04
Mar
2015
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Although a bright and attractive plant, Japanese knotweed is well known for wreaking havoc on building sites, often causing structural damage and costly eradication fees, as well as jeopardising your mortgage eligibility.
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Contracts and Legalities
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05
May
2015
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Completing your build not only brings an element of satisfaction and achievement but it also signifies a new chapter in your financial obligations. Here, Rachel Pyne, Group Sales Director of BuildStore Ltd provides advice on what to do next.
04
Mar
2015
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David Jackson, Director and General Manager of one of Europe’s leading distributors of stainless steel and brass fasteners, STF – Stainless Threaded Fasteners – talks saving time and money in a buoyant photovoltaic market.
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Green Living
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29
Jan
2015
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Garage project takes flight
Written by Emily Smith (editor)
A commercial pilot for a well-known short-haul package holiday airline can now extend his flight time from the comfort of his own home, thanks to his own personal garden aircraft hanger.
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i-scape
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29
Jan
2015
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Bringing the outdoors in
Written by Emily Smith (editor)
Ishai Novak has specified products that make the most of natural light as well as his garden in a new extension of his seven bedroom Hertfordshire home.
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i-nterior
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29
Jan
2015
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American dream
Written by Emily Smith (editor)
A multi-million pound refurbishment in Suffolk has sought inspiration from American architecture. The revamp has seen significant interior remodelling and extension work completed in order to create the desired look.
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i-build
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29
Jan
2015
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The Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) is the world’s first long-term financial support programme for renewable heat. In April 2014 the domestic Renewable Heat Incentive was launched to offer financial support to the owners of renewable heating systems for seven years.
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Project Inspiration
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29
Jan
2015
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There are 101 things to think about when planning and creating your own home, and according to Richard Chapman of timber window and door manufacturer Dale Windows, the doors and windows you choose have the ability to make or break the finished look and feel of your property. Here, Richard…
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Project Inspiration
29
Jan
2015
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While the pages of interior design books are littered with images of beautifully styled and perfectly preened schemes, it’s the unique and personal touches that make a house a home. Nadia McCowan Hill, resident style expert at interiors brand Joss & Main, shares her top tips for sourcing just the…
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Project Inspiration
29
Jan
2015
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The perfect Retirement gift
Written by Emily Smith (editor)
Jane and Ian McClintock have built a modern home for retirement on the land of their family heirloom farmhouse.
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Sustainable Living
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29
Jan
2015
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Reinstated grandeur
Written by Emily Smith (editor)
An impressive 1970s glass home in Suffolk has been brought to the 21st century.
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Rural Retreat
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29
Jan
2015
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Do bat an eyelid!
Written by Emily Smith (editor)
Often associated with black magic and darkness, bats have certainly played havoc with many renovations and conversions. Here, i-build presents how to not let bats get in the way of your project.
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Contracts and Legalities
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29
Jan
2015
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Although it’s easy to get carried away with the ‘niceties’ of a home-build project, such as design, build schedules and materials, none of this will be possible without a secure and appropriate financial arrangement. Rachel Pyne from Buildstore explains more.
29
Jan
2015
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UK enters the green age
Written by Emily Smith (editor)
The self-build marketplace is home to a growing number of 'green' retail websites focused on satisfying the increasing demand from UK households for cost effective, energy efficient products and solutions.
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Green Living
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23
Dec
2014
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Dig for victory
Written by Emily Smith (editor)
With an increasing number of self-build projects endeavoring to achieve self-sufficient principles, i-build presents everything you need to know to create a garden that can sustain these aims.
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i-scape
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23
Dec
2014
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Bachelor’s paradise
Written by Emily Smith (editor)
Professional building services, Holloways of Ludlow and interior designer Clare Gaskin have transformed an 18th Century, Grade II listed penthouse apartment into the perfect bachelor pad.
23
Dec
2014
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Trials and tribulations
Written by Emily Smith (editor)
Tim Riley, Director of architects RCKa, discusses the hurdles his team had to overcome in order to gain planning permission for a Sussex home extension.
23
Dec
2014
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Wetrooms add a wow factor to any bathroom and can be fitted anywhere in the home. From cellar to attic, even the smallest spaces can be converted into a luxury wetroom.
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Project Inspiration
23
Dec
2014
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With such an abundant variety of timbers, colours, textures and styles available on the market, choosing the right wood for your project can be a challenging task. Help is at hand with Peter Keane, Director of wood flooring manufacturer The Natural Wood Floor Company and his guide to wood flooring.
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Project Inspiration
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23
Dec
2014
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Condensation in the home is not just a nuisance; it can lead to significant structural problems, costly redecoration and can even affect the health of the occupants if left to develop into mould.
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Project Inspiration
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23
Dec
2014
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Life off-grid
Written by Emily Smith (editor)
Maes Yr Onn Farm, Manmoel, sits high above the Gwent valleys as Wales’ first fully off-grid and truly self-sufficient farm.
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Sustainable Living
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23
Dec
2014
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The graveyard shift
Written by Emily Smith (editor)
A Grade II listed church building and former aquarium has undergone a major renovation project to be transformed into a family home.
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Rural Retreat
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23
Dec
2014
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Most self-builders will come up against at least one unexpected building guideline that they might not have considered prior to planning. Here, i-build outlines the Code of Practice for the sustainable use of soils on construction sites.
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Contracts and Legalities
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23
Dec
2014
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Raymond Connor, Chief Executive of BuildStore Ltd gives a useful insight into finding that elusive plot.
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Viewpoint
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23
Dec
2014
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New Government incentives are putting self-builders in a great position to get on-board with eco-conscious products. Here, Adrian Wright, CEO of renewable energy specialist Happy Energy, looks at some of the measures that will not only make a self-build project highly efficient, but also bring the added benefits of residual…
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Green Living
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17
Oct
2014
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Glass balustrades are great for offering safety alongside unobstructed views. Effi Wolff, MD of balcony specialist Balcony Systems, explores some interesting options for all types of properties.
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Project Inspiration
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17
Oct
2014
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While modern, urban living has restricted the space available for development, there are options that can help transform a design and property of any size to incorporate natural light.
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Project Inspiration
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17
Oct
2014
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As with any paint product, preparation is key, especially when painting with gloss. Here, Judy Smith, Crown Paints’ Colour Consultant, provides a step-by-step guide to using gloss properly.
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Project Inspiration
16
Oct
2014
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Curved in stone
Written by Emily Smith (editor)
With a very particular set of design challenges, experienced building professional David Maxwell tested the flexibility and craftsmanship of materials in his own self-build venture.
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i-build
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16
Oct
2014
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With a visual appeal that is not easily surpassed, natural stone paving is a premium landscaping choice for budding self-builders. However, as worrying reports about unethical manufacturing practices continue to surface, choosing the right supplier can weigh heavily on the conscience – Malcolm Gough, Business Development Director at Natural Paving…
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i-scape
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16
Oct
2014
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Luxury home transformation
Written by Emily Smith (editor)
When a young Russian couple bought a house on the prestigious Wentworth Estate in the Berkshire countryside, they were keen to transform the space to reflect their own stylistic preferences.
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i-nterior
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16
Oct
2014
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The eco-conscious self-builder knows that highly insulated walls and renewable energy sources boast green credentials, but ensuring a property is completely airtight is key to sustaining that precious heat.
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Green Living
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16
Oct
2014
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Skylights: know the facts
Written by Emily Smith (editor)
Skylights are a light-enhancing feature that are rapidly gaining popularity for home-builders and enhancers, however regulations can sometimes limit grand plans. Here, i-build identifies key permission considerations for installing skylights.
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Contracts and Legalities
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16
Oct
2014
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Self-build consultant Adrian Hateley gives his insight into how to source reputable tradesmen/contractors and effectively manage them on your project.
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Viewpoint
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16
Oct
2014
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When a pair of dilapidated listed barns were presented to Kath and Marco Walker, they ignored their own lack of building experience and answered its cry to be restored to former glory.
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Rural Retreat
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16
Oct
2014
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Every architect’s dream
Written by Emily Smith (editor)
When architects Adam and Annelise Penton visited a plot for their development company they were so blown away by its natural perfection that it led them on an unexpected self-build journey.
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Sustainable Living
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14
Aug
2014
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We have used biomass energy for thousands of years, ever since people started burning wood to cook food or keep warm. Today, wood is still our largest biomass energy resource that provides carbon-neutral heating.
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Project Inspiration
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14
Aug
2014
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Trends in landscaping products, which not only relate to changing preferences for different styles and materials but the creation of innovative solutions, is the basis of an exciting industry sector. Richard Oates, Landscaping Category Manager at Travis Perkins, discusses emerging trends and top innovations.
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Project Inspiration
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14
Aug
2014
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For those who choose to improve their existing home rather than move, a conservatory or orangery can provide the perfect space-enhancing solution. Carol Parry, Marketing Manager at oak frame specialist Aboreta, provides top tips for creating an addition to a home that will not only add value but stand the…
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Project Inspiration
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14
Aug
2014
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The self-build journey can be long and tiresome, but the last hurdle is an entirely new project in its own right – the garden.
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i-scape
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14
Aug
2014
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Geometric suntrap
Written by Emily Smith (editor)
During a trip to Norway in 2012, James and Bryony Alder were inspired by the country’s strong geometric architecture. Two years later their home has undergone a drastic transformation from modest bungalow to breathtaking angular suntrap.
14
Aug
2014
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Deeper underground
Written by Emily Smith (editor)
Whether building a new basement or upgrading an existing one, it’s crucial to get the waterproofing right. Michael Earle, Technical Director at Safeguard Europe, explains what systems are available and where they should be used.
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i-nterior
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14
Aug
2014
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Wall insulation is an essential element of home-building that can dramatically aid a property’s long-term eco-credentials. But what about the environmental impact of how that product is produced? i-build takes a closer look at an innovative insulation that produces zero waste at the same time as recycling unwanted textiles.
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Green Living
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14
Aug
2014
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A recent survey has revealed that unlucky Brits have squandered more than £185m at the hands of rogue traders in the past 12 months. Trade verification expert Checkatrade offers advice for spotting cowboy traders before its too late.
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Contracts and Legalities
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14
Aug
2014
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Self-build choices unfolded!
Written by Emily Smith (editor)
There are many facets to self-build, and following on from his Viewpoint on Project Management in the last issue, Adrian Hateley of the National Self Build & Renovation Centre explains some of the self-build options available today that you might not be aware of and how you have the choice…
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Viewpoint
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14
Aug
2014
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Controversial castle
Written by Emily Smith (editor)
Within the rolling Welsh hills, surrounded by a picturesque Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and near to the remains of a Celtic hill fort, sits Stormy Castle – a vision of environmentally sustainable homebuilding at its finest.
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Rural Retreat
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14
Aug
2014
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In separate quests in find the perfect plot, two couples – both first-time self-builders – became great friends, consequently hiring the same architect to design highly eco-efficient homes right next door to one another.
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Sustainable Living
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12
Jun
2014
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Modern magnificence
Written by Emily Smith (editor)
A family conundrum was the unexpected catalyst for the creation of a breathtaking annex in the garden of a Victorian house in Battersea, South West London.
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i-scape
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12
Jun
2014
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Stylish shades of grey are the perfect backdrop for professional photographer Mike Penn’s work in his stylish mews renovation.
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i-nterior
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12
Jun
2014
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When Hannah and Lee Wood bought their four-storey London townhouse in 2006 they fell in love with the picturesque Victorian exterior and private gardens, however the confused and chaotic interior required drastic revamping.
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i-build
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