Tag: construction

Architecture & Building

Find out all there is to know about organic architecture 

8th December 20220

Firstly, what is organic architecture?  

Organic architecture is a philosophy of architecture which promotes harmony between human habitation and the natural world. This is achieved through design approaches that aim to be sympathetic and well-integrated with a site, so buildings, furnishings, and surroundings become part of a unified, interrelated composition. 

Essentially organic architecture is also the literal design of every element of a building: From the windows to the floors, to the individual chairs intended to fill the space. Everything relates to one another, reflecting the symbiotic ordering systems of nature 

Who created organic architecture?  

The term was invented by Frank Lloyd Wright. The first example of this design style was Wrights Fallingwater, built in the late 1930s. The house was designed to be a holiday home for the famous Kaufmann family. 

 However, when the Kaufmann’s first looked at Wright’s plans for their new summerhouse, they were actually disappointed. The family had expected the house to have views of the beautiful waterfall in its grounds; instead, Wright had designed a house that would sit on top of the waterfall.  

Although, the Kaufmann’s soon came round to the idea, and they grew to love their house, which, as it has aged, has come to seem even more at one with its natural surroundings 

Image: https://franklloydwright.org/site/fallingwater/

Characteristics of organic architecture –  

 Frank Lloyd Wright’s book “In the cause of architecture, published 1908, Wright highlighted important elements of organicity:  

  • Doors, windows, and furniture should blend with the ornamentation of the structure.  
  • The colour of fields and woods should inspire the main colouring of the building to manifest natural aesthetics.  
  • A building should appear to grow primitive from its site and the structure should appear as if created by nature itself.  
  • Simplicity and repose are important qualities to assess the value of architecture. So, there is a need to simplify the design of structure, limiting the number of distinct rooms by instead rethinking them as open spaces.  

What is the aim of this architecture?  

The purpose of organic architecture is to create a sustainable ecosystem. Where the materials and components of construction support one another. And as a result, produce a modern building that looks like a part of natural habitat.  

Advice Center, Extensions

Plan, budget, and design for brand new kitchen extensions

8th December 20220

Do you want a large, open-plan kitchen, but do not want to move into a new house? Well, getting a kitchen extension is an excellent idea to solve your problem. Kitchen extensions can help you get the extra space you require and can also add value to your property. Any kind of house extension is a daunting job, but with proper planning, you can do this.

In this article, we will guide you on what steps you need to take for a kitchen extension.

Initial Plans

A kitchen has several things like plumbing and electricity plugs to power your fridge, toaster, and oven, etc. So, you need to start planning early on to decide the position for the electrical and plumbing services. Other important things to consider are the space and what type of extension
you need. Having natural light in the kitchen is crucial, so make sure you have an adequate supply. It is not possible to allow natural light through windows to a side extension. Thus, the good option is glass roofing. There is no point in adding dark and uninviting space to your home.

Kitchen Extensions Cost

In the initial planning process, it is vital to consider your budget. If you are looking for a single-storey extension, then it can cost you around £1200 per square meter. Keep in mind that this budget includes only the budget specification and fittings. If the structure is more complex, then
double the amount per square meter.

Selecting an Architectural Service Provider

After deciding which type of kitchen extensions, you require, it is time to find someone who can provide you with architectural design services. Because these are the professional people who are able to advise you on what’s possible in your case, furthermore, they can guide you on the planning process and budget.

You need to choose someone who has the experience and is able to show you their previous work. They will take a survey of your house and will provide you with plans for approval.

Planning Permission and Building Regulations

After the approval of the plan from you, here comes the crucial step to get them approved from the local council. The architectural services provider will ensure that the drawings fall under permitted development and will apply for permission. You can do it yourself, but we will advise you to let the professionals help you with the planning permission process. If you want to know more about planning permission, you can visit GOV.UK.

You need to obtain building regulations approval from BCO, known as a building inspector. These government officials will make sure that your designs are following the building regulations to ensure energy efficiency and safety. If your house is subject to restrictions, then the architectural service providers can submit plans for you. You need to wait for at least eight to ten weeks for the application process. It is easy to get an approval for a single-storey rear extension. We will recommend you not to use much space of your garden area as it can reduce the value of your property.

Builder

After getting approval, you need a builder to make the drawings a reality. You can ask for recommendations from your friends and family. Furthermore, architectural services provider can also help you in this regard. They have contacts of all kind of contractors. Hence they can
suggest a good builder.

Another thing to make sure is that the builder’s provided quotes are TrustMark approved. It is necessary as it indicates that their previous work was checked and it fulfils Government- approved standards. The cost of an extension can varies depending on the job. So, we will recommend you to get several quotes. Give some time to the contractors to prepare their quotes.

Kitchen Designer

You can look for a kitchen designer along with a builder. The architectural designs explain everything about the layout of your kitchen, but you need to take them to a kitchen company. They will study the drawings and will show you kitchen designs for your approval.

Get Started

After getting planning permission and party wall agreement, you can start the work. Furthermore, you need to set the positions for floors, ceilings, water and electric pipes at this stage. Allow enough time for the flooring to be ordered. You also need a contract that best suits your needs. If you do not know about it, then you can get help from your designers. In this way,
he or she will inspect the work and will tell you how much work is completed so that you can pay against completed work. After the completion of the building work, it is time to deal with any structural or finishing issues. Before making the last payment to the builder, make sure that you get a final certificate from the architectural service provider.

Building Control

All you need to know about building regulations

6th December 20220

No matter your project, most construction work will require building regulations approval at some point. Here’s what you need to know about building regs in 2022.  

What are building regulations?  

Building regulations are a set of rules that are designed to ensure that new buildings, renovation work, extensions and conversions are carried out to ensure a safe, energy efficient, and healthy home environment. In addition, there are regulations relating to each specific area of construction. 

Your project will have to comply with these areas –  

You will need to appoint a building inspector; they will ensure that your projects meet the regulations.  

You may need building regulations approval for alteration projects. Here’s some examples:  

  • replace fuse boxes and connected electrics 
  • install a bathroom that will involve plumbing 
  • change electrics near a bath or shower 
  • put in a fixed air-conditioning system 
  • replace windows and doors 
  • replace roof coverings on pitched and flat roofs 
  • install or replace a heating system 
  • add extra radiators to a heating system 

The different types of building regulations applications –  

Building notice –  

A building notice is basically promising in advance that you will comply with the building regulations on site.  A building notice can only be used for domestic work and is only advisable for smaller works such as underpinning, internal alterations or re-roofing and does not require the submission of plans with the notice. 

Full plans –  

So, for most construction projects a Full Plans application is made to building control. With full Plans application, you will know from the start that the drawings have been checked and approved by the building inspector and that the plans fully comply with all of the Building Regulations. 

The application is made up of:  

  • A full description of the proposed works  
  • A set of technical drawings 
  • Structural engineer’s calculations  
  • A location or ‘block’ plan   

What happens if you fail to comply?  

If you fail to notify building control about your project, or the council finds out it isn’t up to standard, it has the power to order you to take it down or alter the work. Furthermore, serious cases can result in prosecution. If you are convicted, you could face a fine of up to £5,000 for each offence plus £50 for each day the work remains uncorrected. The local authority can also make you pay for the faulty work to be fixed. 

Also, if your project doesn’t comply it can become unsafe or cause major health issues, injury or death.  

Conversions

Basement Conversion in London Guide for Homeowners

6th December 20220

Basement conversion in London can help provide valuable extra living space, and it does not require any change to the exterior of your home. Everybody wants more space in the home, and one of the ways is by house extension or converting the basement.

Loft Conversion provides additional living space on the top of the house. You can use it to create additional bedrooms. On the other hand, a basement is close to the main living space and access.

Options for Basement Conversion in London

If you want to create living space underneath the home, then there are the following routes:

  • You can create a basement
  • Or you can renovate an existing cellar or basement
  • If your house does not have a basement, then you can build a new one underneath the home or can extend out into the garden.

In this article, we are going to discuss 2nd and 3rd routes.

How Can You Use Basement For?

There is no doubt that the basement is a great space for your family; you can convert it into a home entertainment room or playroom. You can also use it as a utility room, storage and boiler furthermore, as the basement has its external entrance which makes it a self-contained unit, which makes it an ideal space for annexes or home office. If you want to make It an independent separate dwelling, then you need to express consent.

Does Basement Conversion London Worth It?

Whether a basement or cellar conversion worth your money depends on the cost and value of the property, additional living space under the house does make financial sense in high-value areas. If you are living outside London, then you need to take this decision after careful analysis. If you want to get an idea about the worth of space per square meter, then you can ask them from a local estate agent.

However, you should keep in mind that a basement with direct access worth more than any other dark cellar space. You also need to keep in mind that an area has a maximum value which you cannot exceed no matter what improvements you make. It also means that converting your basement is not going to increase the value of the property.

Sometimes, it is challenging to decide whether to convert a loft or a cellar. Because both of them costs about the same, but building a basement from scratch is a daunting and expensive task. However, creating a cellar will provide you with useable floor space compared to loft conversion.

Planning Permission for Basement Conversion in London

If you already have a cellar beneath your home, then you do not require planning permission for conversion. Because it comes under permitted development unless you are in a conservation area, if you are going to reduce the floor level of a basement to improve the ceiling height, then it will be treated as an extension which needs planning permission. However, some of the alterations and extensions also do not require a planning application; for more information, you can visit the planning portal, or you can visit the office of the local council.

The planning policy for the basement varies from one location to another. However, getting approval from the local council is not that difficult. If the work is not going to alter the appearance of the house, then the council does not have reasonable grounds for refusal. We have seen many people made iceberg basements which indicates that the policy for basements is still under review.

Basements and Building Regulations

If you are going to create a new basement, then you need building regulations approval. It does not depend on whether you are going to use existing cellar or creating a new one. These regulations are to make sure that the buildings are safe, energy-efficient, and hygienic. Renovating or repairing a current basement does not require building regulations approval.

You can download the documents from the government website. That is why; we recommend our clients to apply for planning permission rather than waiting for notice.

Party Wall Act

If the work is going to affect any party wall, for example, if the excavation is to be carried out near a party wall, or you are going to extend the wall. In such a case, it is essential to inform all the owners of adjoining properties.

How Long Do Basement Conversions in London Take?

A basement conversion usually takes a few weeks to complete. If you are going to convert a simple bedroom, then it will take just two or three weeks. But if you are going to convert the basement of the entire house, then it can take several months. Furthermore, if you can access directly, then you can live in your home during the work. But if the contractor has to remove the ground floor and rebuilt it, then you have to move out.

Extensions

Double Storey Extension: A Beginner’s Guide

2nd December 20220

Double storey extension is a perfect alternative to moving house. The reason is obviously the cost which involves moving a house. Furthermore, sometimes we are emotionally attached to a house because we have spent so many years. So, why should we consider such option when we can increase living space and add value to our existing property. If you are a kind of person who spends most of the times at home, then adding another storey can provide space for your home office. Furthermore, you can consider a kitchen, bathroom, and more bedrooms. You can also create a space with a perfect view of the garden. In short, you can use this extra storey as the way you want it to be.One of the things to make a successful two-storey extension is to integrate rooms upstairs and down into your house. Adding an extra storey to your house provides you with more space for your buck compared to a single-storey extension. It is the best alternative for growing families and small homes.

Does Double Storey Extension Add Value to Your Property?

First of all, a person who wants another storey is to have some extra space. But it is also important to make sure that money you are investing in adding value to your home. Keep in mind that an extension may cost more than it is adding to the property. But in the long run, it is less expensive than moving to another property. After knowing about the legal fees, agent fees, and stamp duty involved in the process.In the UK, the value of a property determined by the price per square meter. If you want an idea about the worth of your house, you can check with local property agents. Sometimes, the asking price is more than the selling price of a property.

How Tall It Can Be?

How tall your double storey extension is? an important question related to planning. Planning policies say that your extension cannot be larger than the existing house. If a building has low ceilings, then it will be difficult to build an extension tall enough. There are some solutions such as lower ceiling heights or integrating upstairs rooms into the roof space.

Cost of Double-Storey Extension

The cost of an extension can varies from one place to another in the UK. The cost of labour is different from one city to another. Furthermore, the material you choose has a significant effect on the overall cost of the project. If you go with standard quality material then a double-storey will around £1,500 per square meter. While a good quality design will cost you around £1,700 per square meter.Keeping these numbers in mind, an extension of 40m square will cost you £53,000. We have not included professional fees and VAT. In areas such as London, you should expect to pay more than that. So, if you are going to estimate the cost of your project, you should at least consider around £75,000 for a two-storey extension with a footprint of 4m x 5m and standard finish.

Architecture & Building

Qatar world cup stadiums designed by great architects  

1st December 20220

The 2022 FIFA world cup in Qatar features 7 brand new football stadiums. The stadiums include designs from some of the world’s most famous architects. Each architect has designed the stadiums to represent and portray Arab Culture. So, get to know about some of these amazing projects and the great architects behind them.  

Al Bayt Stadium by Dar Al-Handasah –  

Firstly, the Al Bayt stadium was designed by Dar Al- Handasah. Dar Al-Handasah consultants founded in 1956, is a privately owned Internatinal consulting company. It was given the Arabic name Dar Al-Handasah meaning “the house of engineering”. Over the years, Dar has provided consultancy services to more than 950 clients in 60 countries. And has handled over 4,000 projects involving a collective investment of over US$300 billion.  

The Al Bayt stadium will host around 60,000 world cup fans. However, after the tournament it’s expected to be reconfigured into a 32,000-seat stadium. The vacated space will then be converted into a five-star hotel, shopping mall and another sports facility. Its giant tent structure covers the whole arena and is inspired by traditional tents of nomadic peoples from the Gulf region. It was a brilliant idea by one of the architects.  

Lusail Stadium by Foster + Partners and Populous –  

Foster + Partners is a British architectural, engineering, and integrated design practice founded in 1967 by Norman Foster. It is the largest architectural firm in the UK with over 1,500 employees in 13 studios worldwide. 

 Foster + Partners also worked with Populous which is a global architectural and design practice. They specialises in sports facilities and arenas.  

This is the largest of the 2022 world cup stadiums, and it will be hosting the final game in the competition. Designed by architects Foster + Partners and Populous. Furthermore, it’s Inspired by the light and shadow of a “fanar” lantern, the façade features triangular panels and a steel frame with additional decorations resembling the motifs found on regional artistic bowls.  

Al Thumama by Ibrahim Jaidah Architects- 

This stadium has an amazing architectural design, its inspired by the Gahfiya, a traditional headpiece worn by Muslim men. This building was designed by architect Ibrahim Jaidah, it offers 40,000 seats. However, after the world cup 20,000 seats will be removed, and a hotel will replace the stadiums upper stands. 

Al janoub by Zaha Hadid Architects + AECOM –  

Finally, this stadium was designed by the famous Zaha Hadid’s architectural firm. According to the designers, it was inspired by the sails of traditional Dhow boats. Used by pearl divers from the region, weaving through currents of the Persian Gulf. The curvilinear roof and exterior references Al Wakrah’s history of seafaring, additionally giving spectators the feeling on being on a ship. In addition, it currently holds 40,000 seats but will be repurposed for a local football team and will have 20,000 seats.  

Architecture & Building

Looking To Build A Carport? Find Out If They Are Valuable

30th November 20220

What is a carport? 

A carport is a covered structure used to offer protection to cars. Because they don’t have walls, the open and accessible space makes it easy to park your vehicles underneath. Commonly carports are attached to your house or they can be a separate free-standing structure, depending on what you like.  

Carports are a great alternative if you don’t have a garage or if you can’t afford to build one. They give your cars shelter from the weather and will save you time when it comes to de-icing during the winter months. And in the summer months, a carport keeps your vehicle’s cool and in the shade. 

Also, if you live in an area with a lot of trees and wildlife carports are handy. This is because they can prevent branches from falling on your car or any animal mess. Which ends up keeping the cars clean and shiny.  

Does a carport add value to your home? 

Typically, carports will increase the value of your home, but maybe not in the way you were expecting. They don’t automatically raise the value of your home. In fact, if it’s done right, they are the ideal home improvements, that can make your home desirable.  

Carports are relatively cheap and easy to build. And is an easy way to add extra benefits and value to your home without having to do lengthy and expensive construction.  

Planning permission – 

Planning permission isn’t required for a carport. Provided that: the carport is used for domestic purposes only and the height can’t exceed 4 meters.  

How much is a carport?  

A single carport should cost between £2,000-£4000 to build, with an average carport costing £3,000. Double carports are more expensive and will cost around £5,000 to install. Although, these prices do not include the cost to lay a concrete floor or to hook up to the main services such as electricity, gas, or water.  

Carports are also very versatile, if you have a garage to park your car or if you don’t have a car, they are still very useful. You could use it as cover and shade from the sun, or you could place garden furniture underneath and protect it from the rain. 

Generally, carports are permanent secure structures that can’t be moved. However, some people like to have carports that can be moved so if they decide to move houses, they can take it with them.   

Contact us

Contact us
Extensions

Side extensions: planning, cost and building regulations 

24th November 20220

Many houses have a limited outdoor area. If you have extra land at the side of your property, and you are looking to add more space to your home, it’s worth considering a side extension. This is a great way to extend your kitchen or living area, without eating into your garden.  

Do you need planning permission for a side extension? 

Most side extensions are built without planning permission and under permitted development. There are rules you must follow to for your project to be under permitted development. For example: 

  • Must be single storey 
  • Cannot exceed 4m  
  • The width cannot exceed more than half of the original house.  
  • The materials used must match the exterior of the existing house.  
  • If the extension is within two metres of a boundary (which a side return extension usually is) maximum eaves height cannot exceed 3m. 

How much would it cost? 

An average side extension design can cost anywhere between £20,000 – £50,000. However, this depends on the size, finish and where you live. Also, internal work such as adding a kitchen or glazed doors will affect the final price. 

The benefits of a side extension –  

  • Adds value if done correctly. If you are just looking to do a single storey, the value can increase by 10%.  
  • Helps you maximise space at the side of your house. 
  • You won’t be losing any land at the rear of your property.  
  • Adds additional space to your home 

Building regulations –  

Finally, your project will need to comply with building regulations which cover everything from structural stability of the walls to fire safety, electrics, and drainage. These rules and regulations ensure that your extension meets national minimum standards of safety and workmanship. The approval of your local authority building control department is always required whether you require planning permission or not. 

Image: @house_of_capes
Advice Center

Learn about listed buildings and the consent needed.  

23rd November 20220

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. 

How does a 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. 

How to check if your building is listed?   

You are able to check if the property is listed by viewing the national heritage list for England.   

If you are planning to buy a listed building, a full building survey (RICS level 3) is recommended. And these surveys are tailored to each individual property and cover everything that is possible to access and assess.   

When building on a listed property you will firstly need to get both planning permission and consent. So, you will then need patience, stamina, and a good architect. This is because there’s a lot that goes into building on a listed property. 

You always need listed building consent   

You still need listed building consent to do urgent works to a listed building. Even if the works are needed because a dangerous structure or other legal notice has been served. Even if it’s not practical to get consent in advance, you must give written notice to the council as soon as possible.   

Listed building offenses –   

Offenses given by the planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990.   

It is a criminal offense to carry out work without having listed building consent. Not all projects require consent, only the works that affect the character of the building.   

Carrying out building works to a listed building or changing it in any way without consent can result in court action and legal penalties. And it is also illegal to fail to comply with an enforcement notice.    

According to the planning act 1990 under section 9. Doing work without consent to the building can result in a person being charged. As well as, being fined up to £20,000 and/or up to 6 months imprisonment.   

In addition, the maximum penalty is two years’ imprisonment or an unlimited fine. In determining the fine a judge must have regard to any financial benefit which has accrued or appears likely to accrue to the wrongdoer so as to deny them any benefits.   

It is also an offense for anyone who would do damage to a listed building. Or to do anything which causes or is likely to result in damage to the building with the intention of causing damage. Damage to the building by an unauthorised person other than the owner or occupier would be criminal damage under the Criminal Damage Act 1971. 

Espresso Addict – Own work
Architecture & Building

A list of the best designed football stadiums in the world  

23rd November 20220

A stadium often very important to the countries and teams they represent. The structure can symbolise the identity and strengths of the region hosting the event. They are able to unite and attract people from all over the globe that have a common interest of sport. It is known that the design of the arena is able to boost the moods of the football players. So, here are some of the most beautiful and innovative stadium designs.  

First National Bank Stadium, South Africa –  

Firstly, popularly known as Soccer City, this innovative football stadium was built in 1989 and is one of the most popular in the world. The arena has a capacity of 100,000 making it the largest in Africa. The outside of the stadium is designed to have the appearance of an African pot. The cladding on the outside is a mosaic of fire and earthen colours with a ring of lights running around the bottom of the structure, simulating fire underneath the pot.   

Allianz Arena, Germany –  

Secondly, opened in 2005, this is the home of Munich’s two main local football teams. This stadium is well known for its exterior of ETFE plastic panels. This is the first stadium in the world with a full colour changing exterior. The primary designers are architects Herzog & De Meuron. Furthermore, the arena can host 75,000 spectators.  

AAMI Park, Australia –

When completed in 2010, it was Melbourne’s first large purpose-built rectangular stadium. The COX Architecture designed a “Bioframe” design, with a geodesic dome roof covering much of the seating area, while still allowing light through to the pitch. It is also fitted with LED lights that display a variety of patterns and colours that suit the event.  

Wembley Stadium, United Kingdom –  

Opened in 1923, Wembley Stadium underwent a significant refurbishment in 2007. So, with a capacity of 90,000 seats, it is the most beautifully designed football stadium in the United Kingdom. Wembley was designed by architects Foster + Partners and Populous. The stadiums signature feature is a 134m lattice arch stretching over the building. In addition, the arch is the world’s longest unsupported roof structure.  

Sapporo Dome, Japan –  

Finally, designed by Japanese architect Hiroshi Hara. The Sapporo Dome was completed in 2001 with remarkable futuristic features that make it one of the most state-of-the-art football stadiums that are praised to this day. The most unique aspect of this multi-purpose arena is the retractable grass football pitch that can slide in and out of the stadium by a pneumatic mechanism in only a matter of a few hours.