June 2015
Welcome to the June edition of i-build magazine! This issue is packed with inspirational projects and products as well as useful advice for your self-build.
Timber cladding and expansive glazing are both popular choices for contemporary self-build designs and come with numerous advantages, ranging from sustainability to natural aesthetics. This month’s Sustainable Living presents a property that is the perfect example of how to successfully combine these trends. Full height glazing covers entire walls to take advantage of the surrounding views and large tilted triangular skylights shower the interior with sunlight. The first floor exterior is clad in western red cedar which will weather naturally over time to match the colour of the surrounding woodland. Read more about this project on page 20.
Although timber cladding has aesthetic advantages, homeowners must be aware that it will change in appearance over time. Many examples of cladding remain the same for many years, others will fade and change colour. It’s important, therefore, to thoroughly understand how the wood you choose will weather. For a thorough understanding of which species to use, don’t miss expert advice from cladding expert Vastern Timber on page 42.
As always, this issue is packed full of case studies and expert guidance that will appeal to any self-builder, regardless of style preference. For those who favour traditional building design, this month’s Rural Retreat is a large oak frame extension. Homeowner Lesley explains why they chose this construction concept: “My husband was brought up in a traditional Welsh farmhouse, which was long and low with exposed beams in the ceilings. We fancied the idea of creating a traditional looking house which appeared like it had been around for a long time, but that had all the modern conveniences, such as high insulation, large spaces and lots of light.” Read about how they achieved this on page 28.
We hope you enjoy this issue. If you are coming to the end of your self-build journey then get in touch and let us know all about it – you might even find your home in a future issue of i-build! Don’t forget that you can access this resource on the move via i-build’s dedicated app – simply search ‘i-build’ in App Store and Googleplay to download for free.
