September 2017
Welcome to the September edition of i-build magazine! This issue is packed with inspirational projects and products as well as useful advice for your self-build.
One recurring request from many of today’s self-builders is the necessity for a build flooded in natural light. As one of the most appreciated commodities a home can possess, light-filled spaces have been a self-build and home renovator favourite for many years.
Alongside the configuration and geographical positioning of a house, there are many additional factors that must be taken into account to achieve a maximum level of natural light within a self-build. An essential consideration is the component from which you will obtain your natural light. For many, this element may come in the form of either a sun tunnel, solar tube, large expanses of floor-to-ceiling glazing or rooflights. On page 40, Nicolas Tye underlines just how roof window solutions can optimise natural daylighting in a way that conventional glazing can struggle to achieve.
Besides reducing energy bills via natural daylighting, there are many alternative ways to minimise utility fees, and ground source heat pumps shouldn’t be disregarded. For our two featured self-builders this month, this renewable heating solution has equipped both home-builders with the ability to fabricate two very different but highly energy-efficient schemes. Find out more about the energy efficiency of Paul Withey’s fourth barn conversion on page 24, while on page 18 the Young family talk i-build through the rewards they have reaped through the Government’s Renewable Heat Incentive scheme. Continuing our energy-efficient-focused issue, on page 34 Mrs Holst talks to i-build about her specification of Tesla’s rechargeable lithium-ion battery stationary energy storage product, Powerwall.
I hope you enjoy this issue. Don’t forget, if you’re coming to the end of your self-build and would like us to feature your home as inspiration for other budding house-builders, then please do not hesitate to get in touch. Alternatively, if you’re about to embark on your self-build journey and would be keen for us to document your progress, do get in contact.
