Architecture & Building

Architecture & Building, The science of a happy home

Designing A Home For People With Disabilities

25th November 20210

For those who have a  disability, the opportunity to adapt their house or create some more space could dramatically improve their quality of life. However, the inclusive design goes much further than making a house wheelchair-friendly. 

Willingness to make a house useable to the greatest extent to every individual. Regardless of their physical condition and ability leads to the development of an idea called “universal design” for homes.  

What is universal design?  

Universal design is the design and composition of an environment so that it can be accessed, understood, and used to the greatest extent possible by all people. Regardless of their age, size, ability, or disability.   

Making a more accessible home –  

Building an accessible home could mean catering for those with impaired movement, failing eyesight, or reduced hearing. You may need to make your home accessible if you have become temporarily disabled. For example getting an injury, illness, or even pregnancy.

Movability within and outside the home – 

People with limited mobility may find standard homes a little too cramped and hard to move around in. Wheelchair users need their homes to be wider than usual. A good way to ensure that limited space doesn’t become an issue is by creating an open-plan space. By having an open plan living area, you would be able to get around easier if you struggle with mobility, or impaired senses.  

You should replace all doorknobs with lever handles. So, that they can be used by everyone. They can be easily grabbed by a person with arthritis or Parkinson’s issues. They can also be opened with an elbow if need be.   

The outside designs need to offer straightforward access between the car and the house. The driveway and pavement leading to the house should be wider than a traditional house. And there should be a ramp instead of stairs leading to the house. 

Building an inclusive layout –  

Having a standard layout will not work with a wide majority of disabled people, the goal is to make sure those with reduced mobility can use everything in the house. 

 Storage is a big thing to keep in mind when designing this type of house. Having plenty of built-in storage is useful because it helps to avoid clutter.

Including a wet room is great for accessibility because the shower area can be an extra maneuvering zone. Plus they allow for someone to wash while seated.  

Installing handrails and bars to hold on to all over the house will also be beneficial to the people living in the house.   

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Architecture & Building, House Renovation

Everything You Should Know About Home Elevator Before Purchasing

24th November 20210

To some people installing an elevator in their home might be a luxury, saving you walking from one floor to another. However, too many other people living in a multi-story home might come with some concerns. Especially if you face physical limitations, as a result of injury, surgery, or age.  

Types of home elevators –  

Cable-driven elevator –  

This type of elevator is powered by a cable wound around a drum. These are some of the most well know elevators, they are typically seen in commercial buildings and stores. Elevators with dedicated shafts require a pit and machine room in addition to the shaft itself to operate. They are also the most cost-effective when built into new construction. The average prices for this type are £15,000 – £26,000. 

Glass Cable Elevator - Octagonal - Elevators | Nationwide Lifts

Chain driven elevator –  

Similar to a cable-driven however this one is powered by a chain wound around a drum. The benefits of the chain rather than the cable are that is it more durable. It requires less maintenance and doesn’t need to get replaced. They also don’t require a machine room so it saves space. The average price for this is around £15,000 – £37,000 

What are the Common Types of residential elevators? - Kravelv

Hydraulic –  

This is powered by a piston that travels inside a cylinder. The cylinder connects to a system that pumps fluid, usually oil to control the movements. They do not require a machine room as the power system is contained in the elevator shaft. However, the builders would need to dig a pit below for the shaft. Because of this, it would be relatively simple to fit into a home. The price for this would be around £15,000 – £37,000 

Home Lift: Residential Home Elevators in Hyderabad, Telangana |Celcius Systems

Pneumatic elevator –  

Finally, this one uses a vacuum system within a tube to power the elevator’s movement. The futuristic design adds an element of interest to home décor. Because it is vacuum-powered, it doesn’t require a pit or a machine room, making it easy to install in homes. The prices vary from around £26,000 – £37,000 

Pneumatic Vacuum Elevators | Morning Star Elevator

How safe are home elevators?  

Modern home elevators are very safe. With safety codes, local building codes, and extra safety measures, home elevators today are designed to ensure a high level of safety.  

What happens if it gets stuck?  

If the elevator gets stuck between floors you should have an emergency phone installed. You can use this phone to call an emergency operator and they will send someone to help you exit the elevator. You should never try and exit the elevator yourself if it gets stuck.  

How much space is needed for an elevator?  

A home elevator typically won’t be more than 18 square feet, and an elevator with a shaft usually needs about 5 square feet of shaft space.  

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Architecture & Building

The Top Materials To Use If You Are Building A House

24th November 20210

Are you looking to build a new home but are unsure on what materials to use? This blog will tell you all of the best materials you should consider.  

Wood –  

Wood is normally used when building the inside and structure of the house, it isn’t really used for the outside. This is because it can absorb dampness and some wood attracts bugs. However, the popularity comes from its affordability and it is lightweight and easy to work with. It also acts as an insulator, which keeps the cold air out and the warm air in. Wood can also be an eco-friendly option when brought from a responsible supplier. Wood has a lower carbon footprint than other materials, using less energy to produce.  

Wooden Houses, Log Cabin, Timber House with Free Design | InGreen

Concrete –  

If you are looking for a material that is both strong and cost-effective then concrete would be the best option. Concrete is a mixture of sand, stone, and water, which then dries and hardens. Because it is so strong, the material can be used to support entire structures. In addition, concrete buildings are low maintenance and they last for a long time. Concrete is also very energy-efficient, it is able to transfer heat absorbed during the day and release it at night when it’s cooler. This may cost the building owners less in the future.  

Luxury modern concrete house in Trento [ Timelapse ] - YouTube

Steel –  

Steel is the strongest material to withstand any structure. It is also a very eco-friendly material to use because it doesn’t pollute the air and it doesn’t affect and involve cutting any trees down. Having a steel structure can make it much safer if there are any natural disasters that strike, it is the most secure structure. Because steel increase durability and longevity, it will be a more costly material.  

Light Gauge Steel Framing for Housing - Hadley Group

Brick –  

Bricks are one of the most durable building materials that are used in construction. If you are looking for your building to withstand time, then brick may be the best option. Buildings made from bricks tend to retain their value over time, for example, the great wall of China. However, when using bricks, you need a solid base to make them safe in cruel climate conditions.  

Can You Render Over Brick? The Full Truth! | Home Logic UK

Stone –  

Stone is another material that has been used for centuries and it has been proved to hold up over time. Many people like to use stone because of its unique appearances. You can go for the style of its aw form for a rustic look or a more finished form for a modern style. It is also durable and is able to protect homes from environmental threats.  

Gallery | Bricklaying and Building Services | Consett

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Advice Center, Architecture & Building

Find Out The Fastest Way To Get Technical Measurements: 3D Laser Scanning

18th November 20210

Here at Pro Arkitects we are using a state-of-the-art 3D Lazer scanner, to get the technical measurements of your property. If you are interested and want to find out more about the scanner and what it does, read on.   

What is 3D scanning?  

3D scanning is used widely in architecture and construction. It is a highly accurate method to capture the details of an existing building or construction site. The laser scanning can help designers visualize their designs by using real building data as a foundation.  

Laser scanning in architecture –  

The ability to scan buildings in high detail makes 3D scanning a very popular request when it comes to surveys. With the high accuracy information, it saves productivity and time which is important when delivering results to a client.  

How does 3D scanning work?  

 The laser projects a line of laser light onto the surface. While 2 sensor cameras, continuously record the changing distance and shape of the laser in 3 dimensions as it goes along the object.  

Pros and cons of 3D scanning –  

Pros –  

  • Between 1 and 2 million points of measurable data is collected per second.  
  • It takes a fraction of the time compared to measuring by hand.  
  • You will get the drawings quicker.  
  • Helps design teams to save money.  
  • Increases professionalism of your project. 
  • Gives architects confidence in their work. 

Cons –  

  • The laser scanner is very expensive  
  • Errors could happen while the scanner is scanning  

Functionality –  

The purpose of a 3D scanner is to create a 3d model. However, the 3D models often consist of a point cloud of geometric samples on the surface of the design.  

The scanner shares similar traits with a camera, and like cameras, they can only collect information about surfaces that are not obscured. While cameras collect colour information about surfaces within their field of view, a 3D scanner collects distance information about surfaces.  

However, a single scan will not produce a complete model of the building. You will need to do multiple scans, in different directions to get the information of all sides of the project.  

Notre Dame fire will accelarate the adoption of 3D scanning of historic sites

Architecture & Building

The Beginners Guide to Knowing About Staircase

17th November 20210

If you’ve decided to take the risk and move the staircase in your home, you might be feeling a little anxious about the project. Moving your stairs can be a big job and expensive job depending on if you want new stairs and where you want them. 

How Much Does Moving Your Staircase Cost? 

The average cost for moving stairs is around £3,000. Why? This cost will cover removing the old stairs, replacing the new stairs and the labourer costs. After all of this you will most likely need to replace your flooring materials around the area which could add to the costs.  

How Hard Is It to Move a Staircase? 

Moving a staircase is best to be left the professionals as it’s a complicated process. Not only would you have to seal the gaping hole left in the floor you would also have to cut one into the floor for a new space for the stairs. This also means adding new floor joists and flooring materials. 

Do You Need Planning Permission to Move Stairs? 

There isn’t one chance that you wouldn’t need a permit that involves changing the location of a staircase. Moving around stairs without doing your due diligence is highly dangerous. Why? When you move or remove the stairs there will be an open hole that will need to be framed in which requires adding structural members to the open space, such as sistering floor joists. Moving stairs usually involves replaces the flooring. 

How Long Does It Take to Move Stairs? 

It is difficult to estimate the exact time it would take to move stairs but will likely take 3-4 days. A complex design could take a while depending on the complexity of your design, you may need an architect to draw up the design which could make the process longer. The actual removal of your old stairs will most likely be the longest part, depending on where your stairs are located. 

Can You Move Basement Staircase? 

You need to remember that the framing in the basement holds up your entire home, so when you decide to remove a wall or cut into your main floor joists you need to make sure they have been supported correctly. If you do not support these properly this cause huge damage to your property. No, your house wont collapse but it could shift your main beam or crack the drywall in your home 

Types Of Staircases 

  • Straight – The most common type of stairs, straight stairs are very popular and affordable. 
  • Quarter turn – Quarter turn stairs are usually more visually appealing. 
  • Half turn – With a landing or resting space half way. 
  • Winding – Winding staircases take up less space and can be used throughout several floors 
  • Spiral – Usually constructed with metal, spiral stairs fit perfectly in complex designs. 

Different Materials Used for Staircases  

  • Softwood – Often used for straight staircases, softwood is cheaper and easier to work with. 
  • Hardwood – Pricier than softwood but a lot stronger. 
  • Metal – Strong and durable. It is mostly used for spiral staircases but are very noisy. 
  • Glass – quite expensive but gives off a really nice modern finish. 

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Architecture & Building, Materials

Frequently Asked Things About SIP Panels: Get To Know

17th November 20210

What is a SIP panel?  

A structural insulated panel (SIP) is a sandwich structured composite. Consisting of an insulating layer of rigid core sandwiched between two layers of structural board, used as a building material.  

The board can be sheet metal, plywood, cement, magnesium oxide board, or oriented strand board. In addition, the core can either be polystyrene foam, extruded polystyrene foam, polyurethane foam or be composite honeycomb.  

How sustainable are SIPs?  

Structural insulated panels are one of the most environmentally responsible building systems available. They are constructed offsite and the elements are fully manufactured in a controlled environment. This minimises the loose materials sent to the site you are balancing the risk of waste. Also, all of the materials used in the manufacture and construction are recyclable.  

Installing and longevity of SIP panels –  

When using SIP panels, the build speeds are a lot quicker than the normal construction methods. This is due to the number of elements you need for a build. The panels just need slotting together, once they have need delivered.

The life span of structural insulated panels usually lasts around 60+ years. This is because they are a high-performing system that is extremely strong.  

Are SIPs cost-effective?  

SIP panels are usually the same or sometimes less expensive than using other building systems. They are known to be 90% more energy-efficient than a traditional home. This is because of all of the insulation and airtightness they provide. The panels are also a cheaper option because there will not be many construction and labour costs.  

Advantages and disadvantages –  

SIP panels have many pros and cons, and they are the type of product you should investigate before committing to them on your project.  

Advantages –  

  • They are considered to be up to 6 times stronger than a timber frame.  
  • Can me manufactured off site – this means the build will be less costly and will take less time to construct.  
  • Fire resistant – they have tested to offer 73 minutes of resistance, which exceeds British fire safety regulation.  
  • Highly thermal – they have also tested to outperform fibre insulation. 

Disadvantages –  

  • Require additional ventilation – this is because of the heat trapped inside. To avoid built up condensation you need to use the vents.
  • It is harder for changes to be made once you have decided on the design of you SIP home.
  • Need additional airflow sources – because of the tight seal you need more airflow. If not, the walls can become damp, and even mouldy.  
  • Relatively new to the UK – therefore, finding professional builders with experience can be hard.  
SIP panel

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Architecture & Building

Find Out The Journey Of Building A Carport

5th November 20210

Building a carport is a great way of providing protection for your vehicle, whilst increasing the value and appeal to your home. 

Here are the steps to build an enclosed carport.  

Step 1: Preparation to start the carport –  

The first thing you should do is check with your local planning authority to make sure your proposed project is up to code. Once you have been approved by the planning authority you can then prepare the carport to be enclosed. 

 You should start by clearing the area that the carport will be placed. Then you will need to pour a concrete slab to support the new room. However, before you pour the slab you need to make sure that you have measured how much space is required. For an average car, you need to measure at least 4.9 metres. It is best to make a wooden box to create a template for the concrete to set in once it’s poured. Try to ensure that the concrete slab is level with the rest of your house.  

Step 2: Purchase the necessary building materials –  

You can build carports from wood, metal, and sometimes brick, depending on the style you want and if you want it to match the materials on your home.  

When choosing the materials, you should keep in mind the climate of where you live. Different materials and designs may be more or less appropriate for where in the world you live. For example, lumber may be more appropriate for drier climates. They are also known to be more secure and durable. 

Step 3: start building the walls –  

Now you need to measure the size of the carport and start building the frames for the walls. To secure the walls to the carport you’ll build a simple rectangular box. If you are not creating an enclosed carport then you would move on to the roof. Whereas, if your project is an enclosed carport you will need to add stud walls. You will also need to frame openings for any windows or doors you want to include.  

Then you should secure the frames and the walls to the concrete floors by bolting them down.  

Step 4: building the roof –  

The next step is to fasten the rafters to the side beams. Rafters that will support the roof will be fastened to the wooden box. You should then fasten plywood roof boards to the rafters  

Step 5: Check the stability of the structure –  

When the roofing of your carport is complete, you should take the time to check the stability of the structure. If everything is done properly the carport should be quite solid. If there is any movement when you are checking the stability, you will have to add structure braces as reinforcement.  

Step 6: Finishing touches to the carport-  

For the finishing touches of your carport, you need to caulk the plywood roof seams. This is to keep the elements out, it is important to cover the roof with tar paper to create a waterproof surface, before shingling over it. Then you should fasten the shingles on top of the plywood roof. After that, you can then stain or paint the wood elements, increasing the longevity in the process. Once you have finished all the touches your carport is ready to go.  

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Architecture & Building

The First Architect In History – The Fascinating Story Of Imhotep

15th October 20210
Imhotep - World History Encyclopedia
Statue of Imhotep

Who was Imhotep?  

Imhotep (2667 – 2600 BCE) whose name means “the one who comes in peace”. Was an Egyptian polymath best known as the architect of King Djoser’s step pyramid. Imhotep was a commoner by birth who advanced to the position of one of the most important and influential men in Egypt through his natural talents.  

He was chancellor to the pharaoh Djoser, high priest of the sun god Ra, and a vizier. As well as a poet, physician, mathematician, astronomer, and architect. In time he also became the god of wisdom and medicine. Some sources also say he was the god of science and architecture.  

Djoser step pyramid (2670 – 2650) – 

Under King Djoser’s reign (c. 2670 BCE) Imhotep was vizier and chief architect. He was the probable architect of Djoser’s step pyramid.  

When Imhotep began building the step pyramid, he changed the traditional shape of the King’s mastaba from a rectangular base to a square base. The reason why Imhotep decided to change the shape is unknown. But many think he wanted to have a square base from the start. 

 The masonry was laid not vertically but inclined toward the middle of the pyramid to increase the structural stability. Limestone bricks were used to build the pyramid.  

Imhotep decorated the pyramid with inscriptions and engravings of reeds.   

When the pyramid was completed it stood 204 feet high. It was the tallest structure of its time.  It was also the first pyramid built in Egypt.

Djoser was so impressed with the pyramid he disregarded the ancient pattern that only the king’s name may appear on monuments. Djoser then had Imhotep’s name inscribed on it well.  

When Djoser died he was placed in the burial chamber beneath the step pyramid. And Imhotep went on the serve his successors.  

Imhotep’s other architectural projects –  

Imhotep then went on to design and build another step pyramid.  Pharaoh Sekhemkhet asked Imhotep to construct another pyramid. He planned it to be greater than Djoser’s. The pyramid was never completed because the pharaoh died during the 6th year of his reign.  

After Imhotep’s death –  

About 3,000 years after his death, he was gradually glorified and defied. Imhotep is among the few non-royal Egyptians who were deified after their deaths. Traditions from long after his death treated him as a great author of wisdom texts, and especially a physician. Soon after he was worshiped as a demi-god.

2,000 years after his death, Imhotep’s status had risen to that of a god of medicine and healing.

Imhotep’s tomb has never been found and It is suspected his tomb is in north Saqqara. Where most well-known tombs of the period are located.  

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Architecture & Building, Flat Conversions

Looking To Live In A Maisonette? Everything You Should Know

13th October 20210

What is a maisonette?  

It is a set of rooms for living in, typically on two storeys of a larger building and having a separate entrance.  

The difference between a maisonette and a flat –  

A maisonette is a two-storey flat, where the front door is your own. This means you can exit your home directly to the outside. However, with a regular flat, you have a shared corridor. And your usual flat consists of several rooms that span a single floor.  

Maisonettes are often more bespoke than flats and aren’t typically sold as part of a development block. They also vary largely in square footage, layout, and spec. Living in a maisonette also gives you more outside space as opposed to a flat.  

Is a maisonette a house? 

They are not necessarily a house although they can come with similar square footage and many of the same perks. For instance, they offer similar privacy to that of a house, and they are argued to be safer. Because with all the windows on the higher level, and the only access is the front for it is less likely you would get burgled. 

Maisonettes are ideal for families because just like a house they often house gardens and sometimes even garages. However, the garden might have to be shared with others in the flats. And you’ll have to access the garden separately outside, typically through a side gate.  

Where can I find them?  

In the UK maisonettes are not uncommon, you can find them usually above shops, in town centres and close to cities. Due to them being slightly smaller and more affordable than a house many are located in cities.  

They are also popular in areas with lots of students because landlords convert one house into two separate dwellings to take on more tenants.  

Is it good to live in one?  

There are plenty of advantages to living in a maisonette the first one is that they are warm and cosy. Being upstairs is a major positive especially in the winter because the heat from the downstairs flat rises and it heats up the house.  

Maisonettes often also have a lot of storage compared to a flat or an apartment. This is because most of them have exterior storage such as a garage.  

Maisonettes itself would be about 20-25% cheaper than the equivalent space in that block.  

Some negatives to living in one –  

Although there are many positives, there are some hurdles to living in a maisonette. With either no off-road parking or a shared driveway parking you can be difficult. And a lot of people find parking on a residential street a nightmare.  

When living above someone you have to be extra neighbourly, you need to be respectful and keep an eye on the amount of noise you make.  

8 Maisonette Designs That Are a Step Up from Your Usual HDBs | Qanvast
A modern maisonette

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Architecture & Building

How Architecture Impacts The World At Large

7th October 20210

Throughout history, architecture has stood as a representation of society, reflecting the values, success, and eventually the downfall of civilizations over time. We can learn a lot from the people before us, the ones who inhabited monumental structures and buildings. By studying the environment of the past, and combining it with modern-day research, it is clear to see the effects architecture has on people.   

The importance of architecture  

Architecture exists to create a physical environment in which people live in. However, it’s also a part of our culture, it is a representation of how we see our country or ourselves. For example, London, England has Victorian architecture that was constructed during the reign of Queen Victoria. And in Greece and Rome, the architectural style is classical and often expressed by the temple as an oblong enclosure or surrounded by columns. Styles of buildings were originally shaped by the climate of the location. Also what materials were available, and the values of the society building them.    

Architecture grew from the human need for shelter, but not it’s a form of identity. In addition, the internet and new technology are bringing the world closer together, they are finding more common ground between them. Cultures are coming together and they are sharing designs, which is quite a powerful thing.  

15 Top Architectural Styles

How architecture can affect a person  

 Architecture affects people on a personal level. And it can have a profound impact on its occupants. The layout of the space and the materials can contribute to a ds a person’s health, mood, and productivity. People who work in well-designed spaces are more focused, are less sick, and contribute more to their company. although the space needs to be functional it should also make you feel comfortable  

The impact it has on the environment  

The impact on the environment can be positive and negative. Studies have shown that man-made structures constitute 40% of the world’s energy use. And these numbers are only going to rise. Although big architectural buildings are popular and the most famous, creating eco-friendly structures ensures the existence of future generations.  

Sustainable architecture seeks a positive environment and architecture relationship. For starters using environment-friendly construction materials are essential. Also designing structures that have maximum use of natural light and air circulation will minimise the use of electricity. One of the main problems for the environment is pollution, building with a reduced carbon footprint reduces the increase of greenhouse gases.  

Sustainable architecture

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