SPACE unique RACE Clever storage solutions · 2018 looked brighter as vendors and potential buyers acclimatised to the national state of uncertainty over Brexit deal negotiations

D E S I G N & B U I L D G U I D E 2 0 1 8

SPACE RACE

Clever storage solutions

35 PAGESOF BASEMENTS

KITCHENS BATHROOMS

AND LOFTS

TWO BECOME ONE DUAL PURPOSE ROOMS

Peak uniqueWhy bespoke is now

LOOK OF LUXEWOW HOMES IN NAPPY VALLEY

THE ESSENTIAL INSPIRATIONAL GUIDE FOR YOUR HOME nappyvalleynet.com/homes

PLUSSource Book of topsuppliers

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London’s Design & Build Specialist

T E L E P H O N E 0 8 0 0 9 1 7 7 5 7 1

E X T E N S I O N S L O F T C O N V E R S I O N S B A S E M E N T C O N V E R S I O N S

SPECTACULARSPACESTransform your house into a home with Simply Construction Group, specialists in the design and build of lofts, extensions and basement conversions. Place your project into our hands and let us create something truly special.

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NappyValleyNet’s Design & Build Guide 2018 is published by The London Magazine Company Ltd. Company number 9965295

Editor Gillian Upton

Contributors Georgina Blaskey, Anna White

Chief Sub Editor Charlotte Peterson

Listings Danique Hayden, Caroline Evans

Design and artwork eighthouse.co.uk

Sales and marketing Clare Sheta

Publisher Susan Hanage

While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, The London Magazine Company Ltd. cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions.

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4 Best in class homes

18 Living in Nappy Valley: Refreshing the parts

28 Design trends: Do it in style

36 Dual purpose rooms: When two become one

44 Selling your home: Moving on

51 Room makeovers: Improve, don’t move

97 Bespoke: Like nothing else

105 Storage solutions: Making room

110 Financing the refurb: On the money

112 Neighbourly etiquette: Neighbourly love…or is it?

114 Sourcing: Source book of top suppliers

130 Resources: Where to find help and information

Two years ago we published the very first NappyValleyNet Design & Build Guide.

Our aim was to produce an inspiring, yet local guide packed full of insight and knowledge to empower you to create gorgeous living spaces in our wonderful corner of London.

And now I find myself writing the introduction to the 2018 guide - something I could only have dreamed of back in 2016!

This year’s guide is, yet again, bigger and (I hope you’ll agree) better than previous years. The political slings and arrows may have added to our urge to stay put and improve rather than move as the amount of digging, extending, rebuilding and redesigning has not abated. On the following 120 pages, you will find all the ideas and inspiration to turn these dreams of improvement into your very own reality.

I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the businesses and individuals who have contributed. Their expertise, advice and support have been invaluable.

Finally, thank you to Marsh & Parsons, Portico and Rampton Baseley, who regular followers will recognise as our long term property partners. Their insight and local knowledge has shaped a great number of the following pages.

As ever, do please let us know how we might improve in 2019, and in the meantime, enjoy!

Warmest Wishes

Founder, The London Magazine Company Ltd.

Espresso Design

57

CONTENTS

Cover photograph courtesy of Chris Dyson ArchitectureSImply Basements

67

Pixer

85

SIM

PLYSPEC

TACULA

RSPA

CES

4 NappyValleyNet.com 5NappyValleyNet.com

LIVING IN NAPPY VALLEY

BEST IN CLASSHomeowners of Nappy Valley are turning their homes into stunning spaces thanks to the architects, interior designers and, in most cases, the planning authorities says Gillian Upton

A signature showcase of Minale + Mann’s refined industrial aesthetic, with a steel and glass extension, concrete floors, bespoke steel-framed kitchen and leather strap lighting. Photo courtesy of Graham Atkins-Hughes.

Architects Allford Hall Monaghan Morris designed this multi-level apartment with its main social spaces for eating, living and working over half levels on either side of a double height space. Solid oak windows are set into deep reveals and large pre-cast balconies cantilever out from the elevation. Photo courtesy of Rory Gardiner.

7NappyValleyNet.com

Chris Dyson Architecture completely renovated this early 1900s residence. The existing basement was extended laterally to create a large open-plan family living area over which rises a triple height atrium. Much of the accommodation is structured around this space, home to a dramatic feature staircase. Bedrooms and a generous roof terrace with far-reaching views occupy the top floor. A system of patinated bronze cladding panels and glass was used to distinguish the extension from the original brick structure. Also featured on the cover.

Made in Britain, Built to Lastwww.roundhousedesign.com

Clapham | Richmond | Fulham | West End | Guildford | Cheltenham | telephone 020 7471 8834 | [email protected]

8 NappyValleyNet.com

Granit Architecture won an International Design & Architecture Award last year for this new-build semi-detached house with basement and garden room. In a conservation area, bricks were used to mimic its Victorian and Georgian neighbours. With large open-plan spaces for entertaining, the design includes intimate spaces such as a spa, snug and treatment room. See the staircase to the house on page 11.

HOME REFURBISHMENTSHow we can help

www.clarabee.com | [email protected] | 020 8675 1477

PROJECT DEFINITION PREPARATION AND PLANNING

• Scope of work definition

• Budget setting

• Regulations and compliance

• Architects | Structural engineers | Party wall

PROJECT DELIVERY MANAGEMENT AND CONTROL

• Contractor selection

• Project management & budget control

• Single point of contact communication

• Change and risk management

INTERIOR DETAIL DESIGN FLAIR & FINISHES

• Interior design and styling

• Colours | Fabrics | Furnishings

• Home staging – sale or rental

• Sourcing and implementation

BEAUTIFUL DESIGN INSIDE AND OUT

11NappyValleyNet.com10 NappyValleyNet.com

This cast concrete staircase combines highly engineered, factory-made polished concrete with handmade wrought iron balustrades, part of the house designed by Granit Architects (see page 8).

Perforated timber treads, risers and balustrade let through light and air in a compact configuration, designed by Tsuruta Architects. Engraved email dialogues between client and architect appear on the stair stringer. Photo courtesy of Tim Crocker.

This curved timber staircase gives warmth, a tactile finish and access to the first floor of a new-build, two-storey dwelling arranged around three courtyards, designed by 31/44 Architects.

“STAIRCASES HAVE GONE FROM BEING PURELY FUNCTIONAL TO BECOMING A FOCAL POINT. FLOATING TREADS, LIGHTING, OR GLAZED BALUSTRADES CREATE THE ILLUSION OF SPACE AND TRANSPARENCY”

QUALITAS

Dramatic oak staircase top-lit by the front window, leads upstairs in this East Dulwich house designed by 31/44 Architects. Photo courtesy of Rory Gardiner.

eclecticClapham & Dulwich Kitchen Specialist

65 Abbeville RoadLondon SW4 9JW020 8673 0572www.eclecticinteriors.co.uk

KITCHENS BEDROOMS BATHROOMS


This futuristic floating kitchen from Hub Kitchens is one of their contemporary Italian designs. Called The Cut, it was designed for Record e Cucine, and costs from £40,000. The semi-matt finish of the units includes an extendable breakfast bar which can also rotate 90 degrees into a dining table, extending as far out as 2m, to make it a practical dining space. The metal ceiling drawers are in matt ice white.

Futuristic-looking swimming pool in a Wimbledon villa by Dyer Grimes Architecture. The full-length pool occupies a double-depth basement and has a retractable cover. The tiled wall panels are fitted with LED strips for a dramatic effect.

Design Practice

Telephone: 020 3637 0700 Email: [email protected]

Web: www.ensoul.co.ukWandsworth Common, London

Architecture

Interior Design

Project Mgmt.

Developments

Furniture

Ensoul NVGuide Advert 2018.qxp_Layout 1 02/02/2018 22:40 Page 1

15NappyValleyNet.com

Eight split-level apartments form this project by architects Alford Hall Monaghan Morris, each with an open-plan arrangement of living, kitchen and study space, across three levels. It scooped the WAF Future Project Residential award 2016. Photos courtesy of Rory Gardiner.

www.hubkitchens.com

Battersea London | 020 7924 2285 | [email protected]

hubKITCHENS


A decked, west-facing garden leads to a seating area and log storage at the back of this semi-detached house, designed by Chris Dyson Architecture.

A bespoke fireplace is part of a refurbishment of a 1950s Dulwich house by RDA Architects. The same architects created the kitchen diner in another Dulwich home, with an island housing a five-burner cooker and glass balustraded stairs running down to a glass door to the garden.


LIVING IN NAPPY VALLEY

Anna White, property writer for The Telegraph, charts the improving south-west London housing market and finds a clutch of new luxury neighbourhoods alongside value pockets

Just seven stops on the Northern Line from Bank to Clapham North, south-west London is a traditional stamping ground for young City workers and families whose income is often drawn from the capital’s financial sector. As a result Nappy Valley residents, who live from Fulham down to Wimbledon and across from Clapham to Putney, are acutely aware of both domestic and international political and economic news. The south-west London property market always reflects this sensitivity, but it was particularly true of 2017.

PRICE FALLS IN 2017Well-documented house price falls in the

most expensive enclaves of central London over the last three years, first triggered by George Osborne’s hike in stamp duty above the £1 million threshold, finally rippled out to the south-west.

Confidence was shaken by a conspiring combination of the result of the EU referendum in June 2016 and the surprise result of the snap election called by the Conservatives in May 2017, in which Labour gave the Tories a run for their money.

“When Lehman Brothers collapsed it was the Northcote Road estate agent offices that felt it first in London,” says Patrick Rampton, Managing Director of Rampton Baseley. “It’s not the super rich who react to economic news, it’s those whose livelihoods depend on our financial institutions.”

Prices in south-west London fell 4.2% last year, compared to 4% in central London. This was the first time since June 2012

that the rate of deflation in the south-west outpaced the luxury core of the capital, according to recent research from estate giants Savills.

The spring and summer last year were “scratchy to say the least,” says Rampton. “We were still getting over the turmoil

caused by the public’s vote to leave the European Union and I believe prices adjusted down four to seven per cent on average across south-west London. Then the Tories called a snap election, we expected Theresa May to win by a good majority and she didn’t. At this point the market died.”

REFRESHING THE PARTS

He also believes the Trump victory in the US made his customers nervous.

“2017 was the most unpredictable market I’ve seen,” says Marsh & Parsons’ Paul Price. “The only pattern was that the best of the one-beds would sell easily, as would the best of the family houses and the best of the luxury homes.”

A MARKET ON THE TURNHowever, sentiment turned for the better

in the build-up to Christmas and the start of 2018 looked brighter as vendors and potential buyers acclimatised to the national state of uncertainty over Brexit deal negotiations. Uncertainty became the new norm.

“In the month before Christmas we had sealed bid battles on properties ranging in price from £700,000 for a flat to family homes over the £2 million mark,” says Rampton. “Both buyers and sellers walked into our offices at the beginning of January. That

makes me think we’re in for a better year.” Thirty-somethings from Chelsea are

selling their first flat and skipping a step in their south-west London property journey. “These couples are coming across the river to Battersea and Clapham, but rather than buying a terraced house in which to have a baby they are going straight for a £3 million detached family home - meaning they’ll only pay out on stamp duty once. They

are missing out that mid-range home to minimise tax,” he says.

NEW LUXURY NEIGHBOURHOODS

Last year’s price falls will have worried estate agents and vendors alike but this correction has made pockets of south-west London seem better value, such as Fulham. The average value per square foot of the best properties in Battersea has now reached £910, in line with leafy Barnes, in comparison to Fulham where a house now costs £890 per square foot, recent research by Savills reveals. Marsh & Parsons’ Price agrees: “We had central London buyers choosing Fulham to get more for their money.”

The Nine Elms effect has propped up prices in Battersea. Properties on the 42-acre Battersea Power Station site are selling well and therefore holding their prices. London’s most famous historic restoration,

“SOUTH-WEST LONDON BOASTS

NEW LUXURY NEIGHBOURHOODS ALONGSIDE VALUE

POCKETS”

“BOTH BUYERS AND SELLERS WALKED INTO OUR OFFICES AT THE BEGINNING OF JANUARY. THAT MAKES ME THINK WE’RE IN FOR A BETTER YEAR.”

Aerial Albert Bridge painted by Mariusz Kaldowski, 81 x 100cm, available from Webbs Gallery, www.webbsfineartgallery.co.uk, 1 Burland Road, SW11 6SA, tel 020 7223 1733

Avenue of Trees screen print by Eileen St Julian-Bown, 25 x 22cms, available from Oliver Contemporary, www.olivercontemporary.co.uk, 17 Bellevue Road, SW17 7EG, tel 020 8767 8822


AN INDEPENDENT PROJECT MANAGERBe creative A PM can provide creative input for a more ambitious result, with strong practical ideas from a wealth of experience.

Be realistic Complex jobs suck up time. If you are busy or you’ve never managed a building project before, expert help can save time, stress and cost.

Right help, right time A PM will advise on, and guide on, the input of architects, structural engineers and interior designers, as well as helping with the design and planning application stages, appointing a contractor and managing the build.

Ensure you’re covered Have an agreed scope in writing, with responsibilities, costs and an option to cancel. Fixed fees are better than hourly rates, and should be split into phases.

Every build requires a thousand decisions Agree which can be made on your behalf and which you need to make. Have regular updates on progress and budget in a format that works for you.

Source: Zenico

which will deliver nearly 5,000 new homes when completed in 2025, is also drawing buyers to look at the other Nine Elms developments such as Embassy Gardens, the riverside development on the opposite side of the Thames to Chelsea and Pimlico.

Comprised of 2,000 apartments that will range in price from £600,000 to £5 million, Embassy Gardens will also feature the sky pool - a 25m long swimming pool, encased in glass and suspended 35m up in the sky between buildings. The whole scheme sits next to the new $1 billion US embassy in Nine Elms - the most expensive embassy building in history.

VALUE POCKETSFor property bargain hunters, industry

observers cite Tooting Broadway, just three miles south of Battersea. Buyers can find a four-bedroom family house for £850,000 - pick up that exact property and put it down in the Tonsleys (Wandsworth Old Town) and it’s worth £1.4 million.

Crossrail 2 will also improve connectivity to that part of the south-west and drive up prices once plans are confirmed. One branch of the high speed line will run from Chelsea down to Clapham Junction through Balham, Tooting Broadway and on to Wimbledon.

A new blog from Portico puts the average price of a home in Tooting Broadway at £662,000 and rental yields at 3.4 per cent, and reads: “Tooting is already an established and popular place to live thanks to the Northern Line, but it’s cheaper than neighbouring Wandsworth or Clapham so there’s room for prices to increase.”

Streatham remains the more affordable alternative to Balham. Pensions consultant Stacy O’Sullivan bought in Streatham seven years ago with her husband Patrick, and doesn’t think prices in the area have peaked yet. They were renting a two-bedroom flat in Clapham but needed more space to start a family, and were desperate to get on the property ladder.

“We didn’t set out to pick Streatham but it was where we could afford the most space, and with an overground station and short bus ride to the Victoria Line at Brixton it was well connected to central London,” she says.

“Streatham is changing but not as quickly as people think. Yes, small independent shops, coffee shops and restaurants are springing up which gives it a nicer atmosphere, but the long high street (the longest in Europe) means that it is hard to create the village feel of Abbeville or Balham. The gentrification of Streatham has a long way to go and, therefore, so do prices.”

DON’T MOVE, IMPROVELike many streets across London, skips

and scaffolding have become permanent residents in Nappy Valley.

Political uncertainty is also a driver in the renovations revolution.

“COUNCILS ARE TAKING LONGER TO APPROVE PLANNING APPLICATIONS, ESPECIALLY FOR BASEMENTS. THEY ARE MORE STRINGENT NOW AND NEED MORE INFORMATION” SURE PLANNING

Early Morning painted by David Wheeler, 100 x 100cm, available from The Art Movement, www.art-movement.com, 61 Queenstown Road, SW8 3RG, tel 07973 692494

EMBARKING ON A PROJECT• Consider a company that provides

everything - from initial concept through to completion, making communication far easier - and one with experience in carrying out works similar to your plans who will be aware of local planning rules and building regulations.

• Always ask for recommendations from friends or neighbours and don’t just go on price as expertise and a high quality finish are more important.

• Always prepare a detailed brief which reflects your ‘must have’ items - it’s more expensive to make changes when works are underway. An experienced architect will add

value with creativity, planning the space effectively. If part of the construction team, he or she can be involved throughout.

• Be clear on your budget and allow a contingency of 20% for unforeseen issues. Old buildings often reveal problems once work is underway.

• Have a contract in place before any work begins, including a statement of works, timings and budget so all parties are clear on what is, or what isn’t, included. It should have details on the project design as well as payment terms.

Source: Qualitas

Thames Footpath, photographed by Carly Matson, edition of ten, 42 x 29.7cm, available from Foss Fine Art, www.fossfineart.com, 113b Northcote Road, SW11 6PW, tel 020 7738 0838


FUNCTION BEFORE FORMBe sure not to follow the Joneses (like lemmings) over the design cliff. What looks great on paper or in a photo can prove to be dysfunctional for family living. Knocking through from front to rear reception may appear to be sensational space, but hold on - you’ve just reduced the number of rooms!

So less is more isn’t always the case. Sometimes more really is better. If you’re suffering from nowhere to go to escape from the rest of the family consider reinstating a partition. You could possibly even create two new useful rooms - a study and a boot room. If built in conjunction with a kitchen extension, the change could bring sanity and even serenity once more.

Careful consideration of functionality is an important part of an architect’s job. Think about how you want to live in and enjoy your home, not just how it will look once the work is done.

Source: Sure Planning

“People are not moving house at the moment so they’re upgrading,” observes Barny Robinson of Red Box.

The ‘Don’t move, improve’ mantra has stuck. Ray Legge from Zenico Ltd reckons that expanding your empire is the way forward. “A complimentary and well executed extension will always increase the value of your home,” and adds that, “previous studies suggest an average of 70% return on investment for well managed builds.”

It’s no surprise that Rory Gordon, founder of Good London Builders, has seen a surge in demand for basement excavations as homeowners look to do just that.

“We had four projects ‘live’ and five in development on the morning after the EU referendum. By noon all of the development

stage projects were on hold and one of the live projects had stalled. Three weeks later all were back on track, but customers are very astute and these things do matter,” he says.

“When clients do building work it is the second most expensive thing they ever spend their money on (after a house) so they are

right to make sure they are comfortable.”The hike in stamp duty has also

contributed to Gordon’s workload. “If you base the decision to move from a £1.5 million terraced house to a bigger ‘forever’ home then you’re looking at £150,000 of stamp duty on a £2 million home. That

“WHEN CLIENTS DO BUILDING WORK IT IS THE SECOND MOST EXPENSIVE THING THEY EVER SPEND THEIR MONEY ON, AFTER A HOUSE”

London park in winter painted by Alexander MacFaul, 60 x 60cm, available from Northcote Gallery, www.northcotegallery.com, 110 Northcote Road, SW11 6QP, tel 020 7924 6741

CALL US TO ARRANGE A FREE CONSULTATION

plusrooms.com 0800 917 7127


ON THE MARKETSo for those buyers ready to bite the bullet, what’s up for grabs?

At the very top end is a Victorian landmark positioned on Clapham Common North

Side where Rampton Baseley is selling a Grade II-listed mansion. It covers 8,800

sq ft with a 120ft garden and six bedrooms. It was designed and built by Victorian

architect James Knowles in 1863 and has special details such as decorative ivy

twists carved into the stone staircase, a wine cellar and a ballroom with 42 sq ft

across which to waltz. It’s on the market for £7.5m.

In Clapham Old Town another historic building has been rescued and given a

new lease of life. The early 20th century metal works factory once run by William

Bainbridge Reynolds, who created the chapel gates at St Paul’s Cathedral, is now

a gated courtyard of studios and one and two-bedroom flats. There are eight one-

bedroom apartments remaining starting from £435,000 for 400 sq ft, also on sale

through Rampton Baseley.

Hop over the river to Fulham and property agent Portico is selling a two-bedroom,

two-bathroom, split level period apartment for £599,950 (freehold) on Lillie Road. More

affordable still is a two-bedroom flat in Streatham Hill, on the market with Portico. In a

block above shops and just moments from the overground station, it’s a bright home

with wooden floors and two reception rooms, priced at £450,000 (leasehold).

In Tooting Broadway, Marsh & Parsons is selling a three-bedroom, period property

for £750,000. It has two bathrooms and two reception rooms and is over 1,200 sq ft.

makes it harder to take that next step - therefore the obvious thing to do is use the money to dig a basement,” he says.

Steve McStea, co-founder of Advantage Basements, says that the backdrop of uncertainty has made customers spend more not less on overhauling their home. “People are moving less often and therefore, rather than doing a small basement, are really going for it.

“Ten years ago the typical basement cost £150,000. People are now committing £300,000.”

Rather than adding two rooms underground they are going front to back and out under the garden, he explains. Internal trends include the mixing of metals such as copper with antique brass or chrome for handles, hinges, switches and lamps.

James Bernard, MD of Plus Rooms, has noticed a change in how homeowners are configuring the ground floor. “They’ve stopped doing large open-plan spaces as it’s not practical for families,” he says. The demand is for multi-functional spaces, keeping the front room as an adult living room or office, as well as a move away from bi-folds all the way across the back wall. “Sliding doors have bigger doors and thinner profiles, so less obstruction visually which makes the space look bigger,” he says.

Other trends include remote-controlled fireplaces, window seats and underfloor heating throughout the whole house (not just the kitchen or bathroom).

Planning new cabling is essential for the connected home, particularly if you want to avoid wireless buffering. Advises Tim Slorick of Zenico: “Incorporating data cabling into your design will significantly increase the performance of media and TV streaming and reduce the demand on your wireless network.” You have been warned!

Homeowners are alert to remote, touch-of-app technology, such as Nest smart heating systems and alarms. A new doorbell available through the Co-operative has a camera connected to the smartphone app (www.ring.com), meaning you can see who is at your door even if you’re away. It’s proving popular in 2018 meaning the residents of south-west London can watch over their homes just as they keep an eye on the property market and the wider news agenda.

“THE BACKDROP OF UNCERTAINTY HAS MADE CUSTOMERS SPEND MORE NOT LESS”

Clapham Common, Frosted Bandstand painted by Nadia Day, 120 x 100cm, available from Webbs Gallery, www.webbsfineartgallery.co.uk, 1 Burland Road, SW11 6SA, tel 020 7223 1733

Q: It’s been a very busy and exciting year for you, I hear. What’s been going on?

Well to begin with, we’ve got more than

1,000 new residents living in Circus West,

along the western side of my site. Since

last summer the bars, restaurants and

shops of Circus West Village have also

been opening at a rapid rate: it’s now a

lovely place to visit for a drink, to eat out,

have a workout or do the weekly shop.

Here’s what you’ll find so far:

Wright BrothersThe Wright Brothers started out as

seafood wholesalers specialising in

oysters. Nowadays they also run a small

chain of London restaurants, all of which

benefit hugely from the owners’ contacts

in the seafood industry.

FiumeFresh from his triumphs at Mayfair’s

Sartoria, Francesco Mazzei brings his new

restaurant Fiume (‘River’) to the riverside

at Circus West, serving the Calabrian

delicacies that he has made famous.

A NEW NEIGHBOURHOOD ON THE THAMESIn an exclusive interview with Battersea Power Station, Annabel finds out about all the amazing new bars, restaurants, amenities and transport links that have appeared – and what’s coming next

MotherFrom Copenhagen’s cool meatpacking district, Kødbyen, Mother is an Italian pizza restaurant without all the nonsense.

No. 29 Power Station WestThe Circus West Village pub, No. 29 Power Station West offers a relaxed, all-day food and drinks experience from morning coffee to night cap and everything in between.

VagabondVagabond offers over 100 wines by the glass, a range of delicious craft beers and a seasonal menu of tasty treats to accompany them. There is also a working winery on site!

The CoffeeWorks ProjectThe CoffeeWorks Project is an independent family run business with a simple aim: to showcase the best quality coffee, tea and food in a friendly and relaxed environment.

BESPOKE PROMOTION www.batterseapowerstation.co.uk | 020 7501 0688

While you’re at Circus West Village you could also pick up anything from a rare Japanese whisky to a pint of milk at The Battersea General Store, drop in for a spin session at Boom Cycle, or visit the Design Store for a Power Station memento.

Q: I’ve seen that there are new ways to get to and from your site, can you tell us more?

I now have a River Bus pier, with services every 20 minutes at busy times and every 30 minutes otherwise. There’s also a new pedestrian and road route from Nine Elms Lane. You can walk to Circus West Village from the new U.S. Embassy in just 15 minutes.

Q: What’s next?

When my main building opens in 2020, there will be two huge new shopping malls, a street food market, a lift to the top of a chimney and a new riverside park. There’ll also be my new Zone 1 Underground station. Not to mention the new London campus of Apple.

There’s always something new happening at Battersea Power Station!

Wright Brothers

Fiume

Vagabond


DO IT IN STYLEKeep up with all that’s hot in the design world with these stylish ideas for your home, says Gillian Upton

DESIGN TRENDS

TOP TIPS FOR MIXING MATERIALS IN KITCHENSThe trend for open-plan or broken-plan rooms is set to stay, but making these type of spaces work can be difficult. Mixing materials helps to delineate different zones.

Zoning with materialsSidestep a uniform look by using a mix and match approach. Metal wraps like Antique Brass or Bronze on kitchen islands with matt painted cabinetry work well together, or unusual book-matched veneers like Smoked Eucalyptus and Riven Smoked Satin Walnut with matt lacquer. Patinated and burnished metallics also work with matt finishes.

What to avoidNever shoehorn mixed materials into a kitchen. Plan with careful thought to avoid a disjointed look with a hotchpotch of random textures and finishes.

Get the look rightChoose a kitchen design company with a track record of designing beautiful mixed material kitchens, one that has been instrumental in creating discreet yet skilful combinations, helping to foster a trend in the wider kitchen design world.

Source: Roundhouse

New broom2017 was Tom Cox Lighting’s year but 2018 is Lee Broom’s turn in the spotlight. His classic shapes and period details, such as crystal bulbs and funky decanter pendant lights are gracing trendy homes. “The right light makes things come alive,” says Claire Burrage of Clara Bee, adding that light type and placing is crucial, as is planning early. “Emphasise furniture, art or architectural features.”

Crystal bulbs by Lee Broom

Window dressingA tassel or fringe here, a swathe of glorious fabric there; such detail on curtains or blinds can complement a room, continuing a colour scheme or adding a pop of colour. Laragh Bohn of The London Curtain Girls advises to keep window dressing neutral but to big-up on other details. “Add multiple layers of contrasting texture to add interest and create atmosphere,” she says.

Moody blues

Farrow & Ball’s Hague Blue is still

creating drama on feature walls,

bookshelves and living rooms. Take

a look at the new green/grey-hued

Inchyra Blue and Stiffkey Blue too

or Paint The Town Green’s Dark Side

of the Moon and Night Swimming.

Grey is still ‘in’ – Dark Moss by Little

Greene or Bowler Hat by Dulux hit

the spot. Paint The Town Green’s

owner Phil Robinson says, “Although

black is seeing a revival, blue is for

many still the preferred choice.”

Night swimming by Paint The Town Green

PAINT IT BLACKWhy have chrome when you can add drama in the bathroom with powder-coated matt black taps, shower heads and control panels? “It’s something new and high-end,” says Richard Everett, Director of BPM Bathrooms.

SLIDE OR FOLD?Have bifolds had their day? The larger sizes and thinner frames available in sliding doors give a more seamless view between kitchen/diner and garden than bifolds. Says Cedar Bifold’s Dan Harwood: “More glass and less frame is a trend, particularly for those with small gardens who don’t want bifold doors opening out. That gives them room for BBQs and garden chairs.”

Air Aluminium Sliders from Cedar Bifold Company.

PURPLE HAZE

Pantone has decreed Ultraviolet its Colour of the Year 2018. A step too far on walls perhaps, but perfect in soft furnishings, for example. “It’s difficult to predict a trend with such a divisive colour as purple. It will be interesting to see what happens. In any event, velvet sofas will continue to be popular,” says Emma Green of Emma Green Design.

Purple velvet sofa from Emma Green Design

Stanza Interior Design The London Curtain Girls


Banquette seating

Cosy window seats and banquettes are back in favour. “We particularly love the way they can break up a long wall,” says Empire Build. They are best upholstered for comfort, with space underneath for useful storage. “Otherwise it’s dead space,” says Kenelm Cornwall-Legh of Run Projects.

FANNING THE FLAMESThere are no safety issues with a remote-controlled electric fire. They’re sleek-looking and create a focal point in your newly-extended, minimalist-styled kitchen/diner/sitting area. But wood stoves are equally popular. “We are installing a lot of wood burners, and Brad Stoves are our ‘go to’ guys for quality and price,” says Empire Build.

Granit Architecture

Getting into the zoneBroken-plan rooms perfectly divide multi-functional spaces but what to use to screen off the different zones? “In large kitchens, create different zones without losing precious light by breaking up the available space with Crittall glass and metal walls or mobile, double-sided bookcases,” suggests Andrew Hamilton Barr of Espresso Design.

Galvin Projects

Going up the wallYou may think feature walls are passé but think again; the striking 3D wallpapers from Mirabillia or the dazzling geometrics from MissPrint and Jam Space give any room a stand-out effect.

Bespoke banquette

by Stanza Interior Design

Jam Space

MissPrint Mirabillia

www.stanza-id.com

South West Londonbased interior designerspecialising in providingthe highest qualility residental interior designon projects of any size.

• Interior Design and Space Planning

• Bespoke Furniture and Carpentry

• Full Colour Schemes

• Lighting Design & Layout

• Source & Supply of Furniture, Soft Furnishing and Accessories

• Project Co-ordination

Tel: 020 7738 [email protected]

espresso

149 St Johns HillLondon SW11 1TQ0207 078 9912

Design Centre Chelsea HarbourLondonSW10 0XE0207 078 9912

[email protected]

The revolutionary BORA downdraft extractor at Espresso Design

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UPCYLINGWho’d have thought you could make stunning light fittings from recycling bicycle tyres? John Osborn Design has done just that, choosing varying tread designs, sprockets, cable ties and bolts for striking effect, and spray painting them any colour, including chrome, gold, gunmetal, copper and even red.

John Osborn Design

TOP 5 INTERIOR DESIGN TRENDS FOR 2018DARK-COLOURED KITCHENS remain popular, with more blue, green and black (yes, black!) appearing. If too much colour is overwhelming, opt for a dark-coloured island unit or have base units darker than wall units.

BROKEN PLAN, as opposed to open-plan, living spaces. Separate areas for different uses and storage is key, especially with children! Instead of knocking down walls, use pocket doors.

RICH COLOURS throughout the home this year. Purple will see a revival due largely to Pantone naming it the colour of the year. Burnt orange and peacock blue will be a favourite colour combination.

GREENERY. The centuries old tradition of real and fake plants and botanical prints strengthens as they become more oversized and colourful. Achieve this with wallpapers, curtains, cushions or the real thing.

CONCRETE ACCENTS replace the ubiquitous marble in the form of interesting features and furniture.

Source: Emma Green Design

A corker of an idea

Cork like you’ve never seen it before. Sustainable, ecological and now fabulous-looking. Amazing laser-cut cork panels are the next generation 3D wall covering. Shame about the dull colour though!

Apples & pears

When you’ve refurbished everything else, turn your humble staircase into a head-turning feature as soon as you open the front door. “Add glazing above to flood the stairwell with light,” says Ronnie Beacon of Bygga. “A staircase affects every floor so renew it when you’re moving out for a major refurb.”

Metal skeleton staircase

clad in oak from Bygga

These boots are made for walkingBut not inside the house! Creating a boot room so all the mess from dirty wellies and muddy dogs stays there is the latest room craze. Combine it with a utility area or a ‘dirty’ kitchen. “Open plan/broken plan living has made us rethink layouts,” says Qualitas. “Dividing the rear reception to create a boot room, with well-designed joinery, ensures that daily items are accessible but out of sight.”

Gencork

Demarta

Little and largeIt may be the smallest room in the house but the ground floor loo is where otherwise conservative homeowners go wild, with a big explosion of dark colour, pattern and glossy finishes. “The funky loo has replaced the feature wall as a way of wowing your guests,” says Empire Build. Some of their recent clients have commisioned the jungle WC, the nightclub WC and the bold Dragon’s blood WC. “The downstairs loo is where it’s at.” Arte wallcoverings epitomise the trend.

Stanza lnterior Design

Ateliers Zelij

FLOOREDHand-made monochrome and brightly-coloured artisan cement tiles create beautiful terrazzo floors. Get the look from Bert & May, Terrazzo Tiles or Ateliers Zelij. But interior designer Jolanta Harradine of Eclectic Interiors advises to use them in smaller rather than larger spaces, “otherwise it looks too busy,” she says. “Use them in a relatively enclosed space, like a kitchen or cloakroom, or mix them with a wooden floor.”

39a & b Allfarthing Lane London SW18 2AP

paintthetowngreen.biz

Visit our showroom for decorating advice and

to browse our paint colours and wallpaper

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020 8871 0531or email us at

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Painting homes in South West London for over ten years

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Own range of eco-paints including exclusive

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Clara Bee provides all the creative professional support you would expect of a successful property design and project management business – and much, much more. “We’re not just about helping people to choose colours and wallpaper,” explains co-owner Claire Burrage. “We help our clients to see the potential in their properties – inside and out - then give them the confidence to realise it.

“That’s only the beginning of course, and taking big ideas from paper to reality can seem daunting - especially for busy professional people. I think that’s where we really come into our own. Our experience, local knowledge and trusted network of local suppliers all come together to ensure the reality is not just trouble free, but enjoyable.”

Judging by the effusive praise rained down on Clara Bee by delighted clients, this Balham success story has substance as well as style. This is a business that delivers.

A recent project in Southfields demonstrates the value of fresh perspective, experience and a little common sense.

Property owner, Alastair, was planning a refurbishment encompassing a ground floor and garden redevelopment, and was keen to extend into the basement too. A dizzying array of consultants was assembled to help analyse feasibility and the various risks. But fees were in danger of spiralling out of control and Alastair was facing months of exploratory work costing at least £20,000.

“Soon there was enough information available for Alastair to make an informed decision on how best to proceed,” said co-

REALISE THE POTENTIAL IN YOUR HOMEDesign, insight and project management working together are the hallmarks of one local property design and project management business

owner and project management specialist, Trevor. “But it needed someone to take a step back and offer a bit of clarity.”

In consultation with Trevor, Alastair agreed that the basement component was simply not viable. As a result, his budget was protected against tens of thousands in unforeseen and potentially futile costs, and he was able to redirect this money to get a more focused project off the ground.

Alastair explained: “Clara Bee saved the day. They helped us to take a step back and look at the whole situation afresh. They really helped to speed up and take the risk out of the whole project. I can’t recommend them highly enough.”

This flair for getting the most out of the client’s investment is, however, only part of the story. A streamlined, repeatable process – one that is proven to deliver results time and again – is the true heart of Clara Bee’s success.

“Design is my passion, and the creative touches are what often catch the eye, but our clients want to know what they are getting, not rely on one-off inspiration,” Claire explains. That’s where the marriage of creative and project management is so important.”

“It’s the framework on which the creative ideas can grow but which ensures that the client’s needs, objectives and budget remain absolutely front and centre,” Trevor continues. “It’s also the reason all our clients get a recognisable Clara Bee experience, whether we’re managing a side return extension, handling a garden redesign or helping with something simpler, like a bespoke carpentry project.”

BESPOKE PROMOTION www.clarabee.com | 020 8675 1477

With any major capital project, control is of course vital – control of budgets, specifications and timescales. This is again an area where Clara Bee has excelled over the years.

The secret of that success, according to Trevor, is disarmingly simple. “The single most important aspect of any project is the time spent preparing. Scoping projects properly gives a real understanding of the funding required prior to kick-off,” he says.

This, he points out, is vital to ensuring the agreed budget is used and managed effectively during the build stage, and to minimising the risk of specification change, overspend and delays.

Trevor concludes, “Clients may only undertake a sizeable project once every ten years, so it makes absolute sense to bring in people like us who do this month in month out and can help achieve it all faster, more easily, and more cost effectively based on a structured client-centric process.”

“THE SINGLE MOST IMPORTANT

ASPECT OF ANY PROJECT IS THE

TIME SPENT PREPARING”

AN OPEN-PLAN, BROKEN-PLAN OR FREE-STANDING KITCHEN?Open-plan designs continue to be the first choice and with good reason. They are still the best way to maximise available space and create stunning, light-filled, multi-functional rooms for busy homes.

For those who want to maximise light but prefer more delineation in their kitchens, broken-plan design mixes materials and incorporates transitional pieces, such as glass and metal walls, mobile bookcases, plants and banquette seating to create different zones within room boundaries.

Free-standing kitchens have also been making a comeback with the launch of ground-breaking new ranges from manufacturers like Cesar. These feature classically beautiful furniture that can stand alone as individual pieces whilst still housing all the contemporary technology and hardware you would expect from a modern kitchen.

Source: Espresso Design

BUYING KITCHEN APPLIANCESAppliance brands vary dramatically, from performance to reliability and ease of use. Think about what you need. Online is a good source of information, though purchasing blind from the internet is risky. Seeing an appliance in the flesh will help with decision-making, and recommendations are good too, so quiz friends!

Neff/Bosch/Siemens - Mid-market with a full range of products from entry-level dishwashers up to multi-temperature integrated wine coolers. A full appliance pack can start from £3,000.

Miele - Mid- to high-end, known for producing high quality products at a reasonable price. Market leaders with their washing machines and pioneers of certain technologies with ovens. A full appliance pack can start from £7,500.

Gaggenau - Top-end, with an uncompromising product across their range and at the forefront of cooking innovations. The ‘400 series’ is of commercial cooking standards. A full appliance pack can start from £15,000.

Source: Hub Kitchens

Pots and pans may break my bones

Why carry heavy water-filled pots across a kitchen when you don’t have to? A pot filler is the answer. “A wall-mounted articulated arm allows you to fill pots and pans right on the stove top without having to carry them across the room,” explains Roundhouse. This model from Waterworks at £1,466 + VAT.

DESIGN TRENDS: IN THE KITCHEN

Now you see it, now you don’t

Cleverly-designed free-standing pantry in lacquered timber hides kitchen clutter on one side and showcases glassware and wine on the other.

Letting off steamAustrian appliance company Bora has cornered the market in the super-duper down-draught kitchen extraction systems built into your hob. “They pull off the vapours and fat at the point of cooking that would normally go on your clothes and kitchen surfaces,” explains Andrew Hamilton Barr, Director of Espresso Design. “The fan speed is really fast so all the steam goes into the machine.” Get saving; they start from £2,500.

Espresso DesignBora

Roundhouse


DUAL PURPOSE ROOMS

WHEN TWO BECOME ONEGeorgina Blaskey discovers the innovative ways to make rooms in your home work doubly hard for you

dRAW Architecture

Mascot Bespoke

“UTILITY ROOMS CAN DOUBLE UP AS BOOT ROOMS, GUEST BEDROOMS CAN ALSO OFFER SOMEWHERE TO WORK, A PLAYROOM CAN BE A CINEMA”

In the city, space is always at a premium so clever solutions that give rooms more than one purpose are increasingly popular and imaginative. It can feel ridiculous to create a beautiful guest room that’s only used a few times a year or waste a wide corridor on nothing but a passageway through the house. Architects and interior designers, joiners and project managers have created some innovative ideas to maximise the space under your roof.

For example, dRAW Architecture had a challenge on their hands when they converted a mews house into a luxury home as there was no outside space. By creating this internal upstairs courtyard, the architects were able to flood the house with light, give the owners a space in which to relax and see the sky – it has a retractable roof – and give both the master bedroom and bathroom a stunning view. With access to the courtyard available via the hallway, it also provides an entertaining space for friends, and furnishing it with plants and upholstery has created an interesting dynamic, like a conservatory and roof terrace rolled into one.

BUILDING A BOOT ROOM Creating boot rooms in family homes is now a big trend and often incorporated into projects.

The boot room is an extension built out into the side return area, usually accessed off the main hallway at the front of the house or, where there is the space, with its own entrance. In homes on larger plots, a boot room can be built into a new-build side extension by filling in the side passage. It can be more difficult to achieve in a terraced house unless you include it in a basement project.

A boot room is for all the things associated with outside, a zone with benches and hooks for children to remove muddy wellies, shoes, coats, scooters, cricket bats and the rest! All the clutter can be kept together in one space, away from the rest of the house. Larger boot rooms can include a WC, utility area with kitchen surface and a pulley rail overhead to dry clothes.

Source: Bygga

The options are endless. Utility rooms can double up as boot rooms, guest bedrooms can also offer somewhere to work, a playroom can be a cinema and wide hallways can hide a multitude of clutter, with fitted storage units and built-in cupboards. Already, most of our homes are making good use of the ‘back’ room of the house, for somewhere to cook, dine and relax. Basement conversions are also becoming dual purpose spaces, with a bar, cinema screen and play area, for example.

In its purest form, a smart console table can double up as a desk with enough room for a laptop and some paperwork. But when you want to entertain, clearing away office items into slimline drawers will maintain the mood of your entertaining space better than a functional desk in the corner of the room.


ClareElise

Ensoul

Stylish yet simple storage is worth its wall space in gold. High cupboards for box files and work clutter keep your living space clear while allowing easy access to vital documents when working. Bold chairs brighten up this cosy corner and an anglepoise light helps when you’re on task.

A fold-down desk within a built-in unit is the epitome of streamlined design. Create a computer-friendly set up with strip lighting and you can get to work quickly when needed, and shut down just as fast. It’s a short walk to the sofa after your job is done – but here, out of sight really does mean out of mind.

“HIGH CUPBOARDS FOR BOX FILES AND WORK CLUTTER KEEP YOUR LIVING SPACE CLEAR WHILE ALLOWING EASY ACCESS TO VITAL DOCUMENTS”

www.redboxlondon.com

19 Hurlingham Studios, nr Putney Bridge, London SW6 3PA | 0207 381 1539

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Run Projects

“THIS LIGHT-DRENCHED ROOM IS BRIGHT AND AIRY FOR SMALL MINDS TO BUZZ”

“INNOVATIVE BIKE STORAGE ON THE WALL CREATES A FOCAL POINT”

Hallways aren’t just the preserve of shoe racks and umbrella stands. This cleverly designed corridor office is neatly executed with plenty of storage, ample lighting and no distractions – a perfect spot to hide away undisturbed.

What could be seen as a redundant space is given purpose with this children’s study. Linked in to the dining extension, yet far enough away from the kitchen and living room to keep distractions to a minimum, this light-drenched room is bright and airy for small minds to buzz.

SPACE, AND HOW TO USE IT• Think about the practicality of

living within a space for you and your family. Don’t be seduced by style over substance.

• Keep the number of finishes to a minimum. This ensures continuity of design.

• Not everything you love will work within the space. Be true to the style of the architecture.

• Be true to the style of the architecture of the property. Even if original features have been ripped out over the years, it is wise to reinstate these details in a period property from an aesthetic viewpoint but also for resale.

• Not every space needs filling with furniture. The feeling of space is created by leaving space.

• The feeling of space is also created by opening up previously partitioned rooms, but replacing these walls with glass or Crittall style doors is a contemporary way of opening up a space.

Source: Dermarta

Rebecca James Studio

Ensoul

This small space is a masterclass in planning. A pokey room has been fitted out as a TV den and study area, with equal importance given to both. Dark wood joinery adds richness and warmth, absorbing the screen into it, while also housing a desk and computer. Well-designed lighting and a black-out blind both help switch the ambience in seconds between work place and cinema room.

“DARK WOOD JOINERY ADDS RICHNESS AND WARMTH, ABSORBING THE SCREEN INTO IT”

Run Projects

Make your double reception room work harder when space is at a premium. The traditional Victorian terrace footprint has been opened up but subtle elements both unite and divide it. The chaise longue acts as a physical barrier between the formal sitting room and the playroom, but the joinery style creates a more gentle division. By painting both rooms the same colour,

mirroring the TV with the painting and installing identical ceiling lights, the flow of the space is maintained, perfect for when the playroom is no longer needed.

Hiding away in a study bedroom can be the answer in a noisy house or where downstairs space is tight. This room has a large desk under a window to flood the work area with natural light, and space for all the tech required.

GW Cabinetry/Empire Build

Innovative bike storage on the wall creates a focal point and the sofa underneath easily converts to a guest bed when needed.

Ensoul


“Someone once said, ‘If you don’t think you can afford a project manager, then you can’t afford not to have a project manager’, and we completely agree. Our service isn’t a luxury but one that will control and manage the whole project budget,” says Kenelm Cornwall-Legh, who co-founded Run Projects with Andy McCarthy. Together they offer the services of experienced project managers and building consultants, and their partner Kate Strong offers an interior design service to help turn your dreams into reality.

Do you need a project manager?It’s normal to feel nervous and excited

when it comes to a build. From trusting and dealing directly with a builder and concerns about the budget and timeline, to the stress of managing day-to-day life during the build, it can feel like a huge challenge. This is where a project

manager comes in and rather than thinking of it as another expense, consider this: they may well pay for themselves through the savings they make along the way. RICS regulated Run Projects charges a fixed fee, not a percentage, as they believe that this gives you best value and complete transparency from the start (a percentage fee conflicts with cost saving at every stage), so the project will be designed and built to your budget.

What does a project manager do? They proactively control the build, its

time and expense. Their role is to keep you informed on decisions and progress, and to offer independent and impartial advice. When it comes to meeting contract and insurance requirements, their knowledge is up-to-the-minute. Your interests are their primary concern. “All designers and contractors are tailor-made to your project,” explains Andy, “You

BESPOKE PROMOTION

RUN WITH ITImagine undertaking work to improve your home with a build that was stress-free from start to finish. A pipe dream? A luxury? Not necessarily, says Run Projects. A diligently executed, honestly managed build could be more obtainable than you may think

www.runprojects.co.uk | 020 7384 1160

aren’t limited to what a one-stop-shop can supply.” Andy and Kenelm obtain a number of quotes for each element of the project to ensure their clients achieve best value. The client is always in control and can choose from quotes provided or introduce a supplier or builder themselves. “We work with a variety of budgets and we pride ourselves on our flexible, bespoke service,” says Andy.

Why choose Run Projects?Transparency and honesty best

describe Run Projects’ approach. “When

EXAMPLE COST SPLIT OF A RECENTLY COMPLETED PROJECT

Builder

Professional fees

Fixtures (inc joinery)

Kitchen

Sanitary ware

Extension doors

Landscaping

Finishes supply

VAT

Project costs include much more than just your builder’s price. Run Projects will help you manage ALL your project costs, ensuring you get best value from each. This allows you to focus your budget on the items that matter most, like your stunning new fireplace or fabulous kitchen.

we provide budgeting advice for a build, we always aim to include everything a client will need to consider, not just the build cost,” says Andy. “We will also highlight project-specific risks so that our clients are prepared both emotionally and financially. Weekly client update reports detail the progress of works undertaken and items agreed, including photographs, along with financials and any administration, such as issuing certificates.

“Some people want to manage their own build and this is fine. Our advice to anyone considering this is to ensure that

GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR BUILDING BUDGET WITH A PROJECT MANAGER• Appointing appropriate consultants

will mean paying the correct amount for the level of service you require.

• Cost engineering – your PM will advise on options and varying costs at each stage to help you focus your budget on what is most important to you.

• Managing a competitive tender – a structured tender pack will go out to a number of contractors to price on a like-for-like basis, with clarity on what is included and what is not, to set you in good stead for the construction phase.

• Advising on potential risks – an awareness of risks can help you to plan both emotionally and financially. Your PM can advise on appropriate contingencies.

• Managing the whole project budget, not just the build cost – allowing you

to maximise your budget and make informed decisions throughout your project.

• Sourcing best deals for client-supplied items, finding competitive quotes and passing on trade discounts.

• Negotiating with contractors to ensure that variation costs are justified and real and you only pay for those for which you are responsible.

• Managing the overall project duration to mitigate costly overruns and avoid stress.

• Managing client supply items to ensure they are in the right place at the right time to avoid delays.

• Consider the VAT status of your project – if there can be VAT saving on your build, a PM can introduce a VAT specialist with huge savings on some projects.

the project is set-up professionally, run a formal tender process and understand the full scope, risks involved and time required before committing to this decision. At Run Projects we want all of our clients to be fully prepared, whether we are managing their project or not.

Finishing touchesKate’s interior design contribution

has been highly successful and much in demand. “The client has full control of my hours so there are no surprises and there’s flexibility to make it a smooth, comfortable journey,” she explains. “I can be involved as much or as little as required and tailor my services to the client’s needs; it’s not ‘one size fits all’.” With a flat rate and no mark-ups, Kate echoes her colleagues with her honest, bespoke, transparent approach.

“With Run Projects you’re getting the best of all worlds. We’ll act as the single point of contact for you, but we’ll bring in the best and most appropriate designers and contractors for your project and budget. We’ll oversee the whole process and costs, so you can make informed decisions to get the most – and the best value – out of your build,” says Andy.

“THE RUN PROJECTS TEAM TOOK ALL THE STRESS OUT OF THE BUILDING PROJECT AND WERE A PLEASURE TO WORK WITH”

Photography: Chris Snook

Photography: Chris Snook


Store excess and outdated furniture, broken toys and any tatt off-site. Remember, viewers will want to look in the garage or loft cupboards so don’t just shove it in there so it falls out as soon as they open the door. If the house is hiding mess, they’ll wonder what else it’s hiding! Make sure everything is as tidy behind closed doors as what is on display.

CLINCH THE SALE

MOVE ON UPGeorgina Blaskey shares her top tips on how to clinch the sale of your home and move to pastures new

3

WHEN YOUR POTENTIAL BUYER WALKS UP TO YOUR HOUSE, NAIL THAT FIRST IMPRESSION BY ENSURING IT IS SHIP-SHAPE. HAVE THE WINDOWS CLEANED, MAKE SURE THE LIDS ARE ON THE BINS AT THE FRONT, KEEP A WINDOW BOX WELL STOCKED. INSIDE, GET THE CARPETS CLEANED AND KEEP PET AREAS SPOTLESS.

5

If you’ve made the decision to put a For Sale sign outside your door, it’s time to ensure your house looks as smart as it can to seduce that potential buyer. Shoving yesterday’s dirty socks under the bed isn’t going to cut it in today’s market. Your house needs to sell itself and that takes a bit of time and money on your part. Here are our top tips to seal the deal:

Make sure you’re happy with the estate agent’s photographs and they look as professional as possible. Your checklist should include whether the room looks bright enough, is the bed made, is the blind straight, is there any mess in view, are the pictures in focus, taken from the best angle, showing each room at its full potential?

Run Projects

If you’re going to update any room, choose the kitchen. It’s the most valuable room in the house (per square foot) and could swing the decision. Whether it’s a whole new fit-out or a lick of paint and fresh worktops, you could make your money back on the sale. So, what colour to choose? “Deep blue has become quite a trend,” says Vivienne Warman, Director of Kitchen Coordination. “Clients are moving away from the all-white kitchen that was popular a few years ago.” And what materials to use? Roundhouse says, “Highly textured, rough-sawn oak or river-washed walnut ply or bleached driftwood, are trending; use them in unusual combinations with hand-painted matt lacquer and beautiful natural stone.”

SHIP- SHAPE

7

6Tackle any unfinished DIY projects - get the shelves up, oil creaky hinges, fix dripping taps, replace cracked tiles, bleach any grouting, check every door handle turns, and make sure all light bulbs are working. It demonstrates you’ve cared for the property and are maintaining high standards for future owners.

Dermarta

Mascot

Get your house in order and give every room a purpose so it’s clear what the space has to offer. Put toys in the playroom or child’s bedroom, not randomly piled on the stairs; make the guest room presentable, not a dumping ground for excess clothes or furniture; keep desk areas ordered and sparse.

Cedar Bifold Company

Ayrton Bespoke

FIT FOR PURPOSE

Local Instagrammer Laura Smith

1

PICTURETHIS

Neutralise where possible – from patterned rugs to bright walls. It’s important viewers can imagine the space as what they want it to be, so while you may not need to do a full paint job from top to bottom, it’s worth calming down any loud interiors that might put buyers off. Phil Robinson of Paint The Town Green advises using the same wall colour on skirting boards and dado rails. “Using just one colour throughout can make the room appear larger and give the room a calming effect,” he says.

Paint The Town Green/Trinity Interior Design

2

4


WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN REDECORATING• Timing. Make sure that you schedule the work when

you can afford for rooms to be out of action and check how long it will take.

• Costs. Does the woodwork (skirting boards, windows, alcoves) need painting as well as the ceiling? Ask what’s included (not all quotes will include paint, for instance) and who is responsible for getting the paint.

• Nasty fumes. If you are using the rooms soon after, check the levels of fumes in the paint to avoid headaches.

• Making good. Be sure to add any new sockets, move lights or remove unwanted shelves before decorating. Making good afterwards can increase costs.

• Choosing your decorator. Check if they have insurance in case of an injury or accident. It’s wise to have more than just a mobile number so you can contact them should anything go wrong.

Source: Paint The Town Green

Remember all the obvious touches that can make a difference – the house should smell clean and lovely, beds must be made, fresh flowers should be dotted around, and coats and shoes must be tidied away.

WHEN VIEWERS COME, MAKE SURE CHILDREN AND PETS ARE OUT OF THE WAY! A SCREAMING CHILD ISN’T A GREAT SOUNDTRACK FOR LOOKING AROUND A HOUSE, AND A DOG JUMPING UP AT A POTENTIAL BUYER OR PADDING MUD AROUND THE HOUSE ISN’T CREATING THE RIGHT IMPRESSION EITHER.

8

9Mascot

Get planning permission for a loft, basement or extension. If you haven’t done the work yourself, buyers will be keen to see what they can get for their buck. It will show the massive potential of your property and take some of the hard work away from your potential buyer, which could lead to a quicker decision.

Sure Planning

Run Projects

Ayrton Bespoke

10

STYLE TO SELLThe housing market is tough, and buyers in short supply. Here’s how to secure that offer:

1. PresentationMaintenance work is key. Broken

fences, peeling windows and weed-

filled beds are bad first impressions.

2. Declutter It’s your home, now convince buyers

that it should be theirs. Use storage

for a limited time – it’s a small cost.

3. StylingKeep colour schemes subtle and

complementary through curtains

and soft furnishings, furniture

and flooring.

4. Lighting To set mood and ambience, the right

mix of ceiling, wall, floor and table

lamps can transform rooms.

5. Listen to your estate agent Good ones know the local market, and

do act on feedback - it’s not personal!

6. Professional helpExperienced interior designers have

contacts and trade discounts for

furniture and lighting rental, and can

commission decorators, electricians

and gardeners.

7. BudgetCosts associated with house sales are generally recouped with competitive offers.

8. RentingProspective tenants make better offers for better properties – good bathrooms, modern kitchens, tasteful colour schemes.

9. Picture thisThink of websites with gorgeous properties – now be that house!

Source: Clara Bee Limited

Scrutinise your home as an interior designer would do. Is there a dark corner that could benefit from a lamp or uplight? How about a large mirror in a hallway to bounce light around the narrow space? Are your scatter cushions tatty and in need of updating? Could a wall benefit from a picture or two? A few small touches can create a big impact when it comes to seducing potential buyers.

11 If you’re going to do it, do it right. Be true to the period of your home, particularly when replacing windows. Ayrton Managing Director Robert Ditcham has noted a positive trend in this regard, in the “level of accuracy in replication of the originals right down to copying detail such as the style of the sash horns in the street which of course vary enormously.” He says that replacing windows “has become an obvious progression of house refurbishment after the kitchen and bathrooms.”

12

Prepare a file on the local area for potential buyers. Include transport links, catchment areas for local schools, amenities and medical services. If your street has a strong sense of community, big it up! The annual street party, local firework display or high street fete is of real interest to many buyers who want to join a vibrant area as much as buy your property!

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FRESHFLOWERS

Mascot


1. Why should I buy from a recognised window and door specialist and not through my builder? Would you buy fish at the butchers? This is a specialist area, just like sourcing kitchens, bathrooms, heating and electrical solutions, or even swimming pools! You need to know what a product is capable of delivering for you, and for how long.

2. Replacement or refurbishment?It’s difficult to imagine how you can patch up something over 130 years old. Decay and

CONSIDERING NEW WINDOWS AND DOORS? Here’s what to ask… When thinking about any home refurbishment, take a moment to consider the windows and doors. They’re the nuts and bolts of a home and warrant time and investment. They play a crucial role in keeping heat in and crooks out, as well as being compatible with the style of your home. Robert Ditcham, founder of Ayrton Bespoke, has some good advice

BESPOKE PROMOTION www.ayrtonbespoke.com | 0208 877 8920glass and paint from the best producers in the world and employ first-class fitters to do a sympathetic and outstanding job in your home. If you are tempted by low prices, the reality is the product will not be able to do the job you are expecting it to do.

4. Should I visit a showroom or can I order online?To truly understand the extent and quality of Ayrton Bespoke’s range, it’s worth the short trip to our showroom in Wandsworth where our in-house experts can answer your questions and design your bespoke windows and doors. The rule of thumb is: if you haven’t seen it, don’t buy it. Would you buy a car without seeing it? It’s around the same price!

5. Isn’t it better for me to use a small, local joiner?Would you only buy a bathroom made in south-west London? Ayrton is a British business based in Wandsworth but with satisfied customers London-wide. This reach and capability provides scale to offer a comprehensive service from design through to aftercare - and to attract the best people. When we were small we were not as good as we are now!

6. Should I expect my windows to be guaranteed?All Ayrton windows and doors are guaranteed for up to 30 years. Remember, timber is a natural product and over time it will move or be moved. A scaled business with a professional aftercare team assures our customers they will always be in good hands.

7. How can windows and doors keep my property safe?Double-glazed windows are tougher than single-glazed and given a wide berth by society’s undesirables. Every window and door we sell has security in mind. All our products come fitted with insurance-backed locks.

8. When you say ‘bespoke’, can you do anything I need?Yes. From carefully replacing a one- piece, seven-casement Edwardian bay,

“Wow wow wow! The entire experience from survey, quotation, scheduling and the work has been professional and without fuss. The guys on site were polite, did an amazing job and left the place exactly as I would’ve hoped. The windows look amazing and I’m so pleased.”

“I can’t recommend this company highly enough. They are totally brilliant. We had three sash windows replaced and they are superbly made and fitted. Much quieter and smoother-operating than any windows we have ever had.”

“To say I’m pleased is an understatement! They are fantastic. The windows were in a real state with no sills. These are solid, soundproof and real quality, and have been expertly installed.”

to replicating a grand sash bay or installing stunning multi-fold doors, our team will meet the challenge with precision, accuracy and with the Ayrton quality guarantee.

9. Do you sell anything else?A slightly less known fact is that we sell plantation shutters. Perfect partners for our lovely windows!

10. How do I know you’re as good as you say you are?We try and let our customers answer that one! The truth is 20% of our business is from existing customers and another 20% is from referrals. Added to that, we have more positive Google reviews than any other London timber window and door company.

movement will compromise a job and leave it only half done. Rather like an old car, this option will keep costing you money. The best advice is to do nothing until you are in a position to do the job properly. So wait and then replace, don’t refurbish.

3. How do I know what to pay? I’ve had so many different quotesWe will match anyone on price. Our manufacturing base is in Lithuania where skills are high but rent and wages are low. We source top-quality, slow-growing, engineered redwood from Latvian forests, which means it’s stable, strong and resilient. We buy


ROOM MAKEOVERS

IMPROVE, DON’T MOVE

The combination of mortgage rates and stamp duty costs is pushing more families to upgrade their homes rather than move. And why not, when the scope to improve is immense, from lofts and basements to side returns, all of which have a transformative effect on your life and the final selling price, says Georgina Blaskey

Stanza Interior Design

Taking the stressful unknowns out of any building project is Simply’s aim, thanks to their extensive experience and client-focused approach, guiding clients through their projects via meetings, phone calls and a bespoke online dashboard, offering total transparency and tracking of a build.

Whether it’s your side return, loft or basement, the Simply team can deliver all three to equally high standards. For advice on which sliding doors to go for in your open-plan kitchen, the best underfloor heating system in a basement or whether a wet room is a good idea in a loft, Simply will outline the prices and pitfalls of everything, with the direct, considered approach their clients value.

BESPOKE PROMOTION

KEEPING IT SIMPLEwww.simplyconstructiongroup.co.uk | 0800 917 7571

WHY CHOOSE A DESIGN AND BUILD SPECIALIST?Just one company

With both design and construction in the hands of one firm, there is a single point of responsibility for quality, cost and keeping on schedule. Much more attention and care is usually taken when considering aspects such as pricing and scheduling in the design phase if the same team and company will be building your project.

Faster project completion

It will usually take longer and cost more to separate a project into design and building phases and have them managed by separate companies and contractors - especially when both a loft and ground floor extension or basement are being carried out at the same time - as there are more people, steps and payment requests required. With just one company in charge, materials can be ordered early in the process, enabling construction time to be minimised.

Quality control

When using a design and build specialist, quality control comes under the same umbrella, and runs from the start to the finish of a project. A streamlined process cuts out disputes between designers and builders and carries less risk for clients.

Fixed prices and clarity of costs

Cost information is developed in parallel with the preliminary design, and once established, the project team guides the design within the agreed budget constraints meaning no costly surprises.

Expertise

At Simply Construction Group, the architectural team in charge of designing to client briefs is licensed with formal architectural training and experience. They also understand the group’s pricing structure and will ensure the design does not exceed the fixed priced cost. So the cohesion of Simply Consturction Group’s umbrella offering, from planning and design to working with carefully vetted construction teams towards project completion, brings plans and designs to life.

Undertaking a building project of any size is a big commitment. It’s your home, your money and your time at stake and all deserve to be in safe hands. Enter Simply Construction Group – an extension, loft and basement design and build specialist managed by husband-and-wife team, Robert and Helen Wood, since 2007. They pride themselves on simplifying the building process for London families looking to improve their homes, with a strong emphasis on customer care


ROOM MAKEOVERS

PROJECT:

SIDE RETURNS

1. Go bold like this vast exposed wall and striking glass box, maximising light and height in a dramatic dining room - Run Projects 2. This large skylight has created an airy side return with sky views - Bygga3. By using an overhang from the level above, the owners could give shade to the garden and kitchen within - Bygga.

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“A SIDE RETURN INCREASES THE USEABLE SPACE IMMEASURABLY AND ADDS VALUE”

DERMARTA

The side return holds myriad opportunities for home renovation that will change your life. Without too much upheaval or time you can totally transform your space. Let the new room flow into your garden with matching levels and

sympathetic flooring and paving. It’s outdoor/indoor living nailed.

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MAINTENANCE / CONSTRUCTION / REFURBISHMENT

020 8682 [email protected] www.MULTIServe.co.uk

* Agreed on quoting, valid for a limited time only. Subject to terms and conditions

SPECIALOFFER

10% OFF *All INTERIOR HOUSE PAINTING

Quote M01When Booking.


4. The entire kitchen is housed within the side return footprint in this extension - Plus Rooms 5. The designers slotted the kitchen at the back, enabling the front living to flow into the garden - Plus Rooms 6 & 7. One long skylight opens up this compact but expertly designed side return - dRAW Architecture 8. A staggered side return extension can be eye-catching and free up patio space - Plus Rooms.

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THE CONUNDRUM OF THE REAR RECEPTIONOver the years, customers have shared their struggle to make the most of the rear reception once the kitchen has been extended. It’s easy to understand this concern as it’s typically the smallest and darkest room on the ground floor. It also has the most access points, from the entrance into the kitchen, off the hallway and often open-plan to the front room. Consequently, the room can become dead space, or a kind of glorified corridor.

An effective solution is a low wall to section off the entrance to the kitchen whilst leaving the top half open. This can be left as just an opening, or filled with a glass panel. As a result, a traffic zone through the reception room is removed and instead more wall expanse is created, making it a room in its own right. It also benefits the kitchen as the extra wall space offers more options for that room’s layout

and design. Win-win.

Source: Plus Rooms

[email protected] 8150 9567 www.empire-build.co.uk

Extensions | Lofts | Basements Renovations | Refurbishments Planning | Interior Design | Bespoke kitchens

© David Giles

© David Giles

C E D A Rbifold company

Contact us to arrange an appointment to visit our showroom at 5 Falcon Court, St Martin’s Way SW17 0JH - T: 020 8944 5523

[email protected] | @cedarbifold | @cedarbifold www.cedarbifoldcompany.com

TAKE A WIDER VIEW... by Cedar Bifold Company

Transform the look and feel of your home with sliding, bifold or French doors.For the minimal frames look consider slim line Air Aluminiumsliding or Empire bifold doors. The stylish Centor andOrigin doors complete our aluminium range.

If wood is your preference take a look at our western redcedar bifold, French and sliding doors manufactured andinstalled by the market leaders.

Visit our showroom just off Garratt Laneto see ALL our aluminium and cedar options.


ColoursThese will be bolder and more vibrant.

The greys and whites so loved by many are still there, but more dramatic colours, such as plums and purples, are making an appearance. Organic shades like orange, sage, petrol green and saffron yellow are becoming popular, and blues are set to be big news, from cobalt to teal to powder.

These new colours can be incorporated in different ways. For those feeling brave, the entire kitchen can be painted, but two-tone combinations remain strong and can be used to create zoning. Perhaps just the island or base units may be painted the bolder colour against a neutral scheme.

For a gentler nod to colour, pastels in rainbow shades are on the increase.

TextureVeneers, in particular dark ones, are a

trend to watch for, as well as more wood.

Industrial materials will remain popular – brass, copper, metal and concrete are still current along with metallics.

Combining familiar textures in unusual ways is a fresh approach you can expect to see more of, for example, matt and glossy surfaces, handle and handless units, contrasting wood and concrete. Through this styling you can create contemporary spaces with traditional features (sometimes called urban rustic), by combining a Shaker-style with stainless steel worktops, for example.

DesignOpen shelving is having a moment,

replacing traditional wall cabinets. Underlit with an LED strip, this is an effective way of showcasing more personal items and linking the kitchen to the rest of an open-plan living space.

Islands remain popular as an informal place for family dining and socialising

while entertaining. Housing warming drawers and worktop extractors, they are more easily incorporated than you may think and can revolutionise a space.

TechnologyAppliances continue to develop to be

even more high-tech and multi-functional. Boiling water taps and filtered water taps are virtually standard and extractors have improved immeasurably, with powerful, easy-to-install models on worktops requiring no ducts, now a viable and affordable option. Integrating music and lighting within a kitchen is popular as are dedicated charging points and hidden TVs that pop up when required.

Kitchen Connections can accommodate varying budgets between £15-45,000, and with a free design service, a German manufactured product and in-house installers, you can be sure of a smooth transition from planning to finish.

BESPOKE PROMOTION

THE HUB OF THE HOME Kitchen Connections in Earlsfield has a well-earned reputation for creating beautiful bespoke kitchens that provide families with the perfect central hub for their home. Known for sourcing top-of-the-range cabinetry and cutting-edge appliances from global suppliers, owner Anna Sadej has a keen eye for materials, colours and textures and strives to provide a smartly curated range to her clients. We spoke to her about the latest trends to look out for in 2018/19

www.kitchenconnections.co.uk | 020 8947 6180

“COMBINING FAMILIAR

TEXTURES IN UNUSUAL WAYS

IS A FRESH APPROACH”

“THE LINE BETWEEN KITCHEN AND LIVING

ROOM HAS ALL BUT DISAPPEARED”

PROJECT:

KITCHENS

The heart of the home continues to house the biggest design trends – our love of metals, our yearning for texture, our forays into lighting, our favourite colour palettes; they all magnificently collide in this epicentre. Nowhere else does technology and taste sit side by side. In 2018 anything goes - mix your steel and copper, use luxe fabrics on bar stools, combine opposing materials and watch your main living space evolve. No longer is the kitchen simply about cooking. “These days the line between kitchen and living room has all but disappeared with creature comforts like sofas and the TV nestling snugly in the kitchen space,” says Anna Sadej, owner of Kitchen Connections. “The current trend is towards an open-plan and free-flowing room that blends seamlessly into the living room, inviting people to move easily around the space while engaging with the cooking process.”

Espresso Design


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1. This kitchen was made using recycled metal and industrial fittings - dRAW Architecture. 2. Larder cupboards are easier to access than big pull out drawers - Run Projects. 3. Island cloaked in brass contrasts with classic, handle-less white kitchen - Eclectic Interiors. 4. For social entertaining put the hob on the island - Simply Construction. 5. Maximise the island’s usage with built-in shelving - Hub Kitchens.

“Warming drawers are great for proving bread and Miele’s Souz Chef ESW6229 gives that extra height required for larger bakes. It heats to 85 degrees so can also be used for slow cooking making it a multifunctional appliance” Hub Kitchens


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6. Different level worktops in alternative finishes help zone an island - Hub Kitchens. 7. White Corian work surface, deep blue units and warm wood back wall - Kitchen Coordination. 8. Position your eating area nearest the garden - Kitchen Connections. 9. Shaker-style kitchen in a rear extension from Zenico. 10. The trend for mixed materials is going nowhere - Eclectic Interiors.

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“USE LUXURIOUS METAL WRAPS WHICH ARE REFLECTIVE, RICH, HAVE DEPTH AND TEXTURE”

ROUNDHOUSE

DESIGNING A FAMILY KITCHEN• The kitchen is the epicentre of the house so consider

this when designing your space

• An L-shape or island allows access from all sides and can be multi-functional - a snack bar, a dining table or homework area.

• If the safety of young children and a clear cooking area are paramount, opt for a U-shaped or peninsula-style layout. Raising the oven to eye-level is safer and better for your back too! Induction hobs look elegant and have safety locks, no flame and the surface stays cool while cooking.

• The choice of worktop is key. Porous surfaces like wood and natural stone can be very difficult to clean while Quartz, Corian and Porcelain are hard-wearing, stain resistant and easy to wipe. Doors and drawers are best in a matt finish to avoid fingerprints.

• If you cook for large groups, an extra oven and a warmer drawer are invaluable. Boiling water taps are excellent time savers.

Source: Kitchen Connections

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Making South LondonKitchensstand out from thecrowd

Specialising in Rational Italian Designed German Built Kitchens.

0208 958 6262Email: [email protected]


11. Use a patterned material to make your island a focal point - Roundhouse. 12. Frosted glass, pull-down shutter style and solid finishes all work well together - Kitchen Connections. 13. Clever door panels leave a neat finish on wall cabinetry - Roundhouse.

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THE ISLANDThe island continues to be a major feature in modern kitchens and whether it is large or small you need to decide how it’s going to be used.

If you have a sink on the island you do not want it covered in washing up products. It is best to use a base unit with special sink base drawers, as these will give you easy and flexible access to cleaning products and keep your island clear.

If you have your hob on the island use the new generation integrated extractor hobs such as BORA. Induction hobs are the best for this and, with a central extractor set into the hob, are designed to pull the cooking smells and moisture down rather than up. The best brands work well ducted out or when recirculating through a filter. This has the extra advantage of having clear space over your island and an unobstructed view of the room.

Source: Eclectic Interiors

espressoespressolive cook sleep

120 Church StreetBo Kaap Cape Town+ 27 21 422 5283

149 St Johns HillLondon SW11 1TQ0207 078 9912

Design Centre Chelsea HarbourLondonSW10 0XE0207 078 9912

[email protected]

World_of_Interior_ad_Espresso_20170811.indd 1 2018/01/30 11:51 AM


PROJECT:PROJECT:

OPEN-PLAN BROKEN- PLAN

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1. Interior Crittal doors subtly section off another room in this large living space - Roundhouse. 2. Different levels, a glass half-height wall and a built-in dresser divide this beautifully designed space - Granit. 3. Exposing the staircase in this townhouse creates flow while adding interest - Dyer Grimes Architecture. 4. A sculptural screen is one of the most decorative and gentle ways to divide a space - Lee Borthwick. 5. An interior lightwell breaks up this space laterally and vertically - RDA Architects (photo: Simon Maxwell).

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1. Different ceiling finishes help separate the purpose of each area of this extension - Roundhouse. 2. Matching furniture helps unite aspects of this enormous room - Ensoul. 3. Use furniture to zone a space; even this vast room has self-contained areas - Granit Architecture.


PROJECT:

BASEMENTS

Today, the humble basement has been elevated far beyond a space for wine storage and junk so if you’re going to do it, think big. ”Don’t just create storage but make it habitable,” says Steve McStea of Pro-Dry. “Waterproof it with a membrane system and then it’s classified as a habitable space and adds to the value of your property.” Qualitas agrees: “What would once be considered a luxury is now de rigueur in a family home,” says director Jonathan Woodcock. And the sky’s the limit for what the space can be used for. “Within our basements we are increasingly creating invaluable extra space, for cinema/media rooms, gyms, games rooms as well as the necessary utility and plant rooms,” says fellow Qualitas Director Nick Woodworth. Dyer Grimes

1. By extending into the garden, this basement is flooded with light through a glass ceiling - Dyer Grimes Architecture. 2. Crittall doors flood daylight into this lightwell - Granit Architecture.

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BASEMENTS, AND SOME…When designed and built in conjunction with ground floor extensions, basement projects save time and money. There are no missed opportunities when the ground and basement are designed as one. Often we can create a WC and boot room on the ground floor to enhance everyday life, and gain space in your kitchen by creating a utility-come-kitchenette in the basement.

70% of our basement projects involve us simultaneously building rear extensions, thereby improving safety and allowing us to seamlessly sequence the processes. Many side returns are now being revisited as they were done on a low budget without thought of any future improvements. Now, effective design looks at the way the property works as a whole, rather than just the increase in square footage.

Source: Advantage Basements


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63. Bar, billiards and cinema room - Ensoul. 4. Plenty of chill-out space and stairs to the garden - Estbury. 5. In basement corridors keep lighting interesting - Stanza Interior Design. 6. Games rooms are perfect for basements, loved by kids and adults alike - Ensoul.


Walk the streets of Nappy Valley on any given day of the year and you can’t help but spot a few familiar grey and pink hoardings from local favourite Estbury. Over the past 10 years, the basement firm has built a strong reputation - along with a fair number of basements - in this area, and is the go-to company for many neighbourhood homeowners. Despite their success, co-founders Richard Peel and Danny Preater remain at the helm of every project they take on, from initial consultation and design through to the final fit-out and aftercare. “We are on the end of the phone whenever our clients need us, it’s at the heart of what we do,” explains Richard, who

DISCOVER THE WORLD BENEATH YOUR FEET Reveal the potential underneath your property with Estbury, a full service basement conversions company specialising in design, excavation, construction, new build, waterproofing and fit-outs

oversees the commercial side of the business while Danny, who has over 25 years’ experience in underpinning and basement construction, is responsible for the construction division. “Our clients continuously see us throughout the build,” reinforces Danny. “We’re there every step of the way.”

Initial consultation will lead to design ideas that fulfil their client’s expectations. “At our first meeting we’ll discuss what you need. Do you have a wine collection? Are there teenagers to accommodate? Do you work from home and need an office? Or an annex for the nanny? We’ll give you different options to cover different budgets. We quote a fixed

BESPOKE PROMOTION www.estbury.com | 0800 009 6644

ESTBURY’S SERVICE INCLUDES:Free consultationAn initial meeting to discuss the project with Richard and Danny, covering all options, with a quote submitted within two working days.

DesignA highly experienced design team including architects, engineers and interior designers can offer any level of design input you require to create your perfect basement.

Health & safetyIn-house health & safety managers oversee all projects.

ConstructionDanny oversees all construction and is regularly on-site, drawing on his 25 years’ underpinning and basement construction experience.

WaterproofingQualified installers of Delta Membrane Systems and Pumps, the leading manufacturer of waterproofing systems and one of the main suppliers to the basement industry. Delta offers a 30-year guarantee on all of their membrane systems.

Fit-outA dedicated fit-out team will finish your basement to your specification and the highest possible standard.

Insurance and guaranteeWe have the highest level of insurance cover, including employers’ and public liability.

“WE ARE ON THE END OF THE PHONE

WHENEVER OUR CLIENTS NEED US, IT’S AT THE HEART OF WHAT WE DO”price for construction and have our own

experienced design team of architects and engineers if you require them – although we’re happy to work alongside other professionals you may have in mind.”

It’s the partnership between Estbury and their clients, and the trust it generates, that has cemented the firm’s reputation and established them as part of the neighbourhood (a role they value through the sponsorship of Northcote Road’s annual Christmas trees and the Northcote Road summer fete, among other initiatives). “We maintain openness and transparency at every stage, but it’s during the fit out that the client is most involved and that’s when communication is key,” says Danny. “With a highly experienced design team around us, a proven and established construction team and a fit-out arm to match, we believe we can accommodate any basement build or conversion requirement in or around London,” confirms Richard.


7. Full access to the garden complete with living wall - Dyer Grimes. 8. Bifold doors flood light into the basement - Advantage Basements.

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BASEMENT CHOICESConverting a damp and frankly useless cellar makes perfect sense. Choose from:

1. Dry storage (typical cost £15-25k). This is a matter of tanking with a high pressure waterproof render system, then adding light, heat and shelving.

2. Functional rooms such as a wine cellar, utility room, shower room or similar (typical cost £45-65k). This involves minor excavations, waterproofing and drainage, then fitting out a habitable room with lighting, heating and furniture.

Source: Pro-Dry

“BASEMENT GAMES ROOMS ARE NOT JUST FOR KIDS BUT FOR GROWN-UPS TO PLAY AND PARTY”

ENSOUL


THE BASEMENT REVOLUTION CONTINUES WITH BIGGER, BRIGHTER ROOMS, EXTRAORDINARY LIGHTWELLS AND BOLDER DECOR

9. Award-winning, double-height Balham basement - Advantage Basements. 10. Sleek, all-white basement kitchen with on-trend Crittall doors - Simply Basements. 11. Up the glam stakes with a night-time bar - Clara Bee.

WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN APPOINTING A BASEMENT CONTRACTOR • Appoint a well-established

basement specialist

• Ensure they have the correct basement insurance

• Ensure they are approved waterproofing installers

• Confirm a 5-10 year build guarantee

• Check memberships and credentials

• View previous projects

• Ask for references

• Obtain a fixed price contract

• Confirm reputation as a considerate contractor

Source: Estbury

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12. Vast glass doors, an enlarged patio space and stacked storeys create a dramatic extension - RDA Architects (photo: Simon Maxwell). 13. An unusual run of bifold doors - Advantage Basements. 14. The basement becomes a cinema and games room - Barbara Genda Bespoke Furniture. 15. A tree in a lightwell adds a focal point and natural light to a basement - Minale + Mann.

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PROJECT:

LOFTSA good loft conversion doesn’t make you feel like you’re stuck in the eaves and what can be achieved is surprising. Master suites are popular, with en-suite and dressing rooms truly viable and opulent. Clever tiling can transform a compact corner into a luxe bathroom, and under those sloping ceilings lie storage and work space opportunities not to be missed. “Many Londoners are choosing to work from home and need a quiet space away from the heart of the home downstairs,” says Helen Wood of Simply Loft. If possible, add in a roof terrace or floor-to-ceiling windows to capture incredible skyline views.

Free-standing bath exudes luxury, especially when they have a view - Run Projects.

bpm

28-30 Lavender Hill, Battersea, SW11 5RN 020 7738 9475

KITCHENS

DESIGN SUPPLY FITTING

BATHROOMSRENOVATIONS

Kitchens & Bathrooms

www. [email protected]

www. [email protected]


1. Plenty of light floods into this children’s loft bedroom - Ensoul. 2. Clever storage in a confined space helps a small bathroom fulfil its potential - Simply Loft. 3. A feature wall and bags of storage make for a striking and practical bedroom - Barbara Genda Bespoke Furniture.

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“LOFT CONVERSIONS MAKE PERFECT DUAL PURPOSE ROOMS, FOR A GUEST BEDROOM OR WORK SPACE”

SIMPLY LOFT

CONVERTING YOUR LOFT – THE CHECKLIST1. Do you own the freehold?

A surprisingly common situation in London, particularly in cases of top floor flats where the roof spaces are not owned as part of the freehold. This must be purchased before a loft can be converted.

2. Is there enough ceiling height?

For a loft to be converted and pass building regulations, you will need a minimum of 2.2 metres from the floor joist to the highest point.

3. Stair access

It is important to think where the staircase to your new loft room will be placed. There must also be at least 1.9 metres of headroom for the stairs with a maximum of a 42 degree pitch.

4. Conservation area

If you live in a conservation area or in a listed building, there will be certain restrictions on what will pass through planning permission.

Source: Simply Loft

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4. Loft bathrooms need not be pokey - Qualitas. 5. Well-planned lighting and an inviting gas fire bring warmth and cosiness to this loft bedroom - Run Projects. 6. A useful work space and library - Plus Rooms.

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0208 772 8191 | [email protected] | www.khil.co.uk

KITCHENS | BATHROOMS | REFURBISHMENTS | HANDYMAN

“The service is always efficient, reliable and high quality. All the staff are highly skilled, friendly and polite”.

James, Ouseley Road SW12

IT’S ALL

IN THE

DETAIL

020 8682 [email protected] www.bellevuebespoke.co.uk


PROJECT:

BEDROOMS

1. This restful bedroom is pale and interesting all the way - Bygga. 2. A warm colour palette, padded headboard and upholstered chairs channel a luxury hotel bedroom - Ensoul. 3. Emphasise tall ceilings with sculptural light fittings - Dyer Grimes Architecture. 4. Clean, crisp furnishings with a splash of bright work well in a guest room - Plus Rooms. 5. Cement and solid wood for a pared-down Scandi look - Allford Hall Monaghan Morris Architects. (photo: Rory Gardiner). 6. Minimalist look in cool grey with warm wood flooring - Minale + Mann. 7. Downlighters over the dressing table and recessed lighting over the bed brighten this elegant bedroom - Multiserve.

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5Recreating boutique hotel chic at home shows no signs of waning - Soho House has launched an interiors line on the back of their members’ love of hotel glamour. How you replicate this is not limited to one style - from pale simplicity to traditional elegance, riots of colour and pattern to restful natural tones, this is your private space to make your own. Mirrored wardrobes enlarge and lighten, accent chairs turn a bedroom into a suite, and upholstered headboards cement the room’s luxurious status.

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PROJECT:

KIDS’ BEDROOMS

Fun times are to be had in children’s bedrooms. Our favourite design touch has to be the mid-sleepers that combine climbing upstairs to bed with wonderful storage options. Bedrooms are great spaces in which children can truly express themselves and showcase their passions - it doesn’t have to be naff. From football murals for sports junkies to cloudy skies for day-dreamers, let them inspire you and allow all your imaginations to run wild!

Greta bed - Loaf

Not only do you need an en-suite bathroom but a walk-in wardrobe and dressing room is de rigueur nowadays. Cabinetmakers are busy creating the luxe look with high-end joinery to neatly store clothes, accessories and footwear. Remember to plan enough space to dress and, of course, a blank wall to install a full-length mirror. 8. Dressing room behind sliding doors from Granit Architecture. 9. Mirrored cupboard drawers in this dressing room from Qualitas. 10. Floor lighting detail and high-end cabinetry create an elegant walk-in dressing room, from Barbara Genda Bespoke Furniture.

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1. In a small space a mid-sleeper is the perfect storage and sleeping solution - Stanza Interior Design. 2. Create interest on their walls with two-toned paintwork - Stanza Interior Design. 3. Bold colours work in this light-filled loft bedroom - Qualitas. 4. An ideal wallpaper for all dinosaur lovers - Clara Bee. 5. Playhouse, slide, bed and storage in one - this tree house in the clouds is every child’s dream - By Ensoul. 6. Stylish wallpaper in bold brights works well in a child’s room - Dyer Grimes Architecture. 7. Feel free to encourage their inner Van Gogh with this colour-in wallpaper – By Ensoul. 8. Vintage wallpaper leaves on this metallic tree makes a charming mural for this baby’s bedroom - Emma Green Design 9. A small, long room benefits from a mid-sleeper - Good London Builders 10. Bring their passions home with bespoke artwork - By Ensoul. 11. A small window seat has library corner appeal - Eclectic Interiors.

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PROJECT:

BATHROOMS

1. Industrial chic comes to a bathroom with vintage mirrors, concrete walls and Crittall-style doors - Dyer Grimes Architecture. 2. The combination of marble, wood and slate tiling in this bathroom creates a dream space to escape the city - Norstone. 3. Free-standing baths exude luxury and self-indulgence - Ensoul. 4. Traditional fixtures and fittings suit Victorian homes between the commons well - Granit.

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“PEOPLE ARE LOOKING TO REFRESH THEIR HOMES; EITHER DECORATING THROUGHOUT, INSTALLING STATEMENT LIGHTING IN KEY AREAS OR BY UPDATING THEIR BATHROOMS AND KITCHENS”

MULTISERVE

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Design services, Free delivery, Full range of brands

10-11 Ascot Parade, Clapham Park Road, SW4 7EY0203 829 8101

Showroom opening times:Mon to Fri 9am – 5.30pm

Sat 10am – 3pmOut of hours by appointment only.

[email protected]


Our love of free-standing baths has evolved into decadent ovals and you don’t need a huge room to indulge - from lofts to en-suite to bedroom corners, these bathing beauties are everywhere. Marble is the popular choice in bathrooms, with mosaic squares and textured rectangles a favoured alternative to tiling. Small spaces are getting the full-on treatment too, and downstairs loos are the

ideal spot to let your inner exhibitionist out.

5. Make your downstairs loo into a magical throne room - Good London Builders. 6. Herringbone tiling, a free-standing bath and textured curtain create a sophisticated bathroom - dRAW Architecture. 7. Floor-to-ceiling marble looks smart, fresh and elegant - dRAW Architecture. 8. Lightwell above the shower floods it with light - Red Box.

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“We are very pleased with the work completed by Hamilton Bathrooms. All work was carried out to a high standard of care and attention to detail. We would be

very happy to recommend them to anyone.”

-Nichola

Www.hamiltonbathrooms.london

We are specialists in installing luxury designer bathrooms across London and Surrey


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OUTSIDE SPACE

A tufty lawn with a lonely swing is a wasted opportunity. Reframe your garden as the final room in your house and give it the attention you would your kitchen or bedroom. Interesting lighting, banquette seating and stylish paving are good starting points, then dress it up with planting and accessorise with fire pits, home office or teenage pad, children’s play areas and even sculpture. “Bespoke garden rooms allow people to have their own gyms, offices or even peace and quiet by having a second play room/den for their children and friends,” says Dan Harwood of the Cedar Bifold Company.

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1. Soften glass balustrades with gentle planting - Dyer Grimes Architecture.2. Paint your woodwork in muted colours to match your paving and decking - Harrington Porter. 3. An extra room in the garden for work or play - Cedar Bifold Company. 4. Refresh your garden furniture with something contemporary and comfortable - Jo Alexander. 5. Make space for the little ones - The Playhouse Company. 6. Light-up swing for night-time fun-SAAS.


7. Multiple seating areas are ideal for outdoor entertaining - Harrington Porter. 8. Store cushions and playthings neatly in bespoke outdoor cupboards - Harrington Porter. 9. A vertical living wall creates a stunning outlook - Dyer Grimes Architecture. 10. An elegant hot tub on its own decking – Bowles & Wyer. 11. This sunken self-contained children’s play area makes great use of a lightwell - Harrington Porter.

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C E D A Rbifold company

Contact us to arrange an appointment to visit our showroom at 5 Falcon Court, St Martin’s Way SW17 0JH - T: 020 8944 5523

[email protected] | @cedarbifold | @cedarbifold www.cedarbifoldcompany.com

GARDENROOMSby Cedar Bifold Company

Why move when you can install an extra room?• 2 styles to choose from• From size 2400 by 2400 and up• No planning permission required in most cases• All year use - fully insulated wall /

roof panel system SIPS• Six standard sizes available with

bespoke sizes obtainable on request


BESPOKE

LIKE NOTHING ELSE

More and more homeowners are turning their backs on off-the-shelf items in favour of hand-crafted bespoke pieces to fill their lovingly restored homes, says Gillian Upton

Bespoke bookcase from By Ensoul

“JUST ONE BEAUTIFUL BESPOKE ITEM CAN MAKE A ROOM LIGHT UP, SEVERAL CAN BE JAW- DROPPING”

Unique furniture & lighting, handcrafted in London

Bespoke design service also available

020 7738 2105 | www.blackbird-london.com | [email protected]

Visit our boutique showroom, open 7 days a week: 2 Ashness Road, Battersea, SW11 6RY


“NOTHING’S STRAIGHT IN A VICTORIAN HOUSE BUT THEN THAT’S MUCH MORE FUN THAN A NEW BUILD”

Bespoke upcycled table and light from John Osborn Design

Bespoke desk from Stanza Interior Design

An on-site chippie can turn his hand to most carpentry jobs when an off-the-shelf item doesn’t perfectly fill an awkward sized gap in a kitchen or bedroom, so common in Victorian and Edwardian homes where walls are often not quite straight.

“Returns in Victorian homes on either side of the fireplace don’t always match,” observes Vicki Wharton of Balance Designs, “and very often there isn’t a product on the market in non-standard sizes, but a carpenter can create cost effective wardrobes on-site.”

And so the bespoke market was spawned, with the builders’ project scope listing

various odd-shaped voids to be filled with kitchen cabinets, kitchen islands, bookshelves, wardrobes, under stairs cupboards and desks.

Half of renovations company Red Box jobs include bespoke joinery. “It’s usually bathroom cabinets, kitchen islands and bedroom wardrobes when a bespoke space has to be filled, or a bespoke finish is required such as grooves or patterns,” explains MD Barny Robinson.

“Nothing’s straight in a Victorian house but then that’s much more fun than a new build,” he adds.

Doing an IKEA-hack is one thing but

FURNITURE - GOING BESPOKECompare your furniture buying to clothes shopping:

• High street: For convenience, value, trend and volume. Great when you need fast delivery but higher value items like sofas and beds are often made to order and take longer.

• Designer: When you feel like treating yourself to a beautifully designed product or a classic design icon.

• Tailor-made: When you’ve seen a product range by a designer, retailer or bespoke furniture maker that you would like made-to-measure by the vendor who holds the copyright.

• Bespoke: For those who appreciate the creativity that bespoke designers can offer by producing a statement piece of furniture akin to art. And for when you crave the functionality and practicality that bespoke storage solutions offer.

No longer just for hotels and celebrities, bespoke kitchens, cabinetry and furniture is a burgeoning trend.

Why go bespoke?

• Originality: one-of-a-kind pieces.

• Flexibility: unconstrained design parameters, extensive choice of materials, colours and finishes.

• Space optimisation: made-to-measure solutions - both fitted and free-standing - save space and look sleeker.

• Furnitecture: interesting pieces that combine architecture and furniture eg. room dividers and bedheads.

• Craftsmanship: hand-picked, hand-made materials always look and feel better.

Source: By Ensoul

Handcrafted mirror and console table by Blackbird London


the top end of the market has responded differently to bespoke. Here, demand is for top craftspeople to create beautiful items that shout quality through and through. It might be one-off pieces of solid wood furniture, stunningly-veined marble tables to sit 20 diners, vast walk-in dressing rooms

carved from beautiful chocolate-coloured walnut, glitzy, back-lit bars, stand-alone broken-plan room dividers that double as media walls, and so on. The sky’s the limit, and so is the budget needed to create them.

“Anything bespoke is generally more expensive,” says Kenelm Cornwall-Legh of Run

Projects. “But if the budget isn’t there clients can fit something less expensive and replace it later when they’re in a position to do so.”

What’s key is that bespoke often requires a different skillset. “You may need a cabinetmaker; it’s horses for courses,” says Vicki. Fitting a one-off piece of Cararra

Bespoke bookshelves with cabinets of hanging files, from Stanza Interior Design

“DEMAND IS HIGH FOR MEDIA WALLS, TO CONCEAL THE TVS AND OTHER MEDIA EQUIPMENT”

Bespoke FurnitureKitchens

Wardrobes

Dressing Rooms

Bars

Cinema Rooms

Desks & Offices

Libraries

Storage Cabinetry

Furniture

Telephone: 020 3637 0700 Email: [email protected]

Web: ensoul.co.uk/furnitureWandsworth Common, London

Ensoul NVGuide Advert 2018.qxp_Layout 1 02/02/2018 22:41 Page 2


marble from Tuscany is very different to laying a tiled surface.

Such is the demand for bespoke that many companies are launching bespoke individual pieces. Stanza Interior Design, for example, produces marble coffee tables with wooden bases and delicate hairpin legs in any size. “There’s an element of wanting items Made In Britain but bespoke gets you the perfect fit, plus people don’t want anything that everyone else has,” says Thea Ingrams, Director of Stanza Interior Design.

Stanza has recently made cupboards with hanging files in a basement study in a Fulham townhouse and, for the same client, a

lacquered desk with tapered legs to match the wall colour of the room, the warm, dark grey tones of Farrow & Ball’s Mole’s Breath. In a house south of the river there are banquettes in the kitchen with storage underneath.

Thea reckons that once you start down the bespoke route it’s tricky to mix and match but that, “even if you aren’t a money-no-object client it’s still affordable to get one bespoke item.”

Ensoul has just launched a new company, By Ensoul, to deliver bespoke cabinetry and furniture to clients. Bookcases, benches, kitchens, furniture, cabinetry, wardrobes, storage space and headboards are among items made to date, with kitchens by far the biggest area of demand, says owner Viki Lander.

Recent orders have included a hand-made kitchen, integrated dog beds in a utility room, a marble staircase, a free-standing storage and desk unit, solid onyx bar, a 3.5m-long marble table, a tree-shaped bookcase in a master bedroom, a hand-picked marble splashback in a kitchen, and a formal sitting room incorporating an electric fire with a video of flames and soundtrack of crackle to make it feel, sound and look real. Yes, really.

Bespoke, mixed-materials kitchen from Granit Architecture

Bespoke blinds from London Curtain Girls

“Kitchen companies can be so restrictive,” says Viki. “They use a colour palette exclusive to their company so it means that clients wanting to bring one colour through a space can’t achieve that with an off-the-shelf kitchen.

“They also restrict door design and finishes. Clients don’t necessarily want a spray lacquer finish, they want more flexibility - of materials, of colour and of sizes.”

Clients often want a top-end kitchen but the budget doesn’t quite stretch, so this is when bespoke can pay homage to the same look without the sting in the pocket.

Viki also stresses that bespoke doesn’t automatically mean fitted. For wardrobes and storage may be, where the need is for a sleek appearance and to maximise space, but she recently designed a stand-alone, blackened armoire for coats in a client’s hallway and a free-standing combined storage and desk unit.

Handcrafted metal furniture and lighting is the specialism of local firm Blackbird London, which has witnessed a growing trend for key pieces in the home. “We have seen a greater demand for console and coffee tables over the last six months,” says Founder and Creative Director Maggie Calmels. “Customers

can make their purchases individual by choosing metal textures, unusual surface finishes and table tops.”

Aside from free-standing items, bespoke storage is where most carpenters and cabinetmakers spend most of their time. “Clients are always looking to use those nooks and crannies, every inch of space, for storage,” says Kenelm. His favourite solution is drawers that slide under the stairs, making good use of otherwise dead space. He also cites the void over a loft staircase - a space he used in his own home to create a drinks cabinet – and banquette seating in a kitchen/dining room as other useful storage spaces.

Bespoke media walls are gaining in popularity too; somewhere to store a TV, all the ugly cables, a sound system, space for a display area and with hidden lighting to add

“Expect to pay anything from £1,000 to £2,500 + VAT per linear metre of fitted furniture across a wall, depending on the quality, design, spec, materials and configuration, and the brand of a supplier”

Barbara Genda Bespoke Furniture

Bridging the gap between carpentry and interior design

0 2 0 7 9 2 4 7 2 7 6W W W . G W C A B I N E T R Y . C O M

Balance Design Ltd London

Affordable Interior Design Without The Attitude

Packages from £150

Interior design one room at a time from style & colour advice to project management.

balancedesign.co 07961 068243


Bespoke kitchen island from Red Box

“BESPOKE STORAGE IS WHERE MOST CARPENTERS AND CABINETMAKERS SPEND MOST OF THEIR TIME. CLIENTS ARE ALWAYS LOOKING TO USE THOSE NOOKS AND CRANNIES, EVERY INCH OF SPACE, FOR STORAGE”

Bespoke lighting by Balance Design

Bespoke alcove shelves and cabinets from GW Cabinetry

drama. “They are really in demand now,” says Gary Worth of GW Cabinetry. Bridging the gap between carpentry and interior design, his company combines traditional carpentry and joinery techniques with cutting-edge design technology, “and my own spin on things,” he explains. Extra details might be extra moulding or door knob detail.

Bellevue Bespoke also build ‘special’ carpentry items when, “off the shelf options are not suitable.” Demand is high for media walls, “to conceal the TVs and other media equipment”, as well as modern Shaker-style kitchens.

There are an increasing number of bespoke suppliers, including architects who are extending their remit to meet demand. RDA Architects’ Associate James Henderson explains: “We think this is definitely becoming more of a trend in the private house market, with clients less likely to go to showrooms and pick off-the-shelf items. We find we’re sourcing more and more products from overseas now too, (particularly Italy, Germany, Portugal and Demark), in order to give a more unique feel, whereas the hand-crafted items and skills are sourced locally.”

RDA is not beyond hacking IKEA wardrobes and kitchens, but spend a lot of

time finding the right door handles and lights, down to sanitary ware and WC flush plates.

“A more extreme project we’re working on just now has bespoke precast concrete walls, staircases, glass roofs, swimming pool, lifts…though this is an example with a large budget.”

Just one beautiful bespoke item can make a room light up, several can be jaw- dropping. They are investment pieces built to last, wherever you may move to next.


MAKING ROOMGeorgina Blaskey presents storage solutions to make the most of every nook and cranny and to ensure your home stays clutter-free

STORAGE SOLUTIONS

Gone are the days of one-size-fits-all storage. From hallways to corner cupboards, hidden bars to disappearing desks, you can clear away clutter, disguise debris and give a place to everything with these bespoke storage solutions.

DEALING WITH DAY-TO-DAY MESS

Under the stairs is ideal for shoes. Create rows of built-in racks so each family member can have their own section. Free-standing hallway furniture with lots of little drawers is a good place for gloves, hats, earmuffs, sunglasses - whatever you need when dashing out of the front door.

Under the stairs sliding drawers are a fantastic use of an awkward space and can be big enough for wellies, school bags and even suitcases.

Pegs, racks and shelves are a good option for easy access to coats and bags. Consider design-friendly displays for straw baskets and hats, and upholstered benches for a useful perch when taking shoes off.

From sneaked-in dog beds to wall-mounted bikes, utility rooms aren’t just about the washing machine and some drying racks. Storage works just as hard here. You won’t regret investing in bespoke, built-in units for white goods and footwear, or open shelves for linen (or the dog!).

A secret room to house the essentials is a fantastic way to disguise the daily household grind.

SECRET SOLUTIONS IN LIVING AREAS

It’s great to entertain in your living room without having to keep dashing to the kitchen. Hidden bars are becoming more and more popular - just add glass shelves and

mirrored backs, essential for barfly glamour. If you need to work occasionally in your

living space, a fold-up desk that disappears into built-in storage is the perfect solution. Bespoke cupboards holding hanging files and box files are worth the investment to keep living areas clutter-free.

“FREE-STANDING HALLWAY FURNITURE WITH LOTS OF LITTLE DRAWERS IS A GOOD PLACE FOR GLOVES, HATS, EARMUFFS, SUNGLASSES”

Ensoul

MUM’S THE WORD BELOW GROUNDIt’s becoming more commonplace to want to create space for extended family members in a new basement, with both practical and financial benefits for the whole family.

The high cost of homes combined with the cost of moving - especially stamp duty - and the added uncertainty of Brexit and difficult lending factors, are making it expensive and risky for people to move house. When you consider the potential problems of two sales at the same time, the issues become two-fold.

So, although it wouldn’t be everyone’s first choice to live with the mother-in-law there are benefits for all sides: on-site babysitting for the young family and on-hand help and support for the elderly family member, both of which create a closer and stronger extended family unit. Of course there is also the added financial benefit of passing on some of the inheritance early.

Source: Empire Build

Media units can hide every DVD and gaming console with ease - or go for open shelving with funky lighting to display some of your favourite objects.

If you have open-plan kitchen/living space, look at unusual kitchen storage such as wall-mounted box shelves or a book rack. Both make it easy to grab what you need. If the children use the kitchen table for art, messy play or homework, it’s worth considering bespoke cupboards to store paint pots and scrap books in an accessible way.

“MEDIA UNITS CAN HIDE EVERY DVD AND GAMING CONSOLE WITH EASE - OR GO FOR OPEN SHELVING WITH FUNKY LIGHTING TO DISPLAY SOME OF YOUR FAVOURITE OBJECTS”

The London Cycle Workshop

Ensoul


CREATING A TIDY, TRANQUIL SPACE

Converting a smaller bedroom into a dressing room is a winner as far as designers and homeowners are concerned. Some choose to create a corridor between a master bedroom and an en-suite bathroom, lined with floor-to-ceiling cupboards – mirrored doors and a deluxe pouffe up the glam stakes. You can install an island for accessories, such as sunglasses and belts, if you have space, or use open shelving to

display handbags and shoes. A loft space is an ideal spot for clothes storage - an architectural wall successfully divides the room, and wardrobes and drawers can be tucked under the eaves.

Built-in cupboards on walls above the bed make practical use of empty storage space. You can even incorporate a bedside table into the scheme and wall-mounted lights to keep everything sleek and contained. High level storage is especially good for seasonal items such as summer clothes or ski kit that you don’t need access to every day. Shelves

tucked next to a child’s bed are a great way for them to keep their things close but tidy.

Tucking cupboards into the eaves is an ideal use of what can be dead space. Whether in a guest room, master suite or teen den, this tricky corner is the perfect spot for drawers and half-height wardrobes.

Ensoul Estbury

Clara Bee Plus Rooms


FINANCING THE REFURBISHMENT

ON THE MONEYSecuring the funds for your planned refurbishment should be the first step you take on the road to your dream home, says Gillian Upton

There is one silver lining to the current slowdown in the housing market and that’s the relative ease of securing funding. However, while the availability of funds is easier today than it was 12 months ago, the lending criteria has tightened, mostly thanks to the uncertainty over Brexit.

“Banks are beginning to be a bit more flexible compared to 12 months ago as they’re more open to property improvements than they ever were in the past,” says Jenny Tozer, Partner and Investment Manager at LGT Vestra.

More cynically, banks have realized that there is money to be made out of existing homeowners improving their homes and adding value to the property.

Where to secure funding is dependent upon how much you want to borrow. If it’s a loft or new kitchen costing around £50,000 then it’s best secured through any high street lender such as a bank or building society.

If your plans are more ambitious, for a rear extension or an entire new living area beneath your home, connected with a side return to create a dramatic double-height space, then the sums involved will be well over £100,000. For projects such as these, a secured loan is the best option.

Increasing your mortgage is the most common form of secured lending, particularly as increased competition means that there are some really good offers around. Your first port of call should be your existing mortgage provider, then benchmark against others.

You may be able to secure a second mortgage to sit alongside your existing

1. Professional fees: from architectural, interior design and project management to structural engineer, party wall and other surveyors. £50k-£100k + VAT

2. Insurances/guarantees: from building renovation cover, non-negligent party wall and company guarantees to public/employer’s liability and professional indemnity.

Contact a specialist broker; expect 2%-4% of the build cost.

3. Loft conversions: subject to existing structure, scale of design, height to roof ridge and room type. £30k-£50k + VAT

4. Single storey extension: side return plus rear (30sqm) with a basic finish of white walls, electrics/plumbing. £45k-£60k + VAT

5. Basements: a watertight concrete box is approximately £3000psm plus fit-out.

6. Kitchens: cabinetry, worktops and appliances vary, driven by volume, brand and finish. £30k-100k + VAT

7. Outdoors: tiles, grass, decking, external lighting, plants, bin store etc. £10k-30k + VAT

8. Fixtures & fittings: separate this from the builder’s labour costs. Variable - the sky’s the limit!

9. AV and IP: put cabling and infrastructure in place for today and tomorrow. £10k + VAT for basics plus TV screens, speakers, home cinemas.

10. Furniture: in case an update is required.

11. Contingency: for discoveries and extras. Allow 5%-10% of total budget.

12. VAT: builders and other firms quote net prices. Add 20% (unless a new-build).

Source: Ensoul

A WHOLE HOUSE RENOVATION - COST COMPONENTS Based on a typical south-west London home circa 160sqm or 1700 sqft

mortgage – and avoid any penalty clauses from the existing mortgage - but this route does tie you into the same provider.

Equity release is another option although rates are still more expensive than a mortgage. Tozer recently priced one for a client at a rate of 3.2%, a premium against the lending rate of 1.9%, and the client declined. “He was going to hand over £287,000 over ten years as the rate compounds year on year,” she explains. She advises that equity release products are dependent on age, how long you plan to stay in your home and what you plan to do with your funds.

“It’s not the first port of call, but if you’re selling your home in ten years’ time it might be worth considering,” she says.

Her last piece of advice is not to over- refurbish your home. “Don’t be the most expensive house on the street as you won’t necessarily get the money back when you sell.”

Clara Bee Advantage Basements

dRaw Architecture

“BANKS ARE BEGINNING TO BE A BIT MORE FLEXIBLE”

COUNTDOWN TO YOUR DREAM HOMEBasement: Allow up to 40 weeks and a dent in your kitty of between £250,00 - £500,000 + VAT, but then you have a playroom, cinema, study, extra guest room, granny annexe or bar.

Side return and rear extension: For a super-duper new kitchen/diner from a side return and rear extension, allow 12-16 weeks and watch anything from £100,000 + VAT disappear from your bank balance.

Loft conversion: If you want that extra bedroom, study, roof terrace or master bedroom, it can be yours in around ten weeks and cost from £55,000 upwards + VAT.


NEIGHBOURLY ETIQUETTE

NEIGHBOURLY LOVE…OR IS IT?You only have to glance at NappyValleyNet to see that neighbourly issues are an oft discussed topic. Charlotte Peterson explores the trials and tribulations of cheek by jowl London living

Neighbours. Everybody needs good neighbours. Lyricist Jackie Trent has got a point. It should be easy, shouldn’t it?

Wherever you live, you will have a neighbour, or two or three or even four, with whom I’m sure most of us barring the odd bah-humbug Scrooge would like to get on with. Just a little bit. It’s the brief hello, quick chat on the doorstep while exchanging deliveries, pleasantries on the way out.

Nothing more. No huge commitment required, just good manners and being kind.

However, building works must be the most challenging of all eventualities to befall any neighbour anywhere, whether party wall agreements are involved or not. You have the skip. Stop. Before the skip you have the restriction on parking. Or worse, no paid-for restriction, just a couple

of spaces ‘bagsied’ with builder’s stuff. I have been known (to my children’s intense, sliding-down-in-their-seats embarrassment) to get out of the car and hoik an entire bag of cement sand out of the way so that I might park for ten minutes. It drives me

mad. If you need a space reserved, do it by the book and book it.

Back to the builders. The noise. Stop. What if planning permission was needed? Did anyone object? Then to appeal, and so etched forever after on a council website. Awkward. But that’s life. The key to any building project where you remain on good terms with your neighbours is communication and thoughtfulness.

Some projects no longer require planning permission and much can go ahead with permitted development. Nevertheless, suitable advance notice and making your neighbours aware of the duration and details of works is simply good manners, perhaps rounded off with a bottle of wine and the offer of a window cleaner.

Building works really do offer a full remit of potential issues. Scaffolding, disruptive deliveries, noise – drilling, bashing and crashing - ensuing structural damage, settlement. And mice. We once had a whole

family of mice up sticks and move into ours when their lovely empty home was suddenly filled with builders and their nest-shaking equipment. Who’d blame them? I’d move.

From bricks and mortar to fresh air and foliage. Now there’s another whole world of opportunity for neighbourly angst. Firstly, there’s the question of whose fence is whose. Then the trees that have got out of hand, casting unwanted shade neighbourwards, or branches overhanging fences.

From a law dating back to 1895, anything hanging over a neighbour’s boundary without permission is deemed as trespassing and you may cut it back as long as the tree is not fundamentally damaged. But why not talk before picking up the chainsaw? And it’s worth knowing that any branches or fruit removed from your neighbour’s tree should - strictly speaking - be sent back from whence they came. But if you have a stash of plum jam or apple purée thanks to a windfall from next door’s boughs, good on you.

So garden noise levels – how much screaming is too much screaming? How early to go out to play in the morning (a subject of quite some debate on NappyValleyNet)? In these cases surely common sense and common decency should prevail. All night raves are one thing (bad) but BBQs with ever-increasing noise levels thanks to ever-increasing alcohol intake which stop in time for reasonable babysitting curfews are not so bad. If they’re day-in-day-out though, that’s just annoying and rude.

Back inside and onto parties. To invite or not to invite the neighbours? How late is too late? How loud is too loud? Is it regular or is it rare? It’s a minefield out there. In fact, when you drill down into this neighbourly etiquette thing it’s a wonder we can all live next door to each other without more disputes arising. But arise they do and you only have to glimpse at the news to find stories of cases which get out of hand and end up in the law courts.

And so to children. With babies, I remember worrying about whether next door could hear their screaming in the middle of the night; now I worry about whether they can hear us shouting at the children to stop shouting. And the music practise – don’t you just love a novice on the French horn, the trumpet, the violin? Sound-proofing. It’s a thing worth investigating.

So the key to happy cheek by jowl living? Thoughtful communication. Because you know what happens when we don’t talk anymore…there I go again with the songs. Just live and let live. And if anyone is looking for scaffolding, drop me a line. There’s a company sign just 2cm away from my bathroom Velux. The days of showering in private have long gone.

NEIGHBOURLY ETIQUETTEBefore we open our toolbox, we talk to our clients about the need to be pro-active and communicative with their neighbours for good relations during a build project.

a) Ensure that your building company introduces themselves to neighbours and provides them with a reliable point of contact and business card or leaflet.

b) Make sure your building company tidies up fully at the end of each day’s activity, keeping pavements and neighbouring gardens free of wind-blown debris.

c) Alert neighbours in advance of any particularly noisy work or disruptive deliveries.

d) Ensure that your building company is adequately insured and is skilled up correctly and certificated for your particular project.

e) Respect the fact that your neighbours may carry out similar works in the future, so demonstrations of goodwill help!

f) Building works in residential areas are usually restricted to 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday and 8am to 1pm on Saturdays. No loud works are allowed on Sundays. Be sure that your builders keep to the rules.

Source: Red Box

Angelika Scudamore

[email protected]


NAPPY VALLEY’S SOURCE BOOK OF TOP SUPPLIERS

SOURCE BOOKSOURCING

ARCHITECTS, DESIGN & PLANNING & PROJECT MGT

Ade ArchitectureT: 020 7993 8542E: [email protected]

And ArchitectsT: 020 7720 5999E: [email protected]

Andrew Lett ArchitectsT: 020 7486 6464E: [email protected]

Andrew Paine ArchitectureT: 020 7207 5898www.aparchitecture.co.uk

ARM Design & BuildT: 020 8689 9998 or 07816 587548E: [email protected]

Armstrong Simmonds ArchitectsT: 020 7228 1324E: [email protected]

Atelierdb T: 020 3142 7672E: [email protected]

Balance Design LtdT: 07961 068243E: [email protected]

Clara BeeT: 020 8675 1477E: [email protected]

dRAW ArchitectureT: 020 8874 6749E: [email protected]

Dyer Grimes ArchitectureT: 020 3733 7710E: [email protected]

Edmund Williams ArchitectsT: 020 8672 6238E: [email protected]

Emma Green DesignT: 020 7738 0637E: [email protected]

EnsoulT: 020 3637 0700E: [email protected]

Giles Pike ArchitectsT: 020 7924 6257E: [email protected]

Estbury DesignT: 0800 009 6644E: [email protected]

Goldstein Ween ArchitectsT: 020 7498 2111E: [email protected]

Good London Builders LtdT: 020 7978 5097E: [email protected]

Granit Chartered ArchitectsT: 020 7924 4555E: [email protected]

Hart Baskerville ArchitectsT: 020 8458 3433E: [email protected]

Hughes DevelopmentsT: 020 8767 9895E: [email protected]

John Osborn DesignT: 07939 586481E: [email protected]

Keith Garner ArchitectT: 020 7585 0421E: [email protected]

Malone ArchitectureT: 020 8793 5735E: malonearchitecture.comwww.malonearchitecture.com

Mark Jordan Architecture & DesignT: 020 7228 2829E: [email protected]

Marks Barfield ArchitectsT: 020 7501 0180E: [email protected]

Masterman ArchitectsT: 020 3700 0517E: [email protected]

as recommended

onNappyValleyNet.com

Don’t forget to ask whether your potential supplier/s are “As Recommended on NappyValleyNet”. Only companies with five or more qualified, positive independent reviews can display this logo

HOW TO MAKE A START

Deciding that you want to re-design or extend your home is the easy part, but finding the right supplier to do the job can be a challenge. If you’re not moving out for the build, you need to choose a supplier that you get on with, as well as being competent in the required skillset.

The gold standard is to ask friends and neighbours for recommendations, check their body of work, talk to past clients and view actual projects they have completed. It’s advisable to check their credentials, insurances and any accreditations they may have too.

NappyValleyNet runs its own accreditation scheme for suppliers, indicated by a logo (see key opposite).

Finally, make the arrangement legal and binding through a contract. This must stipulate completion date, payment schedule and who has responsibility if subcontractors fail to deliver. Remember to agree any changes or additional costs in writing.

On the following 15 pages you’ll find an exhaustive list of suppliers categorised by their specialism.

BEFORE THE BUILDING STARTS1 Get email confirmation of all planning permissions and party wall awards.

2 If your drains are shared you will need a Thames Water Build-over Agreement (TWBA), which costs £373 and can take 21 days.

3 Do a CCTV survey of all your drains. It will tell you if you need the TWBA and show you if any of your drains are damaged or likely to fail.

4 Get insurance. The builder will have his own insurance (ask to see it and check the dates of cover), but it is worth taking out a Home Works Insurance Policy too.

5 Speak to the neighbours before the planning application and party wall awards have started. People’s houses are their castles and underestimate this at your peril.

6 Make sure you have a CDM 2015 (Construction Design & Management) in place. It is the client’s responsibility to ensure the health and safety at the property, which comes down to the builder. A ‘principal designer’ should oversee it.

7 Remove as many of your belongings from the site as possible!

8 Look forward to the build process. With a great team by your side it should be interesting and enjoyable.

Source: Good London Builders

Blackbird London

NEED HELP REFURBISHING?

See recent projects at: www.clarabee.com

CONSTRUCTION AND EXTENSIONSProject Preparation, Scoping and Budgeting

Planning and Regulatory Compliance

Architecture, Structural Engineering and Party Wall

Contractor Selection

Project Management

INTERIOR DESIGNDesign and Home Styling

Colours, Materials and Furnishing

Product Selection and Sourcing

Project Implementation

020 8675 1477 | [email protected] | www.clarabee.com

CREATE BEAUTIFUL DESIGN INSIDE AND OUT

PROCESS COMPLIANCE ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN PROJECT MANAGEMENT INTERIOR DESIGN BUILDER SELECTION

Clara Bee

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MKR ArchitectureT: 020 8542 7712 or 07778 651904E: [email protected]

Moxley ArchitectsT: 020 7720 8968E: [email protected]

Niche ArchitectsT: 020 7222 3232E: [email protected]

Object ArchitectureT: 020 8682 9300E: [email protected]

Oliver Morgan ArchitectsT: 020 7352 9512E: [email protected]

O’Rooj Chartered ArchitectT: 020 8395 2109E: [email protected]

POW ArchitectsT: 020 3176 6620E: [email protected]

Richard Faulkner ArchitectsT: 020 7622 0876E: [email protected]

Run ProjectsT: 020 7384 1160E: [email protected]

SheikT: 020 8286 6004E: [email protected]

Siproj ArchitectureT: 020 3674 4512E: [email protected]

Steven Lenczner ArchitectsT: 020 7736 3054E: [email protected]

Stanza Interior DesignT: 07984 491 578E: [email protected]

Sure Planning Permissions LtdT: 020 8338 1385E: [email protected]

TGB DesignT: 020 8874 3805E: [email protected]

Thomas De Cruz Architects & DesignersT: 020 8995 8100E: [email protected]

Trinity Interior Design T: 07788 999727E: [email protected]

Velvet OrangeT: 020 7884 0530E: [email protected]

Warren Rosing ArchitectsT: 020 7993 8247E: [email protected]

WMOR ArchitectsT: 020 7819 9281E: [email protected]

Zenico LtdT: 020 3633 4778E: [email protected]

AV SUPPLIERS

Digital AVT: 020 8150 7976E: [email protected]

Finite SolutionsT: 020 7371 8761E: [email protected]

Oranges & LemonsT: 020 7924 2040E: [email protected]

BATHROOMS

Bathrooms At SourceT: 020 8870 0066E: [email protected]

Bathroom Discount CentreT: 020 3697 6401 /020 7385 2330E: [email protected]

Bathrooms PlusT: 020 8876 8686E: [email protected]

Bathstorewww.bathstore.com

BPM BathroomsT: 020 7738 9475E: [email protected]

Bromley & EllisT: 020 7738 7323E: [email protected]

Burge & GunsonT: 020 8543 5166E: [email protected]

C.P. HartE: [email protected]

Clapham Park BathroomsT: 020 3829 8101E: [email protected]

D Grange & Sonswww.dgrangeandsons.co.uk

DrummondsT: 020 7376 4499E: [email protected]

Eclectic InteriorsT: 020 8673 0572E: [email protected]

GlasstrendsT: 020 7223 4017E: [email protected]

Hamilton Group T: 020 7738 8967E: [email protected]

Kelmscott Home ImprovementT: 020 8772 8191E: [email protected]

Linear LondonT: 020 8675 3605E: [email protected]

PorcelanosaT: 020 7751 2150www.porcelanosa.com

Potter PerrinT: 020 8677 5321E: [email protected]

Simply ExtendT: 0800 917 7571E: [email protected]

UK SplashbacksT: 0800 232 1149E: [email protected]

West One BathroomsT: 0333 011 3333E: [email protected]

CARPENTERS & JOINERS

Artisans WindowsT: 020 8947 8549E: [email protected]

Balham JoineryT: 020 8648 3322E: [email protected]

Barbara Genda Bespoke FurnitureT: 020 7978 2349E: [email protected]

Bellevue Bespoke T: 020 8682 7700E: [email protected]

By EnsoulT: 020 3637 0700E: [email protected]/furniture

Denis Gardiner Carpentry & JoineryT: 020 7244 7946E: [email protected]


GW CabinetryT: 020 7924 7276E: [email protected]

Iain Parker CarpentryT: 07990 594995www.iainparkercarpentry.com

King & Parcel (Bespoke Carpentry)T: 07814 492755E: [email protected]

Madefern JoineryT: 020 7737 4450E: [email protected]

MTM Herman T: 07885 551724E: [email protected]

Nu-Age InteriorsT: 020 7118 0605www.nu-ageinteriors.com

RB JoineryT: 07919 076825E: [email protected]

Red BoxT: 020 7381 1539E: [email protected]

Roy Turner CarpentryT: 020 8337 7143www.roy-turner.co.uk

SpacedinT: 020 8772 4565E: [email protected]

Supreme Solutions 4 UT: 07511 263406E: [email protected]

TablemakersT: 020 7223 2075E: [email protected]

The London Alcove CompanyT: 0800 389 5724E: [email protected]

The Wood Panelling CompanyT: 020 7373 0332E: enquiries@thewoodpanellingcompany.comwww.thewoodpanellingcompany.com

West London Carpentry & DecorationT: 07795 411400E: [email protected]

WoodenyouT: 020 7587 0602E: [email protected]

CARPETS & FITTERS

Admiral CarpetsT: 020 7585 1155E: [email protected]

Arundell CarpetsT: 020 7733 5494E: [email protected]

Bristow CleanT: 07949 084693www.bristowclean.co.uk

Capitol CarpetsT: 020 3641 6200www.capitolcarpetsbattersea.co.uk

Carpet ExpressT: 0800 181 072E: [email protected]

Charlotte Gaskell Oriental CarpetsT: 020 8672 3224E: [email protected]

Hillside CarpetsT: 020 8877 9595E: [email protected]

LoomahT: 020 7371 9955E: [email protected]

Marlows CarpetsT: 020 8871 1169E: [email protected]

Mayfair CarpetT: 020 7584 4442www.mayfaircarpetgallery.co.uk

Cedar Bifold Company

Bellevue Bespoke


Oxford & London Building Company B T: 020 8877 0526E: [email protected]

Plus RoomsT: 0800 917 7127E: [email protected] www.plusrooms.com

Pro-Dry Ltd BT: 020 8338 1387E: [email protected]

Qualitas Construction B T: 020 8432 1520E: [email protected]

R & M Lines L T: 020 7978 7840E: [email protected]


Rhino Construction L T: 020 8405 6445E: [email protected]

Ridgway BuildersT: 020 8540 7528E: [email protected]

Scribe London Lofts L T: 020 8771 6545E: [email protected]

Simply Basement B T: 0800 917 7571E: [email protected]

Simply ExtendT: 0800 917 7571E: [email protected]

Simply ExtensionsT: 020 8392 9505E: [email protected]

Simply Loft L T: 0800 917 7571E: [email protected]

Stanza Interior DesignT: 07984 491578E: [email protected]

T & M Star Construction LT: 020 7498 5560E: [email protected]

South London Carpets & FlooringT: 020 8785 2472E: [email protected]

SW Carpet CompanyT: 020 3746 3202E: [email protected]

The Carpet BureauT: 020 7498 0532E: [email protected]

The Carpet GalleryT: 020 7924 3678E: [email protected]

CONTRACTORS & DEVELOPERS

B Basement Specialist

L Loft Specialist

Advantage Basements B T: 020 8871 3055E: [email protected]

APT Basement Conversions B Apt Renovation Ltd L T: 020 7223 6417E: info@aptrenovation.co.ukwww.basements-cellars.co.ukwww.aptrenovation.co.uk

Ashville Inc. B T: 020 7736 0355E: [email protected]

Basement Force B T: 020 8944 5707E: [email protected]

Battersea Builders B L T: 020 7100 5463E: [email protected]

Bel London B T: 07946 466520E: [email protected]

BH Basements B T: 020 7223 0093E: [email protected]

Bj Cullen Builders L T: 07956 234232www.bjcullenbuilders.com

BPM RenovationsT: 020 7738 9475E: [email protected]. bpmrenovations.co.uk

The Yellow Building Company LT: 020 3362 4364E: enquiries@theyellowbuildingcompany.comwww.theyellowbuildingcompany.co.uk

Thorogood BuildingT: 07837 735847E: [email protected]

Unbeatable Builders LT: 020 8543 9299E: [email protected]

Underground London B T: 07739 148038E: [email protected]

Upsher Harrison B L T: 020 7738 9307E: [email protected]

Urang Group B T: 020 7751 8355E: [email protected]

Werner & Werner LT: 020 8616 7558E: [email protected]

WJC4U LT: 020 8870 8536www.wjc4ubuilders.co.uk

WynnmanT: 020 8715 0922www.wynnman.co.uk

Xtraspace Construction B T: 020 8871 4792E: [email protected]

Your Space L T: 020 8544 1662E: [email protected]

Zenico LtdT: 020 3633 4778E: [email protected]

CURTAINS & SOFT FURNISHINGS

Andrew MartinT: 020 7225 5100E: [email protected]

Angelika GulaT: 07961 964916E: [email protected]

Brown Building B T: 020 8696 7701E: [email protected]

Bygga Constuction BT: 020 7228 0374E: [email protected]

Cavendish Basements B T: 020 7030 3167E: [email protected]

Clara Bee B LT: 020 8675 1477E: [email protected]

Dermarta ConstructionT: 07720 034805E: [email protected]

Doran BrosT: 020 8682 1021E: [email protected]

DPS Ltd L T: 0800 043 2333E: [email protected]

Empire Builders L T: 020 8150 9567 E: [email protected]

Estbury Basements B T: 0800 009 6644E: [email protected]

Ensoul B LT: 020 3637 0700E: [email protected]

F & K Construction Ltd B T: 020 8769 1176E: [email protected]

Galvin Projects B LT: 020 8946 0031E: [email protected]

Good London Builders Ltd B T: 020 7978 5097E: [email protected]

Green Construction London B T: 020 8870 5898E: [email protected]

Homeworks L T: 020 8658 6461E: [email protected]

Atelier Textiles T: 020 7352 7776E: [email protected]


CamerichT: 020 7751 5936E: [email protected]

Cameron BroomT: 020 8875 7910E: [email protected]

City CowsT: 020 7099 6616E: [email protected]

Curtains & Soft FurnishingsT: 020 8677 4763E: [email protected]

Curtain Workshop BalhamT: 020 8877 0167E: [email protected]

Deco Upholstery & Soft FurnishingsT: 07505 221847E: [email protected]

DedarT: 020 7351 9939E: [email protected]

Downers DesignT: 020 8877 0886E: [email protected]

E & A WatesT: 020 8769 2205E: [email protected]

Hughes Developments B LT: 020 8767 9895E: [email protected]

Hurlingham Developments B T: 07739 174360E: info@hurlinghamdevelopments.co.ukwww.hurlinghamdevelopments.co.uk

JJ Developments L T: 08006 226025E: [email protected]

Landmark Lofts L T: 020 3150 0505 E: [email protected] www.landmark-lofts.com

Loft 4 You L T: 020 8286 6911E: [email protected]

London Basement B T: 020 8847 9449E: [email protected]

London Kitchen Extension CompanyT: 020 8672 5200E: info@thelondonkitchenextensions.co.ukwww.thelondonkitchenextensions.co.uk

Mark Cox DevelopmentsT: 07956 935735E: [email protected]

Mascot B T: 020 3475 4801E: [email protected]

Minale + Mann B T: 020 3176 4499E: [email protected]

M n S Building Services L T: 020 8679 2953E: [email protected]

Multiserve Construction & RefurbishmentT: 020 8682 7700E: [email protected]

My London Extensions B T: 020 8355 4404E: [email protected]

N-ConstructionT: 020 7101 4803E: [email protected]

Nightingale Design & Build B LT: 07786 268597E: info@nightingaledesignandbuild.co.ukwww.nightingaledesignandbuild.co.uk

Bellevue Bespoke


ELECTRICIANS

BK ElectricalT: 020 8677 1156E: [email protected]

Dan CollierT: 07921 997351www.dcelectricsuk.com

Harland VossT: 020 8451 0345www.harlandvoss.com




SW Bishop ElectricalT: 020 7924 1421E: [email protected]

The CavalryT: 07789 007848E: [email protected]

The Hamilton GroupT: 020 7738 8967E: [email protected]


FIREPLACES

AFireT: 020 3286 7060E: [email protected]

Blue Mantle Fireplaces & AntiquesT: 020 7703 7437E: [email protected]

CasaT: 020 7732 3911E: [email protected]

Chesney’sT: 020 7627 1410E: [email protected]

Fiona Campbell DesignT: 020 7731 3681E: [email protected]

Graham & GreenT: 020 7243 8908E: [email protected]

Handcrafted by HarrietT: 07886 227154E: [email protected]

House CouturierT: 020 7371 9255E: [email protected]

Isabel SpencerT: 020 8677 8031E: [email protected]

Jorge & Silva UpholsteryT: 020 7627 6486E: [email protected]

June PerkinsT: 020 7228 5181 E: [email protected]

Kirsty KissellT: 07809 675259E: info@kirstykissellfurnishings.comwww.kirstykissellfurnishings.com

L & M Curtains & Blinds E: [email protected]

Ma MaisonT: 07785 338714E: [email protected]

MintT: 020 7225 2228E: [email protected]

Perfect Fit LondonT: 07432 832855E: [email protected]

Osborne & Little T: 020 8812 3000E: [email protected]

Revampwww.revampinteriors.co.uk

Robert SpurwayT: 020 7351 6888E: [email protected]

RogersT: 020 8769 1196E: [email protected]

Chimney Lining LondonT: 020 3701 1920E: [email protected]

English Fireplaces E: [email protected]

Enviro-Flame E: [email protected]

Fiveways Fires & StovesT: 020 8127 4747E: [email protected]

Frazer’s InstallationsE: [email protected]

Grate Expectations Fireplace SpecialistsT: 020 8540 8387E: [email protected]

HanningsT: 020 8677 5795E: [email protected]

Install My FireplaceT: 0800 211 8627E: [email protected]

IronwrightT: 020 7228 2727E: [email protected]

MarmoreaT: 020 7924 2010E: [email protected]

PJ Wright & Sons T: 020 8771 9708 E: [email protected] www.fireplacerestoration.co.uk

Real Flame (London)T: 020 7731 5025E: [email protected]

RPS FireplacesT: 020 8778 7472E: [email protected]

StonewoodsT: 020 8870 5555E: [email protected]

The Fireplace ShopT: 020 8741 5013E: [email protected] www.the-fireplace-shop.co.uk

Rowena MaherT: 07734 213766E: [email protected]

The Design NetT: 020 7820 7771E: [email protected]

The London Curtain GirlsT; 020 8776 8717E; [email protected]

The Upholstery WorkshopT: 020 7738 1003E: [email protected]

Tissus d’HélèneT: 020 7352 9977E: [email protected]

Trinity Interior DesignT: 020 8776 8717E: [email protected] www.trinityinteriordesign.com

Volga LinenT: 020 7736 7756E: [email protected]

DOORS

Ayrton BespokeT: 020 8877 8920E: [email protected]

Cedar Bifold CompanyT: 020 8944 5523E: [email protected]

Cotswood DoorsT: 020 8368 1664 E: [email protected]

Distinguished FaçadesT: 020 8540 4478E: brianmeakin@distinguishedfacades.co.ukwww.distinguishedfacades.co.uk

Fortis & Hooke DecoratorsT: 0800 313 4688E: [email protected]

Green Double GlazingT: 020 8150 9995E: [email protected]

JE CarpentryT: 020 8742 3145E: [email protected]

London CarpentryT: 0800 0858 454 E: [email protected]

The London Stove CompanyT: 07853 165447E: [email protected] www.thelondonstovecompany.co.uk

WestcombesT: 020 8852 6204www.westcombes.co.uk

FLOORING

Hillside CarpetsT: 020 8877 9595 or 0500 700 880E: [email protected]

MJS Domestic & Commercial FlooringE: [email protected]

MosaicworkT: 020 8690 0569E: [email protected]

One Wood FloorsT: 020 8942 5554E: [email protected]

Tech FlooringT: 020 8150 7213www.techflooring.co.uk

The Natural Wood Floor CompanyT: 020 8871 9771E: [email protected]

The Prestige Flooring CompanyT: 01932 866087E: [email protected]

Walls & Floorswww.wallsandfloors.co.uk

Waxed FloorsT: 020 7738 1620E: [email protected]

FURNITURE


Arthur BrettT: 020 7730 7304E: [email protected]


Barbara Genda Bespoke FurnitureT: 020 7978 2349E: [email protected]

Marvin Architectural LtdT: 020 8569 8222E: [email protected]

MTM HermanT: 07885 551724E: [email protected]

Mr WindowT: 0800 917 0083 or 01702 555553E: [email protected]

Oliver Wild Carpentry and JoinersT: 01142 486907E: [email protected]

Osborn GlassT: 020 8683 8406 or 07833 438394E: [email protected]

SDS LondonT: 020 7228 1185E: [email protected]

The London Door CompanyT: 020 7801 0877 E: [email protected] www.londondoor.co.uk

The New England Shutter Company T: 020 8675 1099 E: [email protected] www.thenewenglandshuttercompany.com

Todd Doorswww.todd-doors.co.uk

Vitrocsa LondonT: 020 8274 0768 or 020 3355 6082E: [email protected] www.vitrocsa.co.uk

Warmlite T: 020 8399 3377www.warmlite.co.uk

BPM Kitchens


London GardenersT: 020 8434 7256E: [email protected]

Looking Glass GatesT: 020 8780 9514E: lookingglassgates.co.ukwww.lookingglassgates.co.uk

Muddy WelliesT: 020 8543 2421E: [email protected]

Rosie NottageT: 07958 247517E: [email protected]

Simply FencesT: 020 8772 9079E: [email protected]

Terra Construction & GardeningT: 07553 909077E: [email protected]

The Chelsea GardenerT: 020 7352 5656E: [email protected]

The Gorgeous Garden CompanyT: 020 8772 9079E: [email protected]

Townhouse GardensT: 020 7244 0058E: [email protected]

TreeboxT: 020 8543 4530E: [email protected]

GARDEN FURNITURE

Awnings & VerandasT: 0800 074 2721E: [email protected]

BarbedT: 020 8878 1994E: [email protected]

ButtacupT: 020 8785 2802E: [email protected]


Bellevue Bespoke T: 020 8682 7700E: [email protected] www.bellevuebespoke.co.uk

Blackbird London T: 020 7738 2105E: [email protected]

By Ensoul T: 020 3637 0700E: [email protected]/furniture

CamerichT: 020 7751 5936E: [email protected]

Case FurnitureT: 020 8870 4488E: [email protected]

Cult FurnitureE: [email protected]

Darlings Of ChelseaT: 020 3376 4224E: [email protected]

De GournayT: 020 7352 9988E: [email protected]

DelcorE: [email protected]

Emblem FurnitureT: 020 8847 2102www.emblemfurniture.co.uk

Falcon FurnishersT: 020 7585 1809www.falconfurnishers.co.uk

Go Modern FurnitureT: 020 7731 9540E: [email protected]

Hibbsy T: 020 8485 7159E: [email protected]

Indian OceanT: 020 8675 4808E: [email protected]

JC GardensT: 020 7627 5035E: [email protected]

Jo AlexanderT: 01954 768 574E: [email protected]

Joseph JohnE: [email protected]

Looking Glass GatesT: 020 8780 9514E: [email protected]

Raft FurnitureT: 020 3764 1844www.raftfurniture.co.uk

Skandium www.skandium.com

Summit FurnitureT: 020 7795 3311E: [email protected]

The Chelsea Gardener T: 020 7352 5656E: [email protected]

The Garden Builderswww.gardenbuilders.co.uk

The Longest StayT: 020 7349 9057E: [email protected]

GLASS

Ably GlassT: 020 8677 7872www.ablyglass.co.uk

Aspect.co.ukE: [email protected]

Assured GlassT: 020 8241 2040www.assuredglass.co.uk

HedgeWrightT: 020 8995 6645E: [email protected]

Julian Chichester T: 020 7622 2928E: [email protected]/uk

Kings Furniture StoreE: [email protected]

LemaT: 020 3761 3290www.lema-uk.com

LoafT: 0845 468 0698E: [email protected]


Nordic Style Swedenwww.nordicstyle.com

Sweetpea & WillowT: 0345 257 2627E: [email protected]

The Book Case CompanyT: 020 8870 7707E: [email protected]

The Design NetT: 020 7820 7771E: [email protected]

William YeowardT: 020 7349 7828E: [email protected]

Wrought Iron & Brass Bed CompanyT: 01485 542516E: [email protected] www.wroughtironandbrassbed.co.uk

GARDENERS & LANDSCAPERS

Acer Homes & GardensT: 020 8671 8404www.acer-landscapes.co.uk

Andy Sturgeon Landscape & Garden DesignT: 01273 553336E: [email protected]

AnewgardenT: 020 8395 5764 E: [email protected]

Bisazza UKT: 020 7584 8837 E: [email protected]

Blount Stained GlassE: [email protected]

Brompton GlassT: 020 7373 3564www.bromptonglass.co.uk

Clarity Glass RepairsT: 0800 772 0194www.clarityglassrepairs.co.uk

Decorum EstT: 020 7731 5556E: [email protected]

Fortis & Hooke DecoratorsT: 0800 313 4688

GlasstrendsT: 020 7223 4017E: [email protected]

Gordon Chilvers Stained Glass DesignT: 020 8672 6055E: [email protected]

Kingseal WindowsT: 020 7498 8874E: [email protected]

London Stained GlassT: 020 3247 1000E: [email protected] www.londonstainedglass.co.uk

Prentice GlassT: 020 8944 9001E: [email protected]

Anna’s GardensT: 07958 247517E: [email protected]

Bamboo LandscapingT: 020 8454 7118E: [email protected]

BarbedE: [email protected]

Bartholomew LandscapingT: 020 7931 8685E: [email protected]

Battersea Flower StationT: 020 7978 4253E: hello@batterseaflowerstation.co.ukwww.batterseaflowerstation.co.uk

Capital Gardens - Neal’s NurseriesT: 020 8874 2037E: [email protected]


CoridoT: 020 8655 6242E: [email protected]

CyanT: 020 8655 6240E: [email protected]

Cypress Garden ServicesT: 020 8330 7787E: [email protected]

Eden Gardens GroupT: 020 8401 7344 or 07848 9028799

Harrington PorterT: 020 7731 3552E: [email protected]

HibbsyT: 020 8485 7159E: [email protected]

Home GardenT: 020 3540 7776E: [email protected] www.homegarden.org.uk

London Front Garden CompanyT: 020 8947 7373E: info@londonfrontgardencompany.co.ukwww.londonfrontgardencompany.co.uk

Pro-Dry

GW Cabinetry


Trinity Interior DesignT: 020 8776 8717E: [email protected]

Velvet OrangeT: 020 7884 0530E: [email protected]. velvetorange.co.uk

WJC4UT: 07411 735290www.wjc4ubuilders.co.uk

IRONMONGERY

Fulham Brass & IronmongeryT: 020 7736 3157www.fulhambrassonline.com

SDS LondonT: 020 7228 1185www.sdslondon.co.uk

KITCHENS

BPM Kitchens T: 020 7738 9475E: [email protected]

BoraT: 020 7078 9912E: [email protected]

BulthaupT: 020 8785 1960E: [email protected]

By EnsoulT: 020 3637 0700E: [email protected]/furniture


Espresso DesignT: 020 7078 9912E: [email protected]

Hub KitchensT: 020 7924 2285E: [email protected]

Harvey Jones KitchensT: 020 7228 4454E: info@ harveyjones.com www.harveyjones.com


Prism Glasswww.prismglass.co.uk

Putney Glass & GlazingT: 020 8870 0380www.putneyglass.com

SW Glass T: 020 7751 0011E: [email protected]


Wandle GlassworksT: 07763 768738E: [email protected]

HOMEWARES

Abbeville DomesticT: 020 3253 0003E: [email protected]

AlmaT: 020 7377 0762E: [email protected]

Cooker SolutionsT: 020 3478 0883E: [email protected]

Do South Shop T: 020 8771 0500E: [email protected]

Lee BroomT: 020 7820 0742E: [email protected]

Lords at Homewww.lordsathome.com

Piaggi MirrorsT: 020 7060 7161 E: [email protected]/store

Rigby & MacT: 020 8761 1011E: [email protected]

SquintT: 020 8986 6583E: [email protected]

The London Alcove CompanyT: 0800 389 5724E: [email protected]

Kitchen ConnectionsT: 020 8947 6180E: [email protected]

Kitchen CoordinationT: 020 8958 6262E: [email protected]


Ocean Home DesignsT: 020 8012 8140E: [email protected]



Puccini KitchensE: [email protected]

Roundhouse T: 020 7471 8834E: [email protected]

Sola KitchensT: 020 3004 0898E: [email protected]

Sublime PropertyT: 07772 555881E: [email protected]


West London KitchensT: 020 8741 1981E: [email protected] www.westlondonkitchens.com

WharfsideE: [email protected]

LIGHTING


BaroncelliT: 020 7720 6556E: [email protected]

CDLT: 020 7924 4242E: [email protected]

ChimeraT: 020 8544 2600www.chimeracontrols.co.uk

Christopher Wraywww.christopherwray.com

Clever & SimpleT: 07725 049863www.cleverandsimple.com

CRS Electrical SuppliesT: 020 7720 8868E: [email protected]

Hector FinchT: 020 7731 8886E: [email protected]

John Cullen LightingE: [email protected]

Liminaires LightingT: 020 8874 4978E: [email protected]

RynessT: 0845 630 3035E: [email protected]

SuperlitesT: 020 7924 2055E: [email protected]

The Lighting Design StudioT: 020 7112 5364www.thelightingdesignstudio.co.uk

TindleT: 020 7384 1485E: [email protected]

TLCT: 01293 565630E: [email protected]

Wimbledon Lighting & ElectricalT: 020 8542 2828E: [email protected]

Wired & WonderfulT: 020 8947 6441E: [email protected]


EnsoulT: 020 3637 0700E: [email protected]

Forrester Roberts Interior DesignT: 07958 273647E: [email protected]

Helene Dabrowski InteriorsT: 020 8378 1574www.helenedabrowskiinteriors.co.uk

Into Interior DesignT: 07971 424377 E: [email protected]

Keir TownsendT: 020 7746 2442E: [email protected]

Lisette Voute DesignsT: 020 7228 5824E: [email protected]

MK DesignT: 07553 500896www.mathildekubisiak.com

Nicki Cox InteriorsT: 07976 305794E: [email protected]

Ocean Home DesignsT: 020 8012 8140E: [email protected]

Run ProjectsT: 020 7384 1160E: [email protected]

SigmarT: 020 7751 5802E: [email protected]

Space Alchemy Interior DesignT: 020 7987 1622E: [email protected]

Stanza Interior DesignT: 07984 491578E: [email protected]

The Paint HouseT: 020 7924 5118www.thepainthouse.com

The New England Shutter CompanyT: 020 8675 1099E: [email protected]

INTERIOR DESIGNERS

AMH InteriorsT: 020 7788 7767E: [email protected]


Chantel Elshout Design ConsultancyT: 020 7720 7859E: [email protected]

Clara BeeT: 020 8675 1477E: [email protected]

Clare Elise InteriorsT: 07790 521928E: [email protected]

Clare Gaskinwww.claregaskin.com

Cue & Co of LondonT: 020 7731 4728E: [email protected]

Decor BuddyT: 0843 886 2424E: [email protected]/decorbuddy

Eclectic InteriorsT: 020 8673 0572E: [email protected] www.eclecticinteriors.co.uk

Emma Green DesignT: 020 7738 0637E: [email protected]

MTM Herman


N-ConstructionT: 020 7101 4803www.nconstruction.co.uk

Oliver Wild CarpentryT: 01142 486907E: [email protected]

Paint the Town GreenT: 020 8871 0531 E: [email protected]

Patrick CollinsT: 020 8299 1547E: [email protected]

Prodec LondonT: 07789 863090E: [email protected]

R & M LinesT: 020 7978 7840E: [email protected]


RenomarkT: 07894 153565E: [email protected]

The Invisible PainterT: 020 3797 2094www.theinvisiblepainter.co.uk

T & M Star ConstructionT: 020 7498 5560E: [email protected]

Wimbledon PaintersT: 020 7112 8682www.wimbledonpainters.co.uk


PLASTERERS

Advance PlasteringT: 020 8669 7293 E: enquiries@southlondonplastering.co.ukwww.southlondonplastering.co.uk

ClaylensT: 0800 689 1981E: [email protected]

Davies Period Plaster MouldingsT: 020 8871 9399E: [email protected]

Expert PlasterersT: 07535 266183E: [email protected]

MARBLE, GRANITE& STONE

Ama MarbleT: 07827 908226E: [email protected]

Borg & RanalliT: 020 7627 3962

Britannicus StoneT: 020 7751 5962E: [email protected]


DVG StoneT: 020 7235 2996E: [email protected]

English City Stone T: 020 8673 8785E: [email protected]

European HeritageT: 020 7381 6063E: [email protected]

Experts in StoneT: 020 8871 1919E: [email protected]

FioritoT: 020 8560 7559www.fiorito.co.uk

Fulham StoneT: 020 7384 9092www.fulhamstone.co.uk

Granite & Marble InternationalT: 020 7498 2742E: [email protected]

Marble CityT: 020 8871 1191E: [email protected]

Marble Granite Limestone WarehouseT: 020 7720 9944E: [email protected]

Marble InteriorsT: 020 8944 2020E: [email protected]

MetalgardeT: 020 3598 5386E: [email protected]

F & B DecoratorsT: 07979 892011E: [email protected]

G Tomkins PlasteringT: 020 8296 0922E: [email protected]

Langley Property Serviceswww.langleypropertyservices.co.uk

Mac Plastering TeamE: [email protected]

Martin SheridanT: 020 8540 7185E: [email protected]

Natural PlasteringT: 07877 378344E: [email protected]

Pimlico PlasteringE: [email protected]

St James PlasteringT: 020 8648 9173E: [email protected]

Stucco FinishesT: 07918 551890E: [email protected]

Wells InteriorsT: 020 3637 3176E: [email protected]

PLUMBERS

Carrie MaloneT: 07825 148406

Jeremy DunnillT: 07788 797448www.jeremyplumber.co.uk

Hamilton GroupT: 020 7738 8967E: [email protected]

LKB PlumbingT: 020 7801 3138E: [email protected]

Mark EvansE: [email protected]

Multiserve Construction & RefurbishmentT: 020 8682 7700E: [email protected]. multiserve.co.uk

N-ConstructionT: 020 7101 4803E: [email protected]

NatureFusionwww.nature-fusion.com

NorstoneT: 020 3178 2801E: [email protected]

Paris CeramicsT: 020 7371 7778E: [email protected]

Stone Productions ContractsT: 020 7228 0707www.spc-ltd.com

The Stone & Ceramic WarehouseT: 020 8993 5545E: [email protected]

Trajan Natural StoneT: 07977 107508E: [email protected]

Via Arkadia Italian TilesT: 020 7351 7057E: [email protected]

World’s End TilesT: 020 7819 2100www.worldsendtiles.co.uk

PAINT Farrow & BallT: 01202 876141E: [email protected]

GowallpaperT: 01617 249085E: [email protected]

PhoneaplumberT: 020 3322 3939www.phoneaplumber.co.uk

Putney PlumbersT: 020 8789 0999E: [email protected]

Southside PlumbersT: 020 8689 5573E: [email protected]

Steve CaseyT: 07527 331805E: [email protected]

T & M Star ConstructionT: 020 7498 5560E: [email protected]

Wiltshire DrainageT: 01793 384024E: [email protected]


RADIATORS

CasaT: 020 7732 3911E: [email protected]

CastradsT: 020 3397 7295E: [email protected]

Energy Saving RadiatorsT: 020 7731 8660E: enquiries@energysavingradiators.co.ukwww.energysavingradiators.co.uk

OikosT: 07526 305402E: [email protected]

Paint the Town GreenT: 020 8871 0531E: [email protected]

Ready2PaintT: 020 3751 7229The Invisible Painterwww.theinvisiblepainter.co.uk

The Little Greene Paint CompanyT: 0845 880 5855E: [email protected]

PAINTERS & DECORATORS

Acer Homes & GardensT: 020 8671 8404E: [email protected]

Augustus DecoT: 07775 655681 www.augustusdeco.com

Craftsman DecoratorT: 020 8677 8685 or 07973 362642www.craftsmandecorator.com

David PepperT: 07803 584471E: [email protected]

Distinguished FaçadesT: 020 8540 4478E: brianmeakin@distinguishedfacades.co.ukwww.distinguishedfacades.co.uk

Fortis & Hooke T: 0800 313 4688E: [email protected]

Ian Day Decorators LimitedT: 020 8641 3032E: [email protected]


Magic Paintbrush CompanyT: 07768 094659E: [email protected]

M n S Building Services LtdT: 020 8679 2953E: marcin@mnsbuildingservicesltd.co.ukwww.mnsbuildingservicesltd.co.uk


Zenico

Multiserve


KudoxT: 020 7225 5020E: [email protected]

Macror PlumbingT: 020 8875 9256E: [email protected] www.macrorplumbing.co.uk

RadflekT: 020 7828 8085E: [email protected]

RightioT: 020 3394 0206www.plumberinsouthwestlondon.co.uk

The Radiator & Bathroom GalleryT: 020 8944 2001E: [email protected]

REMOVALS

Balham RemovalsT: 020 8746 9601E: [email protected]

Burke & WillsT: 020 8947 9001E: [email protected]

Cavendish & CountryT: 020 3544 8060E: [email protected]

Elephant RemovalsT: 0845 009 1800E: [email protected]

Gentleman & A VanT: 020 8874 4283E: [email protected]

The Man T: 020 8746 4410E: [email protected]

Wandsworth Man and VanT: 020 3750 0546E: [email protected]

SHUTTERS

House of ShuttersT: 020 7610 4624E: [email protected]

Le LouvreT: 01403 711188E: [email protected]

Tiles & Baths DirectT: 020 8202 2223E: [email protected]

Tiles & Topswww.tilessandtops.co.uk

Tile Shop LondonT: 020 8878 4820E: [email protected]

Topps TilesT: 020 7371 7279E: [email protected]

UK Splashbacks T: 0800 232 1149 E: [email protected] www.uksplashbacks.com

Via Arkadia Italian TilesT: 020 7351 7057E: [email protected]

Walls & FloorsT: 020 8788 5900E: [email protected]

World’s End TilesT: 020 7819 2100www.worldsendtiles.co.uk

TILERS

AJ Tiling SpecialistT: 07711 266720E: [email protected]

All London Tiling CompanyT: 020 8769 6187www.alllondontiling.co.uk

Apex TilersT: 07463 030359www.apextilers.com


Plumb & Level TilingT: 07814 690718E: [email protected]

WALLPAPER

Andrew MartinE: [email protected]

Astrid & RudolfT: 07801 982438www.astridandrudolf.co.uk

Shutters Curtains & BlindsT: 020 8877 0167E: [email protected]


The Traditional Shutter CompanyT: 020 8677 2933E: info@thetraditionalshuttercompany.co.ukwww.thetraditionalshuttercompany.co.uk

SURVEYORS &STRUCTURAL ENGINEERS

Collier StevensonT: 020 8295 1200 www.collier-stevens.co.uk

Cooper HayesT: 01483 901434E: [email protected]

Ivan Coffey E: [email protected]

Pole Structural EngineersT: 020 8944 9955E: [email protected]

Robert PickettT: 020 8767 [email protected]

TILES

Castelnau TilesT: 020 8741 2452E: [email protected]


DomusT: 020 7819 2300E: [email protected]

European HeritageT: 020 7381 6063E: [email protected]

Fired EarthT: 020 7924 2359 www.firedearth.com

Fulham StoneT: 020 7384 9092www.fulhamstone.co.uk

Cole & SonT: 020 7376 4628E:[email protected]

DedarT: 020 7351 9939E: [email protected]

de GournayT: 020 7352 9988E: [email protected]

FardisT: 020 7731 7300E: [email protected]

Farrow & BallT: 01202 876141E: [email protected]

Fiona Campbell DesignT: 020 7731 3681E: [email protected]

GowallpaperT: 0161 724 9085E: [email protected]

House Couturier T: 020 7371 9255www.housecouturier.eu


London Wallpaper CompanyT: 020 7622 9966 www.londonwallpapercompany.com

Off The WallT: 07989 176993www.offthewall-paper.com

On The WallT: 07944 465383E: [email protected]

Osborne & LittleT: 020 8812 3123E: [email protected]

SandersonT: 0844 543 9500www.sanderson-uk.com

Select WallpaperT: 01382 477000E: [email protected]


MilagrosT: 020 7613 0876E: [email protected]

NatureFusionwww.nature-fusion.com

Olympus Tiles & BathroomsT: 020 7511 6210www.olympustiles.co.uk

PorcelanosaT: 020 7751 2150www.porcelanosa.com


Reed Harris TilesT: 020 7736 7511E: [email protected]

Stone & Ceramic WarehouseT: 020 8993 5545 E: [email protected]

Strata TilesT: 0800 012 1454E: [email protected]

The London Tile & Mosaic CompanyT: 020 7403 3190E: [email protected]

Ayrton Bespoke

Tissus d’HélèneT: 020 7352 9977E: [email protected]

WallpaperedT: 020 7222 4620www.wallpapered.com

Wells InteriorsE: [email protected]

WINDOWS

Albion WindowsT: 0500 344 028E: [email protected]

Amodus Timber WindowsT: 020 8286 9279E: [email protected]

Artisans WindowsT: 020 8947 8549E: [email protected]

Ayrton BespokeT: 020 8877 8920E: [email protected]


Chapel Lane Sash WindowsT: 0800 044 5987www.chapellanesashwindows.co.uk



Paxton RestorationT: 020 8778 1100E: [email protected]

Steel Window AssociationT: 020 8543 2841E: [email protected] www.steel-window-association.co.uk

Vitrocsa LondonT: 020 8274 0768 or 020 3355 6082E: [email protected] www.vitrocsa.co.uk


WHERE TO FIND HELP AND INFORMATIONAssociations

RIBA – Royal Institute of British Architects 020 7580 5533; [email protected]; (www.architecture.com)The site has a ‘find an architect’ database of more than 3,500 UK RIBA chartered practices by name, location, area of expertise and services offered. It also provides a ‘plan of work 2013’, which identifies the eight stages of a project, from preparation and brief to the handover.

RICS – Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors 024 7686 8555; [email protected] (www.rics.org)RICS accredits 131,500 professionals, both individuals and firms. Members holding RICS qualifications can use the letters MRICS, FRICS and AssocRICS after their name. Its website has a ‘find a surveying firm’ function, by location.

Borough planning offices

Wandsworth Borough Council (020 8871 7620; email [email protected])

Building control([email protected]/info/200074/planning/1052/planning_contacts)

The council has a search facility of planning applications at https://planning1.wandsworth.gov.uk/Northgate/Planning Explorer/GeneralSearch.aspx

Lambeth Borough Council (0207 926 9558; email: [email protected]) View the current planning applications database online for a list of applications received and decided upon at www.lambeth.gov.uk/planning-and-building-control/planning-applications-and-policies/viewing-current-planning.

Events

Affordable Art Fair www.affordableartfair.com/fairs/batterseaOver 1,000 affordable artists to view in Battersea Park inside the Battersea Evolution site in the spring (March 8th-11th 2018). Exhibitors include painters, sculptors, printers and photographers.

Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour www.dcch.co.ukDubbed the design world’s Mecca, its 105 showrooms and over 600 international interior

brands under two massive domes in Fulham, showcase everything from carpets, rugs and fabrics to furniture, paint, tiles and wallcoverings.

Grand Designs Live Londonwww.granddesignslive.comMay 5th – 13th 2018 at ExCeL. The nine-day show, hosted by TVs Kevin McCloud, is neatly divided into seven sections – interiors, technology, kitchens, bathrooms, gardens, village and build – to make your visit easier to plan.

Homebuilding & Renovating Showwww.london.homebuildingshow.co.ukSeptember 21-23rd 2018 at ExCel, London. Geared to self builders and renovators.

Mews house by Simply Construction Group

Ideal Home Show www.idealhomeshow.co.ukMarch 17th – April 2nd 2018 at Olympia, London. Find kitchens, bathrooms, basements, flooring, garden rooms, gadgets, fixtures and fittings, live demos and show homes, all under one roof.

London Design Week 2018 www.dcch.co.ukMarch 7th-9th 2018 at Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour for all the latest design thinking.

RHS Chelsea Flower Show www.rhs.org.uk/ChelseaMay 22nd-26th 2018. The grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea are packed with amazing plant displays and the best cutting-edge garden designs. The Show Gardens and the Great Pavilion, featuring over 100 specialist plant breeders, are the big show stoppers.

London Design Festival www.londondesignfestival.com September 15th-23rd 2018. This is the umbrella name for various pop-up events across the city including talks, workshops, installations and exhibitions to showcase London as the design capital of the world. A good source of new designers and manufacturers.

100% Design London 2018www.100percentdesign.co.ukSeptember 19th-22nd 2018 at Olympia. Part of the London Design Festival, it showcases the largest number of interior designers and architects in the UK. Talks programme, bespoke installations and a showcase of world-leading brands.

Reading material

Remodelista: A manual for the considered home by Julie Carlson (hardcover RRP £25.99). Claims to be the undisputed authority for home-design enthusiasts, remodellers, architects and designers. It includes in-depth tours and lessons from 12 enviable homes and 100 of the best everyday household objects.

Style and Substance: The best of Elle Décor by Margaret Russell (hardcover RRP from £49). The 240 pages of striking images culled from the archives of the magazine feature hundreds of dazzling rooms from around the world.

Choosing Colours by Kevin McCloud (hardcover RRP from £30; paperback RRP from £13). Provides 60 tried-and-tested palettes that will transform your home.

Grand Designs Handbook: The blueprint for building your dream home by Kevin McCloud (paperback RRP £16.99). TVs architecture and design guru shares his passion and expertise in this guide, which is split into three sections: thinking, dreaming and doing.

Lighting by Design by Salley Storey (paperback RRP £10). Provides inspiration for outdoor and indoor lighting, creating everything from calm softness to theatrical drama.

The Interior Design Reference and Specification Book: Everything interior designers need to know every day by Linda O’Shea, Chris Grimley & Mimi Love (paperback RRP £16.99). An essential guide to planning and executing interior projects.

George Clark’s More Amazing Spaces (hardback RRP £20). A collection of extraordinary small builds and unlikely conversions from all over the UK and beyond.

Manage a homebuild and renovation project by Leonard Sales ACIOB (RRP £9.99). Includes proven and simple-to-use management techniques that would suit projects up to £1m. The book is associated with a How To website, www.howto.co.uk, where you can engage with the author.

RESOURCES

The only rattle you’ll hear is your baby’s

www.ayrtonbespoke.com

020 8877 [email protected] Merton Road, Wandsworth, London SW18 5AD61- 63 Tottenham Lane, Crouch End, London N8 9BE

Replacing beautifultimber windows anddoors, beautifully

NappyValley Rattle back cover 2018.qxp_Archant full page 11/01/2018 15:48 Page 1

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SPACE unique RACE Clever storage solutions · 2018 looked brighter as vendors and potential buyers acclimatised to the national state of uncertainty over Brexit deal negotiations