Stunning transformation of a 1980's dormer bungalow
This was an exciting project to be part of and a stunning transformation. The original building was a tired 80’s dormer bungalow in the market town of Olney. The bungalow had an inefficient heating system, old electrical wiring, inefficient insulation, low energy rating and small rooms with a poor use of space. As well as updating the old building, the job also entailed a side extension to maximise the plot and raising the original roof to increase the storey height on the first floor. Our clients, Mr and Mrs Booth, had a strong vision for what they wanted to achieve.
By the time we became involved with the project the clients had already engaged an architect and engineer, with whom we worked closely from the outset and maintained a good working relationship throughout the build. We are experienced in working to comprehensive build schedules, which means the clients were kept fully briefed on the key decisions throughout the build; this allows for positive changes to be made, as the build progresses. We also engaged in regular site meetings with Mr and Mrs Booth, and where this was not possible due to their busy work schedules, we incorporated conference calls, a photo diary, which was regularly up dated, and emails of the build progress to keep the clients fully informed at all times.
Our first job was to cost the initial design and then to advise upon practical design changes that would maintain design integrity but reduce the initial cost of the build. We firmly believe this pre-planning saves time and money and avoids costly mistakes. At this stage we began to think about the health and safety aspects of the project and a ‘construction phase plan’ was drafted. The plan included a detailed risk assessment setting out the main dangers on site and how they will be controlled. Importantly for our clients it also sets out how we intend to keep them, their family and any members of the public safe and the site secure, whilst works are being carried out.
Through thorough planning and keeping to the agreed schedule we were able to finish the project on time and within budget. Mr and Mrs Booth were a pleasure to work with and we are proud that we were able to bring their vision to life, providing them with a home that now gives them the great family space they wanted.
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This project was a total refurbishment of the existing building, alongside an extension to the side elevation. It was a tight plot close to neighbouring properties, which meant consideration needed to be given to those neighbours and to how we managed the space, materials, deliveries and noise during the build. The steelwork for the roof required a crane, which involved risk assessments, method statements and traffic management during the lift and liaising with the local authority and neighbours.
The project was not just about ‘the build’. Given the dated infrastructure of the original building, we needed to plan for new electrics, a new heating system, new windows and effective insulation. We employed an experienced team of sub-contractors who produced electrical and heating system designs to suit the needs of the client.
The bungalow was completely stripped back to bare brickwork. Insulated plasterboard was fitted to all external walls and 120mm Celotex was fitted between the ceiling rafters, with an over board of space blanket. Choosing the right insulation is vital, and consideration needs to be given to the design of the build and its efficiency to conserve heat and reduce heating bills. Through our research and in discussion with our clients, TLX Gold Insulating Breather Membrane was found to be ideal for their requirements. It is easy and robust to fit and its design ensures continuity of the insulation, without cold spots. The product is unique in that it improves the thermal rating of a building, as well as eliminating condensation risk. It is fully breathable and responds to increases in humidity by becoming more breathable.
Sourced from a local and reputable window company aluminium windows and sliding doors were fitted, giving slender sight lines with large panes of glass. Not only are these windows and doors atheistically pleasing they use the latest technology to provide maximum security. They are tripled glazed, with a layer of thermal foam, this coupled with the triple gasket sealing system ensures excellent thermal insulation, sound reduction and weather proofing, as well as being air tight. They also have the added benefit of being low maintenance and easy to clean, the frame can be rendered in to the brickwork; there are no exposed hardware or edges to get dirty.
An electrical layout was designed and installed, giving provision for a camera system, Cat 6 cabling was installed for direct streaming for TV’s and a lighting design was put in place, which complemented the vaulted ceilings on the first floor.
A new boiler and pressurized cylinder were fitted, giving ample high-pressure hot water to both bathrooms. Two new bathrooms were designed and fitted, which negated the need for boxings or raised shower trays, providing the sleek lines the clients wanted.
A single sewage pump was also installed. This was a cost-effective solution; the alternative being costly groundworks to allow sewage to flow by gravity. The chosen Klargester Domestic pumping station from Kingspan is suitable for sewage, surface water and effluent and is ideal for homes with up to 10 people. There are many different options on the market, but the features of this pump made it the ideal choice. It is low maintenance, which will save our clients time and money. It has a lockable cover for extra security and comes with the option of a monitoring system.
A bespoke joiner was commissioned to design, make and fit a set of open tread oak stairs. These provided the wow factor to the entrance hallway.
Consideration was even given to the design of the radiators, as it was important these enhanced the interior décor. Designer Stelrad Concord white radiators with a matt finish and a chrome valve were chosen, as the flat panelling vertical design complimented the stylish interior of the build.
The internal finishes, such as the tiling, flooring, doors and kitchen were factored into this full project managed build, thus allowing the clients to budget from the beginning. By providing an accurate build schedule from the outset the clients were able to plan post build and factor in furnishing their property and when they could move back in.
At the end of the build Mr and Mrs Booth, like all our clients were provided with a hand over pack. This contained all drawings, structural calculations, manufacturers warranties, material specifications used within the job, colours used in the course of decoration, electrical and build certificates, as well as drainage and service layouts for any future builds and adaptions.
We pride ourselves on the attention to detail given to all aspects of our projects. It is important to us that we source the best materials and products to suit each individual client’s needs, requirements and budget. Through effective communication, listening to our client’s requirements and comprehensive planning we were able to create the home they envisioned.
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