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ABODE

self-build & renovation in Scotland

Why now is the best time to build

KITS, SIPs or BRICKS? The wonder

OF WOOD

Your new guide 2018

Cut your heating bills with fresh air

Get the VAT back

From finance to furnishing - step by step www.scottishfield.co.uk

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The best of times to build

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his is an amazing time to be building a new home in Scotland; so many exciting things are happening.

In September the Scottish Government announced its Self-Build Loan Fund with £4 million in the pot, recognising that self and custom-build is a growing market and a major-player in the nation’s housing.

Whether you are building a stunning one-of-a-kind or choosing a proven house design package, the work taking place in Scotland today is as good as it gets.

The RIAS Andrew Doolan Award for Architecture in Scotland is one of the biggest in the world. This year’s winner, announced in November, will come from the short list of 12 which includes three homes and a community custom-build; Scottish architecture really is that good.

August saw a landmark in home renovation when the very first EnerPHit certified building in Scotland was signed off; part of the Passivhaus approach to energy efficient homes.

And to crown it all the V&A opened in Dundee in September. The galleries celebrating Scottish design are an inspiration for people seeking to build, decorate and furnish a home. The V&A has appointed ‘design champions’ from across Scotland in recognition of their work, many in the home and furnishing sectors.

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I N D E X Finding land ....................................... 3 Planning permission ......................... 6 Finance ................................................ 8 Grants ................................................ 10 Architects ......................................... 12 SIPs contractors ..................... 15 & 16 Bricks ................................................ 17 Timber v bricks ....................... 18 & 19 Logistics ............................................ 26 Energy ............................................... 28 Passivhaus ........................................ 32 Air-source heating .......................... 34 Fixtures & fittings ........................... 36

Backing all this up are a streamlined online planning system and businesses supplying the quality materials that enable architects and designers to bring ideas to life.

Wood ................................................. 37

It all creates an incredible buzz in the building and interior design world.

Kitchens ............................................ 44

Be part of it.

Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher nor its editorial contributors can accept and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors, or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause. Wyvex Media does not officially endorse any advertising material included in this publication. All rights reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval system or transmitted in any form - electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without the prior written permission of the publisher.

A Wyvex Media Publication

Home office ...................................... 38

Bathrooms ........................................ 46 Bathrooms ........................................ 46 Outdoors ........................................... 50 Front cover image: Fleming Homes Advertising director: Nicky Murphy Design: Simon Jones at Skep Design Editorial: Joanne Simms

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GET PLOTTING ABODE

Your dream home is going to be a gem so start searching for the perfect setting

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t all begins with land because until that is in place, everything else about a self-build is merely a bunch of ideas.

The number of bedrooms and bathrooms, open plan or living and dining rooms, mud room and or utility, study or playroom – you know what you want and where in your house you want it but until this is all married to a piece of land so many things remain to be decided.

The chosen plot may face a direction which prompts an about-face of the design. The view is so stunning that the living room and dining room find themselves transposed; a huge window or balcony needs to be ‘right there’ to capture the view. Perhaps the best sight-lines mean planners insist the site entrance can only go in one place and nowhere else, so the front door and garage location must shift to accommodate this.

Or you fall in love with a plot because it contains a magnificent old tree. The landscape or street scene screams out for building materials you never considered before you found your plot.

How your new home sits within the landscape can elevate your ideas from a nice-looking house into something unique.

You and your architect can make your new home and the land on which this will happen into something very special.

And so the search begins.

The location could be so magnificent but so expensive that it reconfigures your budget and suddenly your new home has one less room.

As with all things it boils down to money; once the number crunching is complete, the search is on to find that perfect plot within your budget.

In this highly-connected age of ours, traditional estate bellingram.co.uk bellingram.co.uk 01631 566122 01631 566122 01631 566122 oban@bellingram.co.uk oban@bellingram.co.uk oban@bellingram.co.uk

agents and Scottish solicitors with property sales all have web pages and there is a plethora of online businesses dedicated to selling plots. Some websites are free while others charge a fee to join or see the full details of the land for sale.

Many building companies or private developers have ‘land banks’ of plots they have in mind for future development and these could yield single plots if they are willing to sell.

Do not forget that some small to medium-sized businesses might have plots of land now lying empty. This can be a fruitful avenue to investigate as many older companies can have land that has been held for years; perhaps an old yard where housing grew round it. Planning laws were in their infancy pre Second World War so, when looking in towns, you will be pleasantly surprised at how easily an old yard or small industrial or commercial site can obtain planning permission for change of use to residential.

Old, locally-based charities, or community trusts can also be land holders as can churches and do not rule out councils, the Forestry Commission, Scottish Water or the companies now running what were once nationalised industries like coal, electricity or the railway: also look at health authorities, the police, fire and military. They all evolved over time, absorbing bellingram.co.uk 01631 566122 smaller oban@bellingram.co.uk organisations or being reorganised along the way.

Think of them as the land banking equivalent of coins down the back of the sofa – sometimes it will be an old five pence piece; other times a shining new £2 coin.

One of the best ways to find something is to ask, online or in person.

CLOSING DATE CLOSING DATE CLOSING DATE WEDNESDAY FRIDAY 7TH OF APRIL AT 12 NOON FRIDAY 7TH OF APRIL AT 12 NOON 5TH OF APRIL AT 12 NOON THE NISSEN HUT, TAYNUILT THE NISSEN HUT, TAYNUILT GUIDE PRICE £10,000

CLOSING DATE GUIDE PRICE £10,000 Y 7TH OF APRIL AT 12 NOON The property comprises an old

3 BEN CRUACHAN VIEW, OBAN

CLOSING DATE GUIDE PRICE £150,000 WEDNESDAY 5TH OF APRIL AT 12 NOON

CLOSING DATE WEDNESDAY 5TH OF APRIL AT 12 NOON

3 BEN CRUACHAN VIEW, OBAN GUIDE PRICE EPC D64 £150,000

EPC D64

Thewhich propertyhas comprises a neutrally decorated The detached property house. comprises The a neutrally decorated 3 bedroom detached house. The The hut, property which hascomprises been let in an recent oldyears Nissen hut, been let in recent years 3 bedroom KilvareeNissen Crofts, Argyll Lagganmore Building Plots, Argyll ground floor is on a splitwar level,by with a kitchenand and living room ground to the rear flooroverlooking is on a split level, with a kitchen and living room to the rear overlooking for storage. Nissen huts were inventedfor during storage. the firstNissen world war huts by were inventor invented and during the first world inventor 3 BEN CRUACHAN VIEW, AYNUILT theOBAN and having elevated views across the town, theand garden steps and up tohaving the elevated views across the town, and steps up to the engineer Major Peter Nissen to provide engineer easily constructed Major Peter pre-fabricated Nissen buildings. to provide easily constructed pre-fabricated buildings.

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On the first floorin are two hallway bedrooms and andbathroom. a single On the first floor are two double bedrooms and a single Typically, steel framed and corrugated Typically, construction, ofGUIDE steel Nissen framed huts continued andin corrugated to be construction, Nissen huts continued to be PRICE £150,000 EPC D64 00 bedroom, all for benefitting views or to the rear of the property. bedroom, all benefitting from views to the rear of the property. used during the second world war as accommodation used during for thetroops, second storage world or war general as accommodation troops,from storage general buildings.

Many the buildings purposes were soldbuildings. after property the war, Many and of duethe to their buildings were sold after 3 war, and due to their The comprises a neutrally decorated bedroom detached house. The• Well an old Nissen hut, purposes which has been let inofrecent years • Well presented 3the bedroom detached house presented 3 bedroom detached house the popular village of Connel rural location with Outline Planning they are often in rural construction locations asground general they are purpose often stores. found ruralwith locations as general purpose floor is on a splitinlevel, kitchen and living room tostores. the rear overlooking• Neutral decor were invented duringconstruction the first world war byfound inventor and •a Neutral decor • Unusual opportunity • Unusual opportunity the garden and having elevated views across the town, and steps up to the en to provide easily constructed pre-fabricated buildings. Price Permission for a single •dwelling • Practical split level accommodation Practical split level accommodation Asking • Rural location between Taynuilt and to Connel •be Rural location between Taynuilt and hallway and bathroom.

OnConnel the first floor are two double bedrooms and a single• Buy-to-let or first time buyer opportunity nd corrugated construction, Nissen huts continued • Buy-to-let or first time buyer opportunity bedroom, all metres benefitting views to the rearOffers of the property.

• Buildingfor of 64 squarestorage metres (688 square • Building feet) of 64 square (688from square feet) orld war as accommodation troops, or general Over £75,000 £115,000-£140,000 of the buildings were sold after the and due to their • Recently used forwar, storage • Recently • used storage 3 bedroom detached house Wellfor presented

found in rural locations as general purpose stores.

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• Neutral decor • Practical split level accommodation

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• Buy-to-let or first time buyer opportunity

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www.scottishfield.co.uk

Investigation Investigation Investigation ...is as important as location, location, location

Y

ou can be certain that you will not be buying the only piece of land in Scotland on the San Andreas Fault but what else can you be sure of?

Once you come across a plot you want to buy the time has come to channel your inner Marple or Poirot. Get the land purchase wrong and all else is blighted by the nightmare-haunting demons of unexpected expense and delay.

First and foremost is planning permission. If the land does not have planning permission it will be cheaper to buy but then comes the $64,000 question: will it get approval?

If the plot has full planning permission, you build what the permission tells you or apply for amendments, with the cost and time this involves.

In this Goldilocks situation a piece of land with planning permission ‘in principle’ (once known as outline planning permission) might be just right for you. All local authorities in Scotland have a pre application service and finding out what the land can and cannot contain, building-wise, is far easier now than in the past.

A safe bet is to negotiate with the seller and agree to a price, subject to planning permission, and if approval cannot be had then you can walk away from the deal.

An appraisal of the site is also essential. Many people forget that Scotland was once coal-powered and a power house of coal production.

A quick look online reveals the extent of this; maps showing that the central belt of Scotland is thick with the sites of old mines. Fife, Ayrshire and Lanarkshire

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were massive coal fields but mining also took place on the Isle of Arran, Kintyre Peninsula and as far north as Brora.

Mining subsidence is no respecter of property or aspirations to build; Hamilton Palace, home of the Dukes of Hamilton, one of the finest houses in Britain (it gave Buckingham Palace and Chatsworth a run for their money) had to be demolished in the 1920s.

The good news is the amount of information readily available about the locations of old coal mines makes the whole search so much easier.

If coal is an old problem, the new one has to be flooding and flood risk assessments are vital.

The appraisal should also include the quality of the actual ground; was it once a quarry, now filled in or contaminated by previous industry or waste? Will it be capable of supporting a property without expensive ground works and piling?

And talking of additional expense is the site already serviced or will the cost of getting electricity and mains water to the site make it unviable. These are all surmountable with private water supply and waste water systems but they come at a price.

Communications are now an essential part of life and it is worth checking the price of bringing landlines and superfast broadband to the site. Here you might be pleasantly surprised; government investment gives broadband speeds in remote spots that equal or exceed some towns. Remember that mobile phone and satellite television reception can vanish in the shadow of a mountain or a high-rise block.

ABODE

CHECK THE COUNCIL FINE PRINT What you see is not necessarily what you will get when buying land. Apart from the site being able to gain planning approval and all services within a realistic budget do you know what its future holds?

Each council in Scotland has to have, and keep updating, its development plan outlining the area’s future needs. That stunning view could have a bypass and a new housing development within a decade.

Or could your quiet road become the main route to a new high school or business park?

If you are looking to build in or within commuting distance of Aberdeen, Dundee, Edinburgh, Glasgow or in Aberdeenshire, Angus, East Dunbartonshire, East Lothian, East Renfrewshire, Fife, Inverclyde, Midlothian, North Lanarkshire, Perth and Kinross, Renfrewshire, Scottish Borders, South Lanarkshire, West Dunbartonshire or West Lothian there will also be a strategic development plan covering all or part of the area, including large wind farms, areas to be zoned for housing or industry and commerce, be it an out of town shopping centre or distribution warehouses.

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Approval ratings Getting stuck in the mire with planning approval and building warrants right at the start can throw your plans out - in more ways than one

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lanning permission is like soufflés, Ikea wardrobes and Shetland ponies; you are fine as long as you follow the recipe to the letter, lay all the pieces out before starting and remember that if you take your eyes off it for a second you risk a nasty wee bite.

And remember: all three can sense fear or hesitation and will act up accordingly.

Basically, you need permission if planning a new build or making a major physical change to a property like

an extension, or a change of use, say, from commercial or agricultural into residential.

Scotland’s built heritage is remarkable and there are a lot of people who are employed to make sure it stays that way. If you want to build, extend or convert in a conservation area, or the building is listed as historically important, then you will also need to apply for specific permission.

Work on listed buildings needs consent, inside or out, if it affects the historic fabric of the building.

The same applies to our landscape; it should also go without saying that you do not buy land until all permissions are secured. In America NSA means National Security Agency, in Scotland it is National Scenic Area – there are 40 of them covering 13 per cent of the nation and permission to build can be very tight, get it wrong and the enforcement will make the Yanks look like a bunch of sissies. That’s before we even invoke SSSI or SEPA, Sites of Special Scientific Interest and Scottish Environmental Protection Agency.

eDevelopment.scot is an online service that enables anyone to prepare and submit applications for planning permission and building warrants to their local authority.

It is a 24/7 service caters to both industry professionals and members of the public, be they agents, home owners or selfbuilders.

It is a fast, efficient and convenient way of submitting applications, and payments can be made directly to your authority at the time of submission.

The service is run by the Scottish Government in partnership with all Scottish local and planning authorities, and has become an increasingly popular way of making applications and appeals – taking over 4,000 applications each week, making up almost 90% of applications for planning permission and 60% of building warrant applications in Scotland.

Getting started is easy – just go to eDevelopment.scot, open an account, create a proposal, and you’re ready to start an application.

You can submit additional documents to your authority using the service including updated plans, new drawings and reports, and building certificates.

To find out more please contact us: 0131 244 1450 eDevelopment@gov.scot @eDevelopmentSG

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PLANNING TO SUCCEED Help is at hand when seeking planning permission and building warrants THE ONLINE ANSWER Leave planning and building warrant applications in agent or architect’s hands or go the resource-efficient online route; simply a great communication tool.

Planning permission in principle (formerly known as outline planning permission) does just that – it establishes that yes, in principle, what you are proposing to build is acceptable.

Approval of matters specified in a condition then goes on to approve the conditions involved in the planning permission in principle; work should begin only when this approval is in place. Pre-application advice offered by planning officers is available through your local council. The best advice is always talk to your council first.

The good news is that there is also ‘permitted development’, where small alterations and extensions can go ahead without applying. Make sure you know which is which; remember, go ahead regardless without the necessary permission and you can expect to be served with an enforcement notice. These can be appealed but for economy, peace of mind and far less wear and tear all round, make sure you take the time to avoid this situation.

Building Warrants are unique to Scotland, the nearest that England and Wales have is building control approval. This is where people moving to Scotland can come unstuck; work cannot start on site until warrants are approved, thus showing compliance with regulations on new builds and alterations and any demolition work. Just as with permitted development there are exemptions within the schedules of building warrants.

DIGITAL PUBLIC SERVICE Homepage of Scotland-wide system for making applications online; with links to your local council plus reassuring downloadable user guide and technical support desk.

NO NEED TO PRINT OR POST The portal for planning permission, designed to be used by professionals and the public alike.

Create an account and log in.

PAY ON LINE Send warrant applications, additional or amended drawings, completion certificates and online payments directly to your local council; pay online with either portal.

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ABODE

Feathering your nest How to turn your nest egg into a big, beautiful, bird house for you and your chicks

Self-build creates a bigger paper trail than a house purchase. Go paperless for receipts and documentation where possible but make sure you have a thorough method for saving and filing these.

Stay on top of it all by using spreadsheets, receipt scanning apps and a kanban board app for the work (hey, if it works for Toyota then it will work for you).

T

he good news about building your own home is that you almost certainly get more house for your money. The bad news is that you need more money for the house to begin.

Buy an existing property and the mortgage arrives in a lump sum; build and the money will come in stages as work on the property progresses.

A house buyer’s deposit is far smaller when compared with the initial lump sum a self-builder needs to buy the land and get the first stage completed on site before the mortgage kicks in and cash arrives to fund the next stage.

The self-build home buyer is always ‘in arrears’ though some ‘advance’ mortgages can be found where the cash arrives at the start of each stage of construction.

The self-build mortgage traditionally has six stages • Land purchase •

Preliminary costs and foundations

• Wall plate level (brick and block) timber frame kit erected • Wind and watertight • First fix and plastering • Second fix and completion Paul Alexander, head of business with Scottish Building Society, said the society loans up to 80 per cent of the total cost of the land and construction costs or valuation, whichever is the lower, making the whole build process more flexible.

‘Remember: a self-build mortgage

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may also be suitable if you are taking on a renovation, conversion or extending your existing property,’ he said.

Many lenders, be they banks or building societies, will only loan money on a fixed-price contract, or on an all-trades basis under the direction of a suitably-qualified project manager, or a project with a The good news about ‘package deals’ where you buy a kit house and building services from an existing company – and perhaps even the land – is that they often offer, or source, financial packages. This

can save a lot of leg work and grief.

Not only will your architect and builder become your new best friends on a self-build project, an independent financial advisor should be way up there on your Christmas card list. Not all lenders deal in self-build mortgages and you will benefit from having someone who knows how to hunt down those who do, and those offering the best deals for your circumstances and ambitions.

Finding the right mortgage can be as vital to a self-build project’s success as finding the right plot of land.

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Self-Build Mortgage Building for the future since 1848

Make your dream home a reality with the Scottish Building your dream home takes plenty of hard work, but it’s incredibly rewarding too. That’s why it’s important to choose a mortgage provider who’ll support you every step of the way.

With a Self-Build Mortgage from the Scottish, funds are released in stages as the work progresses. And, we can help you with your plans, budgeting, and offer advice on many aspects of the process.

Flexible staged release mortgage Borrow up to 80% of the total land and construction costs or valuation (whichever is lower) Expert assistance and underwriting

Branches across Scotland Call 0345 600 4085 Visit scottishbs.co.uk

Residential Mortgages • Retirement Interest-Only Mortgages Guarantor Mortgages • Professional Mortgages

Rewarding Membership Scottish Building Society is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority (Register No. 206034).

Member of the Building Societies Association and UK Finance. Scottish Building Society, SBS House, 193 Dalry Rd, Edinburgh EH11 2EF.

YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE.

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ABODE

Are your OK for SBLF, HSCHT, SLF or RIHF? There are plenty of places to find grants to help build new, or improve, if you know your way around the acronym alphabet...and don’t forget to claim back all your VAT

S

elf-building in Scotland has had a fantastic boost this autumn thanks to a new £4 million loan fund unveiled by government.

People across the entire country who want to build their own homes will be able to apply to the Self-Build Loan Fund announced by the Scottish Government at the start of September.

Loans are available for eligible urban or rural self-builders who are unable to access standard bank lending to support build completion, allowing access to a traditional mortgage which is used to repay loan. The Highland Self Build Loan Fund pilot project is now finished and applicants will be using the new self-build loan fund.

Housing Minister Kevin Stewart announced that the £4 million fund is now open for applications.

‘I want to see people across Scotland apply and make full use of this fund. We know that people are interested in building their own homes and in some cases, it is the best way for families to tailor their homes to their needs,’ he said.

‘We also know that it can be tough Housing Minister Kevin Stewart to secure funding and get the right advice, which is why we set up the self-build loan fund to help those who need to access finance.

‘This nationwide boost for self-building was announced following a successful pilot in the Highlands, we decided to roll the fund out to people across the country.’

PS

Peter Smith

Finance

T: 0845 163 0199 | M: 07908 299083 E: peter@petersmithfinance.co.uk www.petersmithfinance.co.uk

Self-build is a traditional form of housing supply in many parts of rural Scotland and the islands and at times, the only form of housing supply, but it has become increasingly difficult to obtain self-build mortgages.

The £4 million fund was set up following a review of the pilot in the Highlands.

The Highland Small Communities Housing Trust ran the successful pilot scheme which led to the decision for the fund to go nation-wide; it will continue to administer the fund on behalf of the Scottish Government.

Ronnie MacRae, the trust’s chief executive said: ‘HSCHT is delighted to have been confirmed as agents for the Self-Build Loan Fund and following the success of the Highland pilot we are sure this will be a key fund for Scotland.

‘The SBLF sits alongside the many other positive Scottish Government initiatives such as the Rural and Islands Housing Funds, Scottish Land Fund.’

‘Whilst not yet back to where it was, self and custombuild is again a growing market and we’re excited to be working with Scottish Government and a range of partners to ensure that this remains the case and the sector goes from strength to strength as a housing option.’

Peter Smith Finance is a trading style of Peter Smith Business Consultancy Ltd. Peter Smith Business Consultancy Ltd (FRN 784393) is an appointed representative of Rural Finance Ltd. Rural Finance Ltd are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN 630701”

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Rural and Islands Housing Funds

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he RIHS helps people build new homes and bring other properties back into use as homes.

SLF community organisations across Scotland

To be eligible the project must have a building site or buildings chosen in a rural area of Scotland; show that there is a need for affordable housing in the area and have local authority support with proof of working with the community.

annual budget of £10 million.

It’s not about owning a 4x4 with mud tyres or the right kind of wellies.

Rural areas in Scotland fall into three basic classifications: ‘remote small towns’ with 3,000-9,999 people and a 30-minute drive to a place with 10,000 people or more; ‘accessible rural areas’ of 3,000 or less people and within 30 minutes drive to a place with 10,000 people or more and ‘remote rural areas’ with 3,000 or less people and a drive of more than 30 minutes to a place with 10,000 people or more.

But civil servants being civil servants they have worked out the definition of rural to the equivalent of eight decimal places; very remote rural is defined as a population of less than 3,000 people, with a drive time of over 60 minutes to a settlement of 10,000.

You can find lots of nicely coloured maps and charts online to tell you just how rural you are.

Andrew Jones is a specialist in reclaiming VAT, a tax which is a tricky subject at the best of times.

Here Andrew offers some brief pointers to help you on the way.

You qualify for a zero-rated build IF...

•

The Scottish Land Fund supports

It can also be used to make empty homes ready to rent or sell; the planned homes must be affordable, whether for rent or sale and can include converting business premises.

So how rural are you?

Get the VAT ABODE back!

to own land, buildings and other assets.

Funded by the Scottish Government, grants

• •

of up to £1million are available; the current programme runs from 2016-2020 with an

Crofters Commission

•

The commission gives grants for crofters to improve and maintain croft houses.

The aim is to attract and retain people

•

within the crofting areas including Argyll and Bute, Highland, Western Isles and Arran.

The scheme’s website has full details of criteria and eligibility including a detailed list of postcodes for the entire crofting

•

community.

Tenant crofters and owner-occupier crofters can apply and the scheme is split into high and standard priority areas; with grants of £38,000 and £28,000 respectively for new homes. The cash can also be spent on building improvements.

If you have already started building work, applications cannot be made retrospectively.

The building has no planning restrictions with regards to disposal later on; or used in connection with another existing property and may not be used as a business, sold, rented out or leased.

You convert a previously non residential property into a dwelling or a dwelling that has been empty for 10 years or more (you would need a paper trail to prove this).

Reduced VAT rate at source - if any VAT registered business should supply labour, or labour and materials, to the job you should pay the reduced rate of five per cent VAT. VAT reclaim - on completion of the build, VAT paid on qualifying materials purchased at 20% VAT can be reclaimed along with any 5% invoices.

You will achieve zero rating VAT in two ways, or a combination of both

•

There is a smaller feasibility fund

structural engineer’s report.

You or a family member intends to live there.

If you pay the wrong rate of VAT to a contractor for supplying fitting or labouring this cannot be reclaimed from HMRC, irrespective of the fact HMRC has already received the VAT from the contractor.

available to help with architect’s design drawings quantity surveyor’s estimates and

you build a new dwelling or purchase a shell and bring the new build to completion.

•

Zero rating at source: if any VAT registered business comes and supplies labour or labour and materials to the job, you should not pay that company any VAT at all.

VAT reclaim: on completion of the build, VAT can be reclaimed from HMRC

Getting a reduced rate of VAT certificate helps you get this charged to you correctly.

UPDATE:

HMRC is attempting to review the deadline timescale for refunds. We are unsure at the moment how this will resolve itself in the near future. Please make contact at the point where the house becomes liveable to avoid problems and complications.

Andrew Jones (The VAT Man) Ltd

Specialist in processing VAT Reclaims all over the UK

www.scottishfield.co.uk

Tel: 01269 825348 www.vat431.co.uk 11

ABODE

And the winner is...

Four different styles of Scottish home are in the running for one of the most significant architecture awards in the world

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he winners of the RIAS Awards 2018 were announced in June, with the 12 projects representing the very best of current Scottish architecture.

These form the shortlist for the RIAS Andrew Doolan Award for Architecture, established in 2002 to find and celebrate the best buildings in Scotland. The winner is announced next month in November.

The architects of the winning building will receive £25,000, making this both the largest architectural prize in the UK and one of the most significant architecture awards in the world.

Amongst the dozen are three homes and one community custom build project.

Stewart Henderson, president of the RIAS, said: ‘The quality of contemporary Scottish architecture is well worthy of celebration. These awards demonstrate that buildings of all scales and throughout the country are exemplary in their design, execution and in what they deliver for their clients, users and communities.’

Lochside House, West Highlands. Haysom Ward Miller Architects for a private client ‘The care in the design and in the building of this house makes it an exemplar of its genre.’ (Photo: Richard Fraser)

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Humpty House, Angus. Ben Scrimgeour Building Workshop for Mr & Mrs Ben and Rosemary Scrimgeour: ‘Very stark, it nonetheless delivered at both the detail and broader aspects of its creation.’

(Photo:Nigel Ridgen)

Bath Street Collective Custom Build, Edinburgh.

John Kinsley Architects for Bath Street Collective Custom Build Ltd: ‘The design skilfully links the adjoining Georgian and Edwardian buildings.’

(Photo: John Reiach)

The Black Shed, Isle of Skye. Mary Arnold-Forster Architect for a private client: ‘Beautifully simple in conception, painstakingly delivered.’

(Photo: David Barbour).

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The EXCITEMENT of ARCHITECTURE This has to be one of the best times to be creating a new home in Scotland

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cottish architecture today is exciting, just look around you; there are a great many people out there who are at the top of their game.

Some stunning homes are being created, lifting everyday life out of the ordinary for their owners.

Stewart Henderson, president of the RIAS: ‘The quality of architecture being produced the length and breadth of the country is hugely impressive. Practices, large and small, continue to demonstrate the strength and purpose of the profession in Scotland.’

Using a building consultant or designer to simply draw up plans might be suggested as a way to save on costs but hiring a chartered architect means you are tapping into the services of a professional who has studied for seven years, by far the longest training period within the building industry.

Only when qualified can they be listed with the Architects Registration Board and apply to the profession’s chartered bodies to use the initials RIAS or FRIAS, the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland, and RIBA, Royal Institute of British Architects.

Members must carry professional indemnity insurance and uphold the reputation of the profession.

RIAS says its members provide ‘freedom from worry and value for money’ as they steer your project through the labyrinths of planning and building legislation.

A good architect listens to what you need the property to do for you and how you want it to look. Their expertise, experience and attention to detail interprets dreams into a reality which will extract as much home as possible from a plot, materials and construction costs, saving money in the long run. You cannot put a price on the quality of imagination an architect brings to a project.

Architects’ fees are part of the overall cost of any project and usually calculated in three ways.

Percentage is based on the total construction costs in the building contract including site works; agreement is needed on the services provided, nature of the work and an approximate construction budget.

Lump sum fees work best when the project can be clearly defined right from the start and there are no surprises for either side.

Time charged is the flip-side of that coin and best where the amount of work cannot ‘reasonably’ be seen; an agreed upper limit is needed and fees are often staged.

Decide whether expenses will be included within the agreed fee or charged separately.

Sustainable design across all types of projects

RESIDENTIAL

•

COMMERCIAL

•

COMMUNITY

Extensive experience in rural, coastal and remote environments

110 George Street, Oban, Argyll PA34 5NT | Tel: 01631 563177 Email: mail@cparchitects.net | www.cparchitects.co.uk www.scottishfield.co.uk

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Timber Design & Construction OAK FRAME SPECIALIST: EXTENSION AND NEW BUILD

INTERIORS

BUILDING & RENOVATING

www.turnbullinteriors.co.uk info@turnbullinteriors.co.uk Tel: 01383 625543 45 Bruce Street, Dunfermline.

KY12 7AG

Our incredibly talented in-house team will design and install your Kitchen, Bedroom and Bathroom project to the very highest of standards.

Our Portfolio and Testimonials will inspire you to push boundaries.

Visit turnbullinteriors.co.uk

At Timber Design, we create open spaced timber structures, which will last generations. Every client is different, each project is unique that’s why we believe in personal approach and integrity. We manufacture oak frames for conservatories; extensions and dwellings and build amazing garden studios.

Timber Design & Construction Gaetan Goubet for Timber Design & Construction

Unit 2, Woodside, Mid Road, Kirriemuir, DD8AND 4PJ OAK FRAME SPECIALIST: EXTENSION NEW BUILD T: 07919876563 E: gaetangoub@hotmail.com www.timberdesign.org.uk

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House tasting: take a SIP of this Structural Insulated Panel (SIP) technology is considered by some in the industry as the next generation building material. Used to form the walls and roofs, SIPs kits are growing in popularity with self builders as a kit only option and with ‘turnkey’ contractors for a completed house.

Capturing the breathtaking views

Cladding: most self-builds choose render as their main choice, followed by wood, brick and stone.

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family from Aberfeldy, with three active children, briefed JML Contracts to engineer their new home, which was designed by Colin Potter of Architeco.

The bespoke five-bedroom SIPs kit needed to both maximise the plot’s stunning views down the valley to Schiehallion, one of the best known Munros, and provide practical, energy-efficient and modern living space.

The SIPs kit was precision engineered and manufactured in JML Contracts’ Perthshire factory and the company then spent a period of two weeks on site erecting it to a wind and water tight level; then working with the client to complete the cladding, slate roofing and external stonework, which reused stone from an old orchard wall on the site.

The desire to make the most of the views and maximise natural light meant that the design required large quantities of glazing.

This resulted in a relatively complex structural design, which was readily achievable thanks to the strength and versatility of SIPs. They were also keen that every bit of space within the property was maximised. Since SIPs don’t require roof trusses, this meant that the upstairs rooms and the double-height hallway were constructed with vaulted ceilings, making them light and spacious.

JML’s in-house civils team managed and completed all the groundworks, including levelling out the slightly sloping site before laying the foundations and coordinating delivery of the pre-cut SIPs kit down a narrow farm track using a tractor and trailer.

The result was one happy family: ‘For us, the priority was always to build a family home that was both beautiful and efficient.

Choosing to build in SIPs was the logical choice. Having a single contractor we knew we could trust who was able to do everything meant that we could focus on getting the interior details perfect.

‘We’re over the moon that we were able to build such an exceptionally thermally efficient home without having to compromise on the design elements, such as the glazing, that were so important to us.’

JML Contracts is an award-winning, house building and civil engineering business with over 25 years’ experience. With its own processing factory, JML Contracts specialises in the design and construction of homes using Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs)

THE ARNS, AUCHTERARDER, PERTHSHIRE, PH3 1EJ

01764 663271 info@jmlcontracts.co.uk www.jmlcontracts.co.uk www.scottishfield.co.uk

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Traditional Values with a modern twist with SIPs Scotland

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uilding with SIPs (Structural Insulated Panels) is becoming an increasingly popular way to self build your home. SIPs panels offer design flexibility, increased insulation, air tightness, environmental sustainability and a quicker build time.

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he brief for SIPS Scotland was to build an energy efficient home, within budget, which was in keeping with the local surroundings.

It was important to the Orr family to build a property that encompassed traditional values with a modern twist as the plot is in a rural location, but they did not want to house to be too traditional.

Budget was also a key factor for the couple, they wanted to build a house within their budget but with scope for expansion in the future, with this in mind the house is designed and constructed as a one-and-a-half-storey shell.

SIPs Scotland is the only SIPs company in Scotland to design and build SIPs homes with Kingspan TEK SIPs building system.

Kingspan TEK, is BBA approved for the manufacturing process and uniquely, the installation of the kit.

SIPs Scotland offer an in-house architectural service or, can also work with your own architect to design and build your SIPs home. So, where ever you are in your house building journey, SIPs Scotland can help. Working with you to create your own bespoke home to your specification.

Working throughout Scotland, SIPs Scotland can offer a variety of build packages from just the SIPs kit design and build or, depending on location, they also offer a fully project-managed turnkey package.

To keep within the clients’ budget, at the time of the initial build the house only has three-bedroom ground floor accommodation measuring 170m2.

In the future there is scope for creating a further 80m2 first-floor accommodation which, due to the Kingspan TEK roofing system, will allow the rooms to be fully vaulted, creating a unique living space.

The couple said: ‘Our remit to SIPs Scotland was to design and build an energy-efficient home, with traditional finishes, which takes advantage of the stunning views over Loch Leven.

‘We have been delighted with the end result. SIPs Scotland achieved all our requirements and the level of finish has been outstanding and all within budget.’

Malcolm Thomson from SIPS Scotland: ‘As energy efficiency was a high priority for the client, they decided to use the Kingspan TEK SIPs system.

‘The house is highly-insulated with an excellent airtight level and incorporates under floor heating, a wood burning stove and a solar thermal roof installation to supplement the energy demand for hot water.

‘Passive solar gain is maximised with large south-facing windows. All this combined with an MVHR system has allowed THCL to produce an A-Rated energy efficient house.’

SIPs Scotland is part of THCL – building and renovation specialist, a multi-award winning family run business with over 15 years’ experience in the building industry.

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Bespoke Design & Build of SIPs Homes throughout Scotland www.sipsscotland.co.uk Tel 0845 555 1015 www.scottishfield.co.uk

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“We are delighted with the Finman BBQ Hut. All our friends have admired it and commented on it. We have already had great nights in it.

The quality of build is superb, and a very efficient fitting team. We were impressed when we first saw them but Logspan and its product have exceeded our expectations.” Alastair

Bring in the Autumn with an exhibition of artwork by regulars and newcomers.

Prices ranging from small crafts at £10 - to fine art up to £8,000

Logspan is a family owned business that is dedicated to selling quality timber products that are affordable. Whether it’s a custom designed Log Cabin to live in, a BBQ Hut or Garden Office we have a product to suit at the right price.

We’ll help from design to completion.

Our Glasgow showsite has the largest range of Timber Buildings in Scotland.

Free nationwide delivery on all orders

Milton Brae Road, Milton, Dumbarton, G82 2TX Tel: 01389 887497 www.logspan.com Email: info@logspan.com www.scottishfield.co.uk

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MATERIAL ABODE

your home, your choice Self-build is about the freedom to choose not only the design but also the materials and construction method; remember there is far more to it than bricks or timber frame

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he joy of self-building is the joy of choice and the chance to create a home that can be truly unique. The construction method and materials are the biggest purchases of all.

Each method has its pros and cons and budget will always play a huge deciding factor, more so if building in a remote or rural location where transport costs will also have to be factored in.

The choice of design, and the environment and landscape in which the house will sit, also play major roles in the decision.

Brick and wood remain staples of our building industry; they have been with us since the dawn of history in one form or another. Human ingenuity just keeps adapting these materials to suit the latest technology and social circumstances right up to today’s computer-controlled brick kiln and laser-guided sawmills.

‘Bricks and mortar’ is almost a synonym for property; the traditional, trusted method of construction.

Research for the building trade consistently shows that brick still has a tug on the heartstrings for many consumers and that this is why so many chose a brick exterior for all or part of a frame-built property.

Today’s brick-built house has walls built in two ‘leaves’. External brick walls have internal blockwork ones and these will be the supporting structure of the house.

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A modern bricklayer needs good grades in maths and English to enrol on the 24-30 months’ college course, while working for their employer, before they qualify.

As the name says, in timber frame houses the internal wooden frame is designed to support the structure of the house. This is then clad in either brick or stone or block with finish. The frame is factory produced and arrives on site ready to assemble.

If your mind is set on a timber frame then make sure your mind is made up.

With timber frame there is not the same ability to change your mind as there is with other methods, so you had better get it right first time.

Decide to move a window with bricks and mortar and all you will do is add to your costs and annoy a couple of brickies; you do not just take a saw to a timber frame - you go back to the factory and that is very, very pricey.

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brick v timber frame How different is each house-building experience?

How long is your piece of string?

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ricks or timber frame? It can be right up there with sport, religion and politics if want to start a good argument.

fitted wardrobes and kitchens is a quicker job. This also makes sense when working with the Scottish climate.

Wages in the construction industry for skilled bricklayers and block layers have risen consistently over recent years and this can counterbalance the extra cost of timber frames.

Do not forget that roughly 20 per cent of the population of Scotland lives in 94 per cent of the landmass. That is a lot of countryside, with a long drive to the nearest friendly neighbourhood builders’ merchant once you are away from the central belt, Dundee or Aberdeen - or popping next door to Carlisle or Newcastle if you live in the Borders.

But for all this to work well, and to time, the foundations for Over the years the gap between the two construction a factory-produced, computer design aided timber frame have techniques has narrowed and depending on what your design to incredibly accurate and are unforgiving. If mistakes happen specifies, location, and timescale the argument can at this stage then they can be time consuming and go either way. therefore costly.

With today’s It is all down to what works best for you and your modern materials Timber frame construction means you enter budget and cash flow. and construction into a contract and make a much larger payment or The construction methods are different when techniques and deposit up-front for the frame to be made-to-order. working with masonry or timber frame, but how efficient workplace With a traditional brick build, the construction different are the benefits today? practices for both materials can be sourced speedily through builders’ brick and timber The timber frame arrives, on site from the merchants and ordered and paid for in stages. frame there is now factory, all pieces made, and a brick-built arrives on The amount of extra money needed at the a much smaller site as, well, pallets loaded with bricks and blocks beginning of the project before the first instalments difference in the for the work to begin. of the mortgage arrive can be significant when carbon footprint Timber frames are more expense up-front, choosing timber frame. and eco-friendliness balanced by shorter length of overall project. The during construction Timber frame building in Scotland is more NHBC says that choosing a timber frame can be upand within the popular than anywhere else in the UK and one of to-three-months quicker but the waiting time from finished home. the principle reasons is down to the cost-driven order to delivery can be longer because demand has logistics and climate. increased.

A timber home can be erected in days, allowing internal work to start right away – another time-saver and this engineered product means that installing premade items like staircases and

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Designed for Living, Living for Design Aileen and Dave Downie have built a home that perfectly reflects them; bright and sociable with a fresh, open outlook.

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easoned self-builders Dave and Aileen Downie have just completed their sixth project so it’s fair to say that they’ve learnt a thing or two over the years about selfbuilding with success. Their latest home is an impressive two-storey, upside down timber frame home in St. Andrews.

Its cube-shaped boxy design is clean and simple, part clad with a fibre cement façade which complements silky Siberian Larch cladding. The minimalism of its design is echoed inside with simple, carefully curated interiors that are not over designed or over complicated.

Dave and Aileen firmly believe that if you are lucky enough to build your own home you should push the boundaries of what’s possible in terms of both performance and aesthetics; however, they don’t believe in bells and whistles, observing that “it can be easy to get carried away with fancy new ways of building and lots of toys”. Instead they have chosen to design a home that’s adaptable, multi-functional and diverse. Great care has been taken to future proof it.

The couple’s philosophy from the outset was to build their house from the inside out, investing heavily in its fabric; a strong reason why timber frame was their structural system of choice. Another factor in favour of timber frame was the importance they placed on achieving thermal efficiency; they prioritised high levels of insulation, both in the timber frame and in the floors and ceilings. The couple have also invested in additional structural elements that aren’t a priority today, but might be tomorrow or indeed for future owners, for example, a structural wall has been integrated into the Plant Room along with changeover switches to allow the house to be powered by batteries should they wish to do so in the future.

Working closely with local architect, Joanna Lockhart, Aileen and Dave spent a great deal of time thinking through views, orientation and the positioning of the house. It has been built towards the back of the site to take advantage of south facing light to the front. Natural light has been maximised in the social areas with large flat roof windows and sliding doors on to a balcony eliminating the need for artificial lighting even on the most overcast days. Natural daylight combined with the warmer air rising from downstairs ensures that heating and lighting costs are minimal.

balcony, which has a glass canopy to protect us – we do live in the UK after all. We love the fact that it is easy and cheap to run and maintain. We particularly love the fact that we had this opportunity to build our own home in what is a lovely part of the country” she adds.

The Downies recognize that when it In summary comes to ensuring a successful project, Location: St Andrews having the support of a good team is Floor Area: 180m2 paramount. “It is critical to take advice Total Build Cost: £295k from the people who know what they are Architect: Joanna Lockhart talking about and for you to show, and SAP Rating (on completion): 82 B hopefully earn, the respect of the various Completed: April 2018 tradespeople involved” explains Aileen, Structural system: Timber frame adding “for the ship to be watertight, or the house to be airtight, you have to have a happy crew who really want to deliver a good job for you”.

This is particularly important when it comes to your structural system and it’s no coincidence that this is the fifth timber frame Aileen and Dave have purchased from Fleming Homes.

“Working with Fleming Homes on the timber frame was a pleasure. They didn’t try to talk us into spending money we were uncomfortable with. They helped and advised at every turn.

They never once dodged a phone call and all the help offered was given in good humour by a team who clearly love what they do and seek to give you the house of your dreams. Who could ask for more?” she finishes.

One of the best places to learn about self-building is from people who have been there and done it before. Six times in the case of Aileen and Dave. Here are their top tips for getting it right.

• Build a good team around you; advice and guidance from professionals who you trust is invaluable.

• Think about future proofing early in the design process; not just for you, but for potential future owners.

• Push the boundaries of what’s possible; this is your chance to build a home that meets your individual needs.

• Find creative ways to integrate storage; it’s often at a premium in new builds and adds practicality and functionality to your home.

• You can always add or change furnishings and fittings but don’t leave yourself feeling you have cut costs on the fabric of the house itself. This is where you will achieve cost efficiencies in the future and add additional value to your self-build.

“We love living in our new home” reveals Aileen. “We love how bright and airy it is. We love walking out on to our

CALL 01361 883785 | EMAIL enquiries@fleminghomes.co.uk | VISIT fleminghomes.co.uk www.scottishfield.co.uk

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Small...but

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perfectly formed

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ouldn’t we all like a beautifully designed home with character and charm? How about lower bills and a more sustainable, less stressful existence? All that can be yours thanks to the rapidly-growing small house movement, giving you the opportunity to live big with the associated cost savings. What’s more, a small but perfectly formed home could be yours in a matter of weeks.

Willie and Jane Coghill did just that, choosing The Wee House Company to design and construct their dream custom build home.

The heart of Bluebelle Cottage is the kitchen, featuring a beautiful palette of cream and wood finishes, offset with traditional pewter finish handles.

The generous oak-style worktop makes it an inviting space for food preparation and clever use of all available space means there are plenty of cupboards for storage.

Perched on the edge of Scotland, in Caithness, the Coghills opted for a 2 bedroom bespoke design that would make the most of the stunning scenery around the plot.

With an internal floor area of around 80m² this Wee House, lovingly named Bluebelle Cottage, has been optimally designed to take advantage of the panoramic views from the site. As well as an open-plan living/dining area, the house includes a sun room; creating an additional relaxation area for the family.

Opening the French doors creates an unexpected feeling of space in the house, while closing them over gives the couple the option of a cosy, peaceful retreat.

Managing a build project of your own can be extremely challenging and that’s one of the reasons The Wee House Company is so popular – they take the stress out of the self-build experience. Everything from applying for planning consent and a building warrant to ground works, construction and service installation is taken care of by their dedicated team.

The Wee House Company founder, Jennifer Higgins said, “Our Wee Houses are designed and constructed to achieve the highest standards in safety, sustainability and energy efficiency and we pride ourselves on our exceptional customer care.”

“Our clients are really varied. We’ve built homes for couples looking to downsize, we’ve helped families stay close together by building in their garden plot and we’ve built Wee Houses which have become very successful holiday lets. The houses are mortgage eligible so it’s also an affordable option for first time buyers struggling to get on the property ladder.”

If you’ve always dreamt of a loch side getaway, a romantic forest retreat or an island escape, it’s never been easier – or quicker. The Wee House Company can construct, transport and build a Wee House on your plot in as little as eight weeks!

The company have been designing and building small homes since 2013 and use over 50 combined years of experience in construction and smart design to maximise the functionality and liveability of a smaller floor area. For more information, please visit www.theweehousecompany.co.uk *Prices start from £99,000 for a 2 bed Wee House

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Helping everyone achieve their building needs,

largesmall or Even if you have never met a member of the Bowman Stewart team personally, you will see their work all around if you visit, live or work in Argyll, the Highlands and the islands

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he architectural design, engineering and building survey services provided by Bowman Stewart are used by clients from all walks of life for homes, commerce, industry, agriculture and whole communities.

Extension to the Old School, Dalavich

administration; no element of the project is considered in isolation.

Based in Lochgilphead, the company was established in 1984 by Martin Stewart. It is a family run practice providing architectural, engineering and surveying services throughout Argyll, the Highlands and Islands.

Bowman Stewart can provide all the services a self-builder, renovator, restorer or extender could need; from planning negotiations, applications and other statutory consents, building warrant negotiation and application.

New tearoom at Glenbarr Nurseries, Glenbarr

From whisky distilleries to wee cottages, country estates to community centres, this multi-disciplinary practice can integrate design, structural, technical, costing and contract

The team also has extensive experience in listed building consents, historic building alterations, conservation and repairs and conversion of existing buildings.And most important of all, Bowman Stewart also conducts Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML) Certification for self-build mortgages and Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs)For more remote projects they can advise on private water supplies, sewers and adopted roads

New house at Kilnaish, Kilberry

New house, The Avenue, Inveraray

Bowman Stewart has strong links with the local community and sponsors events such as the Lochgilphead Fiddlers’ Rally in aid of the RNLI as well as providing work experience and careers presentations for the local schools and also provides summer placements for students studying architecture, engineering, surveying and other built environment courses.

Bowman Stewart is registered with, and regulated by, the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), the professional body for Chartered Surveyors.

architecture • building surveying • civil & structural engineering 1 Victoria Buildings, 34 Union Street, Lochgilphead, Argyll PA31 8JS | t. 01546 606 067 | f. 01546 606 091 | e. info@bowmanstewart.co.uk

www.scottishfield.co.uk

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Building your own home?

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MacLeod Construction will be with you every step of the way.

OUGLAS UGLAS OUGLAS

BARR BARR BARR

CARRICK CARRICK CARRICK

EILEAN EDHE EILEAN EDHE EILEAN EDHE

CONNIGLEN CONNIGLEN CONNIGLEN

EDROOMS DROOMS EDROOMS

4 BEDROOMS 4 BEDROOMS 4 BEDROOMS

5 BEDROOMS 5 BEDROOMS 5 BEDROOMS

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‘Beams Dreams’ ‘Beams ‘Beamstoto toDreams’ Dreams’

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hether you want MacLeod’s to build your whole home from start to finish, or you just CRINAN CRINAN the specialist CORRAN CARRICK need to pick and choose EILEAN RRAN CRINANEDHE CORRAN trade services they offer, they will work 4 BEDROOMS 4 BEDROOMS EDROOMS 5 BEDROOMS 4 BEDROOMS DROOMS 4 BEDROOMS EDROOMS alongside you wherever and whenever required in the process.

CONNIGLEN Kilmory Industrial Estate Kilmory Industrial Estate Kilmory Industrial Estate Lochgilphead Lochgilphead 5 BEDROOMS Lochgilphead PA31 8RR PA31 8RR PA31 8RR

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INGLASS GLASS

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4 BEDROOMS 4 BEDROOMS 4 BEDROOMS 4 BEDROOMS

LUSSA

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KAMES

4 BEDROOMS

3 BEDROOMS

4 BEDROOMS

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DUIRA DUIRA DUIRA 4 BEDROOMS 4 BEDROOMS 4 BEDROOMS

CRINAN CRINAN CRINAN 4 BEDROOMS 4 BEDROOMS 4 BEDROOMS

MacLeod Construction is the largest timber frame design and manufacturing company in the area with 40 years’ experience and a proven track record in quality timber frame construction.

Using the very latest methods and materials they design every frame and panel with the innovative software STRAE KAMES STRAE KAMES STRAE before manufacturing the kitKAMES with an 3 BEDROOMS 4 BEDROOMS 3 BEDROOMS 4 BEDROOMS 3 BEDROOMS 4 BEDROOMS automated frame-maker. It’s quick, easy and accurate.

Business Development Director Greig MacLeod tells us ‘We are a family run business and passionate about what we do. We offer a lot of services, but house building is our speciality. Our homes are stylish, spacious and affordable and can be customised to your exact requirements. Building a kit home is faster, easier and less wasteful than a traditional build. Our kits are highly insulated and come with double glazing

www.scottishfield.co.uk

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tpath n tpath slabs on slabs

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Crusher run 40mm round gravel 40mm angular Crusher crushed run Sand

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- large scale ground - garden landscaping formations - garden -road large landscaping scale ground and footpath - decorative driveways - decorative formations driveways - car parking areas construction - car parking - road and areas footpath - drainage construction - drainage construction construction

Dust 20mm angular Type 1 Concrete mixcrushed Dust - services bedding and surround - garden- landscaping road- services and- levelling footpath bedding off and - decorative construction driveways surround - car parking - sub base areas slabs off - for levelling - drainage construction

Small stone 40mmround angular Crusher crushed run - 50-120mm - garden - large landscaping scale ground - large scale- decorative ground formations formations driveways - decorative garden landscaping - car -parking road and areas footpath - drainage construction

to help keep your heating bills down. All our Call kits have been designed to accommodate the 01546-602989 latest renewable heating systems’.

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- road and footpath - 120-250mm - services bedding and construction - large scale ground formations surround - sub base for slabsoff - decorative garden landscaping - levelling

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Call 01546-602989

MacLeod Construction is able to offer a full range of services from obtaining planning permission and building warrant right through to completion.

Concrete sand Pea gravel To help streamline you Concrete sand your build-process Building sand Building Pea stone gravel - concrete mix

- garden landscaping Kilmory Industrial Estate - blockand paving base - decorative driveways can pick choose trades from any of their - concrete mixand mortar - walls--garden landscaping --services bedding car parking areas Lochgilphead - block paving base - floor screeds - cairns - decorative driveways surround - pipe bedding and surround extensive service - services bedding and division: - dry stone dykes - car parking areas PA31 8RRand surround surround - pipe bedding • Plumbing & Electrical • Windows & Doors • Conservatories • Roofing • Refurb & Joinery • Building Aggregates (sand and stone)

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Kilmory Industrial Estate - garden landscaping Lochgilphead - decorative driveways - car parking areas PA31 8RR - pipe bedding and surround

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Working together with you, they can help make

Small round stone Large round stone your future dream home a25mm reality.Concrete 40mm Small round round gravel stone round Large round gravel mixstone - 50-120mm large scale ground formations - -garden landscaping - 50-120mm - decorative garden landscaping - decorative driveways - large scale ground formations - car parking areas - decorative garden landscaping - drainage construction

- 120-250mm large scale ground formations - garden- landscaping - 120-250mm - decorative garden landscaping - decorative driveways - large scale ground formations - car parking areas - decorative garden landscaping - drainage construction

www.macleodconstruction.co.uk sales@mkmacleod.co.uk 01546 602989

www.scottishfield.co.uk

40mm Small round round gravel stone - garden landscaping - 50-120mm - decorative driveways - large scale ground formations - car parking areas - decorative garden landscaping - drainage construction

Concrete Large round mixstone - 120-250mm - large scale ground formations - decorative garden landscaping

Small round st

- 50-120mm - large scale ground forma - decorative garden landsc

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Milligan Transport: ABODE

Delivery problem solved

No matter how remote your delivery in the West Highlands and Islands, Milligan Transport can do it.

This Mallaig-based company specialises in land and sea transport. They delivered an alligator to the Isle of Rum to act in a television documentary so your kit home or building materials will be all in a day’s work.

‘The line between disorder and order lies in LOGISTICS’ ...so said Chinese military strategist and general Sun Tzu, back around 500BC. He would have been a good man to have on a building site

The star of the show is the landing craft Spanish John 2, actually the third vessel to carry the name; the original, a Navy-surplus vessel was legendary in West Highland waters. This incarnation was Clyde-built in 2003 at Alexander Noble and Sons of Girvan.

Sitting at 20m long and 6.5m wide, deck cargo can be up to 40 tons. Power comes from twin 236 hp Daewoo engines. Loading can be either via the 3.6m wide bow door ramp, or with a 23t per metre Palfinger hydraulic crane operated by radio remote control.

They deliver equipment and feed to fish farms daily. Plant and diggers are regular cargos and so are sand and aggregates, council skip lorries with refuse and recycling skips, towing fish farm cages. She has also been a platform for movie making and also featured in the new Ford Eco Sport advert that has just started airing on tv.

L

ogistics, the fine art of having the right people, materials and plant where you need them at the right time, will help keep your costs down.

It pays to be on the ball in remote rural and island locations and be right first time, or face a day-and-a-half ferry journey, or an 80-mile round trip on single-track roads to return a wrong part or pick up extra materials.

Ferries are not just for islands; peninsula routes also cut journey times.

Summer timetables have more sailings, earlier and later in the day, but remember to book in advance during the tourist season and when major events like Highland games and agricultural shows take place.

People have lived off the beaten track for centuries; Scottish hauliers are experts at getting very large loads to the remotest places. They’ve had plenty of practice. Don’t even let the lack of a ferry service worry you; transport companies here have boats and vehicles that can get anywhere.

Logistics are just as important in the middle of a city when facing a tight site entrance off a road full of parked cars or a crawl along congested roads to reach suppliers. You can sail from Oban to the Isle of Mull in 50 minutes. How long can it take to get from one side of Glasgow to the other and find parking places?

A turnkey project, where one firm is responsible from start to finish can be a blessing if you find logistics daunting.

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www.scottishfield.co.uk

ABODE

Scotland was built on bricks

info@crowncraftsmen.com crowncraftsmen.com 0141 428 3959

I

f you know your Bothwell Castle from your Cadzow or Orkney Buffs and Macintosh Reds you are not a lepidopterist, you are buying bricks.

Bespoke Remodelling Restoration Projects New Build Commissions Traditional Stonework Cabinetry & Furniture Conservation & Restoration

It is an inevitable pun, but Scotland was built on bricks.

The award-winning heritage website, Scottish Brick History, is curated by Mark Cranston. He says: ‘The humble brick is virtually unique in that it knits together countless aspects of Scottish history - industrial, agricultural, social, and military.’

There were hundreds of brickworks all over Scotland from the late Georgian period through to Victorian times.

They fed the insatiable demands of the industrial revolution’s factories, shipyards, offices and homes for workers flocking in from the countryside.

Scottish Brick History is trying to collect as many samples of bricks made in Scotland as possible.

New Builds from foundations to completion

The nation was also an exporter; bricks in the collection have come home from as far afield as New York, Canada and Gibraltar and recovered from the holds of wrecked cargo ships, including two from an 1878 shipwreck off Hawaii.

Today Scotland has only one brick manufacturer left, family-owned Raeburn in Blantyre, which ‘wins’ its clays mainly in west and central Scotland, in Ayrshire and Hamilton.

www.scottishfield.co.uk

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ABODE

A new home? Don’t waste your energy!

All the planet-saving, greenhouse gas reducing, technological solutions aside, what is nicer on a dreich day than being cosy in front of a wood-burning stove?

O

nce the choice was coal, gas or oil to fuel both power stations and heat our homes.

With the occasional nuclear power station thrown in, of course.

Today you can add sun, water, wind, plants, soil and air to the list as we strive to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and our dependence on non-renewable energy.

These methods of generation are supported by advances in building design and materials to make newbuild properties themselves need far less energy to keep them warm and well-lit, or dramatically improve the energy efficiency of older buildings through renovation and retro-fitting.

So important is the need for us tackle the problems caused by

unchecked use of non-renewable fossil fuels that government intervention has seen new building regulations and supporting grant systems to help people finance this work. In Scotland today there are loans of up to £38,500 for owner occupiers and eligible landlords in the private sector for energy efficient improvements.

If your home project is in a very remote and rural location investing in the technology to live off the grid could be lower than the cost of bringing in a mains supply.

When it comes to a real fire, more than 1 million homes in the UK have wood-burning stoves or open fireplaces, with an estimated 175,000 sold last year. So many people can’t be wrong.

HeatWorks

Stove and Range Cooker Centre

Range Cooker and Stove Specialists in Scotland

sales@stoveandcookercentre.com stoveandcookercentre.com 01738 624842 䔀匀吀⸀㈀ 㠀

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VISIT OUR SHOWROOM

HeatWorks Stove and Cooker Centre

Ruthvenfield Road, Inveralmond Ind.Est. Perth PH1 3EE

www.scottishfield.co.uk

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Now is the time to install a stove in time for winter

I

t’s the Autumn; summer is only just behind us, but now really is the time to get moving with your plans to install a stove in time for winter.

Organising the installation while the lead-times are short ensures that by the time the cold weather and long dark nights arrive you will be all set to cosy up

‘Just to let you know that the stove is a great success. We are really pleased with it and it is keeping us wonderfully cosy and warm. Thank you so much for your advice and we will be very happy to endorse your excellent services!’

Mrs Bott, Oban.

in front of your fire.

A stove is a wonderful way to enhance a space, providing true comfort through the long winter months, a focal point for family and friends to gather round and an economical and efficient way to heat a room space.

At Backwoodsman our aim is to guide

‘We absolutely love our wood burning stove – we are much cosier and it is a lovely feature at the centre of our living room. Thank you for your professional service and fast but very efficient work!’

E Deverill, Oban.

you through this process as smoothly as possible. We want to ensure that you end up with the right product for your individual requirements and a safe, efficient installation that will give years of good service.

For further information please call us on 01631 720539 to discuss your ideas.

Backwoodsman, Barcaldine, By Oban, Argyll PA37 1SG | Tel: 01631 720539 | www.backwoodsman-stoves.co.uk Covering, Argyll, Lochaber, The West Highlands and Islands.

A family run business offering expert advice, supply and installation on a range of:

Stoves • Range Cookers • Flues (Twinwall & Vitreous) • Fuel (Logs & Coal) • Spares & accessories

Old Crofters Yard, Soroba Road, Oban PA34 4HU Tel: 01631 563487

www.scottishfield.co.uk

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ABODE

ThInkIng about a self-buIld project?

Your self-build plans need approval by your local authority planning department and will need to meet Scotland’s energy efficiency requirements. For many this will mean home renewables.

Home Energy Scotland’s specialists are ready to give you tailored and impartial advice on suitable renewable technologies, typical running costs and available financial support.

Working with your plans, we’ll provide bespoke modelling and compare the running cost of different technologies. Our advice covers a lot more too: maintenance costs, getting the best out of systems, Feed-in Tariffs, the Renewable Heat Incentive and accredited installers.

We also provide ongoing support to help you through the installation process, applying for funding and giving advice once your renewables system is commissioned.

To find out more call us free on 0808 808 2282 to speak to one of our advisors.

Home Energy Scotland is funded by the Scottish Government and managed by Energy Saving Trust Limited.

Registered in England and Wales No 02622374.

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www.scottishfield.co.uk

Top tips for making your home GREENER

W

hat’s top of the list for your project? Homeowners are increasingly focusing on energy efficiency and sustainability when making home improvements or choosing a new property.

So, how do you make sure choosing green technology is a sound investment?

Get impartial advice Before beginning a project – whether it’s a new build, renovation or a smaller project, getting unbiased, clear information is essential.

The Scottish Government funds free specialist advice, over the phone or in your home. Advisors assess your home and provide a report to help you weigh up your options – from deciding which tech to use, to financial support and even planning considerations.

Call Home Energy Scotland on 0808 808 2282.

Do your sums While you’re getting advice, check out what financial support is available. Households in Scotland can apply for a Governmentbacked interest free loan for a range of energy saving home improvements, and in some cases grant funding is available.

ABODE

Speak to someone who’s done it before Before you take the plunge, check out what real householders say about living with green technology using the Green Homes Network. The Energy Saving Trust hosts a searchable network of properties that you can read about or visit in person, to chat with the homeowner about their experiences. To search, visit

www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/green-homes-network

Choose the best company for the job If you’re getting a home renewables system, Energy Saving Trust recommends sticking to companies certified through the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS). You can search for, and read reviews of, MCS companies using the Renewables Installer Finder. Visit: rif.est.org.uk It’s good to get at least three quotes – and remember cheaper isn’t always better.

For free impartial advice call Home Energy Scotland on 0808 808 2282.

You should also factor in income from incentives like the Feed-in Tariff and the Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive.

Choosing energy efficient technology can mean paying more up front, but could work out better long term – and you could save on your energy bills.

www.scottishfield.co.uk

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ABODE

Do you know your Passiv from your EnerPHit? New-build Passivhaus homes are warm in the winter; cool in the summer, with savings for the environment and your cash.

N

o matter what your views on global warming may be, it makes sense to build the most energy-efficient home you can. Your wallet will thank you and the planet probably will be quite happy about it as well.

Passivhaus is the leading international low-energy design standard with more than 65,000 buildings worldwide designed, built and tested to its standard.

It is a highly effective way of reducing energy use and carbon emissions from buildings.

The Passivhaus Trust is an independent, non-profit organisation which provides leadership in the UK for the adoption of the Passivhaus standard and methodology, promoting the building principles developed by the Passivhaus Institute in Germany.

The Passivhaus system has a strict quality assurance process that can be certified through an exacting quality assurance process; certification adds value to a property.

EnerPHit is the Passivehaus specifications for the retrofitting or renovation of an existing property; the savings are not as good but still amongst the highest achievable.

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The Passivhaus standard ‘A Passivhaus is a building in which thermal comfort can be achieved solely by postheating or postcooling the fresh air flow required for a good indoor air quality, without the need for additional recirculation of air.’ - Passivhaus Institut (PHI) Passivhaus uses a heat recovery ventilation system, using very little energy for heating and cooling, and giving a high level of comfort, including humidity levels. Draft free and superinsulated, Passivhaus today can call on innovative products unheard of when the standard was born out of work in 1988 by

Bo Adamson of Lund University, Sweden, and Wolfgang Feist of the Institute for Housing and the Environment, Darmstadt, Germany.

Add to that computer systems to run lighting and heating within the home which are far in advance of anything Adamson or Feist could have imaged when starting out.

Ecology and energy bills aside, one of the most attractive features of Passivhaus design is the amount of natural light thanks to ‘active daylighting’, the strategic placing of windows and reflective surfaces so that direct and indirect sunlight can flood the property, along with ‘daylight harvesting’ – the strategic placing of lighting and automatic or computer-driven dimming and switching off.

The UK trust says: ‘Passivhaus buildings achieve a 75 per cent reduction in space heating requirements, compared to standard practice for UK new build.

The Passivhaus standard therefore gives a robust method to help the industry achieve the 80 per cent carbon reductions that are set as a legislative target for the UK Government.’

www.scottishfield.co.uk

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An eco-first for Scotland EnerPHit: ‘A sophisticated and reliable way of building in an ecological, sustainable and eco-friendly method.’

A

ugust 2018 saw a first for Scotland when a once draughty, traditional barn was certified as one of the country’s most energy-efficient homes.

Thomas Robinson Architects had the very first EnerPHit certified building in Scotland signed off.

construction, showing every stage.

‘This degree of rigour is not something that the construction industry in Scotland is used to. It requires the contractor to fully embrace it and everyone on site to understand what is at stake,’ said Tom.

EnerPHit is for existing properties what the Passivhaus standard of energy-efficient building is for newbuilds.

EnerPHit is used for retrofit or renovated houses, where the presence of older materials, a crumbling barn wall, for example, means that different methods are used to create extreme energy efficiency. There are approximately 1,000 certified Passivhaus buildings in the UK. Of these around 56 are EnerPHit projects, but this is Scotland’s first.

Thomas Robinson and his team have created an exceptionally eco-friendly home from what was an old barn.

“

We have used Passivhaus methodology and created a home with benefits to health and comfort plus the advantage of low energy costs - architect

EnerPHit adheres to the Passivhaus aim to reduce carbon emissions, improve energy efficiency and ultimately achieve greater energy security, while creating an exceptionally pleasant environment. This is done via a variety of methods.

Tom said: ‘Achieving compliance for this building was not straight forward and many of the obvious measures that could have been done such as making the south facing openings larger were not available to us. However, we’ve done it and we and the client are exceptionally pleased with the result.

‘We overcame challenges including getting planning consent for a large glazed opening to optimize a magnificent view where in theory no glazing could be allowed. Achieving the EnerPHit standard in the Passivhaus method in the computer energy model involved careful balancing of glazed areas, high quality components and construction detailing to eliminate cold bridges.’

Mike Roe of Warm Low Energy Building Practice certified the project designed by architect Tom Robinson, and built-in central Scotland, issuing a unique ID number along with a plaque.

To get a Passivhaus building certified requires that an independent Passivhaus Certifier like Mike to check the Passivhaus Planning Package software calculations carried out by the designer. Also, delivery note evidence must be submitted for all relevant products used such as windows, doors, insulation, air tightness seals membranes and tapes.

Documentation of air tightness tests and mechanical ventilation and heat recovery systems used must be submitted for checking, together with photographic evidence of the

www.scottishfield.co.uk

Thomas Robinson | Architects The Red House, Croftamie, Glasgow G63 0EU Glasgow 01360 661144 | Aberdeen 01224 228338 Inverness 01463 554334 Email: mail@thomasrobinsonarchitects.co.uk www.thomasrobinsonarchitects.co.uk Opening Monday to Friday 9.00am - 5.30pm

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ABODE

Pay for your heating with fresh air

P

repare for a bit of mind-boggling when it comes to air source heat pumps.

Renewable generation is now equivalent to approximately 68 per cent of Scotland’s electricity consumption. This means that the target for 50 per cent renewable electricity has been met and exceeded.

There are now more than 16,000 full-time equivalent employees in renewable energy in Scotland.

Turnover from renewable energy activity was £5,458 million*; it continues to be an important driver of investment at a time of slow economic growth.

ever worked in professional catering will tell you how much heat a bank of fridges and freezers can throw out).

These amazing bits of kit extract heat from the outside air, even here in Scotland where the climate can be a wee bit chilly, to say the least.

The heat extracted is constantly being renewed naturally and can be used to heat radiators, under floor systems, convector heaters and hot water in the home.

For those who didn’t pay attention in science classes: the pump extracts the heat from the outside air in the same way that a fridge extracts heat from its inside. (Anyone who has

An air-source heat pump can get heat out of air even when the temperature is as low as -15°c, which is way within the Scottish climate. *Latest UK Government figures

QUALITY BRITISH BUILT AIR SOURCE HEAT PUMPS

RENOVATED MANOR

From Global Energy Systems Reduce your heating bills by up to 65%

INDOOR POOL

Eligible for RHI grants Built in remote monitoring system Free site survey

NEW BUILD HOME

Contact us today for a no obligation discussion Call 03333 444414 or visit www.globalenergysystems.co.uk B R I T I S H B U I LT A I R S O U R C E H E AT P U M P S

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www.scottishfield.co.uk

ABODE

THE HOT-SPOT HOGGER If your little monsters are winning the war for warmth, then you need to rethink your radiators. Our tailor-made underfloor heating systems make sensational snugness child’s play.

No more mighty battles with tiny dragons over your cosy castle. It’s time to break free from bad heating.

Visit www.nu-heat.co.uk or call 01404 540700 to plan your escape. #timetobreakfree

www.scottishfield.co.uk

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ABODE

GETTING

FIXATED

OVER THE

FITTINGS

E

verything about a new-build or renovation is personal in that you are creating the home you want.

At the beginning it is about insulation, render and roof tiles, wiring, water and waste; heating systems and building in energy-efficiency.

MODERN STAIRS: wood4floors

DOOR KNOB Pushka Home

Stamping your personality on your new or renovated home comes in different stages along the building’s journey to completion. Pouring over print catalogues, browsing on line and visiting stores is part of the fun.

This is personal because you know what you want your project to achieve and your architect and builders know which products will make this happen while keeping within your budget.

At the end of the road it is about paint and wallpaper, furniture, upholstery, carpets, rugs, curtains, and colour and texture combinations; where the paintings will be hung and objects displayed.

INTERNAL DOOR: UrbanFront

TRADITIONAL STAIRS: Pooky

But in between come the fixtures and fittings that, while being part of the building, and how you want the house to work for you will also have a very big influence on how it will look.

The wrong paint colour can be solved by getting the stepladders and brushes out again; a curtain mistake can be sold on eBay but what about the doors, and floors? And perhaps when it came to the stairs we should have . . .

BESPOKE GARDEN ROOMS Post and beam or tongue and groove logs, 70mm or 40mm.

We supply Cladding from larch and Douglas fir.

Also, kiln-dried Elm worktops and Bartops Islands.

Scottish Sawmilling Services, Den Lindores, Cupar, Fife KY14 6HS

Tel 07708 335552 | www.scottishsawmill.com 36

www.scottishfield.co.uk

ABODE

The human race has used wood from the first day we could make an axe strong enough. We have always used this wonderful material to build, heat and equip our homes; to live in a house without wood is unthinkable.

DOORS

FLOORS

There is something elegant and reassuring about a wooden front door, be it high gloss or matt-painted, or the natural beauty showing through. It is the first impression and that always counts. That’s why we all take so long deciding how to decorate and then adorn it with handles, bells and names plates.

Inside, doors help to create and develop how the interior looks. Will you go for laminate, solid-wood or will it be painted?

Will it have glass panels to help spread light and increase the feeling of space? Which wood grain appeals the most?

The development and growth of laminate floors has been phenomenal and the choices and price ranges are staggering.

You can achieve any look, from cool and light-giving, golden and warm, to dark and gleaming, making rich-coloured rugs look like gems.

In solid woods the traditional favourites of pine and oak are being joined by bamboo and block wood flooring, including the traditional parquet blocks whiuch are becoming popular again.

Choose the right handles and no one notices; choose wrongly and they will glare at you.

Where else?

STAIRS If you are renovating a house, a new flight of stairs is the equivalent of a nose job; it can change the look so completely.

Even if you are just updating your look today’s technology enables a new fight to be added far more easily and affordably than ever before. The stairs can be an elegant statement within your living space or entrance hall – or just the way you get upstairs, there is so much choice available within design and the range of products. One thing is for sure – make sure the space underneath is never wasted.

ENGINEERED OAK & WALNUT PARQUET SPECIALISTS GLASGOW

413 HILLINGTON ROAD HILLINGTON GLASGOW G52 4BL T: 0141 892 0022

EDINBURGH

110 SALAMANDER STREET LEITH EDINBURGH, EH6 7LA T: 0131 555 1122

PAISLEY

11 SCOTTS ROAD PAISLEY PA2 7AN T: 0141 887 0422

FALKIRK

MIDDLEFIELD IND EST ETNA ROAD, FALKIRK FK2 9EG T: 01324 620022

LONDON

875 FULHAM ROAD PARSONS GREEN LONDON SW6 5HP T: 0207 7368 789

thewoodenfloorstore.com

www.scottishfield.co.uk Find us on

37

ABODE

Let’s keep this office official

The cost, in terms of hard cash and carbon footprint, will be far lower if you manage to build your office space into your home right from the start, instead of adding an extension or garden office later.

How much of an office is your home office going to be?

I

Main Pic: Brayer Design

f your home office is for paying bills, tracking the kids’ dental appointments or writing a letter to the editor of the Times (Oban or Piping, never London) then fine, on you go.

Just as they say dress for the job you want not the one you have, have an office for the business you want to create; it will include clients, collaborators and suppliers visiting you.

But if it is going to be where you earn the substantive part of your income then be very aware.

If possible, build in the space for coffee/tea making and room for an extra couple of chairs; if you can add or keep a downstairs WC for work use, and threaten the family with vile retribution if they mess it up, then even better.

This room has to be right first time. It has to hit-the-ground-running because you need to be hard at work bringing in the cash to help fill up that house-sized hole in your family savings.

Been there, done that and now earning a living in it.

Think of the number of plug, phone and usb points you will need and treble it. Until some secret government project recovers a new form of power storage from a crashed UFO, the batteries here on planet earth will need charging all the time and then some. At last half-a-dozen devices and batteries will be plugged into the mains at any given time, and that is only for the kit you need now.

Add you can never have too much storage to the dictum that you can never be too rich or too thin. Whoever said this in a cloud storage and paperless world lied.

However much storage space you think you need, go ahead and double it.

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There is a limbo land when your business is growing, but not enough yet to justify the expense of commercial office space; when your business is not best served by a client meeting your cat in the kitchen while you brew-up or they go to the bathroom amidst your teenagers’ acne remedies and your youngest’s Peppa Pig

Once you hit the big(ger) time and move out then your family has an extra room: win-win.

Your garden should also reflect your ambitions with a hard area able to accommodate more than the average family collection of cars. We’re not talking NCP here but a flexibility built into the design from the start.

And the golden rule: unless you are manufacturing, product-testing or selling them, your office is no place for an Bird Sculpture: ironing board, Jetty Gallery large sacks of petfood or skis. Woe betide anyone who thinks it is.

Notebook: Hannah Longmuir

Light: Cult Lighting Chair: Wooden Furniture Store

toothbrush.

www.scottishfield.co.uk

ABODE

ABODE INSIDE TRACK

Ladies rocking chair with draw

Draw inspiration from great Scottish design at the new V&A DUNDEE Kevin Gauld

T

he Scottish Design Galleries are at the heart of the new V&A Dundee; the first in the world dedicated to telling the extraordinary story of Scottish design.

This unique collection contains a wide range of beautiful and innovative objects, from furniture, textiles, metalwork and ceramics, to fashion, architecture, engineering and digital design.

‘The influence of Scottish design is not limited to one country, it has been felt around the world,’ said Joanna Norman, acting head of research at the V&A and lead curator of the Scottish Design Galleries.

As part of this, V&A Dundee has appointed a number of ‘design champions’ from across Scotland. Here are three whose work is so joyous that you should own some of it.

Scott Jarvie

From Glasgow, Scott Jarvie studied at the city’s College of Building and Printing, before heading to Edinburgh and graduating with first class honours in product design at Napier University’s School of Design and Media Arts, and being awarded the University Medal. He is the man behind Delupo, an independent luxury furniture company yet a dish ILO Clam shell small dish drainer created for Lakeland drainer rack remains one of the designs of which he feels most proud: ‘We were able to embed a great deal of innovative functionality in a simple moulded product.’

www.scottishfield.co.uk

The Orkney Furniture Maker, Kevin Gauld, produces handmade traditional furniture as well as creating unique designs deeply rooted in his island home, producing traditional furniture and making his own new pieces.

‘Ever since I was a child, I have been making things from wood; and in order to make something new, we first have to design,’ he said. ‘I love the story behind the Orkney chair; how it talks of people, place and time. Today it is recognised as a design classic.’

Nikki McWilliams

What Andy Warhol did to Campbell’s soup, Nikki McWilliams does to biscuits. She is creative director, founder and chief biscuit sampler at Nikki McWilliams Ltd. Nikki studied fine art at Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design in Dundee, before going on to create her own home ware and accessories label in 2009. Her designs are inspired by a love of British culture, contemporary pop-art and her fascination with the ritual of the tea break, with some nostalgia lovingly added to the mix.

Printed cushion

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The Spirit of Skye for your home

Island-based designer paint company’s inspired palette

F

Isle of Skye Paint Company founders Carol and Alasdair Campbell.

rustrated with the masonry paints on offer, an Isle of Skye decorator with over 20 years’ experience has created his own range.

Alisdair Campbell studied with the British Coatings Foundation and after consulting industry experts, testing and refining on crofts and homes all over the rugged and exposed island, he knew his Isle of Skye Paint would stand up to the island’s harsh climate.

‘Knowing our paint works here, we know it will work anywhere,’ he said.

mountain range - conjures up the islands atmospheric skies, while the subtlety of Coral Beach transports us to the calming pristine sands of its most famous shore with its shimmering turquoise sea.

Moving forward Alasdair and wife Carol are introducing 15 new colours in 2019 and working on new products.

Word-of-mouth has seen professional decorators, designers and the interiors magazines spread the news about Isle of Skye Paints and the number of stockists continues to rise.

With a more affordable price than the designer-led products fashionable today it can be ordered online with a 48 hour order turnaround.

All products are available in tester pots, 750 ml, 2.5 and 5-litre tins from isleofskyepaintcompany.co.uk

THE SPIRIT OF SKYE, NOW AVAILABLE IN TINS… Drawing our inspiration from the magnificence that surrounds us here on the Isle of Skye, we have pleasure in introducing our elegant new range of seaweed infused, high quality, water based range of interior and exterior paints.

Five years on, The Isle of Skye Paint Company has launched a comprehensive water-based paint range including, Skye Classic Matt, Skye Durable, Skye Satin, Skye Eggshell, a Multi Surface Primer, and of course, the range’s originator, Skye Masonry Paint, all infused with organic seaweed So, why add seaweed?

‘It’s a brilliant natural thickening agent, common in marine paints but not household ranges, it gives a very even coverage and is easy to apply, so paint professionals enjoy using it and the low-splatter consistency means it’s very forgiving in the hands of a DIY-er.’

While Skye’s weather informed the paints’ composition then its dramatic and beautiful landscape inspired the 32 colours. A coat of Black Cuillin - the island’s dramatic granite

40

Bridge Road, Portree, Isle Of Skye IV51 9ER

Call: 01478 612379 www.isleofskyeprintcompany.co.uk

www.scottishfield.co.uk

ABODE

O S AK A S O F A , FROM FROM £ 1,069 OSAKA SOFA, £1,069

FROM DENMARK. TO THE WORLD.

OUR INTERIOR DESIGNERS. YOUR PERSONALITY. I n t eri o r de sig n s hou l d b e p er s on a l, e n g ag in g an d r efl e c t who y ou ar e.

BoConcept have developed an in terior design service where specially trained i n t e r i or des ig ne r s g u i d e o u r c us t om er s t o f in d t he i r own s ty le . G e t i n s p ir e d at o u r S c ot t i s h s ho wro om s a n d d is c u s s your p e r fe ct s o l u ti on .

DANISH DESIGN SINCE 1952 | BOCONCEPT.COM ROSE STREET, EDINBURGH. 0131 226 6367 BUCHANAN GALLERIES, GLASGOW. 0141 341 4920 PRINCES SQUARE, GLASGOW. 0141 341 4920

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Scandi noir meets brilliantly bright ABODE

Jug: Ian Snow Ltd

Dive deep for colours

D

eep, rich colours are back, balanced by vibrant prints and textures. The reassuring comfort of blues, rich deep hues and vibrant prints on walls and in fabrics like velvet are just what people need right now.

They are what you want to hunker down with for winter and wish that the freezing cold, Brexit and the more vexatious politicians would just go away.

Use them along with a contemporary twist of vibrant prints to complement, the latter often coming in African, Navajo and kilim patterns.

And all combine perfectly with our continuing love of powdery greys and neutrals to lift the look.

Throws: Tolly & MacRae

Cushions: Lola & Mawu

Chair: Ian Snow Ltd

BEAUTIFULLY BOLD

P

erhaps it was the V&A London exhibition of personal artefacts and clothing belonging to the iconic Mexican artist Frida Kahlo that inspired the wave of hot Mexican colours, patterns and portraits of the woman herself. Who knows what trends V&A Dundee will go on to inspire.

The prints are bold and beautiful, instantly brightening a room and amidst the somber Scandi colours and subdued hygge shades perhaps we all need a sudden burst of bright.

The 70s keep raising their head in the fashion world and look to be heading homewards.

House plants were so big back then (Swiss cheese plants were known to devour half a room). Anyone remember Elaine C Smith on her mum’s purple swirly carpet and curtains back in the day: ‘Drugs? We didnae need drugs’.

We draw the line at a woodchip paper revival.

Pot plant: Audenza

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Frida Kahlo cushion: Jan Constantine

www.scottishfield.co.uk

ABODE

Create a superior interior

Llamas are the new stags; they will be everywhere.

Wool llama decoration (The Contemporary Home)

You now own a new house; time to make it into your home.. Some people love this part, others dread making an expensive mistake.

Here are a few ideas to ponder.

Sofa (brabbu.com) Embroidered cotton cushion cover (Ian Snow Ltd)

DO

•

Always remember William Morris’ advice: ‘Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful.’ He gave interior design its Rossetta stone back in Victorian times; as true today as ever.

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Take your time. If you can’t find what you want, then wait.

A successful look can take years to complete and evolves to suit your needs at the time.

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Try to choose the fabrics first for a room, you will find that every other decision then falls into place.

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Use the connecting colours technique: a main colour from your living room flows into others - a rug in the hall, or cushions or chair covers, even storage jars in the kitchen, bringing the whole house together.

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Decide on your big-ticket items. Is it going to be an investment, quality piece that can be re upholstered, repaired or reconditioned time and again? If so don’t be afraid to spend.

www.scottishfield.co.uk

DON’T

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Buy it just because it is the height of fashion, unless you really love it. Let all those avocado-green bathroom suites and tiles of the 1970s be a warning to you.

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Go for patterns that are all the same size, people will get dizzy. The safest advice is one big and a couple of smaller ones in a room.

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Rush and feel pressured into buying because of a sale price or special offer; some of the biggest mistakes are made that way.

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Don’t forget that everyone in the family will be living here, right down to the family pets and even some members who haven’t been born yet. That delicate, dry-clean-only fabric could be a big mistake a few years from now.

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Don’t always buy ready-made in a big store. Scotland has an army of craftsmen and women who work wonders with fabrics and furniture makers and designers creating unique pieces.

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es: (Aud en Siev z

ABODE

Time to bring back the

a)

How about an old-fashioned solution for modern kitchens

A

rchitects and kitchen designers call the kitchen the hub of the home but truly it is the heart.

Use it to free up living space in the main kitchen; utility space is for storing extra dry goods and tackling laundry, dogs, boots, tack, bikes and wet gear.

All family life revolves around this room and a well-planned kitchen helps the world go round more smoothly. So a good kitchen is not just an investment in terms of hard cash but in family comfort and enjoyment.

Duh! Of course you are going prepare, store and cook food in the kitchen, but what else?

Today the modern kitchen is more and more a living space so is it time to bring back two old-fashioned features: the pantry and the scullery, for designated food storage and doing the dirty jobs respectively. Should we give these two kitchen duties their own space again?

Create a utility room to meet whatever your family needs. (Impey)

It sounds a touch Downton Abbey but there is a good case for the modern family home to now have, as standard, a ‘utility’ room alongside the kitchen to fulfil today’s equivalent of the pantry and scullery roles.

Matheson’s Furniture have everything you need for a cosy family meal in the kitchen.

Beautiful selection of tables and chairs in a variety of designs.

Tweedmill, Soroba Road, Oban, Argyll PA34 4HQ Tel: 01631 565195 www.mathesons.co.uk

Mihaus have years of experience in the home improvement and new build sector. They know the requirements of builders and developers from realistic lead times to the quality of finish required in final installation of their kitchens and bathrooms.

Unit 5, Lomond Business Park, Glenrothes, Fife, KY6 2PJ. Tel: 0845 982 5486. www.mihaus.co.uk

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And how about including a shower/ WC also to truly utilise the space as a one-stop-shop for dealing with muddy people, pets and kit? If you decide to move you will be pleasantly surprised at how many potential buyers will be attracted by this combination.

The trend to create separate zones for the kitchen living space with lighting systems, different textures in cabinet and wall finishes plus complementary worktops, some wood, some composite, is a good one. Two sinks and a ‘hot’ tap for boiling water are becoming commonplace, almost excepted in larger kitchens.

Backwoodsman have distributed wood burning and multi-fuel stoves and chimneys in Oban, Fort William and Lochgilphead and throughout Argyll, the West Highlands and Islands for over 40 years.

Backwoodsman, Barcaldine, by Oban.

Tel: 01631 720539. backwoodsman-stoves.co.uk

Argyll Tapestry The home of highland embroidery. Beautiful tapestry designs by Lizzie Campbell Preston, alongside other top designers including Elizabeth Bradley. Tapestry kits and a beautiful range of unique soft furnishings and gifts to compliment every home. Mixing modern design with stunning traditional pieces.

28 Corran Esplanade, Oban, Argyll, PA34 5PS. Tel: 07975 816400 to discuss bespoke designs with Lizzie.

www.scottishfield.co.uk

ABODE

pantry & scullery?

Log burner bread oven: (Ludlow Stoves Ltd)

The next big thing? Deconstructed kitchens for a minimalist, hipster approach. From a new start up Italian company launched in September.

(Very Simple Kitchen)

Nessie spoons (Red Candy)

And if you are building a very large house then how about a dedicated, larger walk-in cupboard-cum-box room for a small sink, coffee maker, fridge and microwave? This adds a certain ‘wow factor’ value to the property.

The kitchen industry today has lot of good, experienced people and as well as the ‘big boys’ there are many quality, smaller firms, often family businesses, out there. What ever your desires, you will find the right match in terms of kitchen and kitchen company. Don’t be afraid to have a good look around.

Which kitchen tribe are you?

Are you chandeliers, fine wood cabinets and marble, or gleaming gloss and metal surfaces with a hob that fell to earth from a spaceship; do you feel Shaker and powderpainted finish is your style?

Do you like the reassurance of solid wood, are you an Aga saga or a sous vide machine family?

Mug: V&A

AGA pic: (Annie Sloan)

www.scottishfield.co.uk

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ABODE

The serious Fashions in colours and textiles are always changing - so buy what you like best and makes you most comfortable, happy and relaxed to promote restfulness and a good night’s sleep

B

edrooms have an awful lot of responsibility but all you have to do, primarily, is sleep in them.

A bedroom has to make sure that its occupant can sleep well and that is a pretty important job.

If the bedroom fails then you become sleep deprived and, as doctors and scientists never tire of telling us, this can lead to risk of cancer, heart attack, Alzheimer’s, obesity and diabetes, plus lack of cognitive function and that can lead to all kinds of everything from pressing the wrong button on the factory floor to driving the wrong way up the M80.

Trouble is, in this screen-addicted world, sleep deprivation has almost become the norm. No wonder bedrooms have to work so hard; as well as getting you off to sleep they also have to store loads and loads of your stuff. All those clothes have to go somewhere; they can’t all live in the ironing basket.

No wonder then that bedroom design has become big business. More and more people are turning to fitted wardrobes, expertly planned.

Think of it as a room computed to get you to relax and sleep. First comes the main frame: the actual walls and

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DOUBLE BED: (Living It Up)

art

windows, heating and ventilation, then the hardware and software. The hard stuff is the bed, its side tables, wardrobes and chests of drawers, whether built-in or not. Finally the software of curtains, floor covering, mattress, bedding and then the add-ons: lighting and accessories.

Never underestimate the power of lighting to help you unwind. Today’s dimmable, programmable systems are perfect for the job and well worth the investment. So too are blackout blinds and good curtains or shutters.

When it comes to children’s rooms they should also include simple-to-use storage for toys and possessions. If their room is cluttered how can you expect them to un-clutter their minds and become calm enough to get to sleep?

En-suite bathrooms or shower rooms are a great addition and not just for the master bedroom. We live in changing times and a lack of affordable housing or care for the elderly could see more of us returning to the days of two-or-threegenerations under the same roof, and the way to make that work is more bathroom space. It is way easier to plan for this when building rather than adding later.

VELVET THROWS: (The French Bedroom Co)

www.scottishfield.co.uk

sleeping ABODE

of

Natural fibres are the most soothing but it doesn’t always have to be cotton. Have you tried linen bedding or silk or wool-filled duvets?

DOG: (Getting Personal.co.uk)

DRAWERS: (Flora Furniture)

For ‘one-off originals’, The Jetty Gallery offers a selection of art; paintings, sculpture, ceramics, glass and wood. With prices ranging from £10 £8,000 there is an original piece of art to suit every budget.

100 George Street, Oban, Argyll, PA34 5NR, 01631 570102. thejettygallery.com

A bed should be like a best friend – reliable, comfortable to be around and loved.

Highland Blindcraft’s beds are all handmade in their factory in Inverness and can be upholstered using the beautiful range fabrics they have in stock or tailor made using your own.

Highland BlindCraft Beds, Tel: 01463 233662. highlandblindcraft.co.uk

www.scottishfield.co.uk

At Highland Blind Craft you‘ll find a bed for every bedroom situation imaginable.

So get in contact with us now and see how we can help you get beds that work like a dream.

TOY BAG: (Bobby Rabbit)

We are also suppliers of traditional and contemporary pine beds, headboards, bedroom and occasional furniture, chairs, pillows and mattress protectors.

Call: 01463 233662

visit www.highlandblindcraft.co.uk or email us at sales@highlandblindcraft.co.uk 47

ABODE

Bathed in glory ‘Alexa, turn on the shower . . .’

Kids towel: Cuddledry

TV: Frontline Bathrooms

Tiles: Walls and Floors LtD

A

good bathroom is like a swan, all beautiful-to-look at while underneath and out of sight two big, strong, boring-coloured webbed feet work furiously.

What we don’t see is the vast array of plumbing and electrical technology tucked away, making today’s magnificent bathrooms possible, even harnessing Wi-Fi. All we see are the elegant lines of the bath and basin, the dazzling high-tech looks of the shower system and the clever shape of the heated towel rail and radiator.

Wonderful wall and floor coverings play with textures and

finishes while programmable lighting systems dazzle us awake in the mornings, or soothe away the cares of the day.

Built-in sound systems are becoming common place; in-wall waterproof TVs are now here, with heated screens to prevent misting-up, as are wireless remote controls for showers and bath fill systems that remember your preferred temperature and water flow, all controlled from an app.

Accordingly, bathrooms are now a bigger spend within a new build or renovation budget. Keep the investment looking contemporary with updates of textiles and accessories.

Mira Mode – Smart, Simple Showering Discover precise control at the push of a button, its digital temperature control with luxurious minimalist styling. For the ultimate luxury, indulge in Mira Mode Dual or Mira Mode Shower & Bath Fill options. POA. Available at William Wilson Bathroom Showrooms throughout Scotland. www.williamwilson.co.uk

Neil–Henderson Carpets and Floorcoverings: Mira Mode service throughout the Highlands, beautiful Smart, professional Simple Showering finishes in a range of patterns, designs and textures.

Discover precise control From bathrooms to bedrooms and everything in between. at the push of a button, its also undertaken.

Commercial flooring digital temperature control on 07887 770193 or Tel: Neil Henderson with luxurious minimalist 01397 701018. www.carpetsbyneilhenderson.co.uk styling. For the ultimate luxury, indulge in Mira Mode Dual or Mira Mode Shower & Bath Fill options. POA. Available at William Wilson Bathroom Showrooms throughout Scotland. www.williamwilson.co.uk

Inspiration starts at The Bathroom Showroom.

There’s choice for any project at any budget. From top quality luxury bathroom brands to quality bathrooms on a budget. Visit one of our showrooms today.

City Plumbing Supplies, Glengallan Road, Oban 01631 567640. www.the-bathroom-showroom.co.uk

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www.scottishfield.co.uk

ABODE

W

illiam Wilson are one of the largest suppliers of plumbing, heating and bathroom materials in Scotland. With 21 trading locations throughout Scotland they are uniquely placed to help the Scottish self-build community. William Wilson have many unique services ideal to help you turn your self-build dream into a reality including: • Free of charge heating system design and technical advice.

• Free of charge bathroom design service.* • Free delivery to most areas of mainland Scotland.

PLUMBING

William Wilson have 21** trading locations in Scotland, stocking a comprehensive range of plumbing fittings and products from brass fittings

to renewable heating systems. The company aim is to provide an excellent service to customers as well as having the right products in the right place at the right time.

HEATING William Wilson can provide a free of charge heating system design and technical advice service. The company has invested in fully training heating design engineers in new heating technologies and energy awareness.

Whatever the technology and whatever the consumer requirements William Wilson can provide the right solution.

Fully trained heating design engineers have the expertise to design and supply any of the renewable energy systems currently available in the marketplace and can incorporate underfloor heating into most designs.

find the bathroom of your dreams...

BATHROOMS William Wilson have 14** bathroom showrooms throughout Scotland, each with eye-catching displays filled with ideas to inspire you. Room set displays in each showroom feature both contemporary and traditional bathroom suites from manufacturers such as Ideal Standard and Roca. William Wilson also have a comprehensive range of bathroom accessories, furniture and tiles.

Building your own house can be made easier with William Wilson.

Visit www.williamwilson.co.uk to find a location near you. Ask about our Self-Build Credit Account facility. *Does not include a site visit. **Bathroom showrooms only at Aberdeen, Aviemore, Dundee, Edinburgh, Elgin, Fraserburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, Inverurie, Kirkcaldy, Kirkwall, Perth, Portree & Stornoway. Opening in Ayr winter 2018.

FREE DESIGN * SERVICE

• bathroom suites • showers & enclosures • wet rooms • tiles & accessories • fitted furniture • experienced staff

ABERDEEN 01224 335335

INVERNESS 01463 245502

AVIEMORE NEW! 01479 811567

INVERURIE 01467 629853

AYR NEW! 01292 286381

KIRKCALDY 01592 653295

DUNDEE 01382 883555

KIRKWALL 01856 871282

EDINBURGH NEW! 0131 657 7703

PERTH 01738 638323

ELGIN 01343 543181

PORTREE NEW! 01478 612577

FRASERBURGH 01346 514474

STORNOWAY 01851 704046

GLASGOW NEW! 0141 418 2611

www.williamwilson.co.uk * Free design service does not include a home visit.

www.scottishfield.co.uk

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ABODE

Time for your new home to...

Take the indoors outdoors and bring the outdoors indoors to make the most of your garden throughout the year

Mini sig n: (Gise la Grah am)

Y

our new home needs the perfect setting; it is time to reach for your wellies and pull on your gloves.

If you have renovated instead then chances are you inherited a garden with established trees and plants along with the property which will all need a major overhaul and a fresh look at the garden layout.

Here’s some advice from people who have been there, done that and now got a lovely lawn to prove it:

Fish garden ornament: (The Farthing)

Graham Sandals Timber Buildings

Huts, Bothies & Outbuildings in Scottish grown Larch

Tel 01786 841788 07773 809345

www.grahamsandals.co.uk info@grahamsandals.co.uk

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www.scottishfield.co.uk

ABODE

...blossom •

•

•

Decide what you want from your garden when you are designing your home; it is never too soon to start. A garden room with sliding glass doors and a patio or decking, all with carefully placed heating indoor and out, will keep your garden in play nearly all year round.

It is never too early for action. Knowing where you want external power points for garden lighting and heating and pipes for taps or water features makes it easier and more economical to install when the house is being built.

The same applies to garden paths, hard standings for sheds and summer and green houses and locations for decking.

Do a bit of snooping; check out neighbouring properties and see what plants are thriving there. Decide early on if you will need extra top soil; your builders will probably have good contacts for supplies.

www.scottishfield.co.uk

•

Once your house is up and the interior is being worked on, go outside and take photographs of the house from all sides, from the road, and looking out of the windows and, when the stairs are in, from all the upstairs windows. Print out copies and set to work doodling and planning your planting.

•

A garden truly is another room; coordinate the look of door fittings, lights both on the house and in the garden, timber paints and stains and ornaments and planters.

•

You are not the only one who will be using your garden; make sure there are plenty of bee and butterfly-friendly plants and lots of berries for birds come wintertime.

•

Gardens, like Rome were not built in a day. Take your time and remember: no one ever planted too many snowdrops.

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Beautiful Beds...and Bedrooms

ABODE

Luxurious comfort on a pillow top, no-turn mattress

Stunning Harris Tweed seating...

Everything for a beautiful home Tweedmill, Soroba Road, Oban, Argyll PA34 4HQ | Tel: 01631 565195 www.mathesons.co.uk | Open: Tuesday to Saturday 9am - 5.30pm

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Make it special with Mathesons!

www.scottishfield.co.uk