Tag: architect

Advice Center

Planning Application Rejected? Here’s How To Resolve The Issue

22nd February 20230

If the authority refuses to give you permission for a planning application, they must give you a written reason explaining why it was denied.  If you are unhappy or unclear about the reasons for refusal you should talk to a member of the local authority planning department.  

Withdraw and resubmit –  

Withdrawing and resubmitting the application is the best option if something has come to light that could get your application denied. You should withdraw the application before it gets rejected. Then make the changes and resubmit.  

Apply for a planning application appeal –  

You can ask the local authorities that if changing the plans will make a difference.  You must submit your appeal within three months, if you have a major project, you have up to six months.  

However, the council will send you information on how to appeal. There are three ways of doing so – in writing, at an informal hearing, and a public inquiry. 

 Most councils will ask you to go down the in-writing route. You will get an informal hearing if there is a lot of public interest in the plans. A public inquiry will only take place for the most complex of cases.  

When appealing in writing you’ll need to write down all of the reasons why you think your application should have received planning permission. When writing you should be as detailed as possible and focus on the planning matters.  

Once this has been completed, a planning inspector will visit your home. The inspector will give his decision on the appeal within two to six weeks of the visit.  

Reasons your planning application can be refused –  

  • Protection of green belt land – local authorities are under clear instruction to strongly oppose any schemes involving potential harm to the openness of the green belt.  
  • Negative effect on character and appearance – this can be the most frequent issue. Projects that change the pattern of the houses are usually denied.
  • Loss of a family home – projects that want to convert a house into flats or non-residential places are a common reason for refusing this type of planning application.  
  • Overshadowing – you need to make sure your development doesn’t overshadow the neighbouring properties causing loss of light.  
  • Overlooking homes – causing loss of privacy. 

Accept the decision – 

Finally, your other option is to just accept the decision. Sometimes there will be circumstances in which your planning application will be denied. And there is nothing anyone can do about it.

You now know how to handle the situation, if your planning application is denied. Finding the best option is dependent upon the terms of refusal and on your determination to get what you want. 

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Architecture & Building

Learn all about Biodiversity in architectural design  

21st February 20230

What is biodiversity?  

Firstly, biodiversity is the variety of plant and animal life in the world or in a particular habitat, a high level of which is considered important and desirable. Its important because it boosts the ecosystems productivity, where each species has an important role to play.  

How can architecture help biodiversity? 

The impact architecture has on the ecosystem is enormous. In addition architecture can contribute to biodiversity by creating habitat opportunities as part of new developments. Planted roofs, roadside trees, together with larger green infrastructure like parks and wetlands, can foster biodiversity by providing habitat for breeding, shelter and food for birds, pollinators and other animals.   

Architects impact biodiversity in five main ways:  

  • Decisions regarding roofs, walls, landscape 
  • Conservation and rehabilitation of existing structures 
  • Materials used in construction – their sourcing, assembly, and disposal 
  • Adverse effects of buildings in terms of air and water pollution  
  • Resources needed to sustain buildings in use. Energy, water, etc.  

Ways you can increase biodiversity –  

Protect and restore the design –  

This is the first and most important rule. You should get to know local ecology and protect it. If you are building in a degraded area, you should try to understand its past and see if you can restore what was there previously.  

Diversity –  

Furthermore, to avoid disease, pests, and to support biodiversity you should select plants from a maximum of 30% of the same family, 10% of the same genus, and 20% of the same species. 

Use native species –  

If an urban environment is so different, some native species may not flourish in it. If you aim to increase biodiversity in the plants and animals’ kingdoms, the native species will support the wild life.  

How does architecture help the environment?  

Finally, architects need to make buildings that are friendly and green to the environment which can be adaptable to the surroundings. Meaning they need to create more eco-friendly and energy efficient buildings.  

Credits: https://learning.open-city.org.uk/bugs-in-the-city/
Advice Center

How to make your home more energy efficient?  

20th February 20230

Before you remodel your home or design a new one you should consider investing in energy efficiency, especially during this cost-of-living crisis. You will save energy and money and your home will be more comfortable.  

How energy efficient is your home?  

The first step in this process is to find out how much energy your home uses. And what is the most effective way to improve it. If your home has an energy performance certificate, it will help you identify any possible improvements. You can find any current or expired EPC in the UK on the government’s website.  

The main aspects of an energy efficient home –  

There are often 3 main aspects that are crucial when achieving an energy efficient home design, and they are:  

  • Air quality – 

Adding high quality insulation to your home will make it more air tight. The tighter the air the more heat it retains. However, it’s important to install a good ventilation system. This will allow you to remove the moist air that builds up in your home, without losing heat.  

  • Insulation 

Choosing the right insulation is important when it comes to retaining as much heat as possible. There are many effective ways to insulate your home, which can reduce heat loss. For example: cavity wall insulation, floor insulation, windows and doors, solid wall insulation, etc.  

  • Heating and cooling –  

Since the gas prices are increasing homeowners are looking for the best ways to save some money. Once your home is properly insulated you won’t need as much heat to maintain a comfortable temperature. This is a benefit because you will use less oil, gas or electricity.  

Can reducing a home’s energy efficiency help combat climate change?  

Homes that use energy supplied from the burning of fossil fuels are responsible for a large amount of carbon dioxide emissions. This means improving the energy efficiency of a home can reduce the burning fossil fuels.  

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Architecture & Building

A guide to Passive houses: definition, benefits and cost   

17th February 20230

Passive house design is an alternative to regular heating. Instead of having a boiler and radiators, they use a special ventilation system and effective insulation. Read on to find out more about passive house standards  

What is a passive house?  

A passive house is a design standard that is energy efficient, comfortable, affordable and ecological all at the same time. The houses attain thermal comfort with minimal heating and cooling. They achieve this by using insulation, appropriate windows and doors, airtightness, elimination of thermal bridges and ventilation systems with heat recovery.  

Who invented the passive house?  

The idea of the house was created by researchers in Germany however, they were originally called passivhaus. It all started with early conversations in the 1980s, led by academics Bo Adamson and Wolfgang Feist. Later, their concept was further developed through a number of research projects. 

What are the requirements for passive houses?  

To achieve the passive house standard, you must meet several criteria, such as:  

  • Airtightness – these houses are very airtight and shouldn’t have no more than 0.6 air changes per hour at 50 pascals pf pressure.  
  • Space heating – The energy demand for space heating must not exceed 15 kWh/m2 of living space per year or 10W/m2 at peak demand. This contrasts with the 100W/m2 needed in a typical house.   
  • Thermal comfort – Living areas should be comfortable all year round, with no more than 10% of the hours in a given year exceeding 25°C. 
  • Primary energy – Total energy needed for all domestic applications (heating, hot water and domestic electricity) must not exceed 60 kWh/m2of living space per year. 

Are passive houses expensive?  

Passive buildings don’t require the expensive heating or cooling systems of conventional buildings. This means even though the buildings require high quality materials they are still affordable. Also, they make for a great investment because you save long term on energy bills.  

Advantages –  

  • Affordability  
  • Lower heating costs 
  • Energy saving  
  • More durable buildings  

Disadvantages – 

  • Boxy and ugly – although there are many benefits of passive houses, many people think the homes look boxy and ugly. This is because it relates to the total surface area of all of the external walls (the Heat Loss Area) divided by the total floor area. A lower number means there’s less surface area for heat to escape. 
  • They don’t add value when resold – one of the main reasons that people don’t buy passive houses in the UK is because they don’t add much value. The owners usually live in them for the rest of their lives.  
  • These homes don’t fit in every location – it must be constructed in a location that allows uninterrupted sunshine to reach the south side of the home. In some big cities, this might be a problem. 
  • Noise concerns – because they are airtight noise can’t enter or leave a passive house. tiny noises will be audible throughout the entire building.  
Advice Center

Conservation Area: Your Questions Answered

8th February 20230

A conservation area is an area of special architectural or historic interest, the character of which it is desirable to preserve or enhance. And in other words, the features that make it unique. So, conservation areas protect all the natural resources that are critical to people on earth. The protected areas provide for life’s essentials.    

What does it mean to live in a conservation area?  

Living in a conservation area can make it more difficult to make changes to your home. You will be able to alter your home. However, if you decide to make the smallest of alterations, you will need to apply for planning permission. For example, replacing your doors and windows.  

Is a conservation area the same as AONB? 

AONB stands for an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. They are similar but are not the same. An AONB are areas in the countryside in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. They are areas that have been designated for conservation due to its significant landscape value.  

Is it worth buying a property in a conservation zone?  

If you are happy to live with the restrictions in place regarding maintenance and home improvements, then you should buy a home in an area like this. Whereas, if you have a more creative side and enjoy renovating then purchasing a home outside a conservation area might be best for you. In addition, living in a conservation area is likely to increase the value of your home as your neighbourhood is very appealing and will stay that way.  

How many conservation areas are in the United Kingdom?  

In early 2021, there were just under 9,800 unique conservation areas in England. They provide heritage protection for around 2.3% of England’s land area and over 10% of properties.  

Can I change the exterior of my house?   

Permitted development allows you to alter the exterior of your home looks as long as you build with materials that match the property’s existing look. Furthermore, if you’d like to change your property exterior look completely you will need to apply for full planning permission.  

Photo courtesy of BlogTO.
Extensions

Do you want a conservatory extension in your home?

20th January 20230

Do you want a conservatory extension in your home? If yes! Then you are on the right spot as in this article we are going to take a look at conservatory extensions. Information that we are going to share will help you make the right buying decision. You also need to keep in mind that a change in planning regulations in 2008 – Home Extensions such as single-storey extension, orangeries and conservatories are treated in the same way.

How Modern Conservatories are Different from House Extensions

Before we go any further, it is better to understand the difference between an extension and conservatory. Furthermore, we will discuss the benefits of each pick.

When we talk about conservatory extensions, these are made from frames and glass. Some of them have bricks but not too much. The design and style of a conservatory are different from the property. Hence there is some sort of separation such as a door that separates conservatory from the house.

In recent years, the advancement in technology has made it possible to use the conservatory extensions all year round. For example, if you want to keep it hot, there is an underfloor heating system available for the conservatory. These types of systems are specially designed for keeping it warm in winter nights.

On the other hand, a house extension is much different as you attempt to link two distinct spaces to create a more living area in your property. With using proper design, it can help in increasing the value of your property.

Moreover, the design of a house extension is similar to the property. The builders use the same type of brick, windows, doors, and ratio to make it look like a part of the property. You may need planning permission from your local authorities to build a home extension. So, it is better to get some advice before you start working.

Cost of Conservatory Extensions

Another factor that affects your decision is the price difference between conservatory and extension. The difference in cost is enormous as the Cost of conservatory is around £6000 whereas the cost of home extension is around £30,000.

Extension or Conservatory

As we mentioned earlier that a home extension, as well as conservatory extension, are treated in the same way from planning permission perspective. So, there is no need to spend thousands of extra pounds on building a house extension. Without further ado, let’s discuss some conservatory extensions ideas.

Conservatory Extensions Ideas

There are plenty of designs that look promising, which can also add value to your property.

Kitchen Extension

A kitchen extension is no doubt one of the best ways to increase the value of your property. You can easily knock through walls to link your kitchen with a conservatory to get some extra living space for a dining table.

If you are considering such an extension, then there are few things that you need to keep in mind to link these two together. Natural light is essential for a kitchen, so we will recommend you to use floor-to-ceiling glass. Some of the people choose French patio doors, but we will advise you to fit bi-folding doors. This type of doors provides a great view of the garden. You also need to consider how you are going to separate these two areas. The open plan works best for most of the people but keeps in mind that these two spaces should have their own identity.

Open-Plan Living Room

You can also use the conservatory extension to get more space in your living room. Furthermore, it is a great way to connect two sections of the property. You can also use this extra space as a kitchen diner to have few drinks and to relax. As it is an open-plan design, so you need to find a way to keep the extension warm. You cannot rely on conventional wall-mounted heaters, instead, use underfloor conservatory heating to ensure that the heat is spread throughout the area.

Best Blinds

It is better to leave blinds till last, as they are just finishing detail. If you are going to use lots of glass, then you would face a privacy issue, especially at night.

Lighting for Conservatory Extensions

Lighting is essential inside a property. It has the power to break your conservatory. That is why; it is vital to use proper lighting. Too much or too light can spoil the mood of the family. The questions are; “What is the best lighting for conservatories?”.

  • You should use a light with a dimmer. It is essential as it can help in controlling the brightness.
  • Another option is to use directional spotlights which can help focus on a particular area of the room.
  • If you want to light the area beyond the conservatory extension, it is the best way to distract the attention from the glass and to reduce reflections.
Advice Center

Learn all there is to know about 3D laser scanning  

13th January 20230

What is 3D laser scanning? 

Firstly, 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. In addition, without physically touching what is being measured, 3D laser scanning creates clear and precise digital records of existing conditions.   

How does 3d scanning work?  

So, 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.    

What is the scanner used for?  

Some of the common uses are: 

  • Prefabrication  
  • Collecting geospatial data 
  • Virtual design and construction  
  • 2D & 3D laser map of a building 
  • Laser scanning for facility coordination  
  • Design engineering for facility upgrades or expansions 
  • Architectural documentation or historical preservation 
  • As built survey, reality capture or existing conditions survey 
  • Calculating volumes, deformation analysis and overhead clearances 

 
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.   

Furthermore, 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.  

Benefits of 3D scanning –  

  • Fast – a laser scanner can capture up to a million 3D data points per second. This provides an incredibly accurate detail of every aspect of your project.  
  • Accurate – because of how many data points are collected laser scanning is the most accurate form of measurement available. Whereas, measurements acquired by hand held devices and tape measures are subject to errors.  
  • Safety – 3D scanning can acquire measurements in hard to reach or hazardous locations, keeping workers safe.  
  • Captures every detail – A 3D scan will capture extra data. Meaning you wouldn’t need to return to the project if you have any unanswered questions.  

Finally, check out our partnering company 3D Measure, if you are looking for Laser scanning services. https://www.3dmeasure.co.uk/  

Credits: https://millmanland.com/knowledge/what-is-a-land-survey-and-what-are-the-types-of-surveys/
Design and Inspiration

The different types of patio doors

10th January 20230

The installation of good quality patio doors can transform the way your home looks and feels. There are a wide range of exterior doors available, how do you choose the right doors for your home? Let’s have a look at types of patio doors on the market.  

Sliding patio doors –  

Sliding doors are usually two glass panels, with one or both sliding. Also, sliding doors have been a popular choice in homes for many years. 

 The sliding doors do require a big enough wall to accommodate two large panels. A generic glass sliding door is usually fixed at 80 inches in length. However, the width might range between 60 – 72 inches and is exceedingly dependent on the amount of space you have to install it. 

People with limited house or patio space opt for this type of door because they don’t need any room to open inwards or outwards. The large glass panels also increase natural light, which is amazing for a small space.  

Credits: https://www.climadoor.co.uk/sliding-doors/upvc-sliding-doors/climadoor-upvc-sliding-patio-doors-anthracite-grey/3000mm-upvc-anthracite-grey-sliding-doors-lh-sliding-rh-fixed

French doors –  

French doors are a pair of doors that opens out into the garden. They are a sleek and traditional addition to a property. French doors are best suited to small openings, so if you have limited wall space this might be the best option for you. The standard exterior French door sizes are: 24 inches wide by 80 inches high 

The doors are often paired with casements windows on each side, to allow extra light into the property. With modern sealing they’re the perfect option for a British homeowner, offering excellent insulation in colder months and allowing you to open the house up to the sun in warmer months.  

Credits: https://cmsplatform.blob.core.windows.net/wwwwindowauthorityhoustoncom/gallery/original/3b447e23-5d71-41f4-a895-0d936c669538.jpg

Bifold door –  

Bifold doors are the newest type of door to hit the market. They are a multi panel unit that open in a concertina fashion. This type of door has become very popular in modern house designs. They replace a large section of the wall and create an indoor, outdoor living environment.  

Image: Everest ltd
House Renovation

The ultimate beginners guide to removing a chimney breast  

9th January 20230

What is a chimney breast?  

Firstly, a chimney breast is a portion of a chimney which projects forward from a wall to accommodate a fireplace. It is typically made of concrete or brickwork and is an integral part of the fireplace system if it serves to house the flue.  

Why would you want to remove your Chimney breast?  

For some, a chimney breast is seen as something that takes up valuable space that could be used for something else. However, some people love the idea of an open fireplace which is also the most inefficient way to burn fuel at home. Some may have the chimney piece removed for an eco-friendlier way of heating. 

Is it worth taking out a chimney breast?  

For older homes, chimney breasts are often classed as a desirable feature. They can offer a traditional and cosy feel that may attract homebuyers. Therefore, in an older home if you remove your chimney it may result in the value decreasing. However, if you are looking to make your home modern it may be best to remove the chimney.  

Removing the Chimney, the correct way –  

In truth, this is not a quick DIY job. When removing the chimney piece, you are also removing an important load-bearing wall. Due to this, you need to ensure that the structural integrity of your building isn’t put at risk.   

One of the most common internal altercations carried out is to remove an obsolete chimney breast at ground floor level to create more floor space. However, commonly chimneys are also removed at first-floor level leaving the roof bare and the external section of the chimney in place.   

Building regulations apply to this work because it is material altercation to the structure ensuring the remaining part of the stack is properly supported 

How much does it cost to remove a chimney breast?  

The cost of the removal will mainly be dictated by the structural report. It is recommended to budget at least £5000 for this project.  

Here’s some estimates for removing a chimney breast depending on the property: 

  • Ground or first floor chimney breast only: £1,400-2,400 plus VAT 
  • External stack: £1,000-2,000 plus VAT 
  • Full chimney in a two-storey property: £2,800–3,800 plus VAT 

Building regulations – 

You will need to make sure the structural works comply with the building regulations. You can resolve this issue by notifying your local authority and being assigned building control.  

Party wall act –  

If the chimney you are looking to remove is on a shared wall with your neighbour you will most likely have duties and obligations under the party wall act 1996.  

Gas –  

Finally, remember that any work involving the alteration of a gas appliance or its components has to be undertaken by a Gas Safe Registered engineer. After completing the works, a certificate, in accordance with the self-certification scheme, should be issued to the property owner. 

Loft Conversion

How To Create A Loft Conversion On A Budget

6th January 20230

Really want to add more living space to your home? Here’s how you can achieve a loft conversion on a budget.  

What Is A Loft Conversion?  

A loft conversion is the process of transforming an empty attic space into a functional room. And these are usually used as a bedroom, office space, gym, or storage space. 

Will You Need Planning Permission? 

So, most conversions do not require a planning permit, this is good because it will help save money on getting the permission. However, you are required to obtain permission if you alter the roof space in any way. If the head height of the roof is above 2.2 m you should be okay. But the best way to find out if you need permission is to check with the local council or planning officer. It is also good to check because if you go ahead without permission and you end up needing it, they can fine you. And that’s not what you want when trying to stay within a budget. 

Another way you can save some money is by not using an architect and doing the majority of the stuff DIY. There is no rule saying you need to have one, but it is highly recommended that you use architectural services when it comes to your project.  

It is a lot cheaper and straightforward to do a loft conversion compared to an extension. So, it is perfect for people who do not have much time and are on a budget. A dormer conversion is the cheapest type of loft conversion.  flat and shed roof dormers have simpler styles and reduce the cost.   

What Is A Dormer? 

A dormer loft conversion is when a box-shaped structure is added onto a pitched-shaped roof. Creating walls that sit at a 90-degree angle to the floor. This expands not only the headspace but the floor space as well.  

Dormer loft conversion,
A Dormer Loft Conversion

On average it can take up to 8 weeks or as little as 4 weeks, with certain styles less complex than others.  

Not everything about the conversion has to be professionally done. The interior finish can be your project. You can paint, wallpaper, hang curtains, fit the carpets. Anything that you do yourself is cutting costs.  

If you are including an En-suite in the loft hiring a plumber is an extra cost. Try positioning the bathroom right above the plumbing below, or near it. It saves a lot of work.  

If you are on a budget smaller loft conversions can benefit from the more natural light coming in. It is also good to use natural, lighter colours when decorating because it helps give the illusion of spaciousness.  

To be able to access the loft you would need a staircase to enter. A straight staircase is the most common style and affordable to build. The highest part of the loft, in line with the roof ridge, is an ideal location for the stairs.  

Pricing Of A Loft Conversion –  

There are many types of loft conversions which means the prices can differ. For a deluxe conversion expect to pay anywhere between £20,000 and £27,000. Whereas, the cost of a basic conversion could be somewhere between £9,800 and £12,500.   

For a DIY conversion the prices are a bit different:  

  • Price range – £9,400 – £48,000 
  • Average price – £29,100 
  • Cheap price – £9,400 

Although you might have done this project on a budget, a loft conversion can increase the house’s value by as much as 20%.  

Loft conversions
Loft Conversion

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