In this blog we talk more about the technical aspects of project managing ICF self-build homes. We originally met our self-builder client at the National Self Build and Renovation Centre (NSBRC) in Swindon, Wiltshire back in 2014. Since then have been supporting our client, who is building a new home in Buckinghamshire, helping with him…
CLPM regularly project manage new build homes of every type – from traditional townhouses and timber-framed barns to modern eco-houses. This new build code 4 home in the Cotswolds is an example of how a building can be designed to quietly sit within its landscape whilst at the same time being an exceptional piece of…
Heavy snow warnings and fears of 2015 being the worst winter for decades are filling the newspapers this week. Our climate scientists and forecasters seem to think we’re in for a hard winter this year. The clocks go back this weekend and the shorter days and dropping temperatures certainly do make us feel that winter is…
We’ve just been appointed to carry out a full sustainability review to improve running costs on a beautiful Edwardian home near Oxford. Our clients are planning to fully refurbish and update their home. The works will include drawing up plans to remodel and reconfigure the existing layout. With many period details, including stained glass windows, intricate ceilings and fireplaces, we…
After what was a mild and wet winter last year, the weather experts are forecasting a colder, drier winter for 2014/5. Certainly the de-icer and scraper have had a bit of use in our area these past few days! But whilst our children might eagerly anticipate dragging out their sledges, this is not great news…
Making your home more energy efficient can save you money and mean you’re more comfortable too. Now that winter is on it’s way, here is a quick list from Charlie Laing’s sustainability team – ranging from changing your habits and quick home improvements to more significant whole-house energy make-overs. 1. Check your Loft insulation: Make sure your…
We’ve just been appointed to give a sustainability review on an old stone built Scottish croft dating from the 1820’s so it’s a challenge!
You will often hear me say ‘Fabric First’ when I discuss the design of low-energy new builds or refurbishments. That is to say you should minimise the heat losses from construction itself before using fancy heating systems, high-tech glazings and complex control strategies. There is a role for all these in ‘hard-to-heat’ homes but, if…
How much would you pay to have electricity all the time? My niece is in Guiana doing a gap year working for an educational charity. They only have electricity on occassion and so it is much more appreciated when it is connected. There is a rush to charge mobile phones, laptops and e-readers (well, the…
The Big Green Home Show at NSBRC in Swindon went well this weekend. Despite the threats of storms and floods there was a good turnout at the show and great interest in the talk I gave (ECO Options – do your research) and the panel discussion about the Green Deal. It seems there is still…