Time & Leisure Homes Guide Summer 2024

KITCHEN INSPIRATION

CREATE STUNNING SPACES

RENOVATION ADVICE TIPS FROM THE PROS

MODERN VINTAGE

COMBINING OLD & THE NEW

Supplying quality ironmongery to the trade and public for over 35 years

No matter how you choose to shop with us, whether it be online, in store or over the phone, we can provide expert advice and excellent customer service.

INTERIORS UPDATE

The top looks to try right now

By Tina Lofthouse

Quiet luxury continues

An understated yet high-end look grew in popularity last year and is continuing through 2024. It is far from clinical minimalism but full of character, with quality and craftmanship centre stage. The look is elegant, sophisticated, uncluttered and sustainable with natural materials a key feature.

Colour schemes are muted and calming, often using a neutral yet warm palette.

“Think beige, cream, grey, stone and ecru shades, all of these hues can be used throughout the home and will bring a warming appeal that will not only ground

Ahead of the curve

the space but create a sense of calm too,” advises Bailey Oates, colour expert at Earthborn Paints.

Curves can bring a softness to a space and add interest. We’re seeing more organic shapes in everything from furniture, lighting, soft furnishings and even kitchen islands.

“Straight lines are out and curves are in – and anywhere we can add the unexpected with softer shapes and curves is a big deal in 2024,” says interior designer Jen Morton.

“Earthy palettes encompassing ochre and cognac tones as well as silky salmon and hazel hueswhether as a dusting over an overarching scheme or as the dominant colour throughout – will lend themselves to an uncluttered aesthetic,” adds design consultant Eleanor Taylor-Roberts.

WOOD ART: Sweetpea & Willow / KITCHEN: Ocean Storm Marble, Cullifords / LOVESEAT: Lexington, Atkin & Thyme

LIGHT: Brass Wall Light, houseof

VENATION WALLPAPER, OHPOPSI

EARTHBORN PAINTS, HOPSCOTCH

Texture, mixed materials & metals

Interiors are being brought to life through texture, all the better if you can mix things up in unexpected ways. Jen Morton says marble need not only be for bathrooms and kitchens, concrete not just for floors, and fabric can be used creatively as wall coverings.

Decorbuddi interior designer

Alex Sherman notes that wooden floors and door frames are bringing a softer look after the popularity of Crittall and gun-metal. Layer with natural materials to cover stools and benches and add a seagrass wallcovering. The natural look works with ochre walls, tan leather and chocolate neutrals. These team well with deep greens and black accents. Meanwhile, adding interest through mixed metals is a key trend. Eleanor Taylor-Roberts notes that metal fusion, which harmoniously blends a lustrous material - such as brass against bronze or nickel - will give you a luxury statement look.

Maximalism 2.0

In complete contrast to quiet luxury is loud out-there maximalist interiors. They are bold schemes so how on earth can you make them work? Says Gisela Lancaster, head of buying at Sofology: “This year, maximalism is back on the map with a resurgence of intricate patterns, bold colours and abundant textures. But adhering to a more cohesive colour palette is key. Opt for clashing patterns and graphics paired with statement wallpaper, alongside a bright sofa and bold accessories. These elements can all work together as long as your colour palette remains concise, with key shades tying together.”

And following on from that, how about chintz?

Helen Shaw at Benjamin Moore notes it is popular, thanks to our love of adding some retro design to contemporary schemes. One idea is to use patterned wallpaper to highlight unexpected elements such as alcoves and ceilings. If maximilaism and chintz are not for you, pops of colour will bring a modern vibrant look to your home. Think bursts of citrus or pastels.  T&L

ARTERIORS

DECORBUDDI INTERIOR DESIGNER SOPHIE WELLS, PHOTO: CHRIS SNOOKS PHOTOGRAPHY

ARE YOU CONSIDERING AN EXTENSION, LOFT CONVERSION, OUTBUILDING, OR ANY OTHER ALTERATION OR ADDITION TO YOUR PROPERTY?

Thames Design and Build provides architectural design and/or construction services to clients across SW London.

We offer:

• A free consultation to discuss your ideas and advise you on the possibilities and permissions

• A fixed quote for all stages of architectural work

• A fixed quote for your build – we are equally happy to provide a build quote in respect of your existing designs

We have a large portfolio of clients within Richmond, so whatever your plans are, we should be able to show you a comparable completed project.

MODERN VINTAGE

Ellie Holmes on how to create a personal story in your home with antiques and upcycled heirlooms

There’s a big trend in interiors right now that calls for homes which reflect our heritage, travels and personal stories. Out with the minimalism and in with antiques and pieces that have sentimental value. A particular story behind a piece gives a context, relevance and meaning to a room, and a sense of belonging that we all strive for. Nowhere has this been more poignant than with the incorporation of heirlooms.

And, of course, it all chimes in with our desire for ecofriendly homes where we can upcycle and reuse items that have perhaps been around for centuries. But it does come with its challenges – namely, how do you make these pieces work with contemporary living? As an example, dark brown furniture that had no place in a modern kitchen extension, is now being sanded, re-painted and adapted so that a warmer traditional nod to the past meets with the pale pastels, light woods and neutral schemes.

The paler and more neutral tones of modern living can provide a contrast to brass fittings or darker tones and the two chosen carefully can offset and complement each other.

Coloured glass or a vintage rug or textile can be exposed and showcased perfectly with the backdrop of a pale and muted wall.

Combining antiques with more modern furniture can bring focus and make an eyecatching feature from either genre.

I was first bitten by the bug when wandering around my grandparents’ home, which they had lived in for 50 years. My great grandfather had been an auctioneer

and antiques collector and so it was stuffed with large pieces of mahogany and dark wood, which I couldn’t see fitting into our modern box extension, but I was desperate to include some elements from the house. We soon realised that less is more and that we only needed one or two individual pieces to complement the light modern space of the house we had renovated.

We chose a Venetian glass light that had hung in my grandmother’s room for years. With lots of cleaning, gluing and repairing, we managed to make it beautiful again and the green coloured glass and traditional light fitting became a major feature of the room. There was a dark wooden drinks cabinet as well, and to freshen it up I chose a fresh foliage print fabric for the interior of the piece. This gave it a real lift and a more contemporary feel. It was surprising how well the mixture of old and new worked.

Sara Jane Woods, commercial director at local hospice St Raphael’s, has seen a growth in the popularity of antiques in their charity shops. “We are definitely seeing a rise in customers looking to buy vintage items. We designed our new furniture store in Sutton with that in mind laying items out in room settings mixing old and new styles together. The shop has regular

Annie Sloan, chalk paint

Ellie’s renovated light

Apothecary Counter, Shimu

Chantal Garnier

customers who come in looking for items of furniture that they can upcycle. In fact, this is so popular that we are looking at whether we can follow other hospices and train volunteers to upcycle items for us to sell in the shop.”

It’s liberating to feel that pieces with a history – unless they are priceless museumworthy objects – don’t have to be restored to their original finish, whether you are looking at art or antiques.

Upcycling can take place in terms of giving old furniture a lick of paint, sourcing new fabric for a favourite chair, or a different frame for a painting, which keeps the authenticity of the ‘older’ piece, but brings it up-to-date

Interior designer Emma Sims Hilditch says: “The wonderful thing about working with antiques is that there are no rules – a piece from the 19th century can look as good next to something super contemporary as it would amongst items from its own era. I love mixing antique furniture with modern art – this can look so elegant. My philosophy on buying antiques and fine art is to buy it if it immediately appeals. Go with your instinct, as you are the one who is going to live with it.”

There is often an assumption that antiques have to be large pieces, like an Edwardian dresser or a sideboard, but often the smallest touches give a fresh energy.

Sara says: “I think the discerning shopper has always looked in charity shops for a rare find or bargain. At Christmas we did a market at Nonsuch Mansions and the public were mad for ephemera and vintage items that reminded them of their childhood. Old dial phones, games, bears and even 80s clothing. A vintage tea trolley and a chiming clock were snapped up first. I am sure the many antiques programmes on TV have shown people what is out there and created a new type of shopper.”

Where to shop:

The Decorative Fair, Battersea Park, October

Over 130 specialist dealers showcasing antiques and art, dating from the 1700s to the 1970s, at all price points.

Antiques of Kingston

With over 80 dealers and 10,000 antiques you will be sure to find some treasures. You can also shop online.

St Raphael’s

See www.straphaels.org.uk for all local stores and what they stock. There is also an ebay store.

Sunbury Antiques Market, various dates and venues

Antiques, artwork, collectables and garden ephemera at these popular events.

Dee Zammit, The Decorative Fair

St Raphael's

The Decorative Fair

Johnny Briggs

HISTORY MEETS MODERNITY

Conservation architecture was absolutely vital in this refurbishment and extension of a Grade II listed residence in Richmond

Originally constructed in 1810, this stunning building in Old Palace Lane, Richmond, retains many beautiful historical features. However, a previous addition in the 1970s was not in-keeping with the property, was poorly insulated and contributing to its deterioration.

L+ Architects took a ‘fabric first’ approach in the renovation, ensuring that the structure performs optimally and with sustainability at the forefront. The southwest London-based architectural firm designed a striking modern double-height rear extension, while preserving features such as original doors, windows and shutters. Biophilic design was also a leading principle in the approach.

Says architect and founder of L+, Pablo Lambrechts: “The new 2½ storey rear infill-extension, which replaces the 1970s, extension, creates a dramatic addition at the back of the house with a five-meter high glass door that transforms the double height space into a balcony from the upper ground floor onto the garden itself. This large, glazed wall produces a playful, unexpected shift in scale.”

“The contemporary approach creates a distinctive contrast with the original

structures, allowing the building to tell its own history. The extension was therefore added without compromising the special interest of the historic interior.”

Conservation architecture techniques such as using clay render for the ceilings and walls replicates the technology at the time of the original construction and allows for the building “to breathe” as it was intended originally. At the same time this enhances the air tightness of the fabric of the house, reducing heat loss.

of historic buildings often face a dilemma in how to make their homes work for contemporary living while preserving the integrity and character. Advises Pablo: “Establish at an early stage of the brief, the key principles of a conservation approach with your architect, considering carefully what you wish to restore, preserve, and how to deal with the additions, either manifesting them in an assertive way or concealing them entirely.”

■ lplusarchitects.com

Owners

Kitchen by Yeo Design

A Timeless Approach to Kitchen Design

Meticulously Made

Here at 1909 Kitchens, traditional joinery meets meticulous modern making. Ask us our single most defining character trait and we’d say our attention to detail. We carefully consider every last inch of your in-frame, painted furniture to achieve an individually tailored union of timber cabinetry, worksurfaces and hardware that will live on and on. Where you can find us

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NEW PERSPECTIVES

Here’s what you need to know before you start your home renovation

Hodgkinson Design, © Tom St Aubyn

Whether you’ve just bought a new property with a renovation in mind or need to make changes to your much-loved family home, it’s difficult to know where to start. Who can help you in your mission, what will it cost, and how long will it take? How can your renovation be sustainable, legal, and work for you now and in the future?

If you have just moved into the property, it is usually advisable to live in the house before making any changes to see what works for you and what doesn’t. You can see how the light moves around the house through the day, and how you use the spaces.

Make it all about you. Says Anaïs Bléhaut, director of architectural practice daab design: “Connect to your soul and true desires when designing your home. Your home is your earth vessel, your safe place, you will feel truly home if it reflects who you are, not a trend or a glossy image.

“Think outside the box and be open to new things, sometimes we replicate the way we have been living without realising an opportunity that could really make a happy difference.”

Before you start, make a list of must-haves and a wish list that can start to form the basis of your brief. While the obvious route is an extension, it may not always be

necessary. Says Sophie Bates, from Sophie Bates Architects: “Bigger isn’t always better but it is more expensive. By carefully remodelling existing spaces you can often maximise the usable space and have the budget to then invest in improving the comfort of your home through the likes of insulation and upgrading existing windows.”

Adds archictect Andew Hodgkinson: "Work out what your priorities are and whether your budget will allow for that ambition. Don’t do things cheaply, it a false economy: quality counts."

Start to assemble your dream team. This depends on the work you would like to do but may include an architect and interior designer as well as a builder. Price will obviously be a major factor in who you choose, but also

Devol: The Haberdasher’s Kitchen

daab design © Henry Woide

Hodgkinson Design, © Tom St Aubyn

weigh up their availability – some are worth waiting for. Check their previous projects and references, and membership of trade bodies.

Crucially, do you get on with them as you will be working with this team for months. Says Sean Flaherty of Flaherty Builders: “Our advice to anyone considering undertaking a building project, large or small is, to choose your partners carefully –gut instinct is often right, so make sure that your builder/architect is someone you trust and can work with.”

Architect Steve Cox advises: “Try to find a few designers/architects you like and who work in your area. Talk to them and choose the one you think fits best with you and your project. Once you've found that person, try to work with them to do something creative and unique.”

Be realistic about your budget – and build in a 15 to 20% contingency. Don’t forget to factor in VAT. And plan early and thoroughly. Sophie advises: “Allow enough time to explore ideas with your architect or interior designer before you submit for planning permission.”

Consider all the small details, from radiator and socket positioning to flooring and tiling – you’ll be surprised by how many decisions you need to make at the initial stages. Adds Sean: “Think ahead – as a build progresses

it becomes more and more difficult – and expensive – to change your mind!”

Think from the outset how sustainable the build will be. Anaïs adds: “Reusing and recycling can be fun, and ask your team to consider carefully demolition and waste. Be responsible with carbon emissions; be involved and educated on how to minimise the impact.”

Have a plan to make your home more ecofriendly. Now is the time to do it, or at least future-proof your home so you can make improvements later down the line. Notes Sophie: "If for example you need to lift floor

Kitchen trends you need to know

boards to run new cables or pipes, use this opportunity to insulate the floor. If you need to repair your roof, use the opportunity to install solar panels.”

In can be a long process from initial plans to the big reveal but keep the end goal in sight. Steve says: “Keep your eyes on the prize! Don't forget that while keeping on budget, on schedule, on trend, on the right side of your neighbours and building regulations and many other factors beside... that your real objective is to create something beautiful. If you get everything else right but forget the last one, you'll be disappointed.”  T&L

Steve Cox © Matt Clayton Photography

Sophie Bates Architects, Flaherty Builders Ltd © Simon Kennedy

Sophie Bates Architects, Flaherty Builders Ltd © Simon Kennedy

Steve Cox © Matt Clayton Photography

IT’S ALL IN THE DETAILS

THE NEW MUST-VISIT SHOWROOM FOR HOME LOVERS WITH CONTEMPORARY, LUXURY FITTINGS FOR THE ENTIRE HOME

A sparkling and spacious new showroom has opened up in Wimbledon where glinting brass door knockers, glittering mirrors and gleaming switch plates are proudly on display alongside the mechanisms for fashionable sliding garden doors, sturdy locks, hinges, window handles and cupboard knobs in every possible shape, colour and finish. There’s even the odd bronze bathroom sink tucked away in the warehouse at SDS London, among London’s leading specialist architectural ironmongers and almost certainly its friendliest.

Founded nearly 40 years ago in the area of Battersea popularly known as Nappy Valley, this family-owned business grew slowly and steadily from one small shop to a bustling warren of premises that dominated the top of the Northcote Road. Stock was displayed floor-to-ceiling in towering displays that reminded many customers of Aladdin’s cave.

Customer service at SDS London has always been second to none, with every member of staff trained in the Guild of Architectural Ironmongery qualifications to be deeply knowledgeable of the stock and know how to understand and meet the needs of clients. But the packed Northcote Road showrooms could be daunting for the first-time customer, and for reasons of space much of the stock was held several miles away in the warehouse behind SDS London’s Wimbledon trade counter, meaning that retail customers often had to make a double visit.

But no more. Now the owners have let go of the historic Northcote Road premises and in December the whole business expanded into a new, purpose-built showroom in Wimbledon, uniting every arm of the

company - shop, customer service team, warehouse, website, thriving global telephone sales department, and headquarters officesall together onto one site in Weir Road.

The move offers many advantages for customers, not least the ample free parking at the front. There’s also plenty of space now to browse among the huge range of stock, from the traditional to the latest designer items, and from the affordably priced to artisan pieces handmade in British factories. The old higgledy-piggledy displays have been simplified, and the stock regrouped onto calm white boards that show off items clearly and to their best advantage, helping customers find the inspiration they need.

The same personable staff are on hand to help, whether you have popped in quickly for a pair of £20 door knobs or want to bring in your architect to discuss restyling the ironmongery throughout your whole house in bespoke contemporary bronze - but now there’s a dedicated customer service area where you can sit down to talk through your needs. SDS London has the expertise to deal with any scale of project, having recently completed work on Coventry Cathedral and with numerous examples of high-end residential and commercial projects under its belt.

Despite the move there is a continuity of service to customers at SDS London; indeed, loyal employees have always stayed for years because of the supportive and

“London’s leading specialist architectural ironmongers and almost certainly its friendliest”

friendly atmosphere. The business boasts among its staff a father and daughter, a set of twins and another pair of brothers, both of them employees of more than 25 years’ standing. Continuing in the same family spirit, the business has recently decided to convert to an Employment Ownership Trust, the same employee-owned business model that is used by the John Lewis Partnership. It has for many years been deeply involved in the local community, and among other charities and worthy causes it supports the Dons Local Action Group - which since the move to Wimbledon is now a near neighbour, just across the River Wandle.

The move to Wimbledon has also brought the services of SDS London within the orbit of a whole new range of customers in Surrey, Sussex and Hampshire, as well as its loyal clients in southwest London. It’s a new chapter in the company’s history. “Now we’re looking to move towards the future,” said sales and marketing manager Sam Thatcher. “We’ve grown slowly and steadily and now we want to grow a bit morethough not too quickly, we want to do things in a way that’s sustainable and correct. But we’re really excited about the future.”

SDS LONDON

20 Weir Road, Wimbledon SW19 8UG

8am - 5pm Monday - Friday. 020 7228 1185, info@sdslondon.co.uk www.sdslondon.co.uk

Gregory Phillips Architects

Photo: Darren Chung

INDOOR OUTDOOR

New trends to connect your home and garden…

The idea of having indoor/outdoor homes that merge seamlessly between our interiors and our gardens has long been popular, with the aim of creating a connection that brings a sense of nature inside, while also offering a flexible extended space outside that is perfect for family life and entertaining.

We take a look at some of the top trends and how to make the concept work for you.

Think indoor/outdoor

To blend your areas, you’ll want to bring the outside in, with natural finishes such as stone and wood. Mirror what is outside your back door – you could have a vertical garden outside, which runs along your patio wall. Inside you could have a living wall or continue the effect with potted plants along a line of shelves. Bring in artwork featuring local landscapes.

Door to the outdoors

The bi-fold door has become a staple of many home extensions, offering an easy way to connect inside and out – and no wonder, offering uninterrupted views of the garden from our living spaces and which can be fully opened in the good weather. But thought needs to be given for keeping heat and bright sunlight out when needed.

In recent years, the Crittall door has found favour, framing our outlook but bringing a more industrial vibe. Now though, there is also a softer look that is becoming popular with French doors making a comeback. They can flood a dark kitchen with light and the double doors opening on to a pretty patio taps into holiday vibes, particularly with a voile curtain rippling in the breeze.

Creative patios

A patio area is likely the first point of contact between inside and out. Consider whether you want to have a seamless connection with your flooring on the same level, with matching tiles. Natural designs (i.e. wood or stone effect) but with the longevity and benefits of porcelain, are hugely popular, notes London Tiles. Larger format tiles have been the favourite recently.

The Sash Window Workshop

Elwyns

Ayrton

Gregory Phillips Architects

Photo: Darren Chung

Go for a moon garden

If you are not at home during the day and mainly use your garden in the evening, design your indoor/outdoor concept with that mind. Look at how both areas are lit at night, viewing your garden from the house and your house from the garden. Light your route into the garden well and entice people outside with a firepit, magical lighting and consider a water feature to offer a relaxing sound. Plant night-blooming flowers to provide beautiful scent in the evening.

Architect Gregory Phillips says that contemporary design, with outdoor kitchens, dining areas, sitting areas with firepits and fireplaces are a top request when planning an outdoor space.

Dual purposes

One of the big challenges around indoor/ outdoor living is how to get the furniture right. For example, should you have a dining table and chairs inside and then repeat the set-up immediately outside on the patio? For those who love more formal entertaining, two dining options might be needed but another idea is to have a low-slung sofa and a coffee table directly outside your doors for more variety.

You could also consider furniture that looks good

indoors but is durable enough for outdoors – while you’re probably not going to move large dining sets frequently, it is a great option if you want a dining table inside a

garden room in the winter but want to take it outdoors in the summer. There’s also a fabulous range of accessories and casual furniture that work indoors and out.  T&L

Sweetpea & Willow

In-es.artdesign

Valverdi, London Tiles

KITCHENS IN STYLE

How to update the heart of the home

Going green

Still a top choice for kitchen colour, green gives that desirable connection to nature, from olive to forest green. Says Jessica Inglis at 1909: “Rich, earthy greens were hugely popular in 2023 and we don’t see it slowing down. For a particularly eyecatching look, pair this colour with white marble surfaces, sleek brass or matt black hardware and a soft backdrop.”

Willis & Stone notes that soothing pastel greens such as mint and pistachio are also popular. Says designer Molly Chandler: “Pastel green shades have warm and inviting undertones making

them a great choice for creating a calming atmosphere in what can be a busy room. These light and airy colours are also ideal for smaller kitchens, making them feel more open and spacious.”

Warmth of wood

Bringing natural wood into your kitchen can make the space feel homely. Natural oak in particular is set to become increasingly popular in our kitchens this year.

Herringbone Kitchens notes that natural, stained or washed wood statement pieces such as islands, dressers or display units bring warmth and texture into the kitchen.

Create impact

Layering can add interest to your kitchen, breaking up what can often be quite a functional look. You can tap into the trend just by changing your splashback, with wood or concrete effects looking particularly stunning. Change taps and handles to add interest, too, with aged brass a top metal for 2024.

Second Nature Kitchens

Herringbone

Herringbone Kitchens

Wilsonart

Light Up

The classic configuration of three pendant lights over your island has been popular for many years but switch it up this year, with variations such as cube shaped lights, or one central statement piece. Layering your lighting with various sources is also important so you can create atmosphere or have brighter light when needed. Under cabinet lighting or tucked into glass-fronted cupboards can provide an understated glow.

Lone ranges

A colourful freestanding range is practical and stunning, and can become the focal point for your kitchen. Those with induction hobs rather than gas may provide peace of mind for safety as well as being more eco-friendly.

Retro vibes

Bright colours, patterns and pre-loved bring a vintage feel to a kitchen. Second Nature Kitchens notes that it can breathe

new life into spaces and bring a sense of joy. Add in some vintage signs and choose items that tell a story. Given that open shelves continue to be a big trend, curate a selection of ornaments to add individuality. Cupboard skirts also bring a vintage element.

Steel yourself

Stainless steel is no longer just for professional kitchens. Surfaces company Bushboard says that stainless steel is

a fast-emerging trend thanks to David Beckham’s family kitchen, which appeared in his documentary. The Beckham’s kitchen combines a Shaker style cabinet door and dark stone worktops with a stainless steel splashback. A huge kitchen island made of rustic wood gives the kitchen a balanced feel. If you’re working to a budget, it’s worth considering an aluminium option which offers a similar finish, Bushboard adds.  T&L

Industville

Victoria Munteanu Design Studio Simon Taylor Furniture

Showcasing the latest in custom made blinds including automation and smart home integration.

Made to measure curtains and blinds made from a wonderful collection of designer fabrics.

Award-winning

is celebrating its 25th year as South West London’s most established specialist in the design, manufacture, installation and finishing of premium quality, energy-efficient, bespoke timber windows and doors, including Box sash windows, casement windows, front doors, French doors, folding sliding doors.

Custom made to “A” rated double-glazed specifications in Accoya® wood.

Accurate representation of period designs and features.

Contact us for a quotation.

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“The whole process was seamless and completely stress-free. They came in the morning, packed everything up taking great care of keeping everything well wrapped and boxed, and then delivered everything into the right rooms in the new

Made the whole moving day much less of a worry or stress, and the team were polite and professional. Definitely recommend using them!”

LANDLORDS: ARE YOU CLAIMING ALL YOUR EXPENSES?

As a landlord one of the biggest headaches can be around tax –specifically understanding your obligations. It is a specialist area and for this reason we would always recommend seeking advice from a specialist tax advisor or accountant but as a general guide:

The importance of claiming property expenses

You should claim relevant property expenses as every penny spent on allowable property expenses can be deducted from your profits and therefore lower your tax payments.

You need to get organized and keep receipts for all costs relating to the letting, managing, and maintaining the rental property. If you can’t manage this yourself, consider having your agent handle it under their Property Management Service which could save you both time and money. Agents will record everything that is spent and provide you with an annual statement for your tax return.

Allowable expenses - so what sorts of things are landlords allowed to claim as expenses?

The most important thing to know is that any expenses you claim as an income tax deduction must have been incurred exclusively to run your rental property – or an expense incurred to earn income. Other expenses such as extensions or refurbishments that enhance a property’s value are usually capital expenses and would be deducted from the capital gain at the point of sale of the property instead.

Typically revenue expenses can include:

• Fees for Professional services such as those provided by your estate agent, solicitor or accountant.

• Insurance cover including Building, Contents and Landlord insurance.

• Property repairs and maintenance.

• Business costs such as phone calls, some travel or running an office.

• Service Charges for Leasehold properties

If this is an area where you feel you need help please call Lucie on 020 8549 8064 or email her lucie@luciewhite.com

Residential - Commercial - Developments call 020 8417 8000

Ashworths Solicitors LLP

Offices in Central Wimbledon ashworths-solicitors.co.uk est.2000

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FROM TINY ACORNS...

Ashworths discuss the implications of buying a property where a tree might be protected

One of the questions we often receive from buyers when they are purchasing a property is what is a tree preservation order (TPO) and how will it affect the trees within their property – particularly if they have potential development plans. Even if a tree is not protected, what is the effect of the property being in a conservation area?

What is a Tree Preservation Order?

A Tree Preservation Order (TPO) is an order made by a local planning authority (usually the local council) to protect a specific tree, groups of trees or woodland from deliberate damage and destruction. The order makes it a criminal offence to cut down, top, lop, uproot, wilfully damage or wilfully destroy a tree without the planning authority’s permission. Anyone found guilty of breaching a TPO will have committed a criminal offence and may, in certain circumstances, be liable to an unlimited fine.

A TPO can be placed on any tree, including hedgerow trees but not hedges, bushes or shrubs. It can also apply to woodland, although this is less common. TPOs are most commonly used for urban and semi-urban settings, and for trees with high ‘amenity’ or ‘nature conservation value’.

The law?

The law on Tree Preservation Orders is contained within the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 and the Town and Country Planning (Tree Preservation) (England) Regulations 2012. These regulations grant councils the power to designate tree protection orders to protect trees they deem valuable to the local environment.

Conservation Areas and the impact on trees

A conservation area is an area of special architectural or historic interest, the character or appearance of which it

is desirable to preserve or enhance. Particularly in and around Wimbledon, a buyer of a property is much more likely to come across a conservation area than a TPO.

Many trees within a conservation area are automatically subject to similar restrictions as a tree covered by a tree preservation order. Whether a tree benefits from that protection is determined by its size.

Applying for consent

If you are intending to carry out work to a tree covered by a TPO you must apply for consent from the local planning authority (LPA). You will need to complete an application form and submit it to the LPA with detailed plans outlining the proposed work and justifying its necessity. The form can either be submitted through the Planning Portal or directly to the LPA. You might also find it helpful to seek the advice of a tree surgeon prior to making an application. The LPA can refuse consent to the works however this can be appealed.

Ashworths Solicitors LLP

Any trees within a conservation area are subject to similar restrictions as a tree covered by a tree preservation order. If a tree in a conservation area is not covered by a TPO, you have to give written notice to the LPA (by letter, email or on the LPA’s form) of any proposed work, describing what you want to do, at least six weeks before the work starts. This is called a ‘section 211 notice’ and whilst the council cannot refuse consent to the works it gives the LPA an opportunity to consider protecting the tree with a TPO.

Breaching a TPO

Carrying out works to trees protected by a TPO is a criminal offence, the result of which is likely to be a fine, which could be unlimited. An offender might be ordered to restore or replace a damaged tree and, most worryingly, will receive a criminal record.

TPOs and Development

A TPO does not prevent planning permission being granted for development however the council will consider the risk to protected tress. If planning permission is granted for a development, and the work will involve felling or working on protected trees, then the planning permission will override the TPO.

How we can help?

Our team of specialist lawyers are here to provide expert guidance and support throughout the conveyancing transaction and will carry out detailed searches to identify any trees which are subject to a TPO and provide you with the necessary information so you are aware of your obligations throughout your ownership.

Ashworths Solicitors LLP

The Old Exchange, 12 Compton Road, Wimbledon, SW19 7QD • 0345 370 1000 Fax: 0845 370 1001 • info@ashworths.co.uk www.ashworths-solicitors.co.uk

Ashworths are specialist property solicitors based in Wimbledon. As well as dealing with the sales and purchases of houses and flats, we also act for house builders and companies (both locally and nationally) to satisfy their commercial property requirements. Call us on 0345 370 1000 for a no obligation quote.

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