Tag: Extension

Architecture & Building

Timber Construction in the UK: Embracing Sustainable Solutions

1st June 20230

Timber construction has emerged as a popular choice for builders and architects in the United Kingdom. As it offers numerous benefits ranging from sustainability and energy efficiency to aesthetic appeal and versatility. This blog post explores the growing trend of timber construction in the UK, highlighting its advantages, prominent projects, regulations, and the future outlook for this eco-friendly building method.

The Sustainability Advantage:

Timber construction stands out as an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional building materials like concrete and steel. Timber is a renewable resource that can be responsibly harvested and replenished, reducing the carbon footprint associated with building. It also stores carbon dioxide, helping to mitigate climate change. The UK government and various industry bodies are actively promoting sustainable building practices, making timber an attractive choice for meeting green building standards.

Energy Efficiency and Thermal Performance:

Timber possesses excellent thermal insulation properties, leading to reduced energy consumption and lower heating bills. Timber structures can be designed to minimize thermal bridging and achieve high levels of airtightness, ensuring optimal energy efficiency. This advantage aligns with the UK’s focus on reducing carbon emissions and improving energy performance in buildings.

Aesthetics and Design Versatility:

Timber construction offers architects and designers endless possibilities in terms of aesthetics and design flexibility. From traditional timber-framed buildings to contemporary timber-clad structures, timber can complement any architectural style. It can be used for both load-bearing structures and decorative elements, creating visually appealing and unique spaces.

Regulations and Standards:

The use of timber in construction is governed by several regulations and standards in the UK. Building regulations, provide guidelines for the structural performance, fire safety, and durability of timber structures. The British Standards Institution (BSI) has also developed standards specific to timber construction. Including BS EN 1995 (Eurocode 5), which covers the design of timber structures.

In addition to building regulations, various certification schemes and voluntary standards promote sustainable timber sourcing and responsible forest management. These include the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and the Program for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC). These certifications ensure that timber used in projects comes from well-managed forests and supports sustainable practices.

The Future of Timber Construction in the UK:

The future of timber construction in the UK looks promising, with growing awareness of the environmental benefits and advancements in wood technology. Architects, engineers, and builders are increasingly incorporating timber into their designs to meet sustainability targets and reduce the carbon footprint of buildings.

The UK government’s commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 and its focus on sustainable building practices further supports the growth of this type of build. Initiatives such as the Timber Innovation Fund and the Future Homes Standard are encouraging the use of timber as a primary building material.

Conclusion:

Timber construction has gained significant traction in the UK due to its sustainability, energy efficiency, aesthetic appeal, and design versatility. As a renewable resource, timber aligns with the country’s environmental goals and regulations. Prominent timber construction projects in the UK showcase the beauty and strength of this building method. With the support of regulations, standards, and technological advancements, timber construction is poised to play an even more significant role in the future of sustainable building in the UK.

Credit – https://www.glasgowarchitecture.co.uk/benefits-of-timber-frame-houses

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Advice Center

All you should know about Change of use planning

25th May 20230

What is change of use planning?  

A change of use land or building requires planning permission if it constitutes a material change of use.  

What is a material change of use in planning?  

A material change of use is when there is a change in the purpose or the circumstances in which you use a building. So, that it or any part of it is used as a dwelling where it wasn’t before.  

When does a change of use require planning permission?  

Typically, if it’s proposed to change from one use class to another, you will need planning permission. Most external building work associated with a change of use is also likely to need planning permission. However, if both present and proposed uses fall within the same ‘class’ you will often not need planning permission.  

What are use classes?  

The town and country planning order 1987 sets out various categories of use referred to as use classes. Which relate to the use of land and buildings.  

Use   The use class up to 31st August 2020Use class from 1st September 2020 
General industrial  B2 B2 
Storge or distribution  B8 B8 
Hotels, boarding, and guest houses  C1 C1 
Residential institutions  C2 C2 
Dwelling houses  C3 C3 
House in multiple occupation (HMO) C4 C4 
Non-residential: health centres, clinics, nurseries, day centres  D1 E 
Gymnasiums, indoor recreations D2 E  
Shops other than F2 A1 E  
Financial and professional services  A2 E  
Cafe or restaurant  A3 E 
Non-residential: schools, educations centers, museums, libraries, public halls, law courts, places of worship D1 F1 
Shops selling mostly essential goods, with no other facility within 1,000m A1  F2 
Hall or meeting place for the use of the local community D2 F2 
Indoor or outdoor swimming pools, skating rinks, and outdoor sports D2 F2 
Cinemas, concert halls, and dance halls D2 Sui Generis 
Pub, wine bar, or drinking establishment A4 Sui Generis 
Hot food takeaway A5 Sui Generis 
Theatres, large HMO, hostels, petrol stations, shops selling motor vehicles, retail warehouse, nightclubs, taxis, arcades, casinos, funfairs, betting offices, payday loan shops Sui Generis Sui Generis  

How long is change of use planning?  

Planning applications may take up to eight weeks to be processed. Larger or more complex projects may take longer for the planning to be accepted. If you speak with your local planning officer, they may be able to advise you on when you may get a decision.  

(Image: Corstorphine + Wright)

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Architecture & Building

The costs of building a house in 2023  

24th May 20230

Building a home is something many people dream of. However, with the rising costs of materials and labour the thought of building is putting doubts in people’s minds. So, in this blog we are going to breakdown all the factors and averages costs of how much it will cost to build a house in 2023.  

Building cost factors –  

Size –  

One of the biggest factors when it comes to building a home is the size of the property. Here is a rough guise of average build costs: 

  • Cost for building a 2-bedroom house: From £185k to £280k.  
  • Cost for building a 3-bedroom house: From £240k to £365k.  
  • Cost for building a 4-bedroom house: From £295k to £440k.  
  • Cost for building a 5-bedroom house: From £320k to £480k. 

These costs are for standard designs, if you chose you go for a more abstract design the prices may increase.  

Location –  

The price of construction is going to depend on the area of the UK you are looking to build in. Labour and land costs are lower in some parts of the country. Land located near popular cities are more likely to be more expensive than places in less populated areas.  

Types of finishes –  

The finish and materials you choose will have a big impact on the price of the project. From the flooring to the tiles, to the lighting, every decision you make will affect the overall cost of your project.  

Professional services –  

You will also need to consider the costs of professional services. For example, your architect, project manager, local authorities. This usually adds on an extra 15% of the total project’s costs.  

Will construction costs go down in 2024?  

The soaring prices of construction materials won’t likely decrease until 2024. In 2023, prices are expected to go up by another 7% before they return to the long-term average of 2.7% in 2024.  

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House Extension

Extending your home on a budget: Ways to save money  

19th May 20230

If you are looking to add value to your home, extending is the way to go. The high costs of houses on the market, on top of the cost of living is making it difficult for homeowners to move houses. However, here is a list of way you can extend your home on a budget. 

Use simple materials –  

One of the best ways to keep the prices of extending your home down is by using the simplest materials. For example, you could use basic glazing and a felted roof which is low in cost and can be negotiated between builders.  

Go with a simple design –  

If you want to save money don’t complicate your extension plans. Bringing the ground floor wall out a few meters, under permitted development will reduce the price compared to going the maximum and needing full planning permission.  

Project manage the extension yourself –  

Most builders will add 10 – 25% onto the total cost of materials and labour to cover their time while working on your project. Being your own project manager will mean liaising with your designer/architect, your local authority’s building control department, and finding and hiring tradespeople etc. Although, this can be time consuming and a bit stressful, the savings can be enormous.

Opt for a loft conversion –  

In general, a loft conversion is much cheaper and straightforward than building an extension. loft conversions will mostly come under permitted development and if you have limited outside space, it won’t eat into it. A standard 40 sqm loft conversion with a dormer would cost around £35k.  

Use affordable cladding –  

Cladding or rendering the exterior of an extension built with a timber frame or block work will work out much more affordable than facing it with brick. This is ideal if you are looking to achieve the modern look.

 

Image: David Butler

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Extensions

Things You Need to Know About Rear Extension

17th May 20230

Want to improve or expand the living area in your home? Then a rear extension is a great way to do this instead of moving house. We know that the living space in most of the houses in the UK is very tight, especially in the cities. Home Extensions are a great solution to cope with living space issues. Well, getting an extension is not an easy task are requiring a decent amount of capital. However, it is a significant investment that can help increase the value of your property. It is best to invest in an extension if you want to sell your home in the future. So, in this article, we will share expert advice on things you need to know about rear extension.

Types of Extension

There are mainly three types of House Extensions that you can found in UK cities: the side return extension, the wrapped extension, and the rear extension. But when we talk about a rear extension, it means an extension that goes across the full width of the house. It goes out towards the garden.

On the other hand, a side return extension increases the living space at the side of the rear projection. Many properties in the UK have a small alleyway on the side. So, we just need to incorporate this space into the home.

One of the most common types of extension is a single-story rear extension. It is a great way to link areas together to make them bigger. Furthermore, it also adds to the value of your property and makes it more pleasant.

Permitted Development Rights For Rear Extension

In many areas in the UK, you can add an extension without planning permission because they come under permitted development. For this, you need to download some documents from the RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects) and local councils to see what you can do under permitted development.

Let us explain; the document says that you can extend your existing home by a percentage of the volumetric space. By it means that every extension is included, such as loft extension, etc. You need to submit an application that consists of the volume of the property and sketches of the design. It is better to go through the process even you are withing permitted development. You can do this on your own as it is not a complicated task.

If you want rules regarding an extension, you can read them on planning porta. All the regulations related to height, distance, and size of an extension can be found there. It is easy to get confused by permitted development. So, it is better to get help from local authorities to make sure that you do not step outside. It is also better to hire a professional at this state who knows about these limits and who can help you make these changes without planning permission.

Planning Permission

Suppose, the extension you want does require planning permission, then what you need to do? Well, you can apply for it yourself. You need to submit elevations, drawings of plans, and its relation to the surrounding properties. Some of the people are nor comfortable with the process, so in this case, you hire a professional. If you want an expert opinion, then we will recommend you to get the help of a professional in the early stages. An architectural services provider can provide valuable input regarding the design of the space.

Conservation Areas

If your property is in a conservation area, then you need planning permission. If you are not sure whether you live in a conservation area, you can check with local planning authority online. In short, most city centers are conservation areas. Local authorities designate an area as conservation when they want to maintain the feel and look of that particular area.

Rear Extension Design

Architectural services providers can help you with the planning and design of the extension. First of all, you need to discuss their packages. They will survey the job site and will tell you whether the project is feasible or not. If it is possible, then they will provide you with initial sketches of the design. Once you are happy with the initial plans, they will give you detailed drawings that you can use for planning permission.

They cannot only help you with the designs but also with project management. We are also providing these services; a client can go as far as he or she wants. Some of our clients are capable of managing the project, so they only need some advice on the design. Some of them want our help with planning regulations and permission.

On the other hand, some clients want us to manage their whole project. The cost of our services depends on what you want from us. Getting the help of a professional is a good idea because they know how to deal with builders and contractors.

Credit: http://www.theartofbuilding.co.uk/blog/category/residential/page/4
Architecture & Building

What is a Coach house? Lean all about them here.

16th May 20230

A Coach house is a bit like living in a flat however, most coach houses come with a garden space. If you are interested in coach houses and want to find out more, this blog will be helpful to you.   

What is a coach house?   

A coach house is best described as a house that is situated above a row of garages or carports. They are a design that may be seen as old. However, they have become popular with landlords who rent out the living space above and the storage space below.   

The history of coach houses –   

Coach houses were first introduced in England in the 18th century. They were used to store carriages and horses in stables on the ground floor and had living quarters above.   

The houses used to be a status symbol as most people couldn’t afford a horse and carriage. Although, when cars became popular people started converting their carriage houses into garages.   

Why a coach house is a good choice –   

Many people see coach houses a great style of building. They can be seen as a combination between a flat and a detached house. A coach house is also a more affordable option than a detached house in the same area.   

Just like a detached property, you wouldn’t have the issue of neighbours on either side of you. So, this is a great home option to if you are either looking to be loud and rambunctious or looking for peace and quiet.   

Unlike flats coach houses often come with an outdoor space. This is a major deciding factor for many homeowners.   

Are there any downsides?   

These houses are known to get cold and difficult to heat, this is due to the fact they are above poorly insulated garages.   

You also need to consider the resale value of the property, before you commit to an offer. As, coach houses are more limited than a regular home so they could take longer to sell.   

Credit: https://yorkshireescapes.co.uk/listing/coach-house-east-tanfield-north-yorkshire/

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Architecture & Building

The world’s best cities for architecture fanatics

17th April 20230

A city can be shaped by many things, the food or people for example. However, nothing can define a place as distinctly as its architecture.  

St. Petersburg, Russia  

Firstly, much of St. Petersburg’s architecture is baroque and neoclassical. Baroque architecture focuses on elaborate ornaments, detail, and decoration. Neoclassical architecture response was to go back to simple, massive, classical form of the Greek and Roman era. The Rocco movement came about in the 18th century, it had elements of its own: think curves, pale colours and light-hearted themes. The style made its way around Europe where it found favour with the female rulers in St. Petersburg. 

Saint Petersburg
Photo: Alamy

Athens, Greece 

The ancient Greeks had a unique style of architecture. Athens was the centre of ancient Greek theatre, a city embellished with open-air structures constructed on the sloping hillside. Visiting the buildings and the ruins in Athens is like taking a step back in time to ancient Greece. In addition, the stonework dates back to 400 BC.

Athens, Greece
Credits:  Harrieta171 assumed (based on copyright claims).

Budapest, Hungary  

Notable architecture styles in Hungary include Historicism and art Nouveau. It also has many Romanesque, gothic, renaissance, and baroque styles. However, art nouveau came into fashion in Budapest in the late 19th century, and the city remains one of the best places to see the style today. Its characteristics are curving forms, organic shapes, use of iron and glass, and colourful flourishes. 

Budapest

Rome, Italy  

The types of architecture used were: Corinthian, Doric, and Ionic. Roman architecture is famous for its domes, arches, amphitheatre’s, temples, and many other factors that made it unique. The Romans were great innovators. Today the city is one of the biggest centres for architecture.  

Italian Architecture in Rome,
Photo © Dreamstime.com.

Hanoi, Vietnam  

Vietnam architecture is a composition of both Asian and European styles. They often used French colonial architecture, which is a style used by the French during colonization. They combined the two styles and added eastern and western traditions to the buildings. For example, they used red tiles on the roof. They used the colour yellow a lot because it is associated with royalty in Vietnam. 

Vietnam
Credits: iStock

Barcelona, Spain  

The two most popular styles of Barcelona architecture are Catalan Gothic, a medieval style and modernism. Architect Antoni Gaudi wanted to create organic, urban spaces in the city he loved. The main features of Barcelona include signature ceramic and stained-glass mosaics, as well as stonework and ironwork. 

Barcelona, Spain
Credit: © Jean-jacques Serol

Dubai, United Arab Emirates 

 Dubai is home to the world’s tallest building and a seven-star hotel. Dubai’s original architecture, from the 19th century, was influenced by Iranian, Indian, and Islamic designs. However, nowadays it’s becoming more modernised.  

Burj Khalifa Dubai Architecture

Marrakech, Morocco 

Finally, Morocco is full of Islamic architecture. It’s famous for horseshoe arches, Islamic domes, towers, and ornate and complex geometric designs.  The presence of riads, palaces with interior courtyards and gardens and open skylights, are specific to Morocco and essential to Islamic design because of their emphasis on privacy. The lack of street-level windows and the use of clay walls also lends to the feeling of intimacy and grace. 

Morocco
Getty

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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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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
Advice Center

How to make your home more energy efficient?  

20th February 20230

Before you remodel your home or design a new one you should consider investing in energy efficiency, especially during this cost-of-living crisis. You will save energy and money and your home will be more comfortable.  

How energy efficient is your home?  

The first step in this process is to find out how much energy your home uses. And what is the most effective way to improve it. If your home has an energy performance certificate, it will help you identify any possible improvements. You can find any current or expired EPC in the UK on the government’s website.  

The main aspects of an energy efficient home –  

There are often 3 main aspects that are crucial when achieving an energy efficient home design, and they are:  

  • Air quality – 

Adding high quality insulation to your home will make it more air tight. The tighter the air the more heat it retains. However, it’s important to install a good ventilation system. This will allow you to remove the moist air that builds up in your home, without losing heat.  

  • Insulation 

Choosing the right insulation is important when it comes to retaining as much heat as possible. There are many effective ways to insulate your home, which can reduce heat loss. For example: cavity wall insulation, floor insulation, windows and doors, solid wall insulation, etc.  

  • Heating and cooling –  

Since the gas prices are increasing homeowners are looking for the best ways to save some money. Once your home is properly insulated you won’t need as much heat to maintain a comfortable temperature. This is a benefit because you will use less oil, gas or electricity.  

Can reducing a home’s energy efficiency help combat climate change?  

Homes that use energy supplied from the burning of fossil fuels are responsible for a large amount of carbon dioxide emissions. This means improving the energy efficiency of a home can reduce the burning fossil fuels.  

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