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.

Most individuals embarking on a self-build project note the aspiration for an airy and luminous space as one of their primary motivations. The allure of spacious living environments flooded with daylight – and its proven benefits for productivity, wellbeing and energy-efficient qualities – drives the preference among homebuilders and renovators to dismantle restricting partitions and develop expansive, open-plan homes.

Achieving these well-lit designs necessitates meticulous attention to spatial layout, orientation and strategic placement of openings. In this edition, Wojciech Brozyna, Managing Director at Aluprof, talks about the pivotal role of selecting appropriate door and window solutions to augment organic illumination and airflow. Turn to page 26 for insights on material alternatives encompassing aluminium, timber, UPVC and composite materials.

On page 18, we take you on a tour of yet another radiant marvel crafted by architectural firm Emil Eve Architects. Nestled in Newington Green, East London, Aden Grove serves as the cherished home of Mat, a Designer from Slovenia, Tess, a Lawyer from New Zealand, and their daughter. This terraced property underwent a substantial transformation and is now adorned with a striking geometric rear and roof extensions clad in opulent terracotta quarry tiles. Internally, the new space prioritises natural light and ventilation.

Meanwhile, in Kensington, a French family has found solace in a contemporary, light-drenched sanctuary following the elegant refurbishment of their townhouse by multidisciplinary creative agency OWN LONDON. Flip to page 12 for a glimpse into the retreat.

Elsewhere, discover a curated selection of 10 accessories and furnishings and exquisite flowers to turn your outdoor area into a picturesque English country garden; Alan Davis, VAT Partner at Henderson Loggie, describes how you can unlock cost savings on self-build projects with a new VAT checklist; and Neil Turner, UK Technical Manager at Ecological Building Systems, explains why natural insulation is an essential element of modern homes.

Rebecca Kemp
Editor

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