a very bright future ahead and can’t wait to welcome customers into our new and improved showroom” says Jamie. “At newrooms we take great pride in going the extra mile to deliver an outstanding standard of customer service, something which sets our small, independent business apart from any large, national chain. By continuing with our journey, we hope to develop even further and carry on delivering innovative designs that really are second to none.”

newrooms

The Workshops, Brandon Road, Methwold, Thetford IP26 4RJ Tel: 01366 727417 Web: newroomsdesign.co.uk Email: info@newroomsdesign.co.uk KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

FREE ASSEMBLY & DISPOSAL FREE DELIVERY WITHIN 25 MILES At Bedtime Bed Centre we help you every step of the way - from choosing the ideal size for your bedroom to selecting the perfect mattress for your back and deciding on the most suitable headboard. However, we like to go a bit further than that. Both our fabulous showrooms offer free delivery within 25 miles, and our friendly team won’t just deliver your new bed - they’ll assemble it for you and they’ll even take your old bed away with them.

For the sweetest dreams and the best night’s sleep you’ve ever had, contact your local independent bed specialists today

A BEDTIME STORY FOR ALMOST 30 YEARS King’s Lynn Horsley’s Fields Industrial Estate, King’s Lynn PE30 5DD Tel: 01553 780227

www.bedtimebedcentre.co.uk

Wisbech 8 Falcon Road, Wisbech PE13 1AU Tel: 01945 466788

Your friendly, local bed specialist

ABOVE: The large terrace of The Pavilion looks over the golf course and the sea beyond.

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KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

A luxurious venue to match a magnificent view Overlooking some of the best family-friendly, dog-bounding beaches in the UK is The Pavilion at Heacham Manor. To cater for its wide array of visitors, this gorgeous building offers clever versatility within its luxury accommodation

T

he initial brief was for a new golf club and function room,” explains Jason Law, Director of Strata Architects and project designer, “but through the design stages this grew significantly into a more substantial development which would allow the distinctly different user groups to co-exist on one site.” In addition to the golf lounge, shop and changing facilities, the finished building also includes additional function rooms,

KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

public sports bar, a full kitchen for event catering, seven bedroom-suites and an iconic terrace.

Originally, a large function room was to be positioned on the first floor, but as the brief grew this was replaced with guest accommodation. “The function room moved to the ground floor and so we added the large terrace which is positioned so that the sunset can be enjoyed throughout the year,” Jason describes.

“The ground floor has more than one space for functions,” he continues, “so we incorporated a link corridor that separates the two sides and creates more privacy.

We also designed sound-proof divisions so that the capacity of the functions could be flexible and events could run simultaneously.”

One of the architectural challenges of the project was in considering the site as a whole. “The new Pavilion sits next to the listed building that is Heacham Manor, so 65

PICTURES: Designed to nestle perfectly within its surroundings, The Pavilion uses high-quality, sympathetic materials (above and below), and also provides an electric vehicle charging point (right).

Foundations

Constructing partitions

Steel frame erected 66

“The building has a fully accessible layout so that it is completely inclusive...” that had to be considered,” Jason says.

“However, the two buildings are divided by a number of smaller outbuildings and landscaping which allowed us more flexibility in the design.

“We are very proud of our success with The Pavilion,” Jason continues.

“Previously we had built a reputation for primarily residential projects, but The Pavilion has launched a run of commercial and tourism-related hospitality schemes.” Strata Architects have recently gained planning approval for their design of a new spa and swimming pool at Briarfields. They also designed the extension and renovation work at Thornham Deli and are responsible for the development at Drove Orchards which has become a real destination in Norfolk.

The high quality and robust build of The Pavilion is all down to award-

winning RobSon Construction. “The bar and function room wing of the building is supported by a steel frame structure,” says Peter Roberts, Managing Director.

“Once the steel frame was erected, the external walls could continue to be built up ready for the floor.”

RobSon Construction select building methods and materials that will provide value across the lifecycle of commercial buildings. “For example, the balcony area has a concrete plank floor with a raised composite deck that looks like wood placed on top,” Peter explains.

“The large balcony is finished off with a glass and steel balustrade and overlooks the golf course, which guests to The Pavilion love,” adds Ryan Baker, Project Coordinator for RobSon Construction.

“Externally, the building is brickwork at ground floor level with larch cladding to the first floor.” Ryan continues, “the roof is covered with new clay pan tiles to tie in with the existing surrounding buildings.”

Meanwhile, internally there is a large amount of timber panelling in the function rooms, bars and bedrooms. “This was all carried out by our own skilled inhouse carpenters,” Ryan explains.

The Heacham Manor location is rich in history, but the completed Pavilion looks to the future as a modern and luxurious facility to host a diverse range of occasions. The south-facing Dove Suite, with beautiful garden views and abundant

RIGHT: The new Pavilion caters for all with a large public bar area and spacious, versatile function rooms

natural light, is designed as a cleverly flexible space that can be partitioned to create the ideal environment for any event. “The building has a fully accessible layout,” explains Carolyn Johnson, Head of Marketing, “so that it is completely inclusive.”

“The Pavilion is finished with bespoke furniture and even specially commissioned pieces,” Carolyn continues. “It is designed to make your celebration something very special.”

With a casual atmosphere, and surrounded by beautiful scenery, this is certainly a welcoming space to spend time. There is also a sports bar for casual diners and a first-floor lounge with incredible views to match the delicious local menu. And if you just can’t bring yourself to leave, there are the deluxe suites upstairs offering spacious and modern accommodation.

Best enjoyed with an evening drink on the wide terrace, delighting in breathtaking views over the golf course and towards the sea, The Pavilion is a building that truly celebrates the best of the Norfolk coast.

The Pavilion

Strata Architects

RobSon Construction

Heacham Manor Hotel, Hunstanton Road, Heacham PE31 7JX Tel: 01485 536030 Web: heacham-manor.co.uk Email: info@heacham-manor.co.uk

Unit 12, Drove Orchards, Thornham Road, Holme-next-the-Sea PE36 6LS Tel: 01328 738239 Web: strataarchitecture.com Email: info@strataarchitecture.com

21 Holkham Studios, Holkham Estate, NR23 1RU Tel: 01328 854455 Web: robsonconstructionltd.co.uk Email: info@robsonconstructionltd.co.uk

KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

67

AN ESS TH IN RE US O B M IN H S IT R W YEA 25

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TRUSTED ELECTRICIANS IN NORFOLK A quality and professional service for all your electrical needs.

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FIRE DETECTION

ELECTRIC HEATING

THE STABLES, AUSTIN STREET, KING’S LYNN PE30 1QH TEL: 01553 763685 EMAIL: enquiries@bramham-electrical.co.uk WEB: www.bramham-electrical.co.uk

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Contact DAVID MAYNARD to find out more - the only registered installer in the area!

01553 602088 | sales@lynnframe.co.uk | www.lynnframe.co.uk

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KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

How to

Find the right floors with Lynn Carpet Centre

W

hen creating an amazing new look for your home, a great place to start is the floor. The focal point of most spaces, it’s surprising how much of an impact new flooring can have on a room, so finding the right fit for your property is very important.

52 years of experience make Lynn Carpet Centre the family business you can rely on for high quality, wide choice, and first-class service. Established in 1969, the award-winning firm supplies individuals and businesses throughout the area with excellent flooring at a competitive price and has built an enviable reputation based on outstanding customer service.

“Covering project estimates, measuring, and final fitting, we offer a fully inclusive service,” says Director, Jamie Overson.

“Our in-house team of experts are happy to provide all the advice you need to get your project started, and we’ll be on hand to guide you through the entire process.”

A member of Lynn Carpet Centre’s friendly and informative team can visit you at home with a range of samples, or you can call into the firm’s King’s Lynn showroom to discuss your requirements and view the vast selection of flooring they supply.

“We can show you hundreds of different types of flooring, from wellknown brands of carpet like Cormar, Riviera, Brockway, and Ulster to rustic natural options and luxury vinyl tiles,” says Jamie. “With so much choice it can be hard to know where to start, though that’s where our knowledgeable staff can help. We’re all experts in different kinds of flooring, not high-pressured salespeople, so we’ll explain each product’s advantages and match a solution to your

Lynn Carpet Centre

“We can show you 100’s of different types of flooring” needs and preferences.”

Lynn Carpet Centre is categorised as a select retailer with Karndean, a renowned manufacturer of Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) flooring. “These floors create a realistic and durable finish and are customisable to your personal taste,” says Jamie. “A trend we’re noticing now is flooring your home with a combination of luxury vinyl tile in the living spaces, and carpet in the bedrooms. With our expertise in both, range of high-quality products, and team of dedicated fitters, we can provide your entire new look.”

Whether you’d like that new look for one room, your entire home, or your business premises, Lynn Carpet Centre are always on board to help.

“We’ve supplied flooring for a variety of businesses including schools, hospitals, offices and even well-known local

restaurants and hotels,” says Jamie. “Our meticulous approach has won us a great reputation throughout Norfolk and the surrounding area, for both price and quality.”

As part of their commitment to exceptional customer service, Lynn Carpet Centre is a member of the Carpet Foundation, the UK carpet industry’s leading body, meaning they follow strict codes of practice and are vetted by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute.

If you want quality and choice of products as well as the personal touch of a passionate family-run business, at Lynn Carpet Centre there’s no need to compromise: you can have it all.

Jamie Overson

DIRECTOR

Bergen Way, North Lynn Industrial Estate, King’s Lynn PE30 2JG Tel: 01553 773938 Web: lynncarpetcentre.co.uk Email: sales@lynncarpetcentre.co.uk

KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

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RIGHT: Enjoy the latest combination of flawless design and cutting-edge technology with a luxurious media wall. From design to installation, Core Technology Projects will help you transform a blank canvas into a stunning focal point.

BELOW : With a bespoke media wall, you can experience the magic of the movies in the comfort of your own home.

Featuring the best quality audio and visual as well as fully integrated storage solutions, they’re a perfect way to enhance your living space and enrich your lifestyle.

Turning your walls into virtual wonderlands For the last 10 years Core Technology Projects have been treating the homes of west and north Norfolk to the latest advances in home entertainment - and are now combining that with cutting-edge designs

A

t the moment no one can blame us for wanting something to brighten our days (and evenings) and it seems we simply can’t get enough of enjoying the big-screen experience in the comfort of our own homes. Last year we spent a record £9.7 billion on home entertainment - a remarkable 5% increase on 2020, a year that defied all expectations and underlined the importance that movies, music and gaming now play in our lives.

And the latest interior design trend is the media wall - which cleverly bridges the gap between a full-size dedicated cinema room and a super-sized KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

television.

“Feature walls have been around for a number of years and have often been largely decorative, but they can now be turned into complete interactive experiences,” says Gary Carter of Core Technology Projects in King’s Lynn.

“Interior designers have always tended to avoid televisions, speakers, and audiovisual cables because they’re not the most attractive things in the world and can often spoil the look of a room. We’re completely turning things around by showing how a media wall can become the focal point of a space.”

As you’ve probably gathered by now, a media wall from Core Technology

Projects is much more than a wallmounted television. Power leads, HDMI cables and wiring are all cleverly hidden from sight - but are still easily accessible when the need arises.

The walls feature fully-integrated storage space, cupboards, bookshelves and drawers - and can even incorporate a log store or modern electric fire to complete the look, whether that’s traditional or contemporary.

But untidy cables and wires aren’t the only things hidden. The incredibly rich and totally immersive sound seems to magically emerge from the walls and ceilings from top-of-the-range speakers that are the total reverse of the famous 71

RIGHT: Utilising the latest highperformance technology, acoustic treatments, and custom seating options along with their years of experience in delivering thoughtfully designed cinemas, Core Technology Projects has everything you need to create a beautiful and functional home entertainment space.

proverb - they’re heard but not seen. And some of them are at the very forefront of loudspeaker design, combining cuttingedge acoustics with innovative and ground-breaking ideas.

“Sound is essentially vibrating air, so we use a specialist flexible plaster and dustfree process when building speakers into our media walls,” says Gary. “And that’s why we like using Gallo speaker systems - because they’re spherical, so they cut out resonance and internal diffraction,

ABOVE: For over two decades Gallo has been leading the way in spherical speaker design. Their stylish acclaimed products, like this Droplet Micro pendant loudspeaker, are cleverly designed to eliminate resonance and internal diffraction – the two main causes of speaker distortion

72

which are the two main causes of speaker distortion. They’re small details, but they make a world of difference.”

As do the decorative elements on the walls, which enhance the overall interior and are actually specially designed acoustic panels that enrich the sound.

And this isn’t just for your own personal benefit, as they can offer the ability to stream content to any part of the house including the exterior - which brings us to the outside.

“At this time of year people are asking us to take home entertainment into the outdoors, and Core Technology Projects have recently started installing Sonos who use Oscar and Grammy-winning producers, mixers and artists to fine-tune the sound experience,” says Gary. “Their speakers might look like stones and rocks and garden ornaments, but they make it sound as though you’re taking part in a major music festival.”

The possibilities are so exciting that Core Technology Projects have already received several enquiries from local garden centres and landscape designers interested in bringing this new technology to new locations.

Also bringing something wonderfully new to your home is Core Interiors, the company’s fantastic interior design service. Offering everything from furniture placement and floor coverings to full home revamps and space solutions, no job is considered too big or small.

Even if your project doesn’t incorporate technology products, Core Interiors’ skilled team of designers are happy to plan and rework any room you need help with. After getting a feel for your personality, space, and ideas they’ll present you with mood boards and photo-realistic images to bring your visions to life. Once you’re happy with the overall design, you’ll be given honest

“We’ll design it, we’ll build it, and we’ll carry out all the construction and electrical work...” timelines and budgets, and the entire project will be handled with care and expertise from start to finish.

“For us a blank wall is simply a blank canvas, says Gary. “You tell us what you’re dreaming of and Core Technology Projects can help you bring that dream to life. We’ll design it, we’ll build it, and we’ll carry out all the construction and electrical work. All you need to do is sit back and enjoy the show.”

Core Technology Projects 1 APS House, Oldmedow Road, Hardwick Industrial Estate, King’s Lynn PE30 4JJ Tel: 01553 776413 Web: coretp.uk Email: enquiries@coretp.uk

KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

BEDDING, SHEETS, MATTRESS PROTECTORS, DUVETS & PILLOWS

Home Design & Build with all your Favourite Brands

MADE TO M E ASURE CURTAIN S, BLINDS & ACCE SSO RIE S

charmed-interiors.co.uk

R E A D Y MA D E C U R T A I N S , V OI L ES & C U S H I ON S

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KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

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P R OU D SP ONSOR S OF

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From a grand ballroom to a coastal hideaway After two years of careful planning and dedicated restoration, The Ballroom in Blakeney has become one of the most unique and breathtaking holiday homes in the county…

O

nce an important venue for prestigious parties and extravagant evenings of dancing, The Ballroom is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular houses in north Norfolk. Standing proudly above Blakeney’s captivating coastline, it boasts mesmerising views of the sparkling sea and surrounding coastal marshes.

The magnificent property was always intended to impress, astound, and entertain, having been built in the mid1920s for a lady of consequence living in the neighbouring Whitefriars House. The importance of its vibrant history was not lost upon the current owners, Ali and Guy Gowing, who set out to create a luxurious holiday hideaway whilst maintaining the exquisite building’s original fabric and

character.

“I came across The Ballroom whilst searching for a new project,” says Ali, who worked in fashion design for several years before moving onto interior styling and property development about eight years ago. “The moment I saw the building I was blown away by its potential, its grandeur, and the stunning surroundings and I instantly fell in love with it. It’d been a much-loved second home for a couple who lived outside the county, though in recent years they struggled to visit often.

I felt the house needed to be modernised for 21st century living, but in a way that stayed true to its unique personality and heritage.

It was a bigger job than we’d planned for, and I knew it’d be a considerable challenge, but I work with some amazing

tradesmen and have learned an awful lot over the last few years. Attention to detail is paramount in every project I take on.

The Ballroom had captured my heart so I made it my mission to restore it to its former glory.”

It was a project Ali channelled every ounce of her creativity into, spending hours getting to know the property inside out and pouring over pages of architectural plans with Tom Ground of Ground Designs..

“When renovating a house, I feel it’s incredibly important to focus on what attracted you in the first place,” says Ali. “It’s about enriching the best bits rather than creating something different entirely.”

This dedication to preserving The Ballroom’s heritage is exemplified by

the attention shown to restoring the original parquet dance floor, which runs through the living room and into the four ground floor bedrooms.

“Many of the old floor planks had become damaged and needed to be removed, rescued and pieced together again,” explains Ali. “I felt it was important to celebrate the property’s original features, and seeing that fabulous floor fully restored was a really special moment.”

“It was a huge renovation project and we had to take most of the building apart in the end as there was no insulation in the property. We installed new doors, windows, plumbing and electrics throughout, raised ceilings, completely re-landscaped outside, and added a spacious first floor master suite and a large extension - which was carefully designed to replicate the bay shape of the original ballroom.”

To further enhance the character and luxury of the house, Ali worked to extend the living and bedroom areas, add ensuite bathrooms to all five bedrooms, and create a spacious kitchen/dining room with sliding doors to maximise the breathtaking views over Blakeney’s

saltmarshes and sandbanks.

“I had a very specific image in mind for the kitchen as I wanted to create an infinity from the interior out to the marshes beyond,” says Ali. “I spent ages searching for a company who could help translate my ideas into a functional design and was impressed with what Kestrel Kitchens had to offer in terms of craftmanship. I liked the fact they made all their units in house at their extensive manufacturing workshop, so everything was on the doorstep here in Norfolk.”

“We’re proud to be the region’s largest manufacturer of bespoke kitchens, bedrooms, and bathrooms, which are

“When renovating a house, I feel it’s incredibly important to focus on what attracted you to it in the first place” all delivered with excellent attention to detail,” says Edward Hill, General Manager at Kestrel Kitchens. “Our passionate and knowledgeable team worked closely with the owner of The Ballroom to achieve the exact look she wanted, taking time to experiment with different layouts and materials. The stunning quartzite central

PICTURES: The exceptional work of Kestrel Kitchens (top left), combined with skilled craftmanship from Norfolk Upholstery (right, top) and Ali Gowing’s incredible eye for design to restore a luxurious sense of glamour to The Ballroom.

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KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

PHOTOS BY CHRISTAYLORPHOTO.CO.UK PICTURES: With glorious saltmarsh and sea views from almost every window, this truly spectacular luxury retreat has been sublimely updated to offer every 21st century comfort whilst staying true to its heritage.

island was always intended as the main feature, and Ali visited suppliers around the country to find the perfect stone to enhance the colours of the surrounding marsh.”

An equal amount of thought was channelled into the property’s exterior spaces, with the construction of an extensive patio, a cosy sunken firepit, an outdoor shower, an electric car charging point and a luxurious rooftop terrace. Ali’s aim of achieving the perfect marriage of old and new inspired her to employ an Art Deco style throughout, making an innovative use of colours and materials to bring 1920s glamour into functional modern interiors.

“I wanted to give every space its own individual styling and sense of character,” she says. “I designed each bathroom using a different type of marble, raised ceilings, added beautiful plaster cornice

and unique ceiling roses to every bedroom, and worked with the talented team at Norfolk Upholstery to restore several pieces of antique furniture belonging to the previous owners.”

A professional and friendly family run business who’ve been offering outstanding upholstery services for over 45 years, Norfolk Upholstery threw themselves into the project, creating beautiful headboards and hand-made curtains for the living room and transforming faded furnishings into glamorous showpieces.

“Our team has decades of experience in commercial, contract, and speciality upholstery, and we always aim to deliver the very best for our clients,” says Karl Cooper, Director at Norfolk Upholstery.

“We take great pride in our ability to turn whatever you can imagine into a reality and have worked hard to build an extensive collection of highquality fabrics and materials. Mrs Gowing came to us with a very clear picture of what she wanted to achieve, and we were able to provide exactly what she needed to bring her vision to life,” These exquisite features paired perfectly with Ali’s fabulous decorations and finishing touches, particularly the two magnificent chandeliers sparkling in the sitting room. “I’d bought those before we’d even started any work, as they fitted perfectly with the atmosphere I wanted to create,” says Ali. “Finally getting to put

them up was an exciting moment as, after dedicating two years of my life to the project, I was finally able to see elements I’d imagined at the very beginning fall into place.”

The instant I saw The Ballroom I knew it was special, and after all the thought, hard work and effort I channelled into its revival, it’s nice to finally have a chance to step back and admire the result.”

To get in touch with Ali and discover what her innovative interior design ideas could bring to your next project, please contact Ali Gowing Design at ali. gowingdesign@gmail.com or if you’d like to book a stay in this luxurious property please visit norfolkhideaways.co.uk

Kestrel Kitchens

Norfolk Upholstery

Reeves Corner, Plumstead Rd, Great Plumstead, Norwich NR13 5BY Tel: 01603 722026 Web: kestrelkitchens.co.uk Email: sales@kestrelfurniture.com KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

3 Europa Way, Norwich Norfolk NR1 2EN Tel: 01603 611 442 / 07518 472 442 Web: norfolkupholstery.co.uk Email: info@norfolkupholstery.co.uk 77

RIGHT: Mix and match with a choice of accent chairs such as this Forli snuggler by Ercol.

Create the perfect dining space with the Heritage 2m extended dining set.

Featuring a beautifully crafted oak dining table and a matching bench, cushion, and chairs, it’s the perfect combination of practicality, comfort and style. While using a calming palette of chalk white and hues of oatmeal and grey, the striking Denby Kiln dinnerwear is designed to make your food look incredible.

OPPOSITE: Grounded in British heritage with timeless designs and vintage detailing, Alexander & James are renowned for their opulent hand-crafted sofas – such as this stylish Bailey sofa in Byron Tumbleweed.

With a wide range of home furnishings, Aldiss can help you find the perfect accessories to accent your sofa and to maximise comfort.

Furnishing Norfolk homes since 1892 Aldiss has been styling local homes with beautiful home furnishings and accessories for generations - and the future looks suitably stylish...

A

t Aldiss we’ve been making Norfolk our home since opening our very first shop in 1892, and we’ve been helping customers bring their properties to life with beautiful designs and clever ideas ever since.

Our experts are always on hand to help and are happy to share their experience and share their hints and tips on 78

furnishing your home.

Our collections are sourced from around the world, but they always have Norfolk in mind - taking inspiration from the surrounding fields, coastlines, and landscapes of this very special county.

At Aldiss you’ll find attractive and practical solutions in the two largest furnishing stores in Norfolk, all delivered by an experienced distribution team in

Fakenham and backed by aldiss.com - the online home to the very best in furniture and furnishings.

If you’re looking for furnishing tips it always helps to start with some local knowledge, and there’s no better place to start than with the light. For many years artists have made their home in Norfolk to take advantage of the wonderful light. It’s worth thinking about this when KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

planning your furnishings, especially as some colours suit particular settings - just look at our painted furniture ranges for some inspiration.

Next think about size and scale.

Smaller cottages can prove a challenge as the temptation is to over furnish, but at Aldiss we’ve scaled a number of our ranges to suit. Traditional staircases and sloping ceilings can make the delivery of bedroom furniture and beds difficult, but smaller pieces or ones that can be assembled in your room both offer effective solutions.

By the same token, large-scale houses such as farmhouses and barn conversions can lose their personality if your furniture is too minimal or small in scale.

A great place to start is with the background, with your floors, windows, carpets and curtains - after which you can start thinking about how you want to use your home, where to store everything, how to incorporate modern technology (many sofas now have built in USB points) - and you can finally make the most of Aldiss with a breathtaking choice of soft furnishings and finishing touches.

KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

ABOVE: Working from home has become an essential way of life as well as a lifestyle choice for many. The experts at Aldiss recommend avoiding giving up dedicated space to make way for a home office, although this Ballatta oak desk and shelving unit by Ercol works wonders for both.

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“We now offer a special service for whole home, business and commercial properties...”

Our expertise further extends to commercial projects and businesses, such as hospitality venues, holiday lets, and residential show homes. We use our knowledge and relationships with key home brands and suppliers to fulfil any brief, regardless of timeline and budget.

Our team of experts are always on call to help you create the perfect look for your business and, in addition to providing furniture and furnishings, we can also assist with design, planning, delivery, and installation of your products.

If you’d like to discover what a difference 130 years of home furnishing expertise can bring to your new project, contact Aldiss today and we’ll explain the options, show you the available designs, and give your home or business the spectacular look it deserves.

ABOVE: After days of country or coastal walks, a good night’s sleep is all important with a sprung divan base, or stylish bed frames with storage options - this Heritage bedroom is perfect for the sweetest dreams.

Fakenham: Oxborough Lane, Fakenham NR21 8AF | 01328 862381 Norwich: Hall Road Retail Park, Norwich NR4 6DH | 01603 272100 Web: aldiss.com Email: buisnessandcommercial@aldiss. com

MIDDLE : Wardrobes are some of the largest pieces of furniture you’ll buy and they have to share a room with a bed, so size is important. Spend time deciding how much storage you need and then plan how it will all fit in your room – this Lake wardrobe by Weimann is perfect.

LEFT : With fantastic skies, country and coastal views to enjoy, make the most of your outdoor space with this Panama cross leg, 2m table and 6 chairs.

How to

Choose your new bathroom with Quay Centre

A

fter the kitchen the bathroom is probably the most important room in the house in terms of resale value, and its status hasn’t been raised by purely practical needs.

Today’s bathrooms are designed with relaxation and pampering in mind. At the enormous Quay Centre showroom in Wisbech you’ll find almost 30 fully dressed bathrooms (as well as a host of kitchen displays, tiles, and a fully stocked plumbing counter) which is just a small sample of the countless styles and designs on offer. As a knowledgeable and experienced independent business, Quay Centre are perfectly placed to piece together a stunning bathroom that’s tailored to meet your individual needs.

One of the most important things to consider in a bathroom is the layout - and Managing Director Laura Dewhirst offers some useful advice on how to make the most of the space you have available. “It’s strange to think that the average size of a bathroom in the UK is about the same size as a king-size bed,” she says. “If you take the time to think about the layout and how you want it to feel right from the start, you’ll benefit by having a bathroom that works in the long term.”

It’s key to think carefully about how you’d like your bathroom to function in the future and use this as a starting point. An en-suite for two requires a very different approach to a family bathroom that needs a bath and plenty of storage

Quay Centre

“Take the time to think about the layout...” for toys. Similarly, a spa-style sanctuary will require a range of specifications and fittings that could include a bath, separate shower, double basins, heaps of storage, and a relaxing feel, while a guest bathroom may simply require a shower and toilet.

“When it comes to deciding where you’re going to position your bathroom fittings, the best tip is to think about how they’re used and in what order,” says Laura. “We’d recommend the sink or basin is placed closest to the door, as it’s the last stop in most bathroom routines or the first stop if you’re nipping in to wash your hands. The toilet and other fittings can be further back in the room, as they need to feel more private.”

Working with your existing layout can be a cost-effective way of carrying out the installation, but sometimes changes are necessary. Historically, bathrooms

were designed with very different needs in mind - basins were often placed underneath windows (meaning no hanging space for mirrors), storage wasn’t considered, and more often than not neither was heating.

“Our showroom is packed with the latest materials and technology, and we have plenty of solutions to transform awkward spaces,” says Laura. “If you need any help or advice, our brilliant sales team has years of combined experience, and they’ll happily guide you through the whole process.” From initial planning and conceptual design to expert support and fitting, Quay Centre has everything you need to bring your bathroom to life.

Laura Dewhirst

MANAGING DIRECTOR

28-31a North End, Wisbech, Cambs PE13 1PE Tel: 01945 476797 Web: quaycentre.co.uk Email: sales@quaycentre.co.uk

KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

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L

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A genuine family-run local business that’s now in its 3rd generation A fully-employed team of experienced fitters to help maintain our high standards Showroom offering a large range of luxury vinyl tiles and carpets Contact Alistair and the team today to take the first step to your perfect floor

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Visit the LARGEST fireplace & stove showroom in West Norfolk Call or visit us in store to find out more information Austin Fields, King’s Lynn, PE30 1PH | Tel: 01553 772564 Mob: 07984687389 | Web: www.krfireplaces.co.uk 82

KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

How to

Plan your new kitchen with Quay Centre

D

espite all the pressures of building a new home or renovating an existing one, choosing a kitchen can be one of the most exciting parts of the project – in addition to being one of the most expensive, stressful and time consuming.

When Trevor Hunt and his wife Dilys established the Quay Centre in Wisbech back in 1991, they started by selling bathrooms in a small showroom.

More than three decades on, they’ve expanded the space enormously, and it now features kitchens (with over 20 fully dressed kitchen displays) plus a host of door samples, meaning they can cater for every individual’s needs.

“When you’re thinking about your kitchen the most important thing is to identify what you want it to do,” says Laura Dewhirst, managing director. “Do you need a space to quickly prepare meals and suit a busy lifestyle, or do you

Quay Centre

“Identify what you want your kitchen to do...” want an area to use as an entertainment space for dinner parties with family and friends. The kitchen is often described as the heart of the home, and post covid we’re seeing the space being used in so many different ways. It’s now commonplace for kitchens to include a working station that’s designed to match in with the rest of the room, which provides an area to work and study from home and draws the family living spaces together.”

One of Laura’s most useful tips is to look at existing utilities and make a note of the architectural restrictions of the room, a sloping celling, doors thoroughfares and windows can have a huge impact on the design layout that works best for your space.

“Over the course of a year we’ll fit hundreds of kitchens across the county, and we’ve even starred in an episode of Channel 4‘s Grand Designs,” she says. “Few people can

offer a more comprehensive service to both retail and trade customers, and that’s something we’re incredibly proud of.”

It really helps that the team who carry out your initial survey will be the team that fits your kitchen, and they’ll always go the extra mile to bring your vision to life. “We’re a totally independent business so we have the freedom to create a totally individual kitchen for you,” says Laura. “You can mix and match as many different elements from as many different manufacturers as you like, and our dedicated team of staff and fitters will be with you all the way to ensure the kitchen of your dreams becomes a reality.”

Laura Dewhirst

MANAGING DIRECTOR

28-31a North End, Wisbech, Cambs PE13 1PE Tel: 01945 476797 Web: quaycentre.co.uk Email: sales@quaycentre.co.uk

KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

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LEFT & RIGHT: Brancaster Project – our client wanted to create a feeling of space and continuity between the indoors and out. They chose Foras Dalliance Grigio porcelain in 10mm and 20mm in a 4 size mix, this tile has a slight surface texture which creates the look and feel of a natural stone.

BELOW: Foras’ inspirational show gardens in Stowbridge, with over 50 running water features.

Give your floors the fabulous FORAS touch Whether you’re working on an exciting new-build project or renovating your own home, FORAS can help you create a truly stunning space

O

ur homes and gardens are incredibly important and meaningful places, as they influence how we think, feel and support how we want to live. Choosing what to put on the walls and floors is a huge decision if you want to create an amazing space to enjoy for years to come. The foundation of any project, tiles and flagstones can make or break a design, so it’s crucial to get it right from the beginning. There’s a lot to consider, from which materials and textures work best in your home to what colours and patterns will complement the rest of your concept – though if you’re in need of inspiration and expert advice, look no further than Foras.

An award-winning family-run business, Foras is truly passionate about home and garden spaces and has earned a sound reputation for providing high quality products, exceptional customer service KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

and their spectacularly inspirational gardens and showroom.

The company was founded in 2003

by Norfolk farmer John Wootton and consultant Claire Brutnall with the aim of producing an exclusive range of natural stone flagstones, porcelain tiles and garden accessories - and, almost two decades later, it’s become one of the county’s most respected names in interior and exterior design.

Foras offers an extensive range of spectacular products which are directly sourced throughout the UK, Europe, and Asia, and are cleverly displayed at the company’s home in Stowbridge.

Providing a unique browsing experience, the gardens are carefully constructed in themed areas which are fully dressed, landscaped, and planted to give you plenty of inspiration and ideas.

Inside you’ll find the tiles and flagstones laid on the walls and floors in larger areas,

with accent tiles available to mix and combine, enabling you to make your own mood boards and see how the products will look and feel in your home. Swatch samples are available to take away and full tile samples are available to purchase.

For those in the trade, Foras offer a sample ammunition box, robust and ready to take to site.

Upon visiting Foras you will be welcomed by passionate specialists who will work with you on your ideas, offering unbiased advice and ingenious suggestions to help find exactly what you need to suit your lifestyle and requirements. If you’re working on a new property or renovation, Foras are equally happy teaming up with your chosen designer or builder to bring your concepts to life.

Whether you’re paving a single patio or building a complete development of boutique homes, Foras provide 85

“Foras can help with design support, material selection and expert technical knowledge” the complete solution, from plan to purchase. Foras can help with design support, material selection and expert technical knowledge. For larger projects a bespoke cutting service is available with drop down copings, pool surrounds, bullnosed steps, and drain covers in either stone or porcelain.

Foras’ dedicated team are always on hand to offer advice and guidance throughout your installation and will work closely with you and your tradespeople to keep you on time and on budget. Deliveries can be tailored to your requirements with a crane offload available for larger orders.

Foras sets itself apart by importing their

ABOVE: Foras Fusion 600 Water Feature 86

ABOVE: Denver Project – This garden was designed in zones to create a flexible space. The clients chose to use Foras Dalliance Bianco and Foras Foundation Soot porcelain, accented by Foras St Quentin Silver Limestone setts, all products which tonally complement and display a variety of textures. A Foras Pure Layered Slate water feature is the focal point of the middle courtyard area.

own unique blends of stones and finishes designed and tested here in Norfolk.

The team personally sources their Foras Originals tile and flagstone range directly from the manufacturers, importing themselves and taking each product through a rigorous quality control process.

“My passion has always been to supply the finest tiles and flagstones fully ‘in house’ to ensure consistency throughout every batch,” says John. “It has taken years to build solid relationships with our quarries and factories and, by sourcing directly from them, we’ve been able to select our own unique tonal blends, exquisite finishes, and can produce bespoke items to order.”

Foras has always believed in adorning our homes and gardens

with pieces of the highest quality and utmost originality, and their long track record of award-winning projects and repeat business speaks volumes for the company’s commitment to consistency, passion for design and its ability to create truly incredible spaces.

For more details and information about Foras tiles and flagstones please visit foraswallsandfloors.co.uk, for spectacular Foras garden features please visit foras.co.uk or visit the showroom at Stowbridge to see the Foras difference for yourself.

FORAS

West Head Road, Stowbridge, King’s Lynn PE34 3NJ Tel: 01366 381069 Web: Home and Garden - foras.co.uk Web: Tiles and Flagstones foraswallsandfloors.co.uk Email: info@foras.co.uk KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

How to

Open up your home using bifold doors with Rudd Joinery

B

ifold doors have become something of a must-have feature in homes these days — and it’s easy to see why. They’re a brilliant way to bring extra natural light into a property whilst creating both a visual and physical link to the outdoor spaces. And the benefits of bifolds don’t stop there - they can increase the sense of space and effectively create a whole new ‘outdoor room’ in the sunnier months.

Increasing the amount of natural light we’re exposed to on a daily basis has also been proven to have a positive effect on wellbeing.

The ever-increasing popularity of internal and external bifold doors means that there’s a huge range of materials, sizes and styles on offer which can make it difficult to know which model is right for your home. So how do you choose?

“The good news is that unless your property is listed or is in a conservation area you shouldn’t need planning permission,” says Jamie Rudd of Rudd Joinery, who’ve been producing superior and environmentally-friendly timber doors, windows and conservatories for almost 30 years from the family-run company’s manufacturing facility just outside Fakenham. “The best place to start is by calculating the aperture they’ll

Rudd Joinery

“There’s no better way of bringing the outside in...” be fitted into and then investigate the various glazing options. We can give you all the help and advice you need on this, but it’s best to avoid heavy-looking profiles because they’ll restrict the light, reduce the size of the panes and compromise the views.”

Jamie also suggests keeping to an odd number of panels so they can stack more easily and create a complete opening.

He also suggests that with bifold doors, having a ‘master door’ is always a good idea to gain easy access without having to open up the entire door system.

“Most people see bifold doors as a link between the interior and the exterior, but internal bifolds are ideal for embracing the open plan aesthetic without disrupting your home too much. They offer the flexibility of being able to fold away the partition while guests are visiting or when parents want to keep an eye on the kids while cooking dinner, but they also allow rooms to be closed off

when you need some privacy or a sense of cosiness.”

As long-standing members of the British Woodworking Federation (BWF), Rudd Joinery works to the very highest standards, combining the beauty of the past with the technology of the present and employing exceptional craftsmanship skills to create outstanding highperformance timber products individually tailored to suit your home.

For a free quotation and to explore the possibilities of what bifold doors could bring to your building project, contact Jamie and his team today.

Jamie Rudd DIRECTOR

Sculthorpe Boulevard, Tattersett Business Park, Fakenham NR21 7RL Tel: 01485 529 136 Web: ruddjoinery.co.uk Email: enquiries@ruddjoinery.co.uk

KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

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PICTURES: Design was key in the creation of this extraordinary property, which features an inspiring first-floor entrance, innovative use of windows to take advantage of natural light, and glorious views of the surrounding countryside.

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KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

An inspiring design in a stunning setting Combining a traditional form and local materials with innovative ideas and modern details, Strata Architects have brought something delightfully ‘new’ to Old Hunstanton…

I

f you’re familiar with west and north Norfolk, you’ve almost certainly come across the exceptional work of Strata Architects. Over the last 15 years, founding director Jason Law and his skilled team have completed more than 600 projects in the area, from small extensions and sensitive restorations to commercial developments and bespoke new builds.

Speaking volumes for their inspiring ideas and excellent attention to detail is the recently-completed Sea Drift House in Old Hunstanton, one of two extraordinary private holiday homes designed and delivered by Strata.

Jason is absolutely delighted with how the properties – which offer glorious views of the surrounding countryside – have turned out, especially after the patience and dedication required KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

throughout the project’s early stages.

“Initially we applied for permission to build four houses on the site though, with it being in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this was met with resistance due to overdevelopment,” explains Jason. “We adapted the plan to suit three properties and persevered when this was refused, eventually succeeding with the two houses we’ve got today.”

Wanting to make the most of the land they had available, Strata set out to create a pair of striking and spacious homes. Working closely with the architectural imaging experts at Snettisham-based Archi-Vis Studio, the company put together detailed 3D illustrations of what they wanted to achieve – and the designs were so appealing both properties were bought

off-plan before any work had even begun.

“When approaching any architectural project, it’s best to deal with the restrictions first. We start by identifying what we can and can’t do and use this to shape the design,” says Jason. “Due to the site’s coastal setting, one of the biggest challenges we faced was flood risk. In response to this we designed Sea Drift with raised living areas, creating an identifiable front door on the first floor and adapting the ground level for utilities and garaging.”

This allows plenty of room for storage, often a limited feature in modern homes, and results in the creation of fantastic living spaces that afford atmospheric views over the surrounding Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The house has been sympathetically 89

PICTURES: The first floor boasts a magnificent open plan lounge, kitchen, and dining room with bi-folding doors at either end (above) as well as a stylish double bedroom complete with a walk-in-wardrobe and a spacious en-suite. (below) Due to their outstanding architectural design, both properties were swiftly bought off plan.

designed to reflect its charming location, with cosy and welcoming interiors and a carefully selected base of local materials.

“From a design point of view Old Hunstanton doesn’t really have a defined character,” says Jason. “You’ve got the old flint and brick cottages as well as post war properties finished with render, and 1980s and 1990s estate type housing.

When designing a house, we tend to choose a palette of three materials and in this case we went for red brick, flint pebbles and an off-white render. The two houses are very similar with minor changes to the frontage, ensuring they seamlessly marry together whilst being identifiable on their own, and they pick up on all the different design elements in Old Hunstanton.”

To further engage with the house’s captivating location Strata set out to maximise the countryside views, designing all three en-suite bedrooms

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with dual aspect vistas and creating spectacular verandas.

Carl Smith and his skilled team from West Winch-based Smith & Williamson Developments completed the glasswork, installing doors, windows, and bi folds as well as an exquisite balustrade leading up to the front porch.

“At the beginning of the Sea Drift project we were asked to quote the windows off plan and, thanks to our highly experienced staff and competitive prices, we were soon given both properties to work on,” says Carl. “We approach every job with a meticulous level of attention to detail and take our time with what we do to ensure everything is completed to perfection.

One of the most challenging parts of this particular project was creating and installing the infinity glass balustrades at the entrances of both houses, though I’m impressed with how they’ve turned out.

We’re always happy to carry out bespoke work other companies won’t take on, and I’m immensely proud of what the team has achieved here. Every task was completed according to plan, and I’m confident we delivered exactly what was required.”

Striving to make Sea Drift as functional as it is stunning, Strata has incorporated various modern luxuries into the charming coastal home. With the help of The 4 Way Group, generally regarded as the area’s most experienced and professional suppliers of air conditioning and air source heating, they’ve equipped the house with one of the most reliable and cost effective heating systems

KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

“In architecture it’s always important to engage with your location, especially in an area as picturesque as the Norfolk coast...” currently available.

“After carefully studying the plans, we selected a Super High Power 16kw Fujitsu air-to-water heat pump system which heats the domestic hot water, underfloor heating to the ground and first floor, and radiators on the second floor,” says Steve Simpson of The 4 Way Group. “The machine comes with a massive 7-year parts warranty and can be installed with any central heating controls on the market. For Sea Drift we chose a Heatmiser Neo system which benefits from Wifi control from a phone or tablet, ideal for remote operation for holiday homes. All the equipment was installed in the ground floor utility room and has cupboards built around it, ensuring it’s extremely well protected and looks great too.”

KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

Combining breathtaking views and calming interiors with inspiring designs and modern comforts, Sea Drift is undoubtedly a very special home.

Every element of the design has been well thought through and executed to perfection, and Jason is justifiably proud of what Strata has achieved.

“After the passion and dedication we poured into the project, it’s very rewarding to see our vision brought to life,” he says. “In architecture it’s always important to engage with your location, especially in an area as picturesque as the Norfolk coast, and with Sea Drift I feel we’ve done this incredibly well. It’s a perfect example of how modern design can complement a stunning natural setting.”

For more outstanding examples of the work of Strata Architects or to find creative solutions for your next project please visit their website or contact them using the details below.

4Way Group Tel: 01553 767878 Web: 4waygroup.co.uk Email: sales@4waygroup.co.uk

Smith & Williamson Developments Ltd 75 Hall Lane, West Winch, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE33 0PJ Tel: 01553 841175 / 07799620883 Email: carl@smithandwilliamson conservatories.co.uk

Strata Architects Unit 12, Drove Orchards, Thornham Road, Holme-next-the-Sea PE36 6LS Tel: 01328 738239 Web: strataarchitecture.com Email: info@strataarchitecture.com

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RIGHT : Featuring a gravel seating area surrounded by scented planting, this charming exterior has been constructed using timber, though a similar effect could be created with natural stone. The colour palette of the planting has been kept simple to create a relaxing environment.

LEFT: This beautifully landscaped garden features a stunning and varied planting scheme. The inspiring combination of different colours and textures creates an uplifting feel.

BELOW : This Japanese style garden draws inspiration from natural materials, creating a calming atmosphere focussed on contemplation and meditation. The planting palette consists of vibrant shades of green and touches of pink, establishing a pretty and purposeful space with an enchanting feel.

Gorgeous gardens designed with passion If you’re looking for inspiring ideas to enrich your garden spaces, you need look no further than Dean Price Horticulture…

O

ur gardens and outside spaces are integral parts of our homes, increasing the value of our properties and improving our lifestyle and

wellbeing.

“Many people feel overwhelmed when thinking about garden design, and few realise what can be achieved in an outdoor space,” says talented Garden Designer and Horticulturalist Dean Price who, with his wife Jodie, has been designing and creating stunning gardens across Norfolk for over five years. “It’s important to get the most out of your garden, although it can be hard to know where to begin – luckily, that’s where we come in.”

Whether you’re looking for a fresh planting scheme, an added feature

KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

like a wildlife pond, a themed exterior for a holiday home, or a complete redevelopment of your outdoor area, Dean and Jodie are perfectly placed to create a beautiful and functional garden to suit your every need.

They’re fully approved members of the government’s valued TrustMark initiative and the industry-leading Horticultural Trade Association and are the only business in north and west Norfolk accredited by the Association of Professional Landscapers.

With qualifications in horticulture, garden design and garden landscape construction, Dean is never short of incredible ideas and imaginative suggestions when it comes to transforming an outside space.

“He has a truly extraordinary talent,”

says Jodie. “Someone will just give him a load of fragmented ideas based on their likes and interests. I’ll see him looking at the garden thoughtfully, then his eyes will light up with passion and excitement as everything clicks into place. He’ll know exactly how he’s going to design it and he gets it spot on every time.”

It’s this enthusiastic work ethic and personal service that makes Dean Price Horticulture stand out. When you contact Dean or Jodie, they’ll arrange a free initial consultation to discuss themes and ideas.

Once they have a feel for what you want to achieve, Dean will draw up a concept design, create detailed mood boards, and gather samples of plants and paving to help inspire you further.

“When we present a concept, we take as much physical material as possible

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LEFT: Following completion earlier this year, this stunning circular themed garden has settled in well. The circular patio, pergola, paths, and lawn areas were designed to soften the straight lines of the boundary walls and the relaxing planting palette of purples and whites creates a perfect place to unwind.

MIDDLE LEFT: Combining natural stone with a planting scheme including reeds and grasses, this thoughtfully designed wildlife pond provides a wonderful oasis for flora and fauna to thrive.

BOTTOM LEFT: This fantastic beach style exterior is part of an inspirational collection of show gardens designed by Dean Price Horticulture to help clients visualise different themes, materials and planting schemes.

to help clients visualise it,” says Dean.

“We’ll walk around your garden and talk through ideas. What’s important to you is important to us, and we’re always happy to adapt the design to suit your exact requirements.”

The pair are proud to propagate and grow over 80% of the many perennials, shrubs, and trees used in their schemes and can create bespoke themed gardens to suit every taste, from stylish Mediterranean and Japanese designs to charming beach-inspired exteriors and exquisite formal layouts.

Both Dean and Jodie work hard

to provide a respectful, reliable, and responsive service and are always on the end of the phone to answer questions and offer advice.

“We’ll keep you fully updated on progress and take regular walks around the garden to show you how it’s coming along,” says Jodie. “Throughout the whole process either Dean or myself will always be on site and if any additional tradesmen are required we will deal with them directly to ensure everything runs smoothly. I’ll act as your key support link for the entirety of the project, so if you have any questions or changes of mind, I’ll provide all the guidance you need. We take pride in offering a consistent and communicative service and you’ll only deal with either me or Dean, so nothing is ever confused or lost in translation.

Every aspect of the design will be delivered on time and on budget and, even when it’s complete, we’re only ever a call away if you need us.

Some clients even phone after a few years to ask for advice, and we’re always happy to hear from them

Dean and Jodie and do whatever we can to help.”

With their brilliant ideas and friendly approach, Dean Price Horticulture can enhance your enjoyment of your garden with a spectacular design that’s in tune with your individual interests.

“We’ve completed some truly incredible projects this year and were thrilled to receive a Silver-Gilt award at the Royal Norfolk Show for our innovative planting schemes,” says Jodie.

“It was an exciting milestone in our wonderful journey so far, and we can’t wait to continue sharing our passion for creating beautiful outdoor spaces. Please have a chat with us if you need any advice or inspiration – we’d love to help you create the garden of your dreams.”

Dean Price Horticulture Tel: 07484 240938 / 07758 915332 Web: deanpricehorticulture.co.uk Email: jodie@deanpricehorticulture. co.uk 94

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Introducing Our New Pergolas Our own brand of pergola ‘The DGM’ offers you the very latest and best in all things outdoor l i v i n g . W ith mo to r is e d d o u b le l ay er ti l ti ng l o uv res s o y o u can s wi tch between a closed, sheltered space to a tilted open top for the perfect shade, that are also great for outdoor d i n i n g a t p u b s , r e s ta u r a n ts a n d f o r o v er s wi m m i ng po o l s . In addi ti o n they can f eat ure: • •

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Ideal for Garden Designers, Landscapers, Architects, Nurseries, Retail Traders and the General Public.

We offer a wide range of stock including plants grown on site from our main environmentally friendly nursery.

Our availability consists of Shrubs, Perennials, Topiary, Hedging, Trees (Including Olives, Palms and Pleached Trees) from autumn we offer Bareroot Forestry and Hedging together with Bareroot and Rootballed Trees.

Regardless of whether you are refreshing or creating a new garden, please do not hesitate to contact us, or visit us – Why not start planning today to fulfil your dream garden!

Visit our website and social media channels for regular updates!

www.rachaelsplantoutlet.co.uk FIND US AT: School Road, West Walton, Wisbech PE14 7DS | Tel: 01945 664520 | Open Mon-Fri 8am-4pm

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KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

How to

Work around your trees with Heritage Tree Specialists

W

hether you’re planning an extension or a new outbuilding or a complete new build, your project is unlikely to get off the drawing board without a professional tree report to BS5837 standards - and there’s literally a lot more to it than meets the eye, as director Dan Ashton of Heritage Tree Specialists explains.

“As far as planning applications and trees go, what’s happening below ground level is far more important than what you can see above it,” he says. “They don’t have to be protected trees and they don’t even have to be on your land - but if you don’t take them into account, the grandest design in the world probably won’t get off the ground.”

For almost 20 years, Dan and his highly-trained and qualified team of arborists has offered a range of tree maintenance services and earned a reputation as one of the leading tree care companies in the area. Which makes him perfectly placed to offer some help and advice for people planning a building project.

“As a general rule you can take the diameter of the tree and multiply that by 12 to give you the overall ‘root protection area’. Any building work within this area will require an approved tree protection plan and a specific build design with tree protection in mind to protect the rooting environment,” he says. “And that doesn’t

Heritage Tree Specialists

“Before starting, you need to look underground...” just apply to a new structure’s footprint - it can also impose restrictions on site traffic and re-surfacing work.”

You can’t run deliveries, machinery or heavy plant over a root protection area without some form of temporary protection, and you certainly can’t lay a new drive through it without a specific porous solution that allows air and moisture to reach the neighbouring trees’ roots. And don’t think you can simply remove old tree stumps from a site before any building work starts - they have to be expertly ground out to avoid disturbing the roots of any nearby living trees.

The good news is, once you’ve obtained any necessary planning permission, Heritage Tree Specialists can follow up with site clearance and any tree surgery work required using their professional skills and equipment. Their excellent narrow-

access stump grinder will reach most awkward spaces and access garden gates, leaving you with a clear lawn that’s obstacle-free ready to build on.

“The very best thing you can do is contact us at the same time as you have your initial consultation with your architect,” says Dan. “It can save you a lot of time, a lot of trouble, and it can save you a lot of money.”

From planning and site preparation to sympathetic re-planting and landscaping, Heritage Tree Specialists should be an integral part of your project contact Dan and his team today for a free consultation.

Dan Ashton DIRECTOR

Willow Farm Industrial Units, Saddlebow, King’s Lynn PE34 3AR Tel: 01553 617008 Web: heritagetreespecialists.co.uk Email: info@heritagetreespecialists.co.uk

KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

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OPPOSITE: The Bothy, designed to adapt to any home and garden, is a stylish answer to current trends for alfresco living.

ABOVE: PiP Architecture’s design is a stylish statement night or day. The perfect space for relaxing with family and entertaining friends.

LEFT: Featuring premium appliances including a built-in gas BBQ, plumbed sink and drinks fridge, The Bothy is set to fulfil every outdoor living need.

An innovative approach to outdoor living Combining excellent design with sustainable materials and technology, PiP Architecture continues to deliver beautiful and functional spaces to transform your home and garden...

I

t’s well known that spending time outside boosts your health and wellbeing, and over the last couple of years our gardens and outdoor spaces have become more valuable than ever before. With more people permanently working from home and families striving to adopt healthier lifestyles, there’s been a huge trend in designing outdoor living areas - and Chris Senior and his team at PiP architecture are perfectly placed to help you embrace your natural environment with a structure that suits your every need.

“We’ve always been committed to delivering high quality, cost effective, and sustainable spaces that reflect our KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

clients’ aspirations and connect with their surroundings,” says Chris, who founded his RIBA, Passivhaus, and CIAT accredited business PiP Architecture back in 2014. “The recent pandemic has really highlighted the incredible benefits of outdoor living and inspired us to create an attractive and functional open space that can be appreciated all year round.”

A unique and innovative structure named after a traditional mountain shelter, The Bothy is a luxurious garden haven that combines quality craftsmanship and sustainable local materials with modern outdoor living amenities.

“It’s a stunning space that can function

as a peaceful setting in which to relax and work as well as a fantastic place to entertain guests or spend time with the family,” says Chris. “It can transform a corner of your garden you may not otherwise be using into an amazing area to enjoy every day, regardless of the occasion or weather.”

Strategically placed to make the most of the sunlight and the layout of your garden, The Bothy is an innovative combination of the finest elements of indoor and outdoor living. The traditional solid oak frame and contemporary gabion walls shelter an incredible outdoor kitchen, which has been expertly designed to include a range of modern 99

“The Bothy is a brilliant space that enables you to spend quality time outdoors, regardless of the elements or the time of year...” luxuries, with a drinks fridge, a fully plumbed sink, and a built-in gas BBQ. The cosy internal lounge is centred around a rustic log burner and provides an ideal environment to relax and unwind.

Featuring everything from a comfortable garden sofa and chairs and a stylish bistro table to a luxurious swing seat and an area to hang a hammock, it’s a spectacular setting that can be adapted to suit a wide variety of uses.

“The flexibility and versatility of the space is a key feature,” says Chris. “You can move the furniture around to suit any purpose, whether you need a functional area to work in, a scenic place to enjoy a family meal outdoors, or a welcoming space to socialise with friends.”

What’s more, The Bothy is fully equipped with a WiFi booster and USB charging points as well as dimmable lighting, infrared heating, and an outdoor shower and hot tub. Everything is controlled through a smarthome system on your phone, so can easily be switched on and off as and when you need it.

“The Bothy is a brilliant space that enables you to spend quality time

outdoors, regardless of the elements or the time of year,” says Chris. “and The Bothy can be delivered as part of a new build design package or as a separate project for your garden. It can bring a stunning architect-designed showpiece to any home and we offer a selection of different finishes so that it perfectly compliments your setting and matches your style. Our team have excellent experience with planning and cost control and will work closely with clients to adapt The Bothy’s design to suit their individual needs and budget.”

With its peaceful rural quality and wonderful open spaces, Norfolk offers so much potential for embracing the trend of outdoor living. If you want to discover more about The Bothy or discuss ideas with Chris and his talented team, please get in touch with PiP Architecture using the details below.

PiP Architecture

4 Belmont Place, Cambridge CB1 1AR Tel: 01328 806029 Web: PiParchitecture.co.uk/The-Bothy Email: info@PiParchitecture.co.uk

ABOVE: High quality materials and contrasting textures are featured throughout, such as this rustic copper shower and, behind, contemporary gabion walls and striking timber lines.

BELOW : An entirely flexible space that is as ideal as a home workspace as it is for outdoor dining, The Bothy reconnects home-life with the natural surroundings.

How to

Install the perfect pool with Wensum Pools

S

wimming pools are fast becoming a popular feature in modern homes, whether you’re looking to boost your fitness, enjoy quality time with the family, or create somewhere to unwind after a busy day. With experience and expertise that stretches back an impressive 45 years, Wensum Pools has grown to become one of the most respected installers of quality pools, hot tubs, swim spas, and saunas in East Anglia.

“Having a swimming pool or hot tub can transform your home or garden and significantly improve your lifestyle,” says Director Ben Halton-Farrow. “When planning to install a pool, the most important factors to consider are location and purpose. It’s crucial to make the most of the space you have available, and the type of pool you need varies depending on what you intend to use it for, whether that’s fitness, leisure, or hydrotherapy benefits. There’s an awful lot to think about, which is why we offer a complete service – from the initial concept through to full installation and regular maintenance after the job is completed.”

If you want help finding the perfect product or just need some inspiration, the company’s impressive showroom in South Raynham is home to Norfolk’s largest pool and spa display centre.

Featuring over 20 hot tubs and swim spas from leading brands, as well as three swimming pools and saunas, it’s an ideal place to explore the different options available.

“You’ll be met with a warm welcome by our friendly and knowledgeable team, who will always go above and beyond to find the right solution for you and your home,” says Ben. “When choosing a pool or tub it often helps to experience the

Wensum Pools

“This can significantly improve your lifestyle...” product beforehand, so we’re more than happy to arrange a wet test so you can get a feel for what suits you best.”

To help provide informative advice and an exceptional standard of service, everyone at Wensum Pools is an expert in their own field. Installing a swimming pool from scratch can be a daunting project, though the company’s established and highly professional team will be with you every step of the way.

Once they’ve conducted an initial site survey and gained an understanding of what you want to achieve, they’ll talk you through different options, provide detailed drawings, and present you with quotes in line with your desired budget. From there it’s on to the excavation and building work itself, which is done efficiently with as little disruption as possible.

Once your new pool has been expertly fitted, insulated, and lined it’s onto the finishing touches such

as surrounding tiles or paving and any necessary landscaping. It may sound like a long process, but it’s amazing to discover you could be enjoying your first swim within 5-6 weeks.

“We ensure that everything is clearly explained and easy to operate,” says Ben. “After installing your pool or hot tub, we’ll always ring you a few days later to check on how it’s going, and we’re only ever a call away if you need any advice or support.” With their outstanding skills and expertise, Wensum Pools can create that luxurious addition to your home you’ve always wanted.

Ben Halton-Farrow

DIRECTOR

Swaffham Road, South Raynham, Fakenham, Norfolk NR21 7HN Tel: 01328 838834 Email: info@wensumpools.co.uk Web: wensumpools.co.uk

KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

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The art of standing out by blending in...

It’s been five years in the making, but Mayflower in Brancaster has been well worth the wait - a simply stunning example of just what can be achieved by placing a contemporary design in a conservation area

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assing motorists suddenly reverse and wind down the windows for a closer look. Dog walkers stop in mid-step and can’t quite believe what they’ve just come across. It’s halfway down a quiet lane in a picture-perfect location on the north Norfolk coast, a tranquil, peaceful and proudly traditional part of the world. And they’re suddenly faced with a strikingly-contemporary and jawdroppingly beautiful property that seems to have appeared out of nowhere.

First impressions suggest it’s totally out of place and rather incongruous, but closer inspection reveals that it’s entirely suited to its secluded location and actually enhances its surroundings.

Welcome to the extraordinary wonder

that is Mayflower in Brancaster.

The story of Mayflower begins with Wendy Coney, who has been enjoying family holidays in north Norfolk for over 40 years and now considers the area home. Wendy is owner and CEO of the family-run structural steel company Shipley Structures in Grantham and one-time President of the British Constructional Steel Work Association.

Over the last ten years, Wendy has transformed a number of properties in Norfolk as luxury holiday lets. Style Cottage in Burnham Market is a lavish 3-bedroom bolt-hole, while Honington Grange is a major diversification project on the farm owned and run by Wendy’s husband that saw a number of barn buildings converted into holiday

homes, a conference/function room and office spaces.

A five-minute walk from the beach and the classic Royal West Norfolk Golf Club, the location of Mayflower was always an exceptional site in an exceptional location, largely hidden from view along a narrow and little-used lane. Wendy was first introduced to the site by Irena Murray (a retired awardwinning architect) when it was home to a tiny overgrown

ABOVE: With its uniquely-designed detailing and custom-made cabinets, Mayflower’s extraordinary kitchen by Norwich-based Kestrel Kitchens is the fitting focal point of a beautiful property that’s extremely contemporary but also perfectly suits its location in a secluded conservation area in one of the most beautiful parts of north Norfolk.

bungalow. But it already had planning permission for a 2-storey new property.

“I originally thought we’d do something quite typical and traditional,” says Wendy, “Irena had other plans.”

Irena started experimenting with shapes inspired by the sails of ships and the movement of the waves, and soon created a startlingly original and surprisingly-modern concept.

“New buildings don’t have to copy their older neighbours in detail,” Irena says. “Some of the most interesting streets have a variety of building styles, materials and types of construction. It was important for me to use materials typical of the area,” she says , “but to use them in a contemporary way that spoke in the local vernacular - an exploration of traditional forms and motifs. That’s how new developments can make a positive and distinctive contribution to the local built environment.”

As Irena was retired, she couldn’t take on the responsibilities of design and the development was taken up by Snettisham-based Atelier Associates, which is how quantity surveyor Rachel Minns of Harvey Minns Associates became involved.

“Because I was asked to work on Mayflower mid-project, it was somewhat atypical in terms of the usual processes,” Rachel says, “but it was a very rewarding project to be involved with and Wendy is 104

such a joy to work with.”

Rachel has over 20 years’ experience as a quantity surveyor and has worked for builders and large contractors as well as private clients. “I think Wendy, like many of my clients, appreciated the personal touch I bring to my work. I see my role as helping to get everyone involved in the project working in a collaborative way through good communication and building relationships,” Rachel explains.

Rachel worked with Wendy to ensure that Mayflower was built to the highest standard for the best value. “I always ask, ‘can we do this differently to reduce cost and achieve the same outcome?’” Rachel says. “Through keeping a close eye on project and programme management, risk management, contract documents, procurement of materials and subcontractors, cost planning and budgeting, I strive to ensure that all projects I’m involved with move seamlessly forward.”

“I acted as Wendy’s financial righthand,” Rachel continues, “managing her risk to make sure she was paying the right amount for goods and services. The end stages of a project can be a difficult time in terms of managing project finances, as variations and other unexpected matters can come to light at that point, such as a contractor requesting extensions of time, or other costs that the client wasn’t expecting and other things like that. I was there to make sure that Wendy achieved the best possible outcome in terms of her project costs.”

Rachel considers Mayflower to have been a very successful project. “I love Mayflower,” she says. “It is spacious and sympathetic in its design, but certainly stands out within the locality.”

Mayflower’s impressive steel frame was manufactured and installed by Wendy’s own company, Shiply Structures. A challenging task, it was erected in the winter of 2019, the site only pausing during lockdown due to a shortage of supplies. The property was finally completed in April 2021.

It’s been a long journey, but it’s certainly been worth it. Mayflower is simply astonishing and is remarkably similar to the original concept Irena Murray presented to Wendy over five years ago. Even more remarkable (and even harder to believe) is the fact the building’s footprint is a similar size to that of the bungalow which originally stood on the site.

KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

“It’s a very modern building in a very traditional location, but that’s the whole point...”

First impressions of this 4-bedroom holiday home (together with its versatile annexe) are hugely impressive, with local knapped flint feature walls connecting the inside and outside by running through the entire building. And they contrast supremely well with the comforting solidity of the red Norfolk brick at ground level. The timber-clad cantilevered first floor is an element synonymous with this beautiful area of the coast, and the juxtaposed mono-pitched roofs echo the movement of the tides, reduce the mass of the building, and help maximise the views of the marshes and dunes of the beach.

The huge open-plan kitchen was designed and installed by Norwich-based Kestrel Kitchens and is a work of art in itself, connecting a dramatic living space that includes a dining area and lounge and runs all the way from the front to the rear of the property.

Kestrel Kitchens have been creating hand-built and bespoke furniture for over 30 years, thanks in large part to their on-site factory and a team of around 15 talented carpenters.

“Every kitchen we create is unique, and we often tell customers that if they want “that” kitchen they’ll have to buy the whole house because it will have been designed and built to fit a specific space,” says General Manager Edward Hill. “We’ll work from the architect’s plans and familiarise ourselves with the flow of the room, and we work very closely with the customer. In the case of Mayflower, Wendy had a very clear idea of what she wanted, but she was open to ideas.”

Mayflower is a perfect example of the way Kestrel Kitchens approaches every project - the paint was specially chosen to echo the customer’s idea for a nautical theme, the smoked glass on the central island (which features a pop-up television) was exclusively made to match the glass in the wine chiller, and the individually-designed handles on the units were made by a local metal fabricator.

“We’ve always prided ourselves on giving the customer exactly what they want, and I think that’s what makes our

work stand out,” says Edward. “Nothing we do is standard and everything we do is unique.”

The sense of space from the kitchen is enhanced by the clever expanse of sliding glass doors leading to the outside, which effortlessly glide back into the walls without any corner support.

The staircase leading upstairs to the spacious ensuite bedrooms offers a complete view through the entire house from the front to back, although you may find yourself captivated by the flint wall - which is the essential spine of the building.

“It’s a very modern building in a very traditional location, but I think that’s the whole point,” says Wendy. “Design has to evolve, and that’s why we can enjoy Georgian, Victorian and 20th century architecture all at the same time. It tells a story, and I think that’s what Mayflower does very well. I love it.”

And let’s face it - what’s not to love?

Kestrel Kitchens Reeves Corner, Plumstead Road, Great Plumstead, Norwich NR13 5BY Tel: 01603 722026 Web: kestrelkitchens.co.uk Email: sales@kestrelfurniture.com

Harvey Minns Associates 8 James Jackson Road, Dersingham King’s Lynn PE31 6UX Tel: 07368 462255 Web: harveyminnsassoicates.com Email: rachel@harveyminnsassociates.com KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

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RIGHT : Available in an extensive range of sizes, styles, and finishes, Eastern Frames’ fantastic new collection of bespoke garden rooms can enhance your living space and enrich your lifestyle.

LEFT : Interior plastering is included in your pod price, and you can choose to incorporate additional features such as lighting, power points, and radiators. You could also enhance the exterior with a canopy or overhang.

It’s your design and your space – the possibilities are endless.

BELOW: The material of your pod will make a bold statement and establish the overall feel of your space. From Siberia, Scandinavia, and North America, all Eastern Frames’ stunning timber choices come from sustainable wood sources with an FSE certificate.

Create a personalised space with a garden room With high-quality products and an equally outstanding standard of service Eastern Frames offer excellent solutions to help transform your home and garden to suit you and your lifestyle

O

ur indoor and outdoor spaces are integral parts of our everyday lives, so it’s important to make the most of them and explore their full potential. Have you ever looked at that empty or overgrown area in your garden and wished you could do something with it? Are you needing an extra space in your home to enable you to work remotely, create a base for your business, or entertain friends and family? Our attitudes to work, home, and our environments are changing and, when it comes to finding the best way to maximise your living space, there’s really no need to look any further than Eastern Frames.

KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

Founded by directors (and brothers) Anthony and Darren Boyle over ten years ago, the multi-accredited company has built a sound reputation for offering exceptional quality windows, doors, and conservatories – and they’re continuing to transform the way we utilise our space with an exciting new collection of stunning garden rooms.

“We create and install high-standard and bespoke outdoor buildings to suit your personal use or unique garden layout,” says Anthony. “It’s important to use your living space to its full advantage and these rooms can be built to your exact specifications and requirements, meaning you can turn them into practically anything you’d like.”

Whether you want to create a quiet area to focus and work in, a stylish games room or outdoor bar to entertain, a spacious personal gym to help boost your wellbeing, or even a cosy home cinema for relaxation, a garden room is the perfect addition to your property.

“Our pods are all uniquely manufactured and designed to provide a seamless installation from creation to delivery,” says Anthony. “Each panel is externally prepared, cladded, and finished in our factory. Once completed, they interconnect and locate onto a sole plate, reducing mess, tools, and materials and making the whole process incredibly smooth and efficient. Construction should take no longer than a week 107

“It’s your choice and your design, and you’ll be able to see your finished garden room before it has even been built!..” and can often be completed earlier depending on the size of your design.

What’s more, the pods fall below planning permission requirements as they’re no larger than 30m2, so creating that perfect space to enhance your home couldn’t be more straightforward.”

Every client, garden, and budget will be different, which is why Eastern Frames offer a customised and bespoke service from start to finish. Using their personalised online configurator, which can be accessed on the company’s website or in one of their showrooms, you can experiment with various sizes, shapes, and layouts and track the cost as you go. Whilst you design, an image of your pod will be formulated and can be changed as you progress. You can choose how many windows you’d like, see which colour cladding you prefer, and look at adding features like a canopy, overhang, and internal utilities. It’s your choice and your design, and you’ll be able to see your finished garden room before it has even been built!

“Our pods are constructed with excellent quality sustainably sourced timber and all roofs are finished with EPDM rubber, providing a long lasting and low maintenance finish,” says Anthony. “The bases are made from lightweight steel, making them extremely hard wearing, and you can decide between 108

ABOVE: Thanks to Eastern Frames’ unique and specially-developed software, you can see your grand design take shape in real time at home or in the showroom - adding elements and features to suit your home and your lifestyle.

three different types of laminate flooring or choose to fit your own.”

Flawless, functional, and flexible, these garden rooms can transform your home and your lifestyle and will last you for years to come. Because of their modular construction, they are easily assembled and disassembled, so can be seamlessly relocated if you ever decide to move.

“Our pods are simple and spectacular space solutions that tick every box,” says Anthony. “If you’d like to learn more or want to discuss some ideas and designs, please reach out and have chat with us.

Our friendly and informative team will always go the extra mile to help create that unique addition to your home you’ve always wanted.”

Eastern Frames

12 King’s Lynn Road, Hunstanton PE36 5HP Tel: 01485 522050 Web: easternframes.com Email: info@easternframes.com

KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

How to

Choose the right surface with WN Surfacing

Works completed at Sea Drift house

W

ith experience and expertise that stretches back over 25 years, WN Surfacing outside King’s Lynn has grown to become one of the most respected multi-functional civil, commercial, and domestic surfacing contractors in East Anglia.

Having worked on everything from single new builds and multi-property developments to commercial properties and public sector work, WN Surfacing can also carry out work that complies with s278 and s38 highways agreements, working in association with local and national developers and the Highways Agency itself.

“We comply with all insurance obligations, Street works qualifications and Industry accreditations such as Achilles and Constructionline Gold,” says Director, Richard Moore.

WN Surfacing has recently made a significant investment in new plant and equipment, making them perfectly placed to put your project on the road to success – on time, on plan and on budget.

This is also good news for people about to embark on any domestic building project, as there’s a lot more to surfacing than a layer of tarmac.

“As far as domestic properties are concerned the most important things you have to consider are drainage and durability,” says Richard. “Aesthetics are all well and good, but if you’re having regular oil deliveries or refuse collections,

WN Surfacing Ltd

“We’ll leave you with a long-lasting surface...” you’ll need a fair amount of strength and depth in the surface.”

It’s a delicate balance. On the one hand you want a drive that looks good - but new builds also have to comply with the requirements of SUDS (the Suburban Urban Drainage System) which may require permeable and free-draining materials.

“The best advice I can give people is to contact us as soon as possible for an initial survey,” says Richard. “People who usually approach us ask for a cost per square metre basis, but it’s not as simple as that.

Some driveways can simply be surface dressed if the existing is in good order, but if the sub-structure has started to fail then it might need a complete re-design.”

WN Surfacing offers everything from gravel and block-weave surfaces, including porous and non-porous asphalts and

resin-bound products - matching the right surface to the right property.

“For domestic work we can oversee the entire build,” says Richard. “We’ll carry out the initial survey, we’ll help you with budgeting, we’ll handle the design, and we’ll carry out all the construction work - and we’ll leave you with a long-lasting surface that’s both attractive and costeffective.”

Whether you’re planning a complete new build or looking to revitalise your existing home, contact Richard and the team at WN Surfacing today for a free initial visit and noobligation survey.

Richard Moore DIRECTOR

Garage Lane, Setchey, Norfolk PE33 0BE Tel: 01553 811531 Web: wnsurfacing.com Email: enquiries@wnsurfacing.com

KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

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PICTURES: The traditional frontage of Ilex Cottage hides a spacious renovation and rear extension (above), the interior spaces are filled with light from lanterns and skylights (opposite).

A marriage of traditional cottage and contemporary style

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Merging a traditional street frontage with an ambitious rear design, ACS Architectural have transformed the space available at Ilex Cottage

CS Architectural first became involved with Ilex Cottage, a bungalow positioned in a quiet estate on the edge of Burnham Market, to design a basic loft conversion. And when the home-owner sold up, ACS imagined that to be the end of the story.

But having discovered the drawings, new owners of Ilex Cottage gave Architectural Designer Nick Borrman a call. “They liked the idea of the loft conversion we had designed,” Nick explains, “but they also talked about ideas for a much more extensive refurbishment including extension to the rear as well.” And so a complete remodel was launched.

KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

The cottage holds a very prominent position and is the first property to be seen as visitors turn into the estate. ACS Architectural knew that the front aspect of the property would always have to fit in with the surrounding street scene.

“One of our main objectives had to be finding a design that would be successful through the planning process,” Nick says.

“We explored lots of different design ideas of what we could achieve at the front, but ultimately it had to appear traditional which is why we went for three small dormers and an understated oak porch.”

The owners’ main objective was to open up the space inside the property as much as possible. “Working with

existing buildings to utilise what you have already got is a real strength of our design practice,” Nick describes. “and so we created a design that used as much of the space already available and avoided the need for an enormous extension.”

“In each project we try to create defined areas and establish a clear flow into each space so that users can easily find natural pathways around the building.” Nick created new openings to form a kitchen-dining area and added galley stairs that overlook the lower floor and carry you up to the master suite. The existing garage was also transformed to create a workshop for crafting and hobbies. The design included extending too. “We wanted to avoid just adding 111

Before “Making something visually appealing but also practical is always tricky when you are extending a bungalow...” a great big box to the back of the bungalow,” Nick says, “so it was about breaking the extension work up through form and materials to create a more interesting visual experience.”

The design at the rear of the building follows a modern, contemporary style and makes use of lots of flat roofs and lanterns to get light into the internal spaces. “It was an interesting one,” Nick explains, “because we were experimenting with lots of different materials, such as boarding in different configurations, to soften the overall effect.”

The combination of old and new materials is a signature of ACS Architectural’s designs, where planning allows. At Ilex Cottage, rendering, flintwork and treated cedar boarding all subtly complement each other.

“Unusually flint hadn’t previously been used on that estate,” Nick says, “despite being a key traditional material in this region.”

Nick and the ACS Architectural team place great importance on creating balance through design. At Ilex Cottage this balance has been achieved by 112

marrying up the different roofs and designing the rear structures in a way that reduces the mass of how it appears as a whole. “A lot of thought and consideration has been put into practical elements too, like how to get the drainage out in a visually balanced way,” adds Nick.

Transforming Ilex Cottage was not without its challenges. “Making something visually appealing but also practical is always tricky when you are extending a bungalow,” Nick explains.

“The greatest design challenge was making the head heights work.”

The only regulation that must be met with regards to head height is to maintain

a continuous 2m up the stairs and on to the landing. The head height at Ilex Cottage was quite limited overall and so that meant that the whole design needed careful consideration. “We added a large dormer on the back of the property which transformed the upstairs into a much more appealing and useable space.” Nick reveals.

It is the technical talent of ACS Architectural that enables them to achieve such great results for their clients.

Nick and his team have in mind how their designs will be constructed and the cost implications involved from the earliest proposal stages. “We communicate closely with our clients throughout

ABOVE: A large dormer transformed the upstairs accommodation (top) and internal reconfiguration created spacious open-plan living in the former bungalow (bottom).

KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

the process,” Nick explains, “discussing alternative ideas in depth and advising them on how to reduce cost with smart design details.”

For the owners of Ilex Cottage, attention to detail and a flawless finish were important and it was for this reason that Nick recommended builder Kevin Mortimer of Sureline Construction. “Kevin was an excellent fit for the client,” Nick says, “the client was impressed with the level of his workmanship inside and out.

The craftsmanship really is very, very good.”

“We think Ilex Cottage is a great project that really showcases what you can do with what is already there, using just a little bit of imagination,” Nick says. “The site isn’t massive, but it goes to show that if you can reconfigure what you have got, it can be much more beneficial than a

huge extension.” ACS Architectural have now completed four similar projects on the same street making Ilex Cottage a true trailblazer in transforming this small corner of Norfolk for the better.

PICTURES: Natural pathways are designed around defined areas in the living space (above), with the contemporary extension softened by its variety of forms and materials (below).

ACS Architectural Poppyfields Retail Park, Poppyfields Drive, Snettisham PE31 7FR Tel: 01485 532112 Email: info@acs-architectural.co.uk Web: acs-architectural.co.uk

The flat roof

RIGHT: Montana Corner Set – New for 2023 featuring the signature LIFE outdoor living combination of quality aluminium and FSC© teak touches.

LEFT: Bondi Relax Set – Relax in style and comfort, featuring Soltex cushion material which offers practical all weather functionality alongside a textured and softer feel.

BELOW: Nevada Corner– A large luxurious corner set featuring deep all weather cushions, offering comfort and style. Complimented by a robust and quality FSC© teak coffee table, perfect for hosting large family gatherings in comfort.

The great outdoors has never looked greater Norfolk Leisure offers the very best in outdoor luxury, adding inspiring, prestigious, and eco-friendly furniture to all outdoor spaces

I

f you’re going to spend a considerable amount of time and money creating a stylish home, it deserves to be complemented by an equally impressive exterior.

If you’ve spent time designing, building, and furnishing a home to be proud of, the worst thing you can do is compromise on your garden furniture especially when the solution is on your doorstep.

Founded by Nick Anderson over 30 years ago, Norfolk Leisure is based just outside King’s Lynn and has always focused on cutting-edge designs, high quality materials, and a responsible approach to sourcing. It’s a formula that’s seen the company become one of the most respected names in the business, KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

supplying the biggest retailers and garden centres in the country – and helping private clients and developers transform their outdoor spaces with world-class standards of design.

“We’ve been extraordinarily busy over the last 24 months and have seen an unprecedented demand for our garden and patio furniture,” says Commercial Manager Spencer Harnwell. “The designs are fabulous enough by themselves, but our commitment to social and ethical values has always played a part in our success.”

Indeed, Norfolk Leisure is certified LOFA Assured 10010 and carries an FSC Chain of Custody Licence – all applicable timber products are FSC certified, and all

the teak in the current LIFE collection is made from 100% Indonesian legal wood with full SVLK certification. Even the weave on the furniture has a conscience, being made from non-toxic and 100% recyclable materials.

From its seven-acre home, Norfolk Leisure offers everything you could possibly need to create an outdoor environment perfectly matched to your design vision and your lifestyle. The 2022 collection includes handpicked pieces that reflect the current market trends along with garden must haves such as parasols, gazebos, and essential outdoor accessories.

The LIFE Outdoor Living range offers everything you need to create 115

“Transform your outdoor space into something extraordinary – for dining, entertaining, cooking, or simply relaxing...” an inspiring outdoor space as, with contemporary designs and quality materials, this furniture is the epitome of luxury. There is no compromise with the modern style as the collection still offers practical and functional features including the unique All Weather cushions, which have been specifically designed to stay out throughout the whole of summer, with no need to cover or bring in from the rain.

“It doesn’t matter if you’re working on a new build property or bringing your existing garden back to life,” says Spencer. “At Norfolk Leisure we have everything you could possibly want to transform your outdoor space into something extraordinary – for dining, entertaining, cooking, or simply relaxing.

In fact, I’d be tempted to say the great outdoors never looked better – or more stylish.”

Transforming your outdoor cooking space is easy thanks to the Norfolk Grills BBQ range. Inclusive of gas, electric and charcoal BBQs, and premium stainless

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PICTURES: Fully endorsed

by Brand Ambassador and Michelin star chef Galton Blackiston, the Norfolk Grills range is changing the way we enjoy our outdoor spaces.

steel Outdoor Kitchens, they’re complemented by an array of practical features to enhance your grilling experience.

“With everyone spending more time outside, we’ve seen outdoor cooking products become increasingly popular,” says Spencer, “we knew it was a great time to step in with our very own BBQ range, Norfolk Grills, and the addition of Ooni Pizza Ovens to our extensive catalogue means you can effortlessly cook up a delicious stone baked pizza from the comforts of your own home.”

Turning up the heat for the launch of the new collection, Norfolk Leisure chose the talented Galton Blackiston to be Norfolk Grills’ Brand Ambassador. Born and bred in Norfolk, Galton is one of very few chefs in the whole country to have held a Michelin star for almost 25 years.

His Morston Hall hotel and restaurant has been judged one of the best 1000 restaurants in the world, and he’s recently been shortlisted for the Chef’s chef award at the prestigious AA hospitality awards 2022.

“We’re thrilled to have such a brilliant chef as Galton Blackiston supporting the collection,” says Nick Anderson, Managing Director at Norfolk Leisure.

Galton Blackiston “Norfolk Grills is the most exciting range of BBQs to hit the UK for a long time, and we’ve got some fantastic plans in store for the future.”

Norfolk Leisure’s complete 2022 collection can be downloaded from the company’s website, and Spencer is keen to point out that his team is always available at the end of the phone for help and advice. If you’d like to explore the possibilities, it’s time to discover Norfolk Leisure – for exceptional designs, highquality materials, delicious new ideas, and a fresh approach to your outdoor lifestyle.

Norfolk Leisure

Garage Lane, Setchey, King’s Lynn Norfolk PE33 0AX Tel: 01553 811717 Web: norfolkleisurelifestyle.com Email: sales@norfolkleisure.co.uk KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

How to

Source the best value timber with DMG Timber

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e’ve lived through some very unusual and alarming times recently, with Covid19 and Brexit amongst the many things on our minds in 2020/21 and international tensions and rising prices continuing to wreak havoc this year.

Currently UK inflation is at the highest level since March 1982, edging up to 9.1% in the 12 months to May, and the Bank of England has warned it’s set to reach an astonishing 11% this October.

With the pandemic’s restrictions lifted and people in great need of a distraction, there’s been an incredible boom in home improvement projects over the last few months – though due to the current economic climate, many have struggled to get any further than the planning stage.

You’ll be hard pressed to find a building project that doesn’t use timber which, amongst other key construction materials, has been hit particularly hard by rising costs. This is down to a combination of factors, including limited production during the pandemic, shipping regulations imposed under Brexit, trading disruptions brought by the Ukrainian conflict, and soaring fuel prices driving up transportation charges.

Consequently, there’s been a knock-on effect on the cost of projects and the availability of materials - so it’s good to know that Justin Gore and his team at DMG Timber continue to offer huge stocks of quality timber products at the best prices in the area.

The family owned and run business was started in the late 1990s by Justin’s father, Derek, who’d spent most of his adult life working in the timber industry.

DMG Timber

“It’s been hit particularly hard by rising costs...”

After more than two decades of making and supplying high-quality sheds, fencing, gates, decking, and structural timber, the company has built an enviable reputation based on reliable advice, experienced craftsmanship and excellent customer service.

“We take pride in offering extremely competitive prices without compromising on quality,” says Justin. “Dad and I have a brilliant knowledge of where to source stock from and the right time to buy it.

With a combined 60 years of working in the timber trade, we ought to know where to find the best deals.”

Catering for both public and trade, the company offers a comprehensive range of constructional timber, fixings, and treatments to suit every project. They also specialise in the supply of bespoke garden sheds, manufactured to your exact specifications, and offer a complementary in-house design

service if you need help with plans and ideas.

“Quality craftmanship is at the heart of every project, and our skilled team take pride in completing jobs to a very high standard within the estimated time,” says Justin. “Whether you’re after a timber building, a fence, or just a simple garden gate, we’ll be happy to provide plenty of information and discuss your requirements with you. When it comes to all things timber, we’ve got you covered.”

To find the best value materials to get your project started along with honest and experienced advice, contact Justin and the team or visit the company’s fully stocked timber yard in King’s Lynn.

Justin Gore

DIRECTOR

A47 Pullover Road, King’s Lynn PE34 3LS Tel: 01553 692634 Web: dmgtimber.co.uk Email: sales@dmgtimber.co.uk

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EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO CREATE your new garden We stock everything you could need for creating a garden from scratch including...

Outdoor Plants • Seeds & Bulbs Pots • Paving • Compost • Aggregates Garden Care • Garden Furniture • Lighting Wild Bird Care & much, much more!

Our small, friendly team are always willing to help, whether it be advise or help carrying something to your car!

FA M ILY RU N F O R OV E R 5 0 YEARS

Garden Centre & Coffee e Shop 49 Hunstanton Road, Dersingham PE31 6NA Tel: 01485 541514 • www.thaxters.co.uk ry

e ee eliv r F D al oc

L

A wide range of high quality buildings at competitive prices

Garden Sheds | Summerhouses | Workshops Log Cabins | Gazebos | Arbours | Playhouses Garden Rooms | Bespoke/Custom Made Buildings Please visit our website for a full range of products and great offers!

www.norfolksheds.co.uk

Contact us: 01553 278285 / 07818 608331 sales@norfolksheds.co.uk

Complete installation service available 118

KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

How to

Make yourself the buyer of choice with Sowerbys

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his year has witnessed one of the most volatile property markets in over two decades.

Rightmove recently issued an article stating that since their inception as a property portal there’d never been such disparity between the volume of buyers registering versus the number of properties that agents were uploading to it. This is a nationwide phenomenon, but it’s particularly acute in north Norfolk thanks to the propensity of holiday lets which have been a complete lifeline for thousands of holidaymakers over the last two years - and haven’t come to the market in the numbers we’d come to expect before the pandemic.

With so little stock and so many buyers looking, the question we’re most often asked by buyers is how they can get themselves to the front of the queue so they don’t miss out.

As with most things in life preparation is essential, so before setting out on your house buying journey you’ll need to make sure you have your buying credentials in order. That’s essential with the state of the current market, but it’s a useful and relevant principle to follow when the market finally does return to normal.

Firstly, and most importantly, have your financing in place. If you’re a first-time

Sowerbys

“Preparation is key before starting your journey...” buyer or buying an investment then we’d strongly advise you have a mortgage agreement in principal (AIP) before you even start looking online. Being able to demonstrate proof of funding with agents means you’re taken seriously from the start. We work with the incredibly helpful and local Broadland Consultants and we use them for our personal mortgage requirements and financial advice. We really do know how fantastic they are.

If you’re a homeowner and using the funds from your sale, then you’ll need to have your property on the market and sold subject to contract (SSTC) in order to be able to make an offer on another property.

This may seem common sense, but you’d be surprised how many buyers start looking before they’re even in a position to move. Even if you are not SSTC, by being on the market you’re still demonstrating your commitment to the buying process - and this will certainly rank you higher than if you’re not.

Have a solicitor instructed and ready to act for you immediately. Where possible use a reputable local solicitor who will ideally have experience in some of the local nuances that so often crop up during the conveyancing of older properties.

Finally, register with your estate agent on a face-to-face basis. Meeting the estate agent creates a personal connection in the way that registering online or over the telephone can’t.

By doing this you’re ensuring that the next time that agent takes on a new property, you’re the person that immediately springs to mind and you get that first phone call.

Spencer Cushing

MANAGER/VALUER

Burnham Market | Dereham | Fakenham | Holt | Hunstanton | King’s Lynn Norwich | Watton | Wells-next-the-Sea Web: sowerbys.com

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LEFT: xxxxxxxxxx RIGHT : xxxxx

Turning your holiday home dream into reality

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With years of experience, Norfolk Hideaways provides the insight, support, and expertise needed to bring your property to the local holiday lettings market

ur properties are incredibly valuable possessions we take great pride in, so choosing to let a holiday home can be a daunting decision. There’s a lot to carefully consider and even more to organise, from preparing your property for photography and advertising, communicating with guests, sorting out finance, and managing the whole letting process.

With a portfolio of over 550 properties, Norfolk Hideaways offer the best and largest selection of boutique holiday cottages on the Norfolk coast, and 120

they’ve become well-known for delivering a professional, personal, and friendly service to both guests and homeowners.

“Over the years we’ve built a strong reputation for providing an outstanding standard of service to holidaymakers and homeowners,” says Director Helen Millin.

“We’ve established close relationships with many local architects, developers, builders and tradespeople - and introduced them to new property owners to help them create some of the most beautiful holiday homes in the area. In turn, we market these to guests searching

for charming and luxurious retreats to visit throughout the year.”

The aim is to make it easy for everyone to find and share their perfect retreat in Norfolk, be that a cosy cottage for two, a dog-friendly house, or a delightful family holiday home close to the beach. No one knows the county better than the skilled and knowledgeable Norfolk Hideaways team, who will always go the extra mile to help in every way they can.

“As a local, family-run business, we pride ourselves on the good relationships we have with our homeowners and their visitors,” says Helen. “Whether you already KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

OPPOSITE: An outstanding holiday hideaway set in extensive private gardens in High Kelling, Cedar Lodge blends exceptional modern social living spaces with cosy interiors. The spectacular triple aspect garden room has frameless sliding doors running its full length, creating a seamless flow between the garden and living areas.

LEFT: Tucked away in the pretty village of Ringstead, Little Star is a romantic terraced cottage for two that’s filled with rustic coastal charm and stylish character. The spacious master bedroom boasts a luxurious four poster king-size bed, a stunning feature fireplace, and idyllic views of the surrounding countryside.

BELOW: A laid-back single-storey coastal retreat, The Seas Annexe in Burnham Overy Staithe is perfect for those wanting a quiet seaside escape. With luxury touches throughout and fantastic natural interiors, this little abode is a wonderful place to unwind and embrace the captivating beauty of the Norfolk coast.

KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

PHOTOS BY NEIL LONGDIN / ICENI IMAGING

own a holiday let or are considering buying one, we’ll advise and support you throughout the whole process.

Our owners are undoubtedly our most precious commodity, and without the amazing connections we enjoy with our owners, housekeepers, tradespeople, and guests we wouldn’t be the trusted and award-winning business we are today.”

Earlier this year, Norfolk Hideaways proudly launched their Luxury Collection – a selection of stunning properties which offer a truly exceptional holiday experience.

“This lovingly-curated portfolio epitomises the very best of Norfolk coastal and country living,” says Helen, “and showcases some of the best idyllic retreats, romantic getaways, and celebration houses in unique settings and locations.”

Chris Bensley, Norfolk Hideaways’ New Business Manager is responsible for building the lavish portfolio and works closely with new homeowners to bring their property to market.

“Sometimes the first discussions with an owner take place before they’ve even viewed a property or submitted a planning application, and it’s so important 121

RIGHT: Luxuriously appointed and fabulously indulgent, Limestone House in Burnham Market is nothing short of divine.

This breathtaking detached property is ideal for those seeking a private, peaceful, and spacious retreat from the outside world.

Expertly styled by Sophie & Boo, the flawless interiors consist of a soft and calming palette of limestone and white, giving this beautiful boutique hideaway a timeless and classic ambience.

“Any holiday home, big or small, should provide the opportunity for guests to create memories that last a lifetime...”

that everything is considered at this stage to avoid any costly mistakes or oversights later down the line,” he says.

“We know what sells, and that’s extremely important if you want to maximise your return on investment. Whilst designing a special and unique home to appreciate for years to come, you must also create a welcoming and stylish homestay for your guests to enjoy. Getting that right delivers repeat bookings year after year.”

Any holiday home, big or small, should provide the opportunity for guests to create memories that last a lifetime. Whilst paying close attention to your budget, Norfolk Hideaways can guide you through the whole buying and renovation process with the help of local interior designers including Sophie Allsopp (Sophie & Boo) and Janie Thompson (Thornham Deli), who can style and furnish your property to ensure it is ready for guests if you’re short of time - or if you are looking to increase yields further by creating a high standard of presentation.

A selection of magnificent new properties Norfolk Hideaways have recently brought to market include The Ballroom, Blakeney (see front cover), Indigo Barn, Warham (see page 124), Knotting Hill, Cley-next-the-Sea, and Appletree Barn, Brancaster.

“We’re always looking for new properties to join our portfolio,” says Helen, “and whether you’re looking for a marketed or managed service we can support you along the whole journey.”

To discuss how Norfolk Hideaways can partner with you on your exciting project, please call the team on 01485 211022 or email newowners@norfolkhideaways. co.uk

Norfolk Hideaways

Unit 9, Foundry Place, Burnham Market Norfolk PE31 8LG Tel: 01485 211022 Web: norfolkhideaways.co.uk Email: enquiries@norfolkhideaways.co.uk

LEFT: Set peacefully on the outskirts of Heacham, No.33 Woodlands Cottage is a stylish Norfolk beauty.

With serene sea views, inviting interiors, and a delightful fully enclosed garden, it’s ideal for guests wanting time to themselves. The bright and welcoming sitting room, styled by Janie Thompson, provides the perfect setting for a cosy night in.

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KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

How to

Qualify as a holiday let with Stephenson Smart

T

he uncertainty of the last two years has impacted hugely on the holiday market. It is not only airlines that have been affected, but holidays closer to home. If you own a property that you rent as a furnished holiday let, you need to be aware of the impact that a reduction in rental occupation may have on your tax affairs.

There are special tax rules for rental income from properties that qualify as Furnished Holiday Lettings (FHLs).

If you let properties that qualify as Furnished Holiday Lettings, you can claim Capital Gains Tax reliefs and you are also entitled to plant and machinery capital allowances for items such as furniture, equipment and fixtures.

There is also a benefit to those wishing to use the earnings to increase the threshold to pay into a pension, as profits on Furnished Holiday Lettings count as

Stephenson Smart

“You may still be able to qualify for tax reliefs…” earnings for pension purposes.

To qualify as a Furnished Holiday Let your property must be commercially let as a business. You must make the property available for commercial let for 210 days in the year, and actually let the property as furnished holiday accommodation to the public for at least 105 days in the year.

Days when you let the property to friends or relatives at zero or reduced rates is not a commercial let.

There will be some Furnished Holiday Let owners who will have struggled to meet these criteria this last couple of years. However, you may still be able to qualify for tax reliefs. If you have more than one property you may qualify for the averaging election or if your property reaches the occupancy threshold in some years but not in others, you may qualify for a period of grace election.

There are many tax and other financial benefits, to owning and letting furnished holiday properties as a commercial business. I am a tax expert at Stephenson Smart and specialise in income tax and capital gains tax for individuals.

I’m fully qualified to give tailored advice to help you navigate tax relating to your business and personal finances.

You can contact Kayleigh Wilson ACCA CTA at our King’s Lynn office on 01553 774104.

Kayleigh Wilson

TAX SPECIALIST

King’s Lynn | Downham Market | Wisbech | March | Fakenham | Gorleston 22-26 King Street, King’s Lynn PE30 1HJ Web: stephenson-smart.com

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From cattle barn to an enchanting holiday home Combining the modern with the unique and the timeless, Indigo Barn has been converted from a working farm building into a cosy country retreat...

U

ndoubtedly one of our county’s most unique and atmospheric hideaways, Indigo Barn sits on a chalk hill in the idyllic village of Warham, affording astounding views over a wide expanse of rolling pasture.

Once nothing more than a rural cattle shelter, it’s been lovingly transformed into a vibrant and spacious modern country home in a way that celebrates its traditional fabric and character.

The property was part of a phased development of former Grade II listed agricultural buildings on the Holkham Estate, an inspiring initiative intending to breathe new life into pieces of the area’s past. Bought and passionately renovated by skilled developer Bryan Williams, his team of talented local tradesmen and the

imaginative owner, Lisa Morrison, Indigo Barn sympathetically blends a bespoke contemporary style with rustic living areas to establish an intimate connection with the incredible Norfolk landscape.

“When I first set eyes on the site, I was completely transfixed by its honest, spacious feel and stunning surroundings,” says Lisa, who also owns another of Bryan’s barn conversions, Horse Yard Barn on the same site, which functions as a luxury holiday retreat.

“I just knew it had the potential to become something really special. I’m not a designer, though I’ve always been very creative and find it easy to close my eyes and picture exactly how I want things to look. I instantly fell in love with the building and its captivating scenery and had this vision of creating an idyllic

rural retreat to enjoy with the family – a place where we could feel completely connected with nature and immersed in the raw beauty of Norfolk.”

It would be a challenging task as the 19th century barn needed a great deal of love and attention to bring it into the modern day and, due to her busy career and stringent lockdown restrictions, Lisa struggled to regularly visit the site in person. However, this didn’t prevent her from pouring her heart and soul into the project from start to finish.

“I devoted every spare moment I had to the design and communicated closely with a group of talented local tradespeople to bring my vision to life,” she says. “The team were absolutely brilliant, I’d worked with many of them on the development of Horse Yard Barn, and

ABOVE: Surrounded by the picturesque Holkham Estate, Indigo Barn has been lovingly renovated to embrace its glorious natural setting. The feature wood burning stove is the heart of the open plan living area, which consists of four stunning spaces seamlessly connected through luxurious detail and design.

we’d come to know each other fairly well.

I envisioned how we would live in each part of the home and drew sketches of different layouts and features. I’d say ‘this is what I would like to achieve, can you

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make it happen?’ – and they used their incredible skills to translate my ideas into fantastic designs.”

The renovation centred around the property’s breathtaking scenery, with Lisa and the team working hard to maximise the view, utilise natural materials, and establish a seamless flow between the interior and exterior spaces. An inviting setting for socialising in style and comfort, the generous open-plan dining and living room forms the hub of the home. Featuring two cosy seating areas and large Crittall windows and doors, it boasts sweeping vistas of the spectacular Norfolk skies and surrounding unspoilt countryside.

“The aim was to create an inspiring space where you could fully engage with nature,” says Lisa. “It’s a wonderful place to relax at any time of the day, whether you’re observing a stunning sunrise, a starry evening sky, or a sudden burst of elemental weather. I could sit there for hours on end watching that ever-changing view, it never fails to lift my spirits as there’s always something magical to see.”

The inviting kitchen area enhances the room’s natural feel with a striking flint feature wall and a bespoke pippy

oak live edge dining table. Beautifully finished with textured wooden worktops, a magnificent marble central island, a luxurious wine fridge, and a delightfully rustic AGA, it combines the comforts of modern living with the property’s traditional character and charm. A central wood burning stove brings the different elements of the room together, and the entire space is seamlessly connected to the extensive enclosed garden via large bi-fold doors, linking it with the outside bar and dining area and the cosy fire pit seating that overlooks the valley.

An equal amount of thought and attention has been dedicated to designing KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

“I envisioned how I wanted each part of the home to function and feel and drew sketches of different layouts and features”

says Lisa. “We chose to have it beautifully backlit against a tile feature wall, so it fits perfectly with the fabulous feel of the rest of the room.

It’s a wonderful part of the home, though the whole building really makes my heart sing. One of my favourite spaces has got to be the glorious armchair on the first-floor landing, as I love to sit there cuddling the dog whilst enjoying an astounding sunrise. It’s certainly a very special place and allows me to live exactly the way I’d pictured at the very beginning. I love every single part of it and wouldn’t change a thing.”

After two years of hard work and

dedication, the faded farm building has been given a vibrant new life.

Named after Lisa’s passion for painting the surrounding landscape’s moody evening skies, Indigo Barn is more of an oasis than a country retreat. There’s nothing quite like it anywhere else in the county. If you’d like to book a stay in this breathtaking property, please visit norfolkhideaways.co.uk

Norfolk Hideaways

Unit 9, Foundry Place, Burnham Market Norfolk PE31 8LG Tel: 01485 211022 Web: norfolkhideaways.co.uk Email: enquiries@norfolkhideaways.co.uk

PHOTOS BY NEIL LONGDIN / ICENI IMAGING

the property’s four superbly appointed bedrooms, which all provide luxury touches and offer picturesque views of the landscape.

“I wanted to continue the flow of natural materials throughout the home and create calming and uplifting spaces to enjoy spending time in,” says Lisa. “Each bedroom has its own unique sense of character, and they’ve all got something truly special to offer.” The first floor’s spacious master bedroom is particularly stunning, with a Super-King size bed, a gorgeous Juliette balcony, a large freestanding bath and a stylish ensuite shower room.

“I chose to place the bath in the bedroom itself as I loved the idea of watching the magical Norfolk skies whilst enjoying a luxurious soak in the tub,”

PICTURES: Maintaining the property’s effortless flow of calming colours and natural materials, the four beautiful and spacious bedrooms boast captivating countryside vistas (above).

The stunning master bedroom features a luxurious freestanding bathtub which affords astounding views of the spectacular Norfolk skies and glorious surrounding countryside (below).

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DIRECTORY

Your handy address book for contacting Norfolk’s most

Architectural Services

ACS Architectural 01485 532112 acs-architectural.co.uk Atelier Associates 01485 542729 atelierassociates.uk

RGR Developments 07921 910651 / 07817 941897 rgrdevelopments.co.uk RobSon Construction 01328 854455 robsonconstructionltd.co.uk

Building Supplies

Calvert Brain & Fraulo Architectural 01553 766033 c-b-f-a.co.uk

Howdens 01553 772881 howdens.com

Ian H Bix Associates 01553 844077 ianbix.co.uk

MKM Building Supplies 01553 817830 mkmbs.co.uk

PiP Architecture 01223 361803 / 07766 492956 piparchitecture.co.uk

Norfolk Reclaim 01328 864743 norfolkreclaim.co.uk

Strata Architects 01328 738239 strataarchitecture.com

Optima Metal Services 01553 764120 optima.co.uk

Vertex Architecture 01485 532286 vertexarchitecture.co.uk

Carpets & Flooring

Builders & Developers Avada Country Homes avadahomes.co.uk

Ayling Construction 01328 851898 aylingconstruction.co.uk Charterhouse 03303 202077 charterhouse.solutions Grocott & Murfit 01328 851420 grocottandmurfit.co.uk Holkham Property Department 01328 801303 holkham.co.uk/property McNamara 01263 761336 mcnamaraproperty.co.uk Ottoway 01485 540260 / 07836 603272 128

Aldiss 01328 862381 / 01603 272100 aldiss.com Foras 01366 381069 foras.co.uk Lynn Carpet Centre 01553 773938 lynncarpetcentre.co.uk Metric Carpets 01553 775203 metriccarpets.co.uk Supreme Carpets 01485 542384 supreme-carpets.com

Cleaning Services Xtraclean 01760 337762 xtraclean.co.uk

Construction Services Baco Compak 01553 630247 baco-compak.com

WN Scaffolding 01553 777285 wnscaffolding.co.uk WN Surfacing 01553 811531 wnsurfacing.com

Electrical

4 Way Electrical 01553 767878 4waygroup.co.uk Bramham Electrical 01553 763685 bramham-electrical.co.uk Edmundson Electrical 01553 773132 edmundson-electrical.co.uk

Energy

4 Way Group 01553 767878 4waygroup.co.uk

Estate Agents Sowerbys 01328 730340 sowerbys.com

Financial & Legal Allen Tomas & Co 01328 854706 allentomasfinancial.co.uk Fraser Dawbarns 01553 666600 fraserdawbarns.com MCP Solicitors 01553 778100 mcp-law.co.uk Stephenson Smart 01553 774104 stephenson-smart.com

KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

reputable businesses in the design & build industry...

Holiday Letting Agency

Norfolk Hideaways 01485 211022 norfolkhideaways.co.uk

Insurance Adrian Flux 01553 400399 adrianflux.co.uk

Interiors

Aldiss 01328 862381 / 01603 272100 aldiss.com Bedtime Bed Centre 01553 780227 bedtimebedcentre.co.uk Charmed Interiors 01775 766378 charmed-interiors.co.uk KR Fireplaces 01553 772564 krfireplaces.co.uk Norfolk Upholstery 01603 611 442 / 07518 472442 norfolkupholstery.co.uk Sophie & Boo 07813 177330 sophieandboo.co.uk The Norfolk Shutter Company 01553 611693 thenorfolkshuttercompany.co.uk

Kitchens & Bathrooms A.T Norfolk Plumbing & Heating 01485 518648 atplumbingnorfolk.co.uk Howdens 01553 772881 howdens.com Kestrel Kitchens 01603 722026 kestrelkitchens.co.uk

MKM Building Supplies 01553 817830 mkmbs.co.uk Newrooms 01366 727417 newroomsdesign.co.uk Quay Centre 01945 476797 quaycentre.co.uk

Outdoors & Gardening Doubleday 01553 617666 doubledaygroup.co.uk

Dean Price Horticulture 07484 240938 / 07758 915332 deanpricehorticulture.co.uk Foras 01366 381069 foras.co.uk Heritage Tree Specialists 01553 617008 heritagetreespecialists.co.uk Norfolk Leisure 01553 811717 norfolkleisure.com Norfolk Sheds 01553 631839 / 07818 608331 norfolksheds.co.uk Rachael’s Plant Outlet 01945 664520 rachaelsplantoutlet.co.uk Thaxters 01485 541514 thaxters.co.uk

Storage

East Coast Self Storage 01553 772689 eastcoaststorage.co.uk

Swimming Pools & Hot Tubs Wensum Pools 01328 838834 wensumpools.co.uk

Technology

Core Technology Projects 01553 776413 coretp.uk

Timber

DMG Timber 01553 692634 dmgtimber.co.uk Stoke Ferry Timber 01366 500505 stokeferrytimber.com

Windows, Doors & Conservatories Eastern Frames 01485 522050 easternframes.com Lynn Frame 01553 602088 lynnframe.co.uk Rudd Joinery 01485 529136 ruddjoinery.co.uk Smith & Williamson Developments 01553 841175

Planning

The Borough Council of King’s Lynn & West Norfolk 01553 616200 west-norfolk.gov.uk

Quantity Surveyor Harvey Minns Associates 07368 462255

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ABOVE: The Bothy - an innovative outdoor living area expertly designed by PiP Architecture.

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e hope you’ve enjoyed this special edition of KL magazine as much as we have enjoyed creating it for you. We understand that home improvement at any level, from interior decoration to full self-build projects, brings excitement tempered with hurdles, challenges, and stress!

We’d like to thank our talented local experts who’ve shared their wealth of knowledge and experience to help us fill this this special edition with advice, tips, and inspiration for you.

These professionals make up some of the most respected and trusted in our local area and, whether you’re considering improvements of any scale or are about to embark on building your dream home, we’re confident that you’ll find everything and everyone you could possibly need featured within – and they’re here to help guide you every step of the way…

KL magazine team 130

KLmagazine Home Design & Build in Norfolk

AR NO E MI N N O AT W CL ION O S SE D

Awards ceremony to be held at King’s Lynn Town Hall on

TUESDAY 20 SEPTEMBER 2022 TH

A special evening hosted by the Borough Council of King’s Lynn & West Norfolk to celebrate the best in local design and building excellence. Visit our website or follow us on social media for the winners: west-norfolk.gov.uk

Organised by the In association with

Visit our King’s Lynn showroom

for all the help and inspiration you need for your next project Featuring fabulous new ranges in the latest colours along with quality appliances and stylish finishing touches you’re sure to be inspired at MKM. Our in-branch specialists are on hand to design a kitchen around your space, your needs and your style - and all at a great price.

Kitchens • Bathrooms • Joinery • Landscaping • Flooring • Decorating Get in touch with us today to book your appointment with one of our specialists MKM King’s Lynn, North Lynn Industrial Estate, King’s Lynn PE30 2ND 01553 817830 | www.mkmbs.co.uk