Tag: architect

Architecture & Building

Everything to know about designing a driveway

17th December 20210

A nice driveway design can completely transform the first impressions that your home creates. Not only can a driveway increase the aesthetic of your home, but it can also add value to the property as well.  If you’re renovating your driveway here’s everything you need to know.  

What materials should you use for your driveway? 

The materials that you use for your driveway should complement your home’s exterior or any walls in your garden. So, this will affect the colour of the material that you can use. Here are some materials that you might use:  

Gravel or pebble. – 

 They are good-value and an ecologically friendly option, as they retain rainwater rather than sending it into the drains. Gravel also acts as a security feature because you can hear when people are approaching your home. 

Gravel is a good option because it’s affordable and quick and easy to lay. However, it will shift over time so you may need to level it out with a rake from time to time. If holes appear, you can simply add more gravel. And gravel won’t stop the weeds from growing so you will have to maintain the driveway.  

Block paving –  

Usually made from moulded concrete blocks, clay bricks, or natural stone, paving can be permeable to allow water to drain away. Using paving allows you to be creative with your new driveway design, the shades grey, and terracotta are the most popular. Block paving is ideal if you are on a strict budget because it is cheap, and doesn’t need much maintenance. 

Resin-bound gravel and paving –  

This is a single–stone layer, created by applying a film of resin onto the surface, and scattering aggregate on top. Meaning it is quite rough and there may be some loose stone. It’s suitable for slopes and is available in different colours and textures.  

Resin-bond paving gives a smooth and durable surface. Resin-bonded paving is cheaper as it’s quicker to lay and uses less material. 

Cost and longevity –  

An average driveway will cost around £50 to £70 per square meter. Although the prices can vary because each project is different. Resin-bound driveways can last up to 25 years. 

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Loft Conversion

Dormer Loft Conversions Made Easy

16th December 20210

Types of Dormers

  • Flat roof – This is a dormer with aa flat roof that’s sitz horizontally. 

  • Shed – A flat roof that slopes down. 

  • Dog house – A dormer with a roof that has two pitched sides like your classic dog house. 

  • L shaped – Touched on above, this dormer has two parts that form an L shape. 

  • Hipped roof – Similar to a dog house dormer, but with three sides instead of two. 

Pros And Cons Of Dormer 

Pros  

  • Brings more natural light into the room. 
  • Better ventilation 
  • Adds head room and floorspace. 
  • Versatile – has many different options to choose from. 

Cons  

  • More structural work needed. 
  • More labour intensive  
  • You may need planning permission if It doesn’t fall under permitted development. 
  • Extra costs  

Building Regulations and the Party Wall Act For A Dormer 

While planning permission for a dormer may not be required, building regulations are mandatory. Regulations are there to ensure the safety of the structure you’re building. For example, ensuring that the structural strength of the new floor that would be installed is sufficient. Also making sure the roof is stable or even to make sure the new stairs up to your new loft is safe. The party wall act is there to prevent any disputes with neighbours due to building your structure. 

What is the party wall act? 

The party wall act prevents building works by one neighbour that can undermine the structural integrity of shared walls or neighbouring properties. 

Do Dormers Need Planning Permission? 

Yes and No. One benefit of dormers is that it can be constructed under permitted development. However, depending on your home’s circumstances you will need planning permission. Here are two examples: 

  • You live in a listed building or conservation area. 
  • Your neighbours are affected by the structure through overlooking or overshadowing.

And there’s more reasons to why you’ll need planning permission. 

Is my home suitable for a dormer loft conversion? 

Any room with a pitched roof and loft space can have a dormer. 

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Advice Center

Everything to know about building control and building regs.

16th December 20210

What is building control? 

Firstly, local authority building control teams help people comply with the building regulations. They do this by giving feedback on plans and providing site inspections.  

What are building regulations? 

Building regulations are the legally enforceable rules describing the minimum standards to which buildings must be designed and built, with the objective of keeping people healthy and safe.  

The difference between building regs and building control –  

Many homeowners commonly don’t understand the difference between building regulations and building control. However, it is important to know the difference. So, that you are informed and are able to understand more technical conversations when it comes to your project.  

The difference between the two is that building regulations are the building standards, and building control is the function of enforcing those standards. It’s the job of a building control inspector to assess whether or not a project complies with building regulations.  

Why is building control important?  

Building regs are there to protect people’s safety, health, and welfare in and around buildings. The regulations are also designed to improve the protection of fuel and power. And also protect and enhance the environment and promote sustainable development.  

What happens if you do work without approval?  

The local authority has to see that building work complies with the regulations. If you don’t get approval, you may be asked to alter or remove it. So, if you fail to do this, the local authority may serve a notice requiring you to do so within 28 days, and you will be liable for the costs.  

If you are convicted, you may need to pay a penalty of £5,000 plus £50 for each day. In addition, if you do not fix the work the authority has the power to get the cost from you.   

How long does building control last?  

The approval of building plans lasts for three years. So, if you don’t start work in that time the local authority may serve you with a notice declaring your plans of no effect. This means you will have to submit a fresh application.  

Architecture & Building

Understanding All Of The Details Of A Roof

15th December 20210

When it comes to the roof of your home, there are quite a few components. Here you can gain an understanding of all of the details that make up a roof.  

What is a ridge?  

Firstly, the ridge is defined as the highest point on a roof, often referred to as the peak. It is a horizontal line running the length of the roof where the two planes meet. 

A ridge beam is a necessary structural member that carries half of the roof load and must be used when building roofs with slopes less than 3/12.  

 If you are thinking of installing a loft conversion, you must measure from the floor to the ridge height to see if you have a minimum head height of 2.2 m.  

What is a hip?  

A hip roof has no vertical ends. It is sloped on all sides, with the slopes meeting in a peak. The hip is the external angle at which adjacent sloping sides of a roof meets.  

The hip provides the ideal protection from the weather, like heavy rain, snow, and high winds. This is because the sides are sloped towards the ground so the weather can slide off and makes the building more stable.  

Rafters –  

A rafter is a structural component that is used as a part of the construction. Typically, it runs from the ridge or hip of the roof to the wall plate of the external wall. Rafters contain two main outer beams which support the structure. In addition, they are usually laid side-by-side, providing a base to support roof decks and coverings. 

Valley –  

A valley is a gutter-like valley that runs between two sloped sections. They are used so that the rainwater has somewhere to escape.  

Although just like gutters, valleys undergo a fair amount of wear over time. They can leak, rust, and get blocked up; however, the repairs are a common situation and easy to fix.  

They are typically made of lead, concrete, or fiberglass. Although, aluminum is now growing in popularity, as a lightweight and rust-resistant alternative to older iron/ steel valleys.  

Rakes –  

The rake refers to the slanting edge of a gable roof at the end wall of the house. This f is most common in colder climates and consists of two sections sloping in opposite directions from the peak to allow for the best flow of water off the roof.  

They are important because they help keep your roof dry and they serve the important function of preventing water from getting into the fascia.  

Shingles –  

Finally, shingles are coverings consisting of individual overlapping elements. These elements are typically flat, rectangular shapes laid in courses from the bottom edge of the roof up. With each course overlapping the joints below.  

Roofing Terms | Brothers Roofing NJ

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Advice Center, Loft Conversion

Everything To Know About Fire Safety For A Loft Conversion

15th December 20210

When converting existing roof space into a room the provision for escape needs to be considered throughout the full extent of the escape route. The protection of life in the event of a fire is extremely important and shouldn’t be taken lightly.  

Fire detection and alarm systems –  

Where new rooms are provided above the ground floor level, fire alarm systems should be installed as they can significantly increase the level of safety, by giving an early warning of fire. 

It is essential that the fire alarms are properly designed, installed, and maintained.  

Important notes –  

  • Smoke alarms should be positioned in the circulation spaces within 7.5 m of every room.  
  • No bedroom door should be further than 3 m from the nearest smoke alarm.  
  • There should be at least one smoke alarm on every storey of the property. 
  • Smoke alarms should not be fixed next to or directly above heaters or air conditioners.  
  • They should also not be placed over stairs or any opening between floors. 

Ways to escape if there was a fire –  

The main escape route from your loft conversion would normally be the hallway and staircase of your home. Therefore. This route needs to be protected as much as possible and offer at least 30 minutes of fire resistance. 

How this can be achieved –  

  • All the doors that lead off from the staircase will need to be upgraded to give fire resistance or be placed with fire doors.  
  • If your stairs lead to an open plan area, they will either need to be enclosed with partition walls, to keep the escape route protected. Or, you will need to install a sprinkler system in the open plan area. 
  • You may need to upgrade the fireproofing on your ceiling below the new loft conversion. 

The main fire-resistant materials that are used are timber stud partitions and metal frame partitions. With these materials, the potential fire will be delayed for around 30 minutes.  

You will also need an escape window; this window would need to be no higher than 1.1 m above the floor and 459 x 450 mm in size. This is because you need a large enough space to escape out of in case of an emergency.  

Alternative escape routes –  

Often people who want to take extra safety measures feel more comfortable if there is an alternative exit. The best way to include this is by adding an external staircase leading to the loft conversion. Although, you would need to make sure that the external door is also fire resistant and the outside stairs should be protected from weather conditions.  

Do I Need Fire Doors If I Have A Loft Conversion - OakwoodLoft

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Design and Inspiration

Showers: Which One Works Best For You

14th December 20210

Different types of showers 

  • Electric  
  • Mixer  
  • Power
  • Digital  

Electric shower 

One of the main advantages of an electric shower is that a hot water supply is not needed from your boiler. These showers have been proven energy efficient as you do not need to heat your boiler tank for an electric shower. Also, electric showers are simple to install. However, this shower needs a good water pressure either from your main supply or water pump. An electric shower can instantly heat up water instead of taking the hot water supply from your boiler tank. No more waiting for your boiler to heat up! One downside to an electric shower is that your existing water pressure isn’t good, your shower may not be very powerful. 

Mixer shower 

A mixer shower is different to an electric shower as it needs an existing source of hot water. The shower does exactly what the names says it does. This shower mixes your hot and cold water together before the water comes out the shower head. An advantage to a mixer shower is that it is more powerful than an electric shower. The water comes out a lot stronger.  

Power shower 

These showers a perfect with homes that have low water pressure. A power shower uses a pump to improve the flow rate of the water it using. One of the  benefits to a power shower is that flow rate is instantly increased for a powerful shower. Also, the installation is quick and simple and many power showers come with eco-friendly options.  

Digital shower  

Digital showers are at the top of bathroom technology. This shower stands out due to the control panel that can change the temperature and the flow rate. This means you can adjust the temperature by the degree. Key features to this shower are that some are even compatible to smart devices and there are many options of different digital showers available. There are different types of digital showers to suit almost any water system, this is why they are the perfect showers. 

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Architecture & Building

Architecture: Around the World Part 1

14th December 20210

Firstly, architecture, the art, and technique of designing and building. Architects design structures such as office buildings, businesses, stadiums, schools, malls, and homes. They also design outdoor spaces. 

Is architecture a good career? 

In addition, architects are highly respected in society making this a good career. 

Different types of architecture  

  • Firstly, Landscape architect – A person that designs outdoor environments. 
  • Architectural technologist – An architectural technologist provides technical building design services and is trained in architectural technology. 
  • Architectural designer – So, they create digital plans based on architectural sketches, visiting construction sites, oversee contractors and facilitate communications with consultants. 
  • Preservation architect – They prepare plans for appropriate work on historic buildings and direct the work to preserve important features and avoid damage. 
  • Green building and retrofit architect – This person’s job is to safeguard water, air and the earth by choosing eco-friendly materials and protecting the biodiversity of the area during construction. 
  • Commerical architect – Somone that specialises in designing commercial buildings such as shops, restaurants and public buildings. 
  • Finally, Industrial architect – An architect that designs buildings for industry. 

Best places to study   

  • Firstly, England 
  • China 
  • Italy 
  • Japan 
  • France 
  • Spain 
  • Australia 
  • United Arab Emirates 
  • Finally, The Netherlands 

Examples of famous architecture  

  • Firstly, Eiffel tower – France, Paris. In fact, it was constructed 31st of March 1889 

  • Secondly, The Burj Al Arab – Dubai. Constructed in 1994, Finished 1999 

  • Parthenon – Greece, Athens. Constructed in 447BC 

  • Angkor Wat – Cambodia. Constructed in the 12th century  

  • Saint Peters Basilica – Italy, Rome, Vatican. So, this started to be constructed in 1506 and was finished in 1415. 

  • Sydney Opera House – Australia, Sydney. Constructed in 1973 

Panoramic scenery of Sydney harbor and Sydney opera house, Australia
  • Colosseum – Italy, Rome. Constructed in 70AD 

  • Tower bridge London. – Constructed in 1886  

  • Hagia Sophia Istanbul – Turkey. Constructed in 537AD 
  • Kremlin – Moscow. In addition, its constructed in the 13th century  

  • Empire State Building – New York. Constructed in the 1930s 

  • Petronas Towers Kuala – Malaysia, Lumpur.  Constructed in 1993 

  • Leaning tower Pisa – Italy, Pisa. Furthermore, its constructed in 1173  

  • Taj Mahal – India, Agra. So, it was constructed in 1631 

  • Guggenheim museum Bilbao– Spain, Bilbao. Constructed in 1997 

  • Beijing national stadium – China, Beijing. Constructed in 2008 

  • Flatiron Building – New York. Furthermore, its constructed in 1902  

  • Villa Savoye – France, Poissy. In fact, it was constructed 1931 

  • Finally, Kauffman residence or falling water – Pennsylvania. Constructed in 1936. 

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Architecture & Building

The most festive Christmas getaway locations due to their architecture

14th December 20210

Many people and families love to go away around Christmas. This is because the aesthetics and architecture are even more festive and enchanted around the December period. Here’s a list of locations and buildings that you might want to visit to get you into the festive spirit.  

Colmar, France –  

Firstly, this town in France is well known for its charm. The town is well decorated with cobblestone and medieval and renaissance architecture. For example, it has a similar style to the Maison Pfister.  Colmar’s Christmas markets are among the best in the Alsace region. It is one of the most photographed Christmas markets in Europe. The houses and buildings are beautifully decorated and lit up with Christmas lights.  

Colmar , France shared by Lucian on We Heart It

Hallstatt, Austria – 

Secondly, Austria’s Lake Hallstatt is full of character, and one of the oldest towns in Europe. The city contains baroque architecture. Baroque architecture is a highly decorative and theatrical style, taking basic elements of renaissance architecture. Making it grander, more decorated, and more dramatic. However, the town is the most festive when the beautiful architecture is covered in snow.  

A Winter Fairytale in Hallstatt, Austria - Find Us Lost

Lapland, Finland –  

When you think of Christmas where is the first place you think of? For myself and a lot of other people, it’s Lapland. The architecture and landscape are basically straight out of a movie. It’s popularised to be the home of Santa Claus and has some of the best Christmas markets in the world. A lot of Scandinavian architecture merges the structure with the surrounding environment. For example, using wood and natural materials, natural light, clean lines, neutral colours, and more.   

Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi in Lapland Finland Arctic Circle

Bruges, Belgium –  

If you are into cities that have a lot of history, Bruges would be a perfect place for you to visit. The city still has a ton of original medieval architecture still intact. Medieval architecture features styles from Romanesque, French style, and gothic style architecture. As well as, characteristics including stained-glass windows, tall spikes, turrets, and arches.  

Christmas in Brugge, Belgium. Photo @quan.engine | Places to go, Beautiful places, Vacation

Quebec City, Canada –  

Quebec City is a great old-world treasure, the historic streets date back to the 1600s. The City is the closest thing to a European Christmas you will get, without all of the travel. The city hosts a German Christmas market each year and it is a perfect getaway for the festive season. The city alone is very picturesque so when you go in the winter it is even more showstopping. Especially with all of the decorations and the snow on the ground and buildings. 

The Ultimate Guide to Quebec City – A Charming Wonderland Perfect for Short, Winter Honeymoon or Vacation – The Honeymoon Guy

Rothenburg Ob der Tauber, Germany –   

Finally, Rothenburg is Germany’s Christmas capital and it’s the home to the world’s only Christmas Museum. Its well known for its well-preserved medieval old town. It is one of the only three towns in Germany that have completely intact city walls. In addition, this town is considered to be Christmas all year round. It is popular among tourists and it attracts around 1.5 million people every year. 

Winter in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, northern Bavaria, Germany : r/MostBeautiful

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Uncategorised

Listed Buildings: An Easy Guide

13th December 20210

Categories of listed buildings 

In England and Wales, there are 3 categories of listed buildings 

  • Grade 1 (2.5% of buildings)- Buildings of exceptional interest. For example, the Liverpool Anglican cathedral. 
  • Grade 2*(5.5% of buildings)- Buildings with particular importance. For example, Buckingham Palace. 
  • Grade 2 (92% of buildings)- Buildings of special architectural or historic interest. A grade 2 listed building is a UK building or structure that is of special interest, warranting every effort to preserve it. 

Things you should know before buying a listed property. 

  • You’ll need to be granted permission to make any changes to the building. This is including all renovations or any changes to the internal layout.  
  • All listed buildings are on a national register which is searchable on the Historic England Website. 
  • Repairs will cost more. You will have to hire specialist labourers that have the correct skills and tools to carry out the repairs, which can be more costly than a standard labourer.  
  • You’ll need specialist home insurance to cover your home which will cost more. This will cost more due to the materials needed for your home. 

Do’s and don’ts for listed buildings  

Do’s 

  • Remove or alter original architectural features such as doors, decorative stonework, fireplaces or windows. 
  • Don’t assume your garden is yours to play with.

Don’ts 

  • Before buying a listed building, you need to make sure that all renovations done by the previous owners were done correctly. It doesn’t matter if the renovations were done before you owned the building you are still liable. 
  • Make sure you have specialist home insurance. 
  • Keep in regular touch with your conservation officer as they have all the information you may need.  

How do buildings become listed? 

The older the building is the more likely the building is listed. All buildings that were built before the 1700s which is still in its original condition will be listed. 

The newer the property the more remarkable it needs to be to become listed, for example a building with outstanding architecture. Buildings are not usually eligible for listing until it’s at least 30 years old. 

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Advice Center, Extensions

What Are The Top 6 Different Types Of Porch?

13th December 20210

The porch is the first thing visitors see as they approach your house. So, if you are looking to create a beautiful entrance to the front of your home but are unsure of what style of porch you would like, this blog is perfect for you.  

1 – Overhang 

Firstly, simple overhang porches can be visually beautiful. An overhang is the part of the roof that extends over the edge of the house. Porch overhangs help shield your house from strong winds and heavy rain. They can also help shade windows from the sun in the summer.  

80 The Best Front Porch Ideas #frontporchideas landscape ideas front yard, porch and patio ideas, front porch ro… | Modern front porches, House entrance, Porch roof

2 – An enclosed porch  

An enclosed porch is usually the traditional style in the UK. If you have limited hallway space, an enclosed porch is a great way to add extra space and storage. Many people use these as a space to keep your shoes and coats, so you don’t have to bring your dirty shoes inside the house. You should include plenty of light in the design of this porch so it’s not dark and gloomy.  

3 – Veranda   

A veranda may be a large porch that’s a room for outdoor enjoyment and entertainment. A veranda is an open-air porch or platform that has a roof and runs across the front and sides of the home. Often, enclosed by a railing and is mainly leveled with the ground level of the home. 

Glass Verandas: Everything You Need to Know | Canopies UK

4 – Open porches  

 An open porch is one without screens or any sort of enclosure. They are usually elevated structures, with a roof overhead and open support structures. If you prefer to have an airier open space then you might prefer an open area, rather than an indoor room.  

Border Oak Porches | Border Oak

5 – Deck  

Decks are open outdoor porches or platforms without a roof. They are typically made out of wood or some simulation wood material. Many homeowners like to go for this option because the materials make the deck look warm and inviting. However, decks can be more expensive to install due to the material, installation, and maintenance. 

Wood Decks: Ipe & Exotic Hardwoods Installed in Lancaster & Central PA – Stump's Quality Decks & Porches

 

6 – Detached porches –  

A detached porch is separate and not attached to the house. They are usually connected to the house by a walkway or a wooden deck leading to it. The detached building can be screened in, open-air, glass-enclosed, or anything in between. These types of porches could potentially be more expensive because it is a separate structure from the house.  

What Is A Porch | 15 Types Of Porch Used For Home

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