Tag: construction

Architecture & Building, Planning Permission

Planning A Porch Extension For The First Time

4th April 20230

First impressions are important to people. So you should create a warm welcome for guests by adding a stylish and functional porch extension to the front of your home. 

What Is A Porch Extension?

A porch is a single storey structure. That can be enclosed and projects out from the front of the house.

Designing The Porch –  

A porch not just adds an extra bit of storage for shoes, or coats, it can be completely bespoke to suit your needs. A porch also can provide extra security benefits because it creates a barrier between your front door and the outside. Closed porches also are energy efficient because they prevent heat escaping and it saves you a bit on your bills. There are many different porch designs and choices when it comes to building one. Starting from brickwork, front doors, windows, and roof options. However, when you are making these choices, you need to make sure you are integrating the design of your original house.  

Planning Permission –  

A porch is considered to be permitted development. This means that you do not require an application for planning permission, provided: 

  • The ground floor area would not exceed three square meters 
  • No part would be more than three meters above ground level.
  • No part of the porch would be within two meters of any boundary of the dwelling house and the highway 

You would also need to check if you live in a listed building or a conservation area before you start your project.   Prices of a porch extension –  The prices of a porch extension can vary depending on what you want to do to the property and if you have a budget. Adding a porch typically costs around £1000-£1,200 per meter square. Installing a porch will very likely increase your home’s value. When it’s time to sell your home, some sources say the average return on investment for a porch addition is around 84%.  

Porch extension
Credit: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/pin/13159023902288428/

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Building Control

Why The building act 1984 is important in construction

16th March 20230

What is the building act?  

The building act 1984 is a UK regulation consolidating previous legislations concerning the construction process, and the design and specifications for building and their component parts.  

Why was the act introduced? 

It empowers the secretary of state to make regulations for the purpose of:  

Securing the health, safety, welfare and convenience of people in or about building. As well as, others who may be affected by buildings or matters connected with buildings.  

What is the purpose of the building act 1984? 

So, the building act sets out the legislative framework for the building control system.  

The building act empowers and obliges local authorities to enforce the regulations in their areas. These regulations include:  

  • A right of entry into buildings of prosecution  
  • Enforcement in relation to non-compliant building work 
  • Dangerous structures and demolitions.  
  • Setting the status of approved documents 

What happened if you don’t follow the regulations?  

First, the local authorities may prosecute them in court where an unlimited fine may be imposed. Also, prosecution is possible up to two years after the completion of the offending work.  

Here is an example of a man who went against all building regulations –  

Mohammed Ali Khan labelled a reckless homeowner, illegally knocked down his £800,000 3-bedroom, West London home. Then, Khan got a contractor to demolish the property without any permission from the local authorities.  

Furthermore, the councils building control services investigated after worried neighbours contacted the authorities over safety concerns.  

Finally, Khan was taken to court where he denied two charges of breaching the building act 1984. In addition, Khan was found guilty and ordered to pay a fine of £6,043.34. Despite the prosecution, there is still a ‘dangerous structure notice’ in place which will remain until the remaining front façade is removed or the house is re-built, the council said. 

 (Image: Hounslow Council)

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Architecture & Building

New Murabba: Saudi Arabia’s latest mega project plans 

14th March 20230

About the New Murabba –  

Riyadh will officially be the home to the world’s largest modern downtown. The New Murabba is reportedly the size of 20 empire state buildings.  

Firstly, the crown prince announced on February 16th the launch of the New Murabba development company. The development will have over 80 entertainment and culture venues, walking trails, an immersive theatre, a new landmark called The Mukaab, “ever-changing, immersive worlds”, and a museum. 

The size of the project – 

So, the downtown is scheduled to be completed by 2030. The project will cover an area of 19 square kilometres and will have over 25 million square meters of floor area.  

New Murabba will accommodate over 100,000 residential units and 9,000 hotel rooms. Additionally, over 300,000 jobs will become available. Furthermore, there will be 1.4 million square meters of office space and 980,000 square meters of retails space.  

The Mukaab –  

Located at the heart of the futuristic city lies The Mukaab. Which will be one of the largest built structures in world. 

The skyscraper will be 400 metres high, 400 metres long, and 400 metres wide, and will be an immersive destination brought to life by digital and virtual technology. 

The exterior of the structure will feature a delicately carved geometric pattern as a tribute to the kingdom’s Islamic history. In addition the Mukaab is inspired by modern Najdi architecture. 

 Also, holographics will also play a key role at the site, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in various environments. 

Image Courtesy: New Murabba website

Will this project help the economy?  

The crown prince Bin Salman has been trying to remake the country’s economy in a bid to bring in outside industry. Also, diversifying the country’s economy so that it is not so reliant on oil seems like a pretty common-sense idea, given that the world is slowly transitioning to renewables. 

Here are some pictures of the New Murabba –  

Image Courtesy: New Murabba website

Finally, check out this video of the New Murabba –

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Architecture & Building

What are the benefits of Sustainable architecture?  

7th March 20230

Firstly, sustainable architecture is also referred to as green architecture or environmental architecture. It is architecture that seeks to minimise the negative environmental impact of buildings. Through improved efficiency and moderation in the use of materials, energy, development space and the ecosystem at large.   

Why is sustainable architecture so important?  

With global warming increasing, it is important to create buildings that decrease the negative effects of carbon use and emissions. This is achieved via materials, construction and internal systems. Building and construction account for more than 35% of global final energy use and for nearly 40% of energy related CO2 emissions. 

Material impact and waste –  

The goal of sustainable architecture is to create buildings that have low carbon footprint throughout their life cycle.  

Every material used contributes significantly to a building’s embodied carbon footprint, as the manufacturing, transport and installation of materials produces greenhouse gas emissions.  

Furthermore, green architecture minimises the environmental impact and waste of materials by prioritising recycled and recyclable materials.  

Sustainable building features –  

  • Energy efficient  
  • Water efficiency  
  • Green roofs  
  • Stormwater management 
  • Solar power 
  • Recycling  
  • Landscaping  

Benefits of sustainable architecture –  

  • Conservation and restoration of natural resources  
  • Reduction in energy consumption and waste  
  • Protection of ecosystems and environmental biodiversity  
  • Improvement of air and water quality 
  • Competitive advantage  
  • Upgrade asset and property values  
  • Reduction in long term costs and dependence on traditional energy sources  
  • Minimises demand on local utility infrastructure  
  • Improve the living conditions, health and comfort of inhabitants 

Overcoming challenges –  

Finally, it is proven that sustainable architecture benefits everyone, from businesses, individuals, the economy and the environment. However, although there are benefits to sustainable architecture there are also challenges. One of the biggest challenges is the cost. While sustainable building might save you money in the long run, the materials and methods are way more expensive than traditional construction.  

Image: WOHA
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/
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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