Tag: construction

Conversions

Everything There Is To Know About Barn Conversions

5th January 20230

What is a barn conversion? 

A barn conversion is the adaptation of a farm barn into a building serving a different use. For example, a house. 

Barn conversions are so popular because they present the opportunity to create flexible living spaces that can adapt to the needs of modern life. Barns are often in rural areas so if you are looking for a quiet area away from the city to raise a family, this would be perfect for you.  

If you are looking to start a barn conversion you will need full planning permission. And if your barn doesn’t meet the full requirements, You should submit a full planning application to your local council. And seek consent to convert your barn.  

Once the planning permission is submitted, the decision takes a minimum of five weeks. Once work starts on site regular inspections will be made.  

Building and designing –

Some people think that because the shell of the building is in place already that they might not need an architect. However, barn conversion projects can be even more taxing at the design stages than new homes.  

The key is to achieve the best balance between actual living space and the barn’s original character. This is because it is important to keep the character and features like the old beams and timber cladding. And it is important to remember why you loved it in the first place. 

So, because originally farm buildings are uninsulated if you are converting it into a house, it will be a key job to get the place insulated. In most cases, people want to preserve the internal cladding so you will have to insulate from the inside. Typically, you would fit breathable insulation such as a sheep’s wool wall between the studs. And then the wool will be covered by plasterboard. And then dig through the floors to accommodate underfloor heating or rigid insulation boards.  

How much will a barn conversion cost? 

A converted barn is one of the higher-end conversions you can do, they usually cost a lot more than building a new structure. It is not a project for those on a tight budget. The average barn conversion costs around £275,000, it is important not to cut corners during the process because it will lead to issues down the line.  

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Interior Design

Find out which interior design style works best for you 

4th January 20230

Are you looking to switch up the style of your interior design, but can’t decide which direction you would like to go in? There is a style for every preference and in this blog, we are determined to help you find yours.  

Modern design –  

Firstly, in recent times modern interior has become massively popular. Modern design is defined characterised by a monochromatic colour palette, clean lines, minimalism, natural materials, and natural light. Modern spaces are usually aesthetically pleasing to the eye, they are often open plan and clutter free.  

Scandinavian interior style –  

The Scandinavian design comes from a combination of styles that come from the 5 Nordic countries, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, and Iceland. The characteristics of this design is a minimalistic style using a blend of textures and soft hues. Furthermore, this sleek, modern décor makes a home feel warm and inviting. What makes the Scandinavian style different to minimalist designs is that the style emphasizes affordability and not just necessity.  

Bohemian design –  

This type of style is a mark of free-spirited aesthetics and its continuing to gain popularity. The style isn’t strict on order. It is encouraged to use a blend of colours and patterns, and it places an emphasis on nature. For example, here are some characteristics of bohemian design, metallic fixtures, neutral colours with a mixture of jewel tones, patterns and layering, handmade pieces of art.  

PHOTO: LOLOI RUGS

Farmhouse –  

This design uses a lot of natural, organic and rustic materials and furniture. Some key elements of the style include open floors plans, neutral or muted colour palettes. As well as, natural textures and light, and incorporated greenery. Many people who live in the city love this style because it creates a farmhouse/ countryside vibe to a home surrounded by concrete.  

Image: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/pin/425590233544146959/

French country interior –  

Finally, french country is a blend of elegance and comfort, it embodies a soft, airy, and feminine vibe. Its distinctive features include vocally patterned fabrics in muted colours, painted and quaint furnishings and accessories. In addition, it incorporates lots of wood and other natural accoutrements. 

Image: https://luxesource.com/gallery/country-cream-living-room-with-vaulted-ceiling/
Advice Center

Alvar Aalto: the great architect of the Santa Claus village  

23rd December 20220

Who was Alvar Aalto?  

Hugo Alvar Henrik Aalto (3rd February 1898 – 11th May 1976) born in Kuortane, Finland was a Finnish architect and designer. His work includes architecture, furniture, textiles and glassware, as well as sculptures and paintings. The span of his career, from the 1920s to the 1970s, is reflected in the styles of his work, ranging from Nordic Classicism of the early work, to a rational International Style Modernism during the 1930s to a more organic modernist style from the 1940s onwards. 

Early life –  

Aalto completed his basic education in 1916, and started taking drawing lessons from a local artist. In 1916 he enrolled to study architecture at the Helsinki University of Technology. However, his studies were interrupted because he went to fight in the Finnish civil war. Later, he continued his education, graduating in 1921. In the summer of 1922 he began military service, finishing at Hamina reserve officer training school, and was promoted to reserve second lieutenant in June 1923. In 1923, he opened an architectural office in Jyvaskyla under the name ‘Alvar Aalto, Architect and Monumental Artist’.   

Lapland during WW2 –  

In the 1930s, Rovaniemi was a quiet trading town of around 6,000 people until Russia invaded in 1939. The Finns fought off their aggressors in the brutal winter war of 1939-40, then allied with Germany for protection from further Russian incursions. The Germans created a base in Rovaniemi, doubling the population and built an air field and barracks, which would then become Santas official airport and Santa Claus village.  

Once the Germans left in 1944, they burned Rovaniemi to the ground, they destroyed 90% of the town.  

Rebuilding Rovaniemi, Lapland –  

Aalto was commissioned by the Association of Finnish Architects to reconstruct the town in 1945. He saw the burned town as an opportunity. Aalto had the genius idea to have a town shaped like a reindeer. The central Rovaniemi is wrapped inside the reindeer’s head, with the Keskuskenttä sports stadium as the eye. Roads leading north, west and south make up the antlers. 

Photo: Visit Rovaniem

In June 1950, Eleanor Roosevelt wanted to visit the Arctic Circle, so the Finns built a log cabin near Rovaniemi airport in a week, furnished with chairs designed by Aalto. The cabin because a tourist attraction and a tourism grew Rovaniemi was rebuilt.  

He designed three main buildings for the towns centre:  

  • A concert hall  
  • A town hall  
  • And a library, which is one of his finest works  

He also built a small section of houses in the suburbs, a private home and a commercial block all inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright’s design style.  

Santa Claus Village –  

Local entrepreneurs created the Santa Claus Village when more visitors were coming to Rovaniemi to see the arctic circle. A rural-style wooden village was created around Eleanor Roosevelt’s cabin, offering shops, reindeer rides, a Santa, and a post office so visitors could send letters from the Arctic Circle. This is where every letter addressed to Father Christmas ends up – around 700,000 a year. 

Image: TripAdvisor
Architecture & Building

How Green architecture impacts the modern world  

22nd December 20220

It is commonly known by now that the world as we know it has become endangered over the years. In the architecture industry the response has been the growth of green architecture.  

What is green architecture?  

Green architecture is a philosophy that advocates for architects to produce smart designs and use of technologies to ensure that structures generate minimal harmful effects to the ecosystem and the communities.  

The rise of green architecture –  

The green architecture movement gained momentum in the late 80s/ early 90s when the American Institute of Architects collaborated with the Environmental Protection Agency to develop new guidelines for architectural design. 

What makes a building green? 

Any building can be green if it is made with these features:  

  • Good indoor environmental air quality  
  • Use of renewable energy, such as solar energy  
  • Efficient use of energy, water, space and other resources 
  • Use of materials that are non-toxic, ethical and sustainable 
  • A design that enables adaptation to a changing environment 
  • Consideration of the environment in design, construction, and operation 
  • Pollution and waste reduction measures, and the enabling of re-use and recycling 
  • Consideration of the quality of life of occupants in design, construction, and operation 

Why is green architecture important? 

While cities are continuously expanding, the Earth itself is not getting any bigger. This growth has a huge impact to the environment because the process of developing new habitats for our communities constantly requires a huge chunk of our natural resources. 

According to the UN Environment Global Status Report 2017, building and construction account for more than 35% of global final energy use and for nearly 40% of energy-related CO2 emissions. While these numbers are lower than those in 2010 due to a higher awareness regarding sustainability, there’s still a long way to go. 

Here are some examples of sustainable architecture –  

One central park, Sydney Australia –  

One central park is a mixed use dual high-rise building located in Sydney. A park at the foot of the building continues up the structure. Vegetation of 250 species of Australian plants and flowers cover one central park. The plants stretch over 50 meters high, and it has become the world’s tallest vertical garden. In 2013 the building was awarded a 5-star green star by the green building council of Australia.  

Image: Sardaka

Shanghai tower, Shanghai China –  

The world’s second tallest building at 2,073 feet, Shanghai Tower is an architectural wonder as well as a sustainable one. A transparent second skin wrapped around the building creates a buffer of captured air that serves as natural ventilation, reducing energy costs, and 270 wind turbines incorporated into the facade power its exterior lights. 

Bosco Verticale, Milan Italy –  

The project was named Bosco Verticale, or in English “Vertical Forest”, because together the towers have 800 trees, 5,000 shrubs and 1.5000 perennial plants, which help mitigate smog and produce oxygen. With more than 90 species, the buildings’ biodiversity is expected to attract new bird and insect species to the city. It is also used to moderate temperatures in the building in the winter and summer, by shading the interiors from the sun and blocking harsh winds. The vegetation also protects the interior spaces from noise pollution and dust from street-level traffic. 

Architecture & Building

Learn all about Arctic architecture this winter 

21st December 20220

The extreme weather in the arctic regions cause a range of design and planning challenges. For example: the cold temperature, structural problems, transportation, the high standards for materials, and resource limitations.  

Tips for designing, operating and maintaining buildings and systems in cold climates –  

  • The colder the climate, the more important it is to keep your equipment sheltered from the weather.
  • Avoid or minimise any external service pipes because they will freeze.  
  • Windblown snow has the consistency similar to sand. So, this requires special design techniques to keep it from getting into the HVAC systems.  
  • Place air vents in locations that will avoid snow drifts and blockages.  
  • Use prefab materials  

Building green – 

Since in the Arctic Region the effects of climate change are amplified and lead to global consequences, governments and international organizations are developing solutions to promote sustainable constructions. Green buildings provide benefits from an economic and social perspective, through lower building costs and improved comfort of their occupants.  

Building houses in the arctic –  

Many people in the arctic today live in modern towns and cities. People work in the arctic, extracting oil and gas beneath the permafrost, conducting research or working in tourism.  

Permafrost is very challenging to build on. Which is why houses where permafrost is present are built on stilts. This is to keep the permafrost from melting under them. While it is frozen it provides the house with a stable foundation. When the ground thaws, it can cause the building to shift or even collapse. Many houses are elevated on steel piles driven into the bedrock to keep the heat inside the home from going into the frozen ground.  

Houses in the north are often very different from the south. Northern houses will often have the bedrooms downstairs and the common areas upstairs. Heat rises so rooms closer to the ground are cooler, while upstairs the living areas capture and retain the heat in the winter.  

Windows are also an important factor when it comes to homes in polar regions. You want to make sure you place the windows in areas that have a positive impact. The placement of the window is important because you will get much needed sunlight in the winter but won’t be roasting in the summer.  

Here are some examples of architecture in the arctic –  

Arctic tree house hotel, Finland –  

This hotel in Finland was designed by Studio Puisto and it took inspiration from Nordic nature and culture. The timber structures are covered in wood and are carefully designed to be comfortable even in the winter months. All of the structures were fully constructed inside, right down to the internal surfaces and fixtures. They were then transported to the site and was lifted onto support pillars.  

Photographs:Marc Goodwin

Svart Hotel, Norway –  

The Svart Hotel is planned to be constructed at the base of Norway’s Almlifjellet mountain. Designed by international architecture, landscape architecture, and interior design firm Snohetta, the Svart Hotel gets its name from the nearby Svartisen glacier. The Norwegian hotel is being planned as modern sustainable architecture, with extensive research having gone into energy-efficient construction and operation. Snohetta even claims that the ring-shaped hotel will in-fact be energy positive – meaning it will produce more energy than it consumes. By mapping the movement of the sun’s ray, the circular structure design includes solar panels that would provide optimum levels of light throughout the day all year long. 

SVART – Photo credit Snøhetta Plompmozes MIRIS
Advice Center

Green Belt Areas: Everything You Need To Know

20th December 20220

England’s 14 green belts cover around 12.4% of land in the country and provide a breath of fresh air for 30 million people. 

What is a green belt area?  

A green belt is a policy and land use zone designation used in land use planning. They retain areas of largely undeveloped, wild, or agricultural land surrounding or neighboring urban areas.  

There are three different types of land and they are:  

  • Brownfield – land that has been built on previously, but is now vacant or in need of redevelopment.  
  • Greenfield – land that has not been built on before (agricultural/grassland). 
  • Green belt – highly protected land with tight restrictions on development.  

Local planning authorities are extremely cautious about their green belt areas. This is because the purpose of one is to capture the fugitive emissions emanating from plant operations, alternate the noise generated and improve the aesthetic. 

New homes can be allowed in the green belt if they meet the need. And this exception only applies to specific policies in the local plan. And only then if the need for those homes is clearly demonstrated they will be able to live in a green belt area. Developers need to submit a case for very special circumstances in which the building would outweigh the resulting harm to the environment.  

How much does it cost to buy green belt land?  

The cost of the land largely depends on whether it has planning permission or not. Green belt land is usually cheap if it doesn’t have consent to build on. It is cheap because of the strong building restrictions. However, if the area has consent to build on it could sell for about £500,000 per acre. 

Green belts are intended to check further growth of large built-up areas such as London. This is because they need to prevent neighboring towns from merging into one another.

You definitely can’t overlook the benefits that green belts can offer for your health and wellbeing. For example, being in the countryside where it’s rich with nature, and there’s plenty of fresh air for everyone to enjoy. They also double up as local nature reserves. So, they work brilliantly for wildlife, allowing creatures to move between habitats safely and flourish in a mix of landscapes. 

Instead of viewing the Green Belts as a limitation to building more homes, we need to focus on restoring and enhancing the land. So, it can continue to provide a space for nature and a place to relax, play and grow our food. 

Hellerick – Own work

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Architecture & Building

Why Modern Architecture Became So Popular

16th December 20220

What Defines Modern Architecture? 

 Modern architecture has something for everyone, Even if you prefer other styles. There are some elements of modern design that will appeal to you. Modern architecture is clean and simple. It is defined by clean lines and minimalist interiors that allow the structure to speak for itself and take center-stage. To keep it simple, modern architecture focuses more on industrial metals such as steel, concrete, and glass. These metals give the architecture the simplistic look that a lot of people find aesthetically pleasing to look at. The thing about modern architecture is that it remains unique in fact, modern architects have created some of the most unique designs to date. And even though the interior is minimal the designs are so unique the houses never look boring. 

A large misconception that a lot of people have is that modern houses are not very homely and are cool and cold. This is because of the open spaces and the minimal furniture that people usually choose. However, a large number of modern design features are naturally warm and inviting. For example wood and stone accents and floors and also warm lighting. Another inviting feature most modern homes have is floor-to-ceiling fireplaces, large windows that let in natural light, and high vaulted ceilings. A lot of modern plans contain fewer walls to create an open living space and make the place more welcoming.  

Visualized by: Alex_nerovnya

Architecture Post WW2

After World War 2 modern architecture was at its highest. The wartime industrial demands resulted in shortages of steel and other building materials. This meant that people were using inexpensive building materials to rebuild their houses and offices because they were cheap enough to mass-produce. They mainly used reinforced concrete and some steel to rebuild the majority of homes. They made the houses open plan with vaulted ceilings to create living space, and also used large windows to let in more daylight. 

Architecture Post WW2
Image: Rufus Knight

Nowadays modern homes are more expensive to build and to buy because they have gained a lot of popularity. The majority of people would like a modern home because of celebrities and posts online. However, modern homes are also a lot more expensive than traditional homes. This is because they need more materials to make the house more durable. Also, because traditional houses are made from brick, and modern ones are made from concrete, which is more expensive than brick.  Although, modern houses are becoming popular the most desired and common house style in the UK is the Tudor houses. 

Advice Center

What Season Should You Start Construction Work? The Ultimate Guide

15th December 20220

Looking to start construction work but are not sure when the best time of year is? This blog will help you decide.  

The climate is the biggest and most important factor when it comes to construction. This is because it determines the materials you can use and the longevity of the work.  

Autumn – Winter Construction

The autumn and winter periods are a classic time for dangerous construction sites. many accidents happen because the ground is often slippery and wet. Workers also need to dress up warmly and wear extra padding, this leads to having less mobility which leads to accidents. You also need to watch out for the water and electricity and make sure they do not come in contact. Because the site can become a death trap if it is not managed properly.  

Thunderstorms –  

Thunderstorms and heavy rains cause a lot more damage to a build than expected. If there are high winds materials being used in the construction can be destroyed or damaged. And if it is hailing it can easily break glass and can dent sheet metal.  

Moisture –  

Moisture is very bad when it comes to construction it can lead to accumulating Mold in the environment. The metals used in the construction such as iron and steel will be accessible to rust. If you are working with wood, even when it is cured it is still open to moisture. Bricks are one of the first building materials that is immediately affected by moisture during construction.  this is because it traps the moisture in the tinner walls and it could be released at a later date. 

Extreme Cold –  

Materials contract in extreme cold, so applying paint and glue to surfaces on these days will lead to cracking and wrinkling. Concrete and cement will also form ice particles and this drastically reduces strength and stability.  

However, building in cold climates is not a new thing and cold counties have successfully overcome all issues. Because they use specially adapted materials, additives, and application processes. 

How Does Weather Affect Construction? |
Image: Abode By Patrick

Spring – Summer Construction  

You may think because the weather is getting warmer it is for the better, however, moisture is an even bigger issue in spring.  

Heat – 

The heat can be just as big of an issue as the rain. Heat changes the expansion dimensions of materials and this may lead to misaligned joins during the construction. The heat also causes workers to be less careful, wearing less protective clothing and causing drowsiness due to heat fatigue. 

It has shown that preparing concrete on hot days without adding in extra water requirements will lead to weaker applications. Bricks in the heat can also become brittle and, pain, when applied, might crack as well as discolour.   

Construction Workers
Image: Stock.adobe

Just like the colder season building in hotter seasons have its own issues and many countries manage to develop methods and tools that work for the climate. However, it is clear to see that it is better to start construction in the spring-summer months compared to the autumn-winter months.    

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House Extension

Front House Extension Rules: Can You Extend

13th December 20220

Whenever you plan to add a front house extension, there are some rules that you need to follow. Like any other house extension, there are some limits on how high, wide and far you can go. If the design does not comply with these rules then you have to apply for planning permission.

It does not mean that this process is negative. It is just difficult and can make your project stressful. Furthermore, it can take many weeks to complete and will cost you extra money. Anyhow, if you are following the rules then you can skip this process and build a front house extension. You can add a room to the front of your house without any worry.

The rules with this type of extensions are very strict. The reason is that you are extending towards the front of the house. It means towards a public highway and hence there are stringent rules.

On the other hand, this type of extension provides you with options to have extra space for living and make some changes to the exterior. You can use this space to build a lounge, kitchen, or a bedroom.

The rules for a front extension are very much similar to the side and rear extension. There are lots of things to consider before you start work. If you want to extend the front, you first need to check whether there is already an extension, because the rules can be different if you already had an extension.

To avoid the daunting process of planning permission, you need to build the extension within “Permitted Development”.

It is better to contact previous owners before starting the work.

Front House Extension Rules to Follow

Some of the rules are as follows:

  • The size of the front house extension should not be greater than the land around the house.
  • You can make an extension higher than the existing roof.
  • You need to make sure that the materials you are using are the same.
  • If your house situated near the public highway; you cannot build an extension under permitted development rights.
Extensions

Timber Frame Extension: Learn About Planning, Finishes, and Costs

12th December 20220

There are several great benefits of a timber frame extension other than the added value and extra space for your home. It is possible to achieve a weathertight stage in days with this extension. It also means that you need to spend less time on-site and it does not depend on the weather conditions.

Once you have built a timber frame extension, it can sustain for longer. Furthermore, it provides good airtightness and thermal performance. So, if you are planning this extension, then it is essential to consider a proper frame manufacturer and best exterior finish. However, it all depends on your budget and whether the projects need planning permission.

Is A Timber Frame Extension Cheaper Than Other Extensions?

If we talk about the cost of timber frame extension then yes, it is an affordable choice compared to other traditionally-built extensions. One of the reasons is that it requires few labour hours to complete the work.

Furthermore, it is easy to estimate the time required to complete the project because it does not depend on the weather conditions. You can even carry out the work in winter months. If you are planning to apply for a mortgage, then you should keep in mind that your external finish is of primary importance. Many lenders are limited to external finish they accept, which can limit your choice of lenders.

Another important thing that you should keep in mind is that your project should add value to your house.

Do You Need Planning Permission?

Well, you do not need planning permission if you meet specific criteria, then you can build a timber frame extension under permitted development rights. But if your criteria are outside the scope, then you need planning permission from the local council.

We always recommend our readers to double-check the authorities before they start working. But if your property is located in a conservation area, then it is necessary to apply for planning permission.

Does it Can Be Built on Site

Most of this extension built using timber frame and all of the panels for the structure are made up on site. They do not get manufactured in a factory. You will need the help of a structural engineer to design it and prepare the specifications such as grade and size of timbers. After that, a joiner will make up the frame panels on site.

You will also find out that the manufacturers do not provide any quote for the extension projects. The reason is that they need lots of technical input for a new build.

Exterior Finishes for the Timber Frame Extension

You can use a variety of materials for the exterior finish, including:

  • Rendered brickwork
  • Facing Brick
  • Reconstituted Stone
  • Brick Slips
  • Natural Stone
  • Fibre Cement Cladding
  • Render board system
  • Timber
  • Metal Cladding

Tips for Building Timber Frame Extension

  • First of all, you need an architectural services provider with years of experience with timber frame extensions
  • We will recommend you to take quotes from at least three architectural services providers to make sure you are getting the best rates
  • We always advise our clients to have a 10% buffer budget for any unforeseen expense.

Types of Timber Frame Construction

Open-Panel Systems

In this construction as sheet material is fixed to the softwood frame. However, the inner face is left open for the plumbing, insulation and electrics. Once every work is done, the structure is closed up.

Closed-Panel Systems

It is same as the open-panel systems, but the main difference is that the insulation is already fitted and ducts are in place for the services.

Keep in mind that the panels are provided without windows and doors. However, some manufacturers give the panels fully glazed external joinery.

Cost of Timber Frame Extension

As we mentioned earlier that this extension costs less than other traditional extensions. The main reason is that you need fewer labour hours. A person should expect to pay £1,800 per square meter.

There are some expensive materials such as oak, which will you around £2,400 per square meter. In short, it is the most cost-effective extension in Scotland but can cost more in Wales, Northern Ireland, and England. You should keep in mind that the original cost of any extension depends on what you want. For example, if you need an additional storey roof, then the price will be higher. However, it is still cost-effective if the structure is made of timber.

Factors that can affect the cost include:

  • Frame type
  • Amount of Insulation and its type
  • The thickness of the frame
  • Prefabrication
  • Specifications of glazing
  • Location and choice of external cladding.

Benefits of Timber Frame Extension

  • One of the best benefits is that timber is lightweight compare to other choices. Due to the lightweight, it is easy to deliver the large modules made off-site.
  • If your house is small and has limited space, then you can manufacture the modules off-site.
  • Furthermore, it allows you to create large rooms, galleried ceilings with character, and you can use different finishes outside the house.