Discover how Studio Dean transformed a typical 1930s semi-detached home into a stunning coastal retreat, rethinking every space to embrace surrounding breathtaking sea views
OLIVE GREEN DREAMS
Embrace the olive green trend: Timeless, calming and perfect for any space in your home
SPOT THE ROT
Dry rot vs. wet rot: Learn how to identify, treat and prevent destructive wood fungi
ROLL INTO RENOVATION
Simplify wall prep with roller-applied coverings – quick, easy and professional results
THE LAW OF EXTENSIONS ~ How to navigate extension laws confidently and enhance your home’s value legally
EDITORIAL: Rebecca Kemp rebecca@redhutmedia.com
PRINT & DIGITAL ADVERTISING: Sam Ball sam@redhutmedia.com
Jim Moore jim@redhutmedia.com
PRINT DESIGN MANAGER: Jack Witcomb jack@redhutmedia.com
DIGITAL DESIGN MANAGER: Matt Morse matt@redhutmedia.com
PUBLISHER: Sam Ball sam@redhutmedia.com
Welcome Editor's
I-BUILD JANUARY 2025
Happy New Year, and welcome to the first edition of i-Build for 2025! As we step into another exciting year of self-builds, renovations and design inspiration, we’re here to equip you with expert advice, practical tips and creative solutions to support every stage of your project.
W hether you’re planning an extension, addressing seasonal maintenance or exploring sustainable building options, this issue offers everything you need to approach your goals with confidence and clarity.
English property law on page 24 . From planning permissions to understanding party walls, this advice ensures your project remains smooth and legally sound from start to finish.
W ith colder months now in full swing, Martin Beaumont of Monty Miracle explains how to protect your driveway from ice, fallen leaves and organic growth on page 26. This guidance will help maintain its condition and durability through winter and beyond.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
Cover story: For a 1930s semi-detached house on the Northumberland coast, Studio Dean’s challenge was to transform a fairly standard layout into a home that fully celebrated extraordinary sea views. See page 12.
Red Hut Media Ltd 2, The Old Stable Block, Crescent Road, Faversham, Kent, ME13 7GU 01795 515288
www. redhutmedia. com
T his month’s Viewpoint feature explores how to identify and treat dry rot and wet rot – two common but very different types of wood rot that can compromise the structural integrity of your home. Understanding the signs and taking swift action could save you time, stress and costly repairs. Turn to page 10 to learn more.
I f extending your living space is on the horizon, Robert Barham of Forsters looks at navigating the complexities of
F inally, we take a deep dive into the benefits of natural insulation solutions with insights from Neil Turner at Ecological Building Systems. On page 20 , learn how natural insulation is becoming a compelling choice for eco-conscious self-builders and renovators.
Rebecca Kemp Editor
Rebecca
INSPIRATION
Desired Designs:
January 2025
ADVISORY
Viewpoint
06 12
Olive Green with Envy
Whether you’re looking to inject character into a brand-new build or add a splash of colour to a recently-renovated home, the olive green trend is a versatile shade that suits a range of interiors.
08
Desired Designs: Corked in Style
From textured wallcoverings to stylish accessories, discover how the natural charm of cork adds warmth, texture, charm and eco-friendly appeal to any space.
24
i-Build: Home Extensions
Robert Barham, Residential Partner at Forsters, shares expert insights into navigating the quirks of English property law, from planning permissions to party walls and beyond.
26 28
i-Scape: Driveways
Martin Beaumont of Monty Miracle shares tips on protecting your driveway through the colder months, preventing damage from ice, leaves and organic growth.
i-Nterior: Multi-Functional Living Spaces
Victoria Brocklesby, COO at Origin, explains how homeowners can make the most of the square footage in their properties.
30 10 18 20 22
Travis Perkins breaks down the key differences between dry rot and wet rot, how to spot the signs and the steps to treat them effectively.
Impressive Innovation
For a 1930s semi-detached house in Bamburgh, on the Northumberland coast, Studio Dean’s challenge was to transform a fairly standard layout into a home that fully celebrated extraordinary sea views.
MATERIALS
Tools & Equipment
Martin Spalenice, Head of Trade Sales at Okarno, explains why rollerapplied coverings might be the solution that home renovators are looking for.
Floors, Walls & Ceilings
Neil Turner, UK Technical Manager at Ecological Building Systems, looks at why natural insulation is becoming a compelling choice for self-builders.
Smart Home Technology & Home Automation
Antonio Formisano from 4lite explores how smart lighting is transforming our homes, creating adaptable spaces for work, rest and entertainment.
31 32
NEWS/PRODUCT GUIDE
Surface Design Show
The Surface Design Show returns to London’s Business Design Centre from 4 to 6th February.
The South East Homebuilding & Renovating Show
The South East Homebuilding & Renovating Show is back on 18 and 19th January at Farnborough International Exhibition Centre. Don’t miss out – secure your free tickets today.
Product Guide
The latest innovative products in the marketplace, designed with your build in mind.
Whether you’re looking to inject character into a brand-new build or add a splash of colour to a recentlyrenovated home, the olive green trend is a versatile shade that suits a range of interiors.
Not only classic and sophisticated, this earthy green hue also nods to the biophilic movement, which has been prevalent in interiors for several years, highlighting the practice of bringing the outdoors in by incorporating natural hues and materials inside our homes. With its calming effect and ability to promote a sense of wellbeing and harmony, the versatile olive green shade is ideally suited to many rooms in a property. Imagine a focused office
space with darker tones of wood for a richer aesthetic, a kitchen with bright-white, Metro-style tiles to balance light and dark tones, or even a hallway with olivegreen panelling coupled with Victorian black-andwhite chequerboard floor tiles. Don’t just think paint, though. If olive green is planned to be used as more of an accent colour to add visual interest to your space, there are plenty of other methods for incorporating the hue – such as with furniture, decorative items and textiles. Here are a few of our favourite pieces.
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01. Paige office chair in olive green sustainable velvet, Cult Furniture, £129
Branch of an olive poster, Desenio, £15.95
Olive green-panelled glass mister, Gisela Graham London, £5.99
Olive green velvet throw, Idyll Home, £115
Green crystal tumbler, Joanna Wood, £42
Romy adjustable stool in olive green sustainable velvet, Cult Furniture, £89
Green full-length wave mirror 163 x 80cm, Melody Maison, £179.95
Vintage olive rustic glossy metro wall tile, The London Tile Co, £23.76 per box
Five pack of rustic dinner candles in olive green, Where Saints Go, £5
The Fitzrovia accent chair in velvet olive, Sofology, £549
YOURS TO BUY
Faux trees
Why not elevate the trend by introducing a faux olive tree? Positioned against an olive green-painted wall, a high-quality faux plant will add depth and visual interest to your design scheme.
Bold and unapologetic, Ohpopsi is an independent British wallpaper brand making its mark on the interior design world, one statement wall at a time. On a mission to enable self expression, Ohpopsi’s creative team specialises in developing original wallpaper designs to reflect customers’ individuality and imagination.
1. Eve Toile in olive, £69 per roll
2. Lorena Vine in olive, £69 per roll
3. Illusion Chevron in olive twist, £48 per roll
4. Venation in olive, £69 per roll
Complement the olive green trend with natural materials to create a harmonious interior?
Consider using dark or light – depending on your desired result – wooden furniture or woven accessories to enhance the earthy vibe. For a DIY touch, try painting a statement piece, like a side table, in olive green to add a pop of colour while maintaining a cohesive and inviting atmosphere throughout your space.
1. Green olive tree artificial plant with pot 90cm, Homescapes Online, £44.99
2. Faux olive tree, Katie Fischer GmbH, €149
3. Ola large faux olive tree, Sweetpea & Willow, £1340
4. Floor olive tree in pot, Wayfair, £60.99
CORKED IN STYLE
From textured wallcoverings to stylish accessories, discover how the natural charm of cork adds warmth, texture, charm and eco-friendly appeal to any space.
C ork with character
Hit The North is a Modernist-inspired cork wallpaper designed by Drew Millward. Featuring intricate, monochromatic designs influenced by west Yorkshire’s postindustrial landscape, it blends graphic art with Portuguese cork. www.themonkey puzzletree.com
Bloom with every pose
The Positive Company’s Mandala cork yoga mat combines ecofriendly cork and natural rubber for optimal grip, cushioning and durability. Ideal for regular or hot yoga, its antimicrobial surface wicks sweat and improves grip when wet. www.thepositive.co
E co chic
Transform your space with Naturewall’s Cascais natural cork wall tiles. Featuring a warm marble effect with organic patterns, the eco-friendly tiles are crafted from the regenerative bark of Portuguese trees, adding unique style and sustainability to interiors. www.naturewall.com
Sustainable style
LIGA’s cactus cork tray is crafted from sustainably-harvested cork. This material offers excellent thermal properties, is lightweight and impermeable. By preserving cork forests, LIGA supports climate balance and protects vital ecosystems. www.loveliga.com
Firm support
Warrior Addict’s cork yoga block is crafted from 100% sustainablysourced Portuguese cork. Naturally grippy and slightly denser for added support, it’s perfect for enhancing balance in any yoga or pilates practice, and it’s suitable for all skill levels. www.warrioraddict.com
Timeless texture
Real cork wallpaper adds character to any space with its natural, sustainable charm. At 134cm wide, it’s sold by the metre and easily applied with paste. Prized for its sound and heat insulation, it’s perfect for creating warm, quiet interiors. www.themonkey puzzletree.com
GLASS EXCELLENCE
With over 46 years’ experience and UK-wide coverage, Firman Glass aims to be your number one choice for commercial and industrial glass products.
GLASS EXCELLENCE
Products
With over 46 years’ experience and UK-wide coverage, Firman Glass aims to be your number one choice for commercial and industrial glass products.
• Toughened glass
• Processing
• CNC shaping
• Specialist insulating glass units
• Anti–slip glass
• Fire rated glass
• Toughened glass
• Laminated glass
• Processing
• CNC shaping
• Toughened and laminated constructions
• Laminated glass
• EVA and Vanceva coloured interlays
• Fabric and decorative interlays
• Toughened and laminated constructions
• Structural interlays
• EVA and Vanceva coloured interlays
• Fabric and decorative interlays
Applications
• Structural interlays
• Structural glazing
• Glass floors
• Partitions
• Staircases
• Specialist insulating glass units
• UV bonding
• Anti–slip glass
• Electric switchable glass
• Fire rated glass
• Heated glass
• UV bonding
• Decorative glass
• Electric switchable glass
• Sandblasting
• Heated glass
• ColorfirmTM back painted glass
• Decorative glass
• Sandblasting
• ColorfirmTM back painted glass
• Decoration
• Treads and stringers
• Shower screens
• Wall cladding
• Splashbacks
• Roof lights
• Structural glazing
• Glass floors
• Balustrades
• Partitions
• Full height barriers
• Staircases
• Shelving
• Decoration
• Privacy
• Glass doors
• Treads and stringers
• Shower screens
• Acoustic reduction
• Roof lights
• Canopies
• Balustrades
• Full height barriers
• Canopies
• Fire rated
• Shelving
• Glass doors
• Acoustic reduction
• Fire rated
• Wall cladding
• Technical Support
• Splashbacks
• Privacy
• Technical Support
• Nationwide Coverage Products Applications
• Nationwide Coverage
Further information is available from our sales and technical offices or visit www.firmanglass.com Firman Glass, 19 Bates Road, Harold Wood, Romford, Essex RM3 0JH Tel: 01708 374534 Email: sales@ rmanglass.com
Further information is available from our sales and technical offices or visit www.firmanglass.com
Dry rot vs. wet rot: How to spot the difference and treat it
Property owners need to do all they can to protect their property from wet rot and dry rot, as these wood-destroying fungi can severely damage a home as they develop. This guide from Travis Perkins will help to distinguish dry rot from wet rot, as well as what to do if either type of fungi starts to grow.
D ifferences between dry rot and wet rot
Homeowners finding rot will likely become concerned about their property and how much it will cost to fix the problem. Identifying the differences between dry rot and wet rot should be the first step taken, though, as that can then determine how to deal with the issue.
As dry rot and wet rot are two different types of fungi, they each need varying amounts of moisture content to grow. Dry rot can germinate on timber with a moisture content of between 20 and 30%, while wet rot fungi thrive on timber with moisture content of around 50%.
Another key difference between these types of rot is how they can spread. Spores generated by the fungus of dry rot can move through plaster and masonry, so can travel around a property with ease. However, wet rot can only spread to nearby damp timbers, so the damage caused is often localised.
Once a property owner knows whether their building has problems with dry rot or wet rot, the next stage is finding out information about the type of fungi being dealt with to understand how to treat it.
F ive questions to ask about dry rot
1 . What causes dry rot?
A rather nasty fungus called serpula lacrymans causes dry rot. It can cause serious damage if it gets into timber and can spread quite fast, so it should be acted on quickly.
Dry rot develops as airborne spores come into contact with damp timber, with these spores then germinating and sprouting grey root hyphae strands. Eventually, the hyphae can grow into mycelium – noticeable by a thick substance that looks like cotton wool.
2 . What are the signs of dry rot?
Telltale signals that indicate dry rot include:
Timber having a dry and brittle appearance
Timber shrinking, which in itself causes cracking often along the grain of the wood
Timber feeling soft and spongy when touched
A damp and musty smell
Orange spore dust possibly being present.
3 . Where does dry rot grow?
Dry rot can affect any unprotected timber in a property that becomes damp. This is the case whether the wood is installed on a roof or a ground floor. Leaking roofs, defective gutters and plumbing leaks inside a property can often result in dry rot beginning to grow.
4 . How dangerous is dry rot?
Dry rot definitely should not be ignored, as it’s one of the most hazardous types of timber fungi.
While it isn’t believed to produce any toxic chemicals, dry rot in a property does indicate that there’s high levels of condensation and dampness present. Both of these can cause people respiratory problems and worsen the effects of conditions such as asthma.
Brickwork, plaster and timber will also weaken when dry rot spreads through them, which can result in health and safety concerns due to the risk of structures collapsing.
5 . What are the treatment methods for dry rot?
T o get rid of dry rot once identified, specialist treatments are required, and professional trades are needed to investigate and suggest the correct repair actions. The
fungal area of dry rot needs to be treated directly and scrubbed down using a hard-bristled brush. Next, a wood fungus treatment should be applied.
T here may be times where a section of the timber will need to be cut away and replaced. These are usually extreme cases, though, but if this is required, then apply the same wood fungus treatment.
F ive questions to ask about wet rot
1 . What causes wet rot?
E xcess moisture in a property will cause wet rot. While sometimes seen as the less severe counterpart to dry rot, wet rot is still a problem that needs to be taken seriously.
Timber that becomes damp and never dries through properly will begin to decay. Eventually, this can result in serious structural issues if left untreated.
2 . What are the signs of wet rot?
Wet rot can be identified by these indicators:
Timber will be wet and spongy to the touch
There’ll be discolouration of the timber
Timber shrinking and cracking, often along the grain of the wood, just like with dry rot
A damp and musty smell, again similar to dry rot.
3 . Where does wet rot grow?
W et rot can thrive in any damp conditions around a property where there’s unprotected timber, and this type of fungi is encouraged to grow whenever a property has maintenance problems like broken guttering, leaking pipes or structural defects.
4 . How dangerous is wet rot?
Wet rot can weaken the structural integrity of a property once it spreads through any timber present. This type of fungi can provide a breeding ground for pests such as insects and rodents, too, which can risk further damage.
People with asthma and other respiratory conditions can also become more sensitive to the spores produced by wet rot, resulting in coughing, shortness of breath and wheezing.
5 . What are the treatment methods for wet rot?
Just like when treating dry rot, professional trades are needed to investigate and advise on the correct repair actions due to these being specialist treatments.
T hey will start by identifying the source. This can sometimes be quite a simple task, as it’s looking around for anything that requires plumbing, such as damp patches next to baths, toilets and washing machines.
W hen a leak has been found, the specialist will fix it and then give the wall time to dry to get rid of a source where wet rot fungi can thrive. After this, wood rot treatment will be applied to the affected timber.
www.travisperkins.co.uk
Seafront sanctuary
For this 1930s semi-detached house, Studio Dean’s challenge was to transform a fairly standard layout into a home that fully celebrated extraordinary sea views. The team took an unconventional approach, rethinking the space entirely to make the view the star of the show while addressing the shortcomings of previous architectural plans.
On its own, this house in Bamburgh, on the Northumberland coast, was fine – a typical 1930s semi-detached house with bow window bays. Its one difference is a beautiful uninterrupted sea view at the front, which is why the owners bought it, at a premium price for the location. Here, Cathy Dean, Founder & CEO of Studio Dean, explains more about the project.
T he owners planned a full renovation and had called in plans from two architects, but didn’t feel totally happy with either of them. Then they turned to Studio Dean. As architectural interior designers, we immediately saw where the architects had gone wrong.
T he architects’ first mistake was to treat this house like all the other 1930s semis they had worked on. These houses are often facing each other on the street and have large back gardens. They logically often place the most-used spaces at the back of the house where there are nicer views and more privacy.
B oth architects had suggested an extension at the rear, which works well for most 1930s semis, so that the living,
cooking and dining spaces were all at the back of the house. They had put a snug to be used mainly at night when it’s dark at the front of the house and kept or added walls to keep rooms separate. The garage and bathroom also took up prime space at the front of the house.
T he architects’ second mistake was to not recognise that the view was absolutely this house’s superpower.
H ere’s what we did
W e knew that simply cutting and pasting 1930s semi ideas onto this house was the wrong approach. We reimagined the whole house with the aim of making the view the main feature of as many rooms as possible, so that pretty much wherever you are in the house, you can see the sea.
A s it was, the only window with a view was in the living room. We began by taking out the porch wall and putting in a glazed front door and window. We also flipped the stairs to create a more functional hallway. Now the owners can see the sea as they come down the stairs and can watch it change all day as they move about the house.
I nstead of an extension at the back, we looked at how the owners use the space they already had. As in most cases, it turned out that they didn’t need to extend, they just needed to use their space better.
O ur goal was to have clear sightlines of the sea throughout, so we opened up the house in the middle to see from back to front. Now the owners can see the sea from their kitchen-diner and living space.
We put in a half-height wall so the owners are still connected to the sea while cooking. We also went one step further and enabled them to see the water even when they were in the back garden by opening up the back of the house with glazed doors and windows and adding an outdoor kitchen and dining table with views through the house.
I nstead of extending to gain more space, we converted the side garage into an office with a killer view – it makes the working day so much nicer! This is so much cheaper than extending, and unless you really need and use your garage space, it makes sense. Remember, cars don’t have eyes, you do, so always tuck them away from the view.
With the key ‘dwell spaces’ – where the owners spend most of their time – placed in prime view spots, we could now focus on other areas, such as bathrooms and boot rooms, which didn’t require a view. These could all be tucked at the back, and we could still make them magical with some beautiful design.
B eing the overachievers we are, we added a sea view to the snug/library at the back by adding a glazed door. Even though it is usually used at night, so it doesn’t urgently need a sea view, it can’t hurt, can it?
Heading upstairs, we applied the same strategy. We created a master bedroom with a double sea view and added seating so the owners could sit and enjoy it. There was another bedroom at the front, so we added a huge dormer window. We tucked a laundry room and family bathroom at the back and added a flexible spare room. Now this ordinary semi-detached house is extraordinary, the views are fully utilised, and it is definitely worth the extra money the owners paid for the seaside location.
www.studiodean.com
Roll with it
For decades, home renovators have faced challenges when preparing walls for painting or decorating. Traditional methods often involved stripping old wallpaper, sanding rough surfaces or even calling in plasterers for extensive repairs. These approaches were not only time-consuming but costly and messy.
Her e, Martin Spalenice, Head of Trade Sales at Okarno, looks at why roller-applied coverings might be the solution that home renovators are looking for.
Th e introduction of ready-mixed, roller-applied coverings provides home renovators with a versatile solution that bridges the gap between minor repairs and full-scale replastering. Their versatility and ease of use even allow those who use them to take on projects they might have previously considered beyond their skill level.
Un derstanding roller-applied coverings: What are they?
As the name suggests, ready-mixed, roller-applied coverings are specially formulated to be applied with a standard roller, much like paint. However, they serve a dual purpose: They fill in minor imperfections and create a smooth surface ready for decoration.
Th e composition of the covering itself is carefully engineered to achieve the perfect balance between spreadability and coverage.
Ty pically, it consists of a blend of fine fillers, binders and additives that work together to create a creamy, easily workable consistency. The formulation allows the product to
be rolled onto walls with minimal effort, filling in small cracks, dents and uneven textures as it’s applied. Once applied to the walls, a skimming blade is used to evenly spread and smooth the covering to help achieve a professional finish before lightly sanding and finally decorating.
Th is adaptability makes rollerapplied coverings an invaluable tool for both new construction and renovation projects. They can be applied directly over existing surfaces, often eliminating the need for extensive preparation or removal of old materials.
An other notable feature of rollerapplied wall coverings is their quick drying time. Most products, including popular options like Dalapro Roll Nova, dry within 8 to 12 hours, depending on the thickness of the application and environmental conditions. This rapid drying time allows for faster project completion, which is a significant advantage for home renovators wanting to progress to painting and wallpapering.
Be nefits to renovators and self-builders
Th e growing popularity of rollerapplied coverings is due to their ability to address some of the most common issues in home renovation projects.
Specifically, traditional plaster repair and preparation methods can be very time-consuming, often requiring multiple steps and long drying times between applications.
Th e rapid drying time of rollerapplied coverings is particularly appealing to renovators on certain projects, such as those looking to rent out a property, because it means they can offer it to the market sooner.
Th e application process utilises tools that home renovators will be familiar with, such as rollers and skimming blades. It also helps that roller-applied coverings generally have a longer working time than traditional plasters, allowing for adjustments and corrections during application. All that is needed once it is dry is a light sanding.
An other key advantage of rollerapplied coverings is that they are great for targeted repairs. Whether you’re dealing with nail pops, cracks or other minor surface flaws, they can help restore a smooth, even finish. For larger gaps and cracks, roller-applied coverings can be used with scrim or joint tape for a stronger, longerlasting fill.
Be ing ready-mixed is definitely beneficial because it ensures the right consistency, making it much easier to apply.
En vironmental considerations
Home renovators are increasingly seeking eco-friendly products for their property. At its most fundamental level, the ability to apply roller-applied coverings over existing surfaces often eliminates the need for extensive removal and disposal of old materials, which is better for the environment in a number of ways. Firstly, it minimises the use of raw materials in manufacturing new products and, secondly, reduces the amount of waste that goes to landfill.
For example, our roller-applied covering, Dalapro Roll Nova, is also made by a Saint Gobain company that uses climate-neutral production. The tub itself is manufactured from 75% recycled plastic. Additionally, the product’s instructions provide guidance on the proper disposal of residues and empty containers, promoting responsible waste management practices.
Mi nd the gap
Ro ller-applied coverings have earned their place as a valuable tool in the home renovator’s tool kit. Their efficiency, versatility and cost-effectiveness are changing how existing plastered walls are treated.
Th is innovative product category has addressed many of the traditional challenges renovators face with plastering and wall repair, offering a more accessible, efficient and cost-effective solution for a wide range of applications.
Ho wever, it’s important to recognise that roller-applied coverings are not a complete replacement for all traditional plastering techniques. There are still scenarios where professional plastering skills are irreplaceable, particularly for major repairs or heritage restoration projects. The key lies in understanding the appropriate applications for each method and choosing the right approach for each specific project.
Fo r homeowners considering a renovation project, roller-applied coverings can offer a route for taking on wall preparation tasks that might have previously seemed daunting. With proper research, preparation and application techniques, achieving high-quality results is now within reach for many.
As more home renovators discover the benefits of rollerapplied coverings, we can expect continued innovation and adoption in this space, ultimately leading to more efficient, costeffective and accessible home improvement solutions for all.
A natural choice for insulation
Neil Turner, UK Technical Manager at Ecological Building Systems, looks at why natural insulation is becoming a compelling choice for self-builders.
On e of the main reasons that many self-builders choose to build their own home is to be able to use materials that are as sustainable as possible. The desire to create more sustainable homes is driving the market for natural insulation materials, but a question we’re often asked is how good is natural insulation compared to synthetic?
T here is a misconception that natural insulations do not perform as well as synthetic insulations. However, the truth is that not only can they match these insulation types, but they can outperform them, too, across a number of technical parameters.
S ome synthetic materials offer high levels of insulation and are, therefore, perceived as being better for the environment; however, what also needs to be taken into account is the fact that synthetic fibres require vast amounts of energy to produce them in the first place.
T here are a wide variety of natural insulation materials available, ranging from organic materials, such as sheep’s wool, hemp, jute and wood fibres. One of the latest innovations in natural insulation is Gramitherm, which is produced from sustainable grass and recycled jute fibres – a unique addition to the wide variety of natural insulation materials available.
What is great to be able to demonstrate is that natural insulation materials can provide comparable performance to synthetics, without high levels of energy use in their creation.
T here are a number of considerations to make before choosing any type of insulation.
What is the specific heat capacity?
F irstly, consider the material’s specific heat capacity. This refers to the amount of heat energy required to change 1kg of insulation by 1ºC. This is particularly important in modern homes that are heavily glazed and, therefore, likely to overheat in the summer. A large amount of glass not only requires an effective shading and ventilation strategy, but
the material selection and insulation type will also play a critical role in reducing the risk of overheating.
B y choosing an insulation that is naturally able to store large amounts of thermal energy, self-builders can benefit from optimised thermal comfort all year round. Natural insulation materials, such as IndiBreathe Flex, a hemp and recycled jute insulation, have a high specific heat capacity of 2370 J/(kg•K).
S imilarly, natural wood fibre insulation boards, such as Gutex Multitherm, reduce heat loss in a building during the winter and heat gain during the summer. This may significantly lower energy bills (heating in the winter and air conditioning in summer) and result in a more comfortable living space.
I s the insulation breathable?
I t’s important to understand the difference between ‘breathability’ and air ‘permeability’.
B reathable materials, due to their unique cellular structure, can absorb and safely release excessive moisture vapour when conditions allow without damaging the insulation’s performance.
N atural fibre insulation, thanks to its inherently breathable properties, when used in conjunction with sufficient indoor ventilation, helps to create more stable humidity and moisture levels within buildings due to their high degree of hygroscopicity. This allows moisture vapour to be absorbed, distributed, stored and then harmlessly released in changing indoor and outdoor climate conditions.
This absorption and release of moisture by the insulation also helps to regulate temperature fluctuations and so provides a more comfortable living or working space. For example, IndiBreathe Flex is widely used in lofts, between studs and in suspended timber floors to prevent moisture build up.
In terms of design, the breathability of natural insulation allows for greater design flexibility as there is no need to use high vapour-resistant vapour barriers throughout the building.
D oes it achieve good thermal performance?
I f one of your main priorities is achieving a better U-value, then natural insulation materials are definitely worth considering.
T he wood chips are compressed into flexible batts and come with a very competitive thermal conductivity of 0.036W/mK. It also has the added advantages of being non-toxic and safe to handle.
W ood fibre is also excellent at regulating peaks in internal humidity due to its ability to absorb and release up to 15% of its weight in moisture – without the loss of insulation performance.
D oes the insulation offer good acoustics?
I nsulation materials can help to reduce noise transmission between different areas within a building, which improves acoustics. Lower-density natural insulation products, such as Gutex Multitherm boards, have excellent airborne and impact noise reduction properties. This is due to their low dynamic stiffness, porous fibre structure and inherent density, which means natural insulation enhances acoustics in a home.
F ire safety
Fire safety is an important consideration when it comes to any building material. Natural fibre insulation materials are inherently fire-resistant and, therefore, char on exposure to flame. This surface char provides protection to the structure and slows down the penetration of heat and flame through the structure. It is possible to achieve an REI rating of up to 90 minutes tested from inside and outside according to EN13501-2 (BS EN 1365-1 : 2012).
I nstallation
T he installation process for flexible natural insulation is similar to that of other insulation products, making it accessible for self-builders. There’s no need for specialised protective clothing or complex techniques, therefore reducing health and safety issues on site.
A irtightness can be achieved by sealing joints using appropriate membranes, tapes and sealants. Insulation suppliers, like Ecological Building Systems, will be able to advise on this aspect of the installation.
A sustainable choice
While the initial cost of natural insulation may be slightly higher than that of synthetic alternatives, it is essential to consider the wider environmental and performance benefits. The enhanced thermal and moisture management properties of natural insulation may also lead to lower energy bills and fewer moisture-related issues over time.
I n addition, the exceptional environmental credentials of natural insulation materials are widely recognised by selfbuilders. These materials often use recycled items in their production, so have a significantly lower carbon footprint compared to conventional insulation options. For example, wood fibre insulation is made from post-industrial recycled wood chips, effectively locking in sequestered carbon.
The ability of natural insulation materials to sequester carbon contributes to their sustainability. For example, 1kg of dried timber can sequester approximately 1.8kg. Yes, this is correct of CO2 equivalent, making natural insulation a viable option for reducing the carbon impact of construction.
I n Passive House constructions, where energy efficiency is paramount, natural insulation materials have proven to be effective in achieving high-performance standards while maintaining a healthy indoor environment.
T he future of natural insulation
W hen it comes to choosing the best insulation materials for a project, natural sustainable solutions with high environmental ratings are a compelling choice. The growing demand for more environmentally-responsible materials is having a very positive impact on the variety of natural insulations available in Ireland and the UK. As a direct result of this, there is now a specific type of insulation available for almost all applications.
With its benefits of greater breathability and better moisture control, plus its environmental credentials, it is clear why natural insulation is becoming an increasingly popular choice.
Smart lighting: The future of mood, design and sustainability
A key element during any stage of the build or refurbishment process, lighting is integral to the design, functionality and security of our homes.
Cap able of far more than simply providing illumination, lighting is now a core design element that can be used creatively to enhance mood, shape ambience and highlight architectural features. In this article, we speak to Antonio Formisano, Product Manager at 4lite, who delves further into how smart lighting is reshaping the way we live and use our spaces.
Wh ilst not a brand-new technology, smart lighting is currently soaring in popularity in homes across the country and with very good reason.
Pa rt of a new era of technology that prioritises convenience and customisation, it is revolutionising the way we can illuminate and interact with our homes, complementing today’s living patterns whilst also helping in the fight against soaring energy bills.
Us ing wireless technology and protocols such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and Zigbee, smart lighting works by connecting luminaires throughout the home together; creating a network of lamps that can be centrally controlled and automated via an app, remote
control, voice control or even through ecosystems such as Alexa, Hey Google and Siri.
A complete contrast to traditional lighting design, which is often dictated by static features such as fixed wall switches, rigid fixtures and a one-sizefits-all approach to brightness and colour, smart lighting provides much more flexibility and creativity when it comes to illuminating the home.
Sm art lighting allows every single detail of a lighting system to be programmed to meet specific requirements. Factors such as colour, brightness, intensity and the combinations of lamps in use can be individually set according to the different activities taking place, moods required or even the time of day.
Wh ether it’s creating the perfect ambience for a dinner party, ensuring lights are turned off when not needed or providing additional security whilst on holiday, smart lighting enables lighting schemes to be tailored to individual lifestyles, creating distinct ambiences for work, relaxation, entertainment or social gatherings.
Th e creative possibilities of smart lighting
As we’ve just touched upon, one of the most profound creative possibilities of smart lighting is its ability to shape mood and ambience. Through changes in colour temperature settings, lighting levels and brightness, a single room can take on multiple personalities throughout the day. For example, an energising cool white light can be set each morning to simulate daylight, transitioning to a warm, soothing glow in the evening for relaxation. Even bright colours such as red or blue can be set, perhaps for parties or other special events. Some smart bulbs and LED strips can also be synchronised with music, movies or sports matches, providing an immersive experience that complements your entertainment choice.
Moving beyond the mood in the room, smart lighting can also be used to influence circadian rhythm, the body’s natural 24-hour cycle of sleep, wake, hunger, alertness, hormone release and body temperature. Improving mood and wellbeing, lighting can be set to mimic nature, emitting a warm colour in the morning, blue during the day and
then back to a warmer hue in the evening, prompting the body into knowing when it should feel awake and energised or more relaxed and ready to sleep. Exposure to the wrong lights at the wrong time of day can play havoc with this natural rhythm. For example, too much blue light in the evening can result in poor sleep, which, in turn, can cause low and irritable mood, whilst exposure to too much warm light during the day can leave staff feeling lethargic, unproductive and tired.
Smart lighting can also be used to accentuate the architectural appeal and interior design of a home, helping to create spaces that are aesthetically pleasing. Whether it’s the sleek design of the fixtures themselves or the ability to highlight key elements such as furniture, furnishings and artworks, smart lighting will help you to create a space that is individual and has the real ‘wow’ factor. Think dimmable ambient lighting under cabinets or statement lighting in niches to draw attention to specific areas, such as a statement wall or shelving. And it is not just the indoors that will benefit from a smart lighting system. Outside, smart lighting can transform your garden, patio or driveway into a beautifully illuminated and functional space. Use programmable pathway lights for added safety, motionactivated lights for security or colour-changing fixtures to create a striking ambience for outdoor entertaining. Smart lighting systems can be tailored to highlight landscaping features, architectural details or even seasonal decorations, ensuring your outdoor areas are as impressive as the indoors.
Smart lighting is no longer a luxury – it’s an essential element of modern home design that merges style, convenience and sustainability. So, whether you’re renovating your home or building from scratch, it’s time to rethink lighting design and step into the future of smart living.
The law of improvement: How to legally create a home extension
In an age of social media hustle and the rise of the ‘Insta-renovator’, it’s easy to get lost in a myriad of design inspiration, creativity and excitement. Yet, the reality can often be tainted with rising costs, supply delays and, in many cases, complex and often archaic legislation – which can sometimes date back hundreds of years – hindering the progress of your passion project or home extension, says Robert Barham, Residential Partner at Forsters.
English residential and land property law is no easy feat to understand. It can be quirky, with a lot of language retained at the roots of the Medieval feudal land ownership system. This complexity isn’t overly surprising, but it can be alarming for homeowners unaware of the possible limitations around home extensions when factoring this into a decision to purchase.
W hether it’s a forever home or an investment opportunity, getting clued up on the legal implications of a home renovation is essential.
What is the best house type for a home extension?
T he best type of house for an extension largely depends on the space available, the design of the property, and how well it integrates with the surrounding area.
T he new Labour Government has revealed proposals that will encourage homeowners to extend their property upwards by making it much harder for councils to reject planning permission. Currently, permission can be rejected on account of an additional storey simply being too high or because neighbours do not have additional storeys. It does depend on where you are planning to extend.
I f your home extension involves any structural work that affects a wall shared with a neighbouring property or if your extension encroaches on neighbouring land, you may be subject to the Party Wall Act 1996. This
requires you to notify your neighbours of the intended work and, in certain cases, obtain their consent before proceeding.
D etached houses are typically the best candidates for back-of-house extensions, as they offer the most flexibility. With no shared walls or boundaries, there is more freedom in terms of design, layout and scale. These properties typically have a larger footprint and larger gardens, allowing for single- or double-storey extensions without disrupting the overall flow of the house.
M eanwhile, Victorian terraced houses, thanks to their steeply-pitched roofs, are most suited to loft extensions. These homes typically have the required head height and structural integrity. But, remember that if you have a lease of the top-floor flat, you might not actually own the loft space and you will need to get an additional demise from your landlord as well as permission from them to do the work.
W hen designing an extension, planning permission is essential and is required for any extension that is more than 50% of the original size of the house or more than 4m in height. Understanding other factors – environmental, historical and even whether your property is located in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) – will further help limit the risk of any unexpected costs or outcomes.
A dding value
A home extension can typically add upwards of 5%, and, in some cases, as much as 20%, to the value of a property.
Market trends are worth keeping an eye on. Earlier this year, property search pool Rightmove launched its ‘Renovation Calculator’, a unique new tool to help people explore the added value that existing, or planned, renovation works might have on a property.
I mpact on property value and taxes
It is important to understand the impact on your tax liabilities. Significant property value increases could result in higher property taxes and could trigger other costly changes associated with the value and risk of a property, such as insurance premiums.
E
nvironmental and sustainability considerations
Modern home extension projects are increasingly subject to environmental regulations, and local authorities and housing associations are coming under increasing pressure, due to incoming regulations, to improve the energy efficiency of housing stock. There is increased scrutiny on waste management at construction sites and the use of eco-friendly materials, which homeowners should bear in mind.
P lanning and Building Regulations
Minimal extensions, such as singlestorey extensions of up to 3m (or 4m for a detached property), can be done under permitted development rights. But, anything over and above this will require planning permission. If a property falls within an AONB or is in a national park, there will be
restrictions on permitted development rights. Building Regulations must also be complied with, and the appropriate certificates must be obtained on completion of the works.
Top of ‘The List’
Many historic properties, both in cities and the country, contain traditional period features, including high ceilings, open fireplaces and timber sash windows. ‘The List’ currently contains over 400,000 buildings protected because of their architectural or historic interest. The current legislation can be found in the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990. The most important thing to remember with a listed property is that it is essential to obtain a listed building consent before any work commences. Otherwise, you could see yourself facing a prison sentence, a hefty fine and a requirement to reverse any construction work. Specialist legal advice should always be sought when purchasing a listed building so that it can be ascertained whether or not the current or a previous owner carried out works that required listed building consent but for which no consent was obtained or where the works were not carried out in strict adherence to the approved conditions of any consent.
I mprove, don’t move
Home extensions offer a way to improve and add value to your property, but they come with a number of legal responsibilities.
From planning permission and Building Regulations to ensuring you meet sustainability standards and addressing party wall issues, homeowners must be aware of the legal framework surrounding these projects. www.forsters.co.uk
Driveways: Protection and maintenance
The driveway is usually the first thing people see when arriving at a property and, often quite, a costly part of a build, so it’s important to keep it clean and well-maintained, says Martin Beaumont of Monty Miracle.
It is, quite literally, a high-traffic area, and your care of it depends on the surface you have chosen. This maintenance is even more important in the colder months as damage can quickly occur thanks to wet leaves, algae and ice.
Wi nter leaves
These can be as slippy as ice and cause havoc with the appearance of your driveway. Leaves resist water. This means the water sits on top of the leaf and creates a film that is actually very similar to the one found on ice. The leaves are smooth, so don’t provide friction for your tyres or shoes but, unlike ice, they don’t attach themselves to the driveway. Instead, they are slippery on both sides, meaning they slide against both the road and the tyre. And, as more leaves pile up, the possibility of any traction loss increases, as there are multiple slippery loose surfaces, all sliding on top of one another. They also leave really unsightly, stubborn stains on the surface, so it’s essential you keep on top of them.
Ic
e and organic growth
We’ve had some very wet weather over the last year here in the UK, and as the temperatures drop, any lying water will freeze and expand, potentially causing cracks and damage. These gaps are perfect breeding grounds for organic growth, such as moss and algae, which will cause more damage. Tarmac driveways may have less gaps,
but they are still prone to the weather and, over time, they might sink slightly in the areas where car wheels rest. Pools of water can freeze and expand and, again, they will cause damage to the surface.
Cl eaning
If you have a brick, block or paved driveway, clean out between the bricks to remove the organic growth. A tarmac driveway can be swept clean. Gravel needs a small brush, a quality cleaner and a garden hose. Jetwashing is not the best approach for any of these surfaces. It might force the leaves and moss up and away, but it can blast away the grout between tiles and stones, send gravel flying, deepen cracks in tarmac and result in gaps where more leaves, moss and algae can gather. It can also remove the top layer of some driveways, leaving the surface more vulnerable to weather conditions and creating perfect little pools of water that can freeze, which defeats the object.
Instead of power washing, use a hard bristle brush to sweep up any mulchy leaves and muck that has gathered. Scoop the soggy mess into your recycling bin and then, when the surface has dried, you can easily clean away all the marks that have been left, cleaning away other organic stains and growth, such as algae and lichen, at the same time. Simply apply a gentle cleaner, like Monty Miracle, using a brush to mix it all over the surface, then leave it for about 10 minutes. Using your hose, just wash it away.
Ch ecking
Once your surface is cleaned, check for cracks and dips across the entire driveway and get them filled – ensure the ground is level and flush to prevent the risk of water gathering.
You also need to check the drainage. We have had the wettest winter and summer in years, and our gutters and drains have been put under more pressure than usual. Remove any sludge and leaves from your drains so that they are efficient and, if you don’t have them, purchase drain covers to prevent future blockages and potential water build up.
Se al
Prevention is the best cure, and an exposed surface that gets a lot of traffic needs protection from damage. This is where a good-quality sealer comes in. It will form a strong bond to your driveway surface, providing long-term stain resistance and reliability. This kind of product actively repels dirt and contaminants from almost all surfaces – even the most delicate surfaces, such as natural stone.
Ac cessorise
Lights up the driveway provide a really welcoming effect, and border plants running alongside can provide colour and texture, as well as a wonderful breeding ground for nature. Potted plants nearer the front door finish the look well and can be used to cover electric boxes and wires. Small wooden or stone benches are always a nice touch, too.
To ols of the trade
De-icing salts are good to have on hand all year round in preparation for any snow and ice – you should never pour hot water onto snow on the driveway in cold weather as it will freeze again quickly and potentially cause more cracks, in which
organic growth can grow. Strong bristle brushes and rakes are good for regular sweeping to keep the area looking smart.
With proper care, surfaces will remain stain resistant and protected, and your driveway will look smart for years to come.
How to make floor space work harder
Victoria Brocklesby, COO at Origin, a UK-leading manufacturer of luxury aluminium doors and windows, explains how homeowners can make the most of the square footage in their properties.
The way we use our homes has changed significantly over the past decade, with home and work lives now more intertwined than ever before.
This means that many homeowners are looking to change their home’s floorplan to better accommodate this mix of work and entertaining.
Popularised in the 1970s, open living plans were favoured for decades because of the bright and connected feeling they created. However, this no longer suits modern households. Instead, they need flexible spaces.
T he appeal of broken-plan living
A byproduct of this shift in how households use their space is that open living spaces have become a catch-all for all scenarios, including working, relaxing and entertaining. But this is unsustainable and impractical. Families need their homes to work hard for them by having tailored spaces that accommodate their needs.
Broken-plan living offers a solution. It involves redesigning a home’s current footprint so that households can flex their spaces to accommodate quiet zones for home working or relaxing and wide-open spaces for entertaining without physically extending their property. So, instead of just adding more square footage, homeowners are fully optimising the space they already own.
C reating broken space
Broken-plan living is not without its potential drawbacks. Breaking a living space up can run the risk of creating dark, cramped rooms that lack
natural light. When designing such spaces, it’s vital to prioritise natural light.
An alternative to building new, and expensive, solid walls is installing internal glazed partitions to create ‘broken’ living spaces. These walls and doors, characterised by large glass panels, serve as both functional dividers and act as a channel for natural light. This approach gives homeowners the opportunity to create distinct zones for work, relaxation and entertaining while maximising the amount of natural light that flows throughout the home.
Internal glazed doors are a great option to strike the perfect balance between connectivity and privacy in broken-plan living areas.
Homeowners can enjoy the benefits of open spaces by opening up the doors while having the option to create separate rooms as needed. Glazed doors can also be specified in various configurations, helping suit the desired level of flexibility and aesthetic of a home. In addition, on top of clear glass, internal glazed doors can utilise different glass types, such as frosted or reeded glass, for added privacy, increasing its usage across offices, utility rooms or bathrooms.
C onsiderations for zoning
Whilst on the surface, open-plan layouts may seem like the most desirable for a property, broken-plan layouts can provide more flexibility and act as a futureproof footprint for the home. How flexible a property needs to be to accommodate different generations and requirements should be considered during the initial planning stages.
When it comes to costs, it ultimately depends on the quality and material of the product. The ultra-traditional steel options look fantastic but will come with a high price point. A more affordable, but equally as sleek, option is aluminium. Plus, aluminium is inherently lightweight, making the doors easier to operate than steel.
Utilising internal glazing not only serves a functional purpose, but can also act as a key design feature in a home. Opting for customisable doors means homeowners can choose from a wide range of designs, finishes and colours to match various interior styles and create a cohesive look throughout their living spaces.
I n conclusion
The footprint of a home must work harder and smarter for homeowners now more than ever before, as the blur between living and working spaces doesn’t seem to be easing. Small, separate rooms offer no functionality, but open-plan layouts don’t fit the bill either. Using internal glazed walls and doors is the best option for those wanting to create broken-plan living spaces that achieve this delicate balance.
www.origin-global.com
Discover the best in material innovation at Surface Design Show 2025
Held from 4 to 6th February, Surface Design Show (SDS) will once again be showcasing the best in material innovation. The show returns to London’s Design Business Centre, the ideal environment for experts from architectural and design backgrounds to connect and explore the forefront of surface design and materials from over 180 exhibitors.
The theme for 2025 has been revealed as Creative Conscience, which highlights the future of materials for the built environment, focusing on sustainability, technological advancements and the human experience. Embodying a drive and commitment to sustainable, ethical and innovative design, Creative Conscience harnesses creativity while encouraging meaningful connections to the world around us.
Located right in the heart of the show, Surface Spotlight features ground-breaking materials for visitors to touch and feel, giving a truly hands-on experience for architects and designers to enjoy and learn from. Curated by trend expert Sally Angharad, Surface Spotlight presents a selection of surfaces, finishes and materials that celebrate the Creative Conscience theme throughout.
A new feature for 2025 is the inclusion of Green Grads, a platform
that spotlights recent graduates from UK universities who are confronting the world’s most pressing eco issues. They include engineers, product and furniture designers, material scientists, ceramicists, textile and graphic designers, craftspeople, artists and film-makers.
Commercial Interiors UK (CIUK) will be launching its Supplier Finder Material Library for the first time at SDS; Material Library is a curated collection of innovative materials from its members. Visitors to the stand can explore over 100 innovative material samples from CIUK members, including textiles, wallcoverings, solid surfaces and timber. The interactive displays offer a tactile experience with materials displayed on wire mesh panels with informative tags that provide sustainability credentials, production processes and brand.
SDS will host over 50 speakers throughout the three-day event, providing a variety of discussions,
panels and insights into the most recent design advancements. Returning for 2025 is the Opening Night Debate, titled ‘A True Companion: The Power of AI in AD’, which will be looking at artificial intelligence’s role within the design community.
An ever-popular aspect of the show is the Surface Design Awards. The awards highlight and set a benchmark for global architectural and design achievements from the past year. The 2025 awards were judged by an expert panel, led by head judges, Jorge MendezCaceres, Founding Director of For Everyday Life and Tony Chambers, Founder of TC & Friends for Interiors and ex Editor in Chief of Wallpaper*. Winners will be announced at a drink’s reception during SDS.
Join 6000+ architects, designers and specifiers to discover the best innovative materials for the built environment whilst also enjoying a stellar lineup of guest speakers and thought-provoking installations.
Rise in South East home improvement and building projects
The return of the South East Homebuilding & Renovating Show on 18 and 19th January reflects an increase in interest in home extensions.
South East homeowners are currently spending 15% more on their property projects compared with 2023, according to new research by the Homebuilding & Renovating Show.
Home extensions top the list of home improvements, followed by new builds, with almost a third of people investing between £100,000 and £500,000 over the next 12 months.
Show experts are reporting that 70% of advice being sought in the Advice Centre at recent shows related to projects including extensions. So, visitors to the South East Homebuilding & Renovating Show at the Farnborough International Exhibition Centre, sponsored by leading lift supplier Gartec, can expect plenty of content to appeal to their interests.
In the Masterclass and Seminar Theatres, leading property experts will speak about topics including:
Extension design guide: Adding space and value to your home
The pitfalls of extending and how to avoid them
Oak-frame homes and extensions –designing to your budget.
Energy efficiency and sustainability will continue to be high on the agenda, with several masterclasses and seminars covering topics such as:
From old home to eco home: How to make your home warm and comfortable and slash your fuel bills
Increase thermal performance on your renovated home
The expert guide to renewables and energyefficient heating solutions.
The Advice Centre will house an impressive lineup of specialists to answer visitors’ pressing questions about their renovations, extensions, home improvements and property projects, with free 15-minute faceto-face sessions. The experts include Homebuilding & Renovating Magazine’s Michael Holmes, David Hilton, Allan Corfield and Sally Tagg, as well as Tom McSherry, Finance Expert at Buildstore, Quantity Surveyor Tim Phillips, Self-Build Expert Mark Stevenson, and TV Presenter and Interior Design Expert Julia Kendell of Kendell+Co.
Over 180 exhibitors will be present at the show to impart their expert knowledge and showcase their offerings, enabling visitors to see, touch and compare the latest products to help them realise their dream homes.
Ticket prices to the South East Homebuilding & Renovating Show are £24 for a pair of tickets for any one day of the show. Doors open at 10am to 5pm on 18th January, and 10am to 4:30pm on 19th January.
Beginning a woodworking project can often be an intimidating venture, especially for beginners who may feel overwhelmed by the plethora of choices and considerations. From selecting the appropriate finish to aftercare products, the process can be intricate. Ensuring you make the right choices is crucial for achieving a professional, long-lasting result. In this realm of woodworking, Osmo has emerged as a game-changer, particularly with its latest innovation – Osmo Recommends – now available as an app on the Apple App Store and Google Play.
Osmo Recommends is designed with the user in mind, offering a seamless approach to wood finishing that simplifies the process for both novice and experienced woodworkers. The app is built on the foundation of a questionnaire, which guides users through a series of targeted questions about their specific project and desired wood finish. This personalised approach factors in important project aspects, such as the type of wood, the intended use, the preferred aesthetic result and more, ensuring each product recommendation and advice is tailored to the project.
Upon completion, users are recommended the most appropriate products suited for their project. These recommendations cover every stage of the wood-finishing process. Where applicable, preparation and pre-treatment recommendations are offered, which are crucial for ensuring the wood is properly conditioned and ready to receive the protective Osmo finish. Following this, users are presented with a selection of Osmo
Oils, renowned for their high-quality, exceptional finish and excellent coverage. These oils not only enhance the natural beauty of the wood but also provide excellent durability against wear and environmental factors.
The app also offers valuable aftercare and maintenance advice. Users receive recommendations for products, tools and accessories, which aid the application of Osmo Oils and help maintain the beauty and integrity of the finished wood. This is particularly important for wood within demanding environments, and requires diligent upkeep to preserve its appearance and durability.
Produced by the technical experts at Osmo, the convenience of the Osmo Recommends application cannot be overstated. With just a few taps, users can access this expert advice with ease, which might otherwise take time and effort to gather or research. Whether using the app on a desktop or mobile web browser or within the new mobile app, the user-friendly interface makes it accessible to everyone. This recommendation journey has
www.osmouk.com/osmo-recommends
eliminated the question of whether the right product has been purchased, offering certainty to all Osmo users.
Whether you’re working on an intricate interior piece or a sturdy exterior project, Osmo Recommends ensures you have the correct knowledge and advice at your fingertips. Download the mobile and tablet app today from the Apple App Store or Google Play for on-the-go recommendations. Alternatively, visit the Osmo UK website and take the first step towards achieving professionalquality, flawless wood finishes.
Natural stone or cast stone? That is the question posed to Toby Marlow, Building and Construction Director at Haddonstone
With a long and illustrious history, cast stone became a preferred building material in the 18th century when classically-inspired country houses were increasingly popular.
Of ten regarded as a superlative material, natural stone’s unrefined, organic composition, stability and appearance make it an established choice in the architectural industry. Yet sourcing and working with natural stone has its drawbacks, and architectural cast stone offers specifiers an easier-to-use, more cost-effective alternative.
N atural stone has been excavated from the ground via quarrying. Today, the most common natural stones that are extracted are limestone, marble, granite, slate, sandstone and travertine. Cast stone, by contrast, is a special type of reconstructed stone produced using a blend of limestone, pigments, additives, sand and cement.
H ere are some of the main benefits of specifying cast stone:
Appearance: High-quality cast stone has the appearance of natural stone and is almost impossible to distinguish from its quarried equivalent
Versatility: Because cast stone components are produced using moulds, almost any style and scale can be achieved
Cost: Like for like, in most cases, as a reconstituted material, cast stone is a far more competitively priced material than natural stone. The cost, therefore, not only decreases project risk but opens up a wider expanse of architectural possibilities.
Performance: With a minimum cube compressive strength of 3 MPa, cast stone can significantly withstand load and, if specifying wet cast stone, reinforcement can be added to produce structural loadbearing units
Durability: Cast stone weathers similarly to natural stone and has sound freeze/thaw resistance, so is easily able to withstand even the harshest of weather conditions. Also, there is no natural strata in cast stone which can be a weakness in natural stone.
Kent self-builder shields basement structure using Wykamol/Triton System solution
The product range offered by waterproofing and timber treatment specialist Triton Systems, part of the Wykamol Group, has proved to be the perfect fit for a Kent self-builder undertaking his first project in challenging ground conditions. He comments: “This is a new build on a sloping site, with a semi-basement built into the hillside, therefore, requiring a reliable tanking system. Our architect recommended Wykamol Group, and the company’s technical design manager and area sales manager duly visited the site to discuss the appropriate specification.” The recommended solution is typical of Wykamol’s double indemnity approach, employing both tanking and internal drainage products, ensuring any water penetrating the structure is safely removed: In this case, by gravity rather than a sump pump.
Vent-Axia launches new Passivhaus-certified Lo-Carbon Sentinel Econiq for
Vnew-build homes
ent-Axia has launched its first Passivhauscertified mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) system, the Lo-Carbon Sentinel Econiq. With the new Future Homes Standard looking set to reduce carbon emissions for new-build homes by a further 75 to 80% than current Building Regulations, the Sentinel Econiq is designed to provide low-carbon heat recovery ventilation for airtight, thermally-efficient, new-build dwellings, making it ideal for Passivhaus projects. The Sentinel Econiq offers exceptional efficiency, near-silent operation and complete controllability, providing excellent indoor air quality (IAQ) and occupant comfort. Boasting excellent heat recovery and a specific electric power as low as 0.22Wh/m3, the Lo-Carbon Sentinel Econiq is now Passivhaus certified.
DIYers turn to CaberMDF to improve rather than move
West Fraser has identified some interesting trends reflecting British activity across its customer base. The manufacturer’s UK Marketing Manager, David Connacher, comments: “The high number of smaller orders for our CaberMDF being reported through our merchant stockists is, perhaps, linked to DIY improvements, and, in turn, reflects the fact it is expensive to move house. Many are instead deciding to improve or extend their existing properties, and they’re collectively buying a lot more MDF for various tasks.” The West Fraser range of high-performance board products covers every aspect of typical building projects: From erecting a hoarding using PrimedPlus to sheathing timber frame extensions or garden rooms with SterlingOSB Zero and tackling flooring or flat-roofing work using CaberFloor and CaberDek.
IndiBreathe Flex – an exciting new natural flexible insulation from Ecological Building Systems
Ecological Building Systems, a leading supplier of natural building products for sustainable construction, has launched an exciting new flexible insulation product for roofs, walls, ceilings and floors called IndiBreathe Flex, as part of an exclusive partnership with IndiNature. IndiBreathe Flex is a breathable, natural, high-performance thermal and acoustic insulation that helps regulate humidity within a building structure for better indoor air quality. The innovative insulation material has also received BBA approval Inspection Testing Certification (24/7266) for timber-frame, pitched-roof constructions and suspended timber intermediate floors and ground floors. Ideal for use in new builds and retrofits and particularly for timberframe constructions, IndiBreathe Flex provides superior thermal performance with a low thermal conductivity of 0.039W/mK. It also offers excellent overheating protection for buildings during summer, thanks to its combination of high density and exceptional specific heat capacity (2370J/kgK), which helps keep indoor temperatures stable both in warm and cold weather. As part of a sustainable build, IndiBreathe Flex helps to reduce energy consumption and lower heating and cooling costs.
Passivhaus proves lowcarbon building is possible
Conceived more than three decades ago in Germany, the Passivhaus standard has shown what is possible when creating healthy, comfortable and low-energy buildings. There are now thousands of certified Passivhaus projects worldwide, ranging from homes and schools to commercial and healthcare buildings – many are award-winning exemplars. Those that occupy them are often evangelistic; they have seen their energy costs plummet, and their wellbeing improve with instances of allergies and asthma reduced.
CUPA PIZARRAS Heavy 3 slates specified for south Yorkshire property
CU PA PIZARRAS
Heavy 3 roof slate has been installed on a new self-build home in Cawthorne, south Yorkshire. Specified to echo the traditional style of neighbouring properties, the slate also provides a clean, striking finish that complements the home’s extensive glazing. Located on the edge of the Cawthorne conservation area, the large self-build property was designed by CODA Studios, with key design aspirations to increase natural light and add a modern twist to the traditional design. A natural slate finish was requested for the cross-gable roof by the end client to match an existing bungalow on the site, which had established the footprint and style of the new dwelling. CUPA PIZARRAS Heavy 3 slate comes in blue/black with a gritty texture, replicating traditional Scottish Highland slate from Ballachulish, which is no longer available to purchase. It is heavier and thicker than standard slates – 7 to 8mm thick –which means it has the strength to withstand highspeed winds and driving rain.
Pa ssivhaus buildings result from meticulous attention to detail and rigorous design and construction, according to principles developed by the Passivhaus Institute, and are certified through an exacting quality assurance process. This means that the performance gap, often experienced in standard building design and construction, is eliminated, and very little energy is used for heating and cooling. Passivhaus does not stop at new build. EnerPHit is a slightly relaxed standard for retrofit projects, where meeting the full Passivhaus standard is not feasible.
W ith the clear advantages that Passivhaus offers, it seems strange that the standard has not been more widely embraced. Indeed, why has Government not mandated Passivhaus as the way to meet net-zero and help tackle the climate emergency? After all, buildings contribute to around 40% of global energyrelated carbon emissions 1
E ven when employing standard construction, there are many lessons to learn from Passivhaus. As a proven solution, it offers ways to raise overall build standards, make designs more efficient, achieve improved airtightness and reduce thermal bridging across both new and existing building stock.
