Tag: construction

Design and Inspiration

Ways to improve your homes exterior appearance  

12th October 20220

The exterior of your home is like the cover of a book, it’s the first thing people notice and it sets the expectation for what’s inside. By renovating the outside of your property, it is an easy and inexpensive way to look nicer and increase the value of the home. Here is a list of ways to improve your kerb appeal.  

Take care of your grass – 

This is one of the easiest ways to keep your garden looking fresh. You can regularly take care of your garden by mowing the grass, raking the leaves and pulling the weeds out. To prevent your garden from going brown, keep it well watered. If you live in a dry climate but still love the look of vibrant green grass, you can consider artificial grass.   

Add some flowers –  

This can be a very impactful way to boost the appearance of your home. You can use plants and flowers to frame and highlight key visual points, such as windows and entryways. Even just one flower arrangement can significantly add to your home’s appearance.  

Power washing –  

Power washing is such a satisfying job to do, when it comes to getting the dirt off of your house, I’m sure you get excited. Power washes are amazing because you can use them on anything. Such as, your house exterior, paths, driveways, and garages.  

Updating your front door –  

Whether you decide to add a new front door or refurbish your old door, this is an easy way of improving the look of your house. Each person has their own style but if you live on a road where the houses match, you should try and match your door with your neighbours.  

Add a porch –  

Adding a porch to your home can create wow factor and give character to your home. It is also practical because it provides extra storage space inside. Many people whose front door opens into a living room often go for a porch to separate the two areas.  

Invest in some outdoor furniture –  

Outdoor furniture is a great way to make your garden feel homely and comfortable. You should keep this furniture in good condition because it will always be on display. Try and buy some that won’t rust in different types of weather.  

Image: Timber Windows North

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Advice Center

How will the cost-of-living crisis affect first time buyers?

12th October 20220

The rising cost of living have become a large hurdle when it comes to purchasing a first-time home. Research has shown that 7 out of 10 first time buyers are delaying their start into the property market. This is due to their ability to save for a deposit, which is being impacted by the cost-of-living crisis.  

What is causing the cost-of-living crisis?  

The cost-of-living crisis is caused by higher inflation, and low wage growth making many households struggle to keep up with their bills.  

Covid was a big factor to the start of the crisis. Inflation fell as households were cutting back on spending and started saving their money. Once restrictions got lifted companies were not ready for the rise in demand. This caused supply shortages and rising prices.  

Just as the Covid supply issues were starting to be resolved, the Russian invasion of Ukraine made those problems so much worse. This caused oil, gas, energy, and food prices to increase drastically.  

What does this mean for first time buyers?  

When mortgage lenders assess whether or not a first-time buyer can afford a mortgage they will seek to confirm if the borrower’s income will exceed costs during the term of the mortgage. Higher inflation and taxes mean higher monthly costs are on the horizon, meaning first time buyers will have less room for error to qualify for a mortgage. 

How long will it take first time buyers to save for a deposit?  

A survey of 2,051 people looking to buy their first home in the next few years have stated that saving for a deposit is the biggest hurdle. They were then asked how long they though this crisis would delay their plans to start house hunting. The results were that 77% said up to 3 years and 57% said up to 2 years. 

When will inflation prices go down?  

Currently there is no straight answer on when the prices will go down. Although, economic outlook researches have predicted that 2022 will have the highest rate of inflation, measured at 5.2%. Whereas, in 2023-2025 it is estimated that the inflation rate will average around 1.5%.  

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Energy Crisis 2022: Top ways to save energy in your home 

10th October 20220

We have all realised that the Uk is currently going through an energy crisis. The 2021–present global energy crisis is the most recent in a series of recurring energy shortages experienced over the last fifty years. Many households and businesses are struggling to afford the increase in prices, so here is a list of ways you can reduce the use of energy in your home.  

How did the energy crisis occur?  

In 2019-2022 the Covid-19 pandemic first caused the rapid drop in energy demand and a cut in oil production. Then the Russian invasion on Ukraine has threatened the energy supply from Russia to Europe. Russia had interrupted the Nord Stream 1 pipeline flow in early September, precipitating an international gas supply crisis which was particularly felt in European gas markets 

A few energy saving tips for your home –  

Turning off light switches –  

Firstly, turning off a light switch is one of the easiest ways to save energy. If you get in to a habit of subconsciously turning of the lights you will, see a big difference in your bills.  

Install LED lights –  

LED lights have become majorly popular recently due to the younger generation. However, this is a great trend because LED lights use about half of the energy of a halogen bulb. They also look more stylish and are more affordable.  

Turn your thermostat down – 

Almost half of the money spent on bills is taken by heating and hot water. For each degree you decrease the temperature, you can expect to cut bills by 4%. This could save you up to £80-£100 a year.  

Use less water –  

An easy way to save more water is to stop letting the tap run when you’re are not using it. For example, when you are brushing your teeth, or washing the dishes. By doing this you can save around £25 a year. By spending less time in the shower or buying a more efficient shower head can save you as much as £18 per year.  

Unplug your devices –  

Unplugging your devices rather than leaving them on stand buy can save your electricity bill.

Advice Center

Cost effective ways to keep your home warm this winter  

3rd October 20220

As the summer is coming to a close, it’s time to start thinking about how you’re going to keep your home warm in the winter. With the energy prices increasing its important we look at cost effective ways to insulate your home. So, if you’re looking to save energy and money carry on reading this blog.  

Open your curtains –  

The sun produces natural heat, so make the most of it. Open your curtains and let the sunlight in during the day. While when it gets dark, keep them shut to act as another layer of insulation in your rooms.  

Rearrange the furniture –  

Having furniture in front of radiators can massively impact the temperature of a room. This is because the furniture is absorbing all of the warmth being produced. By moving it away the hot air can circulate around the room.  

Adding extra layers to stay warm –  

This is often the first thing people resort to because is cheap, quick, and easy. Having blankets and jumpers on hand can be a game changer when it comes to saving money.  

Get rid of the draughts –  

Placing self-adhesive tape or rubber seals around your windows and doors will help keep warmth in your home. The Energy Saving Trust estimates DIY draught proofing your home could save you £125 per year.

 

Bleed your radiators –  

Some people may not know this but to make sure your radiators are working properly; you need to bleed them regularly. Without doing this your radiators will make noises and will stay cold.  

Upgrade or service your boiler –  

Although this may initially be a big upfront cost, in the long run you could use less energy and produce the same amount of heat. You could save up to £350 with a new boiler.

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Permitted Development, Planning Permission

The difference between permitted development and planning permission

26th September 20220

What’s the difference between planning and permitted development? This is one of the most frequently asked questions at Pro Arkitects. Many people often don’t know what each of them mean or get the two confused. So, this blog will explain the differences between the two.  

The definition of both applications –  

Firstly, planning permission is formal consent from your local authority to build or alter your home. This is in place to deter inappropriate developments.  

Permitted development is a pre-determined planning consent to carry out certain improvements to your home.  

What is the difference between the two?  

So, full planning permission is asking permission to build. It’s usually required when building a new dwelling or making extensive changes to an existing one. In addition, a planning application can take up to 10 weeks to decide. This includes a 2-week validation period and an 8-week decision period.  

Whereas, permitted development is simply notifying your local authority of your intension to do so. This was created, so that you can extend/ renovate your home without the need of full planning. As previously mentioned, works that require planning permission will require the submission of an application, whereas those that fall within Permitted Development rights do not, however, we would always advise applying for a Certificate of Lawful Development. Although, permitted development doesn’t require a decision time the application can also take up to 10 weeks. However, overall permitted development is quicker and cheaper.  

What requires planning permission?  

The most common are:  

  • Firstly, Change of use  
  • Two storey extension  
  • Changes to a listed building 
  • Finally, Demolish property and rebuild 

Things you can do within permitted development –  

  • Create a porch 
  • Convert the loft  
  • Install a conservatory  
  • Add windows and roof lights 
  • Build a shed or an outbuilding  
  • Rear or side single storey extension

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Architecture & Building

A guide to all of Queen Elizabeth’s beautiful homes/ Castles

9th September 20220

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth ll, Passed away on September 8th 2022 at her cherished Scottish Estate, Balmoral. 

 Her Majesty was our longest reigning monarch and will be remembered for a remarkable lifetime of service. As a company we are deeply saddened by the news. 

 We extend our heartfelt condolences to the Royal Family.  Our thoughts are with them at this time.  

Here is a story about Queen Elizabeth’s many treasured homes.  

Buckingham Palace –  

London, England 

Firstly, Buckingham palace is London’s royal residence and the headquarters of the monarch of the United Kingdom. Located in Westminster, it has become a focal point for the British people at times of national rejoicing and mourning.  

The palace contains over 830,000 square feet of floor space. There are 775 rooms, including 188 staff bedrooms, 92 offices, 78 bathrooms, 52 principal bedrooms and 19 state rooms. It also has a post office, cinema, swimming pool, doctor’s surgery and jeweller’s workshop. 

Diliff – Ain wirk

Windsor Castle –  

Windsor, England 

So, Windsor castle is a royal residence at Windsor in the county of Berkshire. During the second world war the king and Queen and their children Elizabeth and Margaret lived in this castle for safety. This castle now serves as a country home, and the Queen frequently visited this location as a weekend retreat.  

Additionally, Windsor Castle grounds cover 52,609 square metres (13 acres) and combines the features of a fortification, a palace, and a small town. It also has 1,000 rooms, making it the largest occupied castle in the world. 

Original image by Mike McBey.

Balmoral Castle –  

Aberdeenshire, Scotland 

Balmoral castle has been the Scottish home of the royal family since purchased for Queen Victoria by Prince Albert in 1852. Balmoral is a private estate owned by the queen. Its where she spent many weeks at the end of each summer, it was believed to be her favourite residence.  

The Balmoral Estate has been added to by successive members of the royal family, and now covers an area of approximately 50,000 acres. Also, the grandeur of Balmoral is said to be slightly overwhelming for first-time visitors.  

With turrets, 52 bedrooms, draughty corridors, tartan rugs and walls mounted with antlers, it can be an intimidating place. “There is a certain fascination in keeping the place as Queen Victoria had it. Nothing very much has changed,” the Queen said.   

Stuart Yeates from Oxford, UK – Flickr

Holyrood house Palace –  

Edinburgh, Scotland 

Furthermore, this palace was the Queens official residence in Scotland. The late Queen Elizabeth ll, spent one week at Holyroodhouse at the beginning of each summer, where she carried out a range of official engagements and ceremonies.   

In Addition, the Palace of Holyroodhouse covers 87,120 square feet of floor space and contains 289 rooms. The private apartments of The Queen and the other members of the Royal Family are located on the second floor of the south and east wings. 

Sandringham Estate – 

Norfolk, England 

Like Balmoral, Sandringham Estate was the Queen’s private property. Also, like Balmoral, it was a place of personal significance to her Elizabeth’s father, George V, called it “the place I love better than anywhere else in the world” and would eventually die there on February 6, 1952. 

Queen Elizabeth II‘s custom was to spend the anniversary of that and of her own accession privately with her family at Sandringham House, and, more recently, to use it as her official base from Christmas until February.  

Furthermore, the house stands in a 20,000-acre estate in the Norfolk Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the house is listed as Grade II*. 

Photo: Getty Images

Hillsborough Castle –  

Hillsborough, Northern Ireland 

Similar to how the Queen stayed at Palace of Holyroodhouse when officially visiting Scotland, the Queen lived in Hillsborough during her visits to Northern Ireland. Hillsborough Castle is not a true castle, it’s a Georgian country house built in the 18th century. In addition, the home is surrounded by 100 acres of green gardens. 

 © Richard Lea-Hair/Historic Royal Palaces

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Architecture & Building, Planning Permission

Will you need planning to build an annex?  

8th September 20220

What are annexes used for? 

An annex is a self-contained living space, usually including a kitchen, bathroom and bedroom. They are used because they provide more living space in a home. They can be built as an attached extension to your home or built as a separate building.  

What is the difference between and annex and an extension?  

An annex requires there to be at least 50cm of space between the boundary and the building. Whereas, an extension can be built closer to the boundary, when attached to the main building. In addition, even if the building is self-contained, if it’s attached to the main house, it will be classed as an extension.

Will you need planning permission? 

Just like any building work, you do need planning permission before you start building your annex. You would either need planning permission or a lawful development certificate from your local planning authority.  

If the building is considered to be a separate dwelling, you will need to apply for planning permission.

If you are converting an outbuilding into an annex, you would not require planning permission. You would just need to apply for a change of use.  

Do annexes add value to your property?  

Recent information from checkatrade reveals that on average, and annex will raise the value of your property by 20-30%.  

Where can I place my annex? 

If you are building a separate annex or as an extension, planning authorities usually insist on it being as close to the main house as possible. You also need to factor in amenities: electricity; water and sewerage, as these will also define your location. 

Can you turn your garage into an annex?  

Yes, you can turn your garage or other outbuildings into an annexe space. However, it is best to consult an architect as the building will need to be updated to adhere to the building regulations for a habitable building. 

Image: https://the-green-room.co.uk/blog/two-bedroom-garden-annex/

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Information on what Article 4 direction is, & when its required.  

19th August 20220

What is an article 4 direction?  

Firstly, an article 4 direction is part of planning legislation that allows the council to remove permitted development rights. For example, householders can normally make minor alterations to their houses without requiring planning permission.  However, in some areas, the council has removed these “permitted development” rights by making an article 4 Direction. 

Restrictions in the directions –  

The effect of an article 4 Direction is that planning permission from the council is required for the types of building works. 

The restrictions on directions are:  

  • Extensions  
  • Alterations such as new windows  
  • Alterations to the roof  
  • Porches  
  • Putting us gates, fences or walls  
  • Placing caravans on land  
  • Putting up agricultural buildings on small plots  
  • Changes of use to houses in multiple occupation 

Types of article 4 direction –  

Since 1995 there have been three types of direction:  

  • Directions under article 4 (2) affecting conservation areas. The aim of this direction is to encourage the retention of high-quality architectural features. As well as, to preserve and enhance the character and appearance of the built heritage.  
  • The directions under article 4 (1) affecting only listed buildings 
  • Directions under article 4 (1) affecting other land  

Do article 4 directions expire?  

No, article 4 direction do not expire by themselves. Only the local authority has the right to change or cancel these restrictions. In addition, they can also replace it with a new direction.  

History of article 4 –  

Furthermore, the 1995 town and country planning (general permitted development) order improved the article 4 process and promised to follow it. So, the government introduced it to control the amount of housing in urban areas and maintain quality.  

How to find an article 4 area?  

Finally, the easiest way to find an article 4 area is to look at the local authority’s website. Almost all councils include an article 4 map, where you can see which streets and boroughs are within the restrictions.  

Architecture & Building

Learn all about the cost of building 2022 

15th August 20220

The build cost inflation has been increasing at a rapid rate. The factors of Brexit and covid 19 have made the costs of both materials and labour increase massively. They have contributed to supply issues and the volumes of delays to imported goods have had an impact on construction costs.  

How much does it cost to build a house?  

The cost to build a new house in the UK will depend on a number of factors. Some of the big ones include the size of your property, the materials you use, and the number of trades people you decide to hire.  

So, because every project is different and each client has different wants and needs it is almost impossible to get a standard quote for a build project. However, averagely to build a house in the UK in 2022, you can expect to pay anything from £1,500 – £3,000 per m2.  

How much has building work prices gone up? 

Prices have increased over the past 2 years for several materials, due to lead times and growing demand. Year on year prices for all building work rose by 27.2% from May 2021 to May 2022. 

Some materials which continue to be affected –  

  • Timber – timber was up 30% in April 2022. 
  • Roof tiles – prices of roof tiles have risen 24% in a year.  
  • Steel – fabricated steel rose by 52.7%.  
  • Bricks – brick prices increased by 12%.  
  • Concrete – concrete bars are 64% more expensive than a year ago.  

Will the building cost go down in 2022?  

Furthermore, these higher material costs have led to rising inflation costs. Meaning it is unlikely for construction costs to go down in 2022.  

Is it a good time to build?  

Although, the costs and interest rates are rising it would be better to build your dream home sooner rather than later. It is likely that the cost will keep on increasing. So, it is an investment to start your build project now.  

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Planning Permission

What you need to know about Retrospective planning  

29th July 20220

What is retrospective panning permission? 

Firstly, retrospective planning permission is the granting of approval after construction or changes of us have been undertaken. Just because you have made changes to your property doesn’t mean planning permission will automatically be granted. The application will be treated the same as any other application.  

Why some people might not apply for planning –  

  • Planning takes too long –  

 Usually when people are ready to make changes to their home, they already have costs from contractors and are financially ready. An application can take between 8-10 weeks to get validated. And if your council are experiencing delays, you could be waiting even longer.  

So, with prices of materials and labour increasing all the time, people want to get the work done while it is still in their price range.  

  • Are un aware of the rules  

To someone who has completely no idea how the construction world works it could be an easy mistake to make.     

  • Thought no one would notice 

People are willing to build on to their property without planning permission because they think they would get away with it. But if the council find out they would need to apply for retrospective planning.  

The commonest reason property owners apply for planning permission after the work is completed is because they have been approached by the local authority. They will then be asked to disclose the work done on their house. The authority’s may have noticed the changes themselves, or someone may have told them.  

What if retrospective planning is refused?  

If the application is refused you have the opportunity to try and appeal. However, if the appeal gets rejected, the local authority can issue an enforcement notice. This means you have to put everything back to how it was before it was extended.  

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