Our Tips On Making Your Living Room An Amicable Space
How often do you use your living room? It’s a room that can be quite often overlooked and a space that many are unsure how to get the most out of. We provide building extension services in Richmond. Yes, it’s fantastic when you have friends and family over and you can all sit in the kitchen together which is the heart and home and often the life and soul of the party… but sometimes after a few drinks or long day and comfortable seat is just what you need. Sit back, relax and enjoy the space you have.
Comfort is key
In every home it is important to have a comfortable and relaxing space where you can spend time with your loved ones or just have some quiet time. Ensuring the seating is right and positioned correctly so you get the sun and the views is key. But also, you want to be able to see the television as we all know that is a staple when putting your feet up. The living room is also a space where you can add some different fun touches that pull everything together.
Seating
If you’re looking at a specific colour scheme then you will need furniture that matches too so that the whole aesthetic of the room is the same. Big comfy sofas are always great when you need some time to yourself so you can kick back and watch your favourite show or movie. But if you are using your living room as an entertaining space then sometimes people will choose looks over comfort. What would you choose? Chesterfield sofas are a popular choice right now and are a favourite based on looks and offer support but aren’t always the comfiest. Others may choose an armchair or window seat to compliment the room.
Fire
Simple, cosy and perfect for a family night! There’s nothing better than imagining you and your family watching your favourite movie in winter with the fire lit keeping you warm. It adds an element of comfort to your home and can also help with the lighting ambience.
You can never have too many tables!
Hosting or relaxing you need to have different surfaces to place cups, plates and any other accessories you like. A coffee table in the centre or just next to a seat will always mean your guests have a table in close proximity.
As trusted builders, we can help you to create the perfect home, from concept to completion. We specialise in kitchens, new builds, garden rooms, conversions, bathroom renovations and building extension in Richmond and across the North East. To speak to our team, call 01748 5299700 and we can help your dream come true and create the perfect property for you.
Tips on Saving Money on your Garden Renovation
Like with any large-scale project, you would like to complete it with the smallest possible budget… but we understand that it’s not always as easy as you may think. By making the right choices and decisions you will be able to create the perfect garden that you can admire all year round on a budget!
Allow us to provide you with some smart choices to make, and some tips on how you can make the most out of your garden this spring and summer.
Create a simple wish list with the necessities
We understand that sometimes we can all get a little bit carried away with what we would like to see in our garden. But one thing that is key to remember is that there is a difference between what you need and what you would like.
By simplifying your wish list so that it just includes the items that are needed, and you can’t be without you will find that the cost is a lot lower. If you have allocated yourself a budget and you have purchased everything you need and you have some of the money left over, you could then allocate this to some of the things you would like instead.
Choose wisely about the materials you are going to use
The materials you use are going to be key in the long run. Yes, they may be a little bit more expensive, but you don’t want to have to replace them regularly as this will mean overtime you are spending more money than you need to. By choosing quality materials to begin with you will know that the new fencing you are putting up or decking you are laying is going to last well and be worth the money you have paid for it.
Reuse and recycle
Often, many of the materials or older items that were in your garden will be able to be reused. If required, you can take up the paving slabs you had down but it doesn’t mean that you don’t have to use them anymore. You will be able to repurpose them for something whether that be steppingstones, creating a feature or just giving them a wash and them laying them back down again… think about how you can reuse them.
There are so many different ways that you can create your perfect garden but on a budget. You’ve got this! If you are undertaking a full house renovation or are looking for a trusted and reliable building company, call us on 01748 529700. We offer a range of services such as conversions, kitchen refurbishments, extensions and much more.
Bathroom Renovations Richmond – The Most Common Mistakes That Happen During A Refurbishment
Here at Arcadia Builders our experienced team provide specialist services such as bathroom renovations in Richmond and across the North East. When you are working with a room that has many different pipes such as a bathroom, it can be quite the challenge to refurbish it but often the outcome can be pretty special, and you are left with an amazing bathroom that you are very proud of. It’s common that when people begin bathroom renovations that they all encounter similar issues. In this blog we are going to explore and explain these mistakes so that you can avoid them.
Planning enough room for storage
Storage is vital in any property and the majority of rooms. People quite often think, do I really need storage in the bathroom? Well, our answer is yes! There are your cleaning products which you can store away, toiletries and spare products too. It’s better to have too much storage rather than not enough. Plus, with the right creative ideas, you will be able to create storage for other items such as towel racks.
Creating a budget
You won’t have a bathroom you love without a budget, and this is one of the most common mistakes. People don’t allow for their bathroom renovation within their budget and then feel disappointed that it could not be completed to a standard as high as the rest of the property. You need to know what you will be replacing, what you need to purchase and any other items you would like to add such as mirrors etc. Don’t forget about your subcontractors either. They will play a huge part in completing your bathroom and having it finished to a high standard.
Plus, you need to prepare for the worst-case scenario. It’s likely that it won’t happen but on the chance that it does you need to be ready for replacing a pipe you didn’t think was going to be a problem or purchasing an extra few tiles as they smashed. Be prepared for all eventualities.
Repair or replace?
Which would you rather do? In some circumstances replacing an item completely will be cheaper that repairing it so always have that thought in mind. On the other hand, if it’s not completely broken and can be easily fixed, what’s stopping you! If it’s going to save you money by not having to replace the sink for example, keep the original one in place. You can do other things to modernise it such add new taps and colours around the bathroom.
As trusted builders, we can help you to create the perfect home, from concept to completion. We specialise in kitchens, new builds, extensions, garden rooms, conversions and bathroom renovations in Richmond and across the North East. To speak to our team, call 01748 5299700 and we can help your dream come true and create the perfect property for you.
Builders Northallerton – Creating a Building That is Perfect For You
Here at Arcadia Builders we are professional builders in Northallerton, providing our services across the North East. Many people take great pride in their home and the overall aesthetic of it from the roof to the floor! Over the years our talented team have created the most stunning new build homes, built extensions and converted barns that are perfect for each homeowner.
Sometimes we have very specific requests from our customer or the local authority. A project we completed in Aysgarth, required that we built something that blended in with the countryside. The building was built using a range of natural materials such as drystone walling, cedar cladding and a grass roof. The final result was truly amazing. Check it out here!
The Kitchen
A space for entertaining… if you have an awkwardly shaped kitchen it can be difficult to maximise space and get the most out of it. We understand the frustration that many homeowners have and are more than happy to help you find a solution that will allow you to enjoy your kitchen. If you are looking for a modern blend or something contemporary, we’ll create a kitchen that fits with your overall aesthetic and that meets your requirements. You can view our latest kitchen project here.
Renovations
Transform the overall appearance of your home with Arcadia Builders! We understand that some jobs require attention to detail which is exactly what our team can deliver to you. We have contacts with local architects and can work alongside them to transform your vision into a reality with a striking result. Architects can assist with planning permission, building regulations and much more.
From concept to completion, our team will work with you from start to finish on the build. We’ve created some stunning buildings including South Dene, Cowton Moor and Stow House.
Each project was very different but finished to an impeccable standard and our customers were over the moon with the results!
We can help you renovate, extend, create a garden room and much more. Our team are professional builders in Northallerton and are the experts you need when it comes to building and making your dream become a reality. Call us on 01748 529700 or visit: www.arcadiabuilders.co.uk.
Builders Darlington – New Building Regulations That Will Take Effect in June 2022
As professional Builders in Darlington and across the North East, we need to keep up to date with the latest building regulations. From 2022 new homes will need to produce less carbon emissions, around 30% less to what they are currently producing. This is part of an update to the new Building Regulations. These significant changes have been put in place to uplift all existing energy efficiency standards. These Building Regulations are five new approved documents including uplifts to Part L, fuel and power, and Part F, ventilation which will both take effect from 15th June 2022. Are you prepared for the changes? They will have the biggest impact on new and existing homes.
What Has Been Announced?
There has been a direct £6.6 billon investment for improving energy efficiency of buildings and the changes will impact both new and existing homes across the UK. The changes for new homes…
- 30% cut on emissions from new homes as well as a 27% for any new commercial premises such as offices and shops
- There has been a new building regulation and the new approved Document O has been set to mitigate the risk of overheating any homes
- New homes will pick up the Fabric Energy Efficiency Standards and measure energy efficiency
- There will be a maximum flow temperature requirement of 55% for new and replacement heating systems (as stated in Part L)
- There is a new appendix in Part L which outlines a good practice specification for any home built with a heat pump
For existing homes…
- Extensions to Part L & Part F of the new Building Regulations have set new minimum standards for fabric efficiency
- There will be a new requirement for all new replacement heating system designs that will accept low carbon heating
The transition period will begin in June 2022 and the new rules and regulations will come into effect. It is starting at the later date to allow for any planning applications that are currently underway.
Our expert team of builders in Darlington can help you to improve your home with a new kitchen, extension, renovation, conversion or even build you a BRAND NEW house! Contact us today on 01748 529700 or email enquiries@arcadiabuilders.co.uk.
Kitchens North East – Keeping It Organised At Christmas Time
We are experienced in installing new kitchens across the North East and typically at Christmas there are more people at home which means more food is in the house. Plus, with it being Christmas time you would expect the cupboards to be full of goodies, presents under the tree and everyone in the festive spirit. During this holiday season, make sure that you stay organised and everything runs like clockwork. In this blog we are going to provide you with our tips on keeping your kitchen organised.
Organise Your Fridge
You need to have plenty of spaced in your fridge. This is a bit of a given but you will need to fit your turkey in, all the vegetable and pudding and that’s only for Christmas Day. You’ll have the run up and aftermath to prepare for too. Make sure that packets and boxes are piled high, ensuring nothing is squished, so that you can allow more space. Any bottles you have whether it be milk, orange juice, bucks fizz or any other liquids are stood in the door as this will free more shelf space.
Extra Cupboard Storage
When you have a clutter free kitchen, or at least counter space, you usually have an ample amount of storage solutions where you can put extra pans that would often be on show. By being able to move items that would normally be on show into extra cupboards it will allow the room to be functional and looking festive for Christmas. Plus, with extra space you and can enjoy decorating!
Make Your Seating Area Relaxed and Easy
If you’re lucky enough to have an open plan kitchen/ diner/ living space, entertaining will be easy. But if each room is completely separate having the right seating arrangement will help your guests to relax and not be on their own for too long. Seat guests around your kitchen island or all in one area of the room you are in so they feel included and on hand if you need them for anything at all.
Maybe this Christmas you’d like to treat yourself to a new kitchen or at least get a quote. The team at Arcadia offer a number of services including Garden Rooms, Conversions and new Kitchens across the North East. Call us on 01748 529700 for more information or contact us here.
Are you prepared for the winter weather and storms we could face?
As we approach winter, ever year there is the possibility of snowstorms and in general bad weather storms. Recently many parts of the UK have faced Storm Arwen where it has been devastating to many, leaving some with no power and some with snow outside their door. Usually we would expect snow at this time of year but for many it has caused real problems. We know that you can’t really prepare completely for the bad weather as we never know what is around the corner. Up until now we have had a mild autumn and start to the winter months. Take this time to learn about the ways you can prepare your home for winter and what may be to come.
Prepare your pipes
In the winter months you need hot water and heating to keep you and your family warm so making sure that your pipes are working is essential. Heating your pipes to keep your water flowing will mean that even when the snowstorms hit, you can keep your home warm and your family cosy while the British weather does its own thing, and we all know it has a mind of its own. To help reduce the chance of your pipes freezing keep using water throughout the winter to keep things moving.
Keep the ice away
As soon as the snow hits and starts to gather, get the shovel out and clear the path. This will remove all snow from the walking area and the ice that lies underneath. Keeping the ice off the driveway or pathway will keep your family safe and anyone who may visit or need to use your access.
Keep the drains clear
When there is a lot of snow on the roads and it begins to melt there is going to be an increased amount of water going down your drains. If there are still leaves laying around and other debris make sure that this has all been removed so that snow and ice can go straight down the drains without causing any problems.
If there is a storm forecast be mindful and think ahead. The team at Arcadia Builders offer a range of building services, from concept to completion. Kitchens, renovations, new builds and more. Call our team on 01748529700.
Knowing If Your Property Is Georgian, Victorian or Edwardian
Like in every country the UK has a mixture of architectural styles from ultra-modern homes to periodic Victorian and Edwardian homes. Have you ever thought what period your home was built in? We will help you to understand the period your home was built in and how you can see the difference in the types of properties.
Georgian Properties
The main characteristics of a Georgian property are…
- Usually three or four storeys
- Sash windows/ taller windows
- Render is usually white or cream
- Built around garden
Quite often with Georgian properties there will be a bricked-up window. This was a characteristic caused by the window tax levied on homeowners between 1696 and 1851. The window tax was in place of income tax and the more windows there were in a property, the bigger the property was and the more money the owner typically had. To help avoid paying inflated tax rates, homeowners would block up their windows to reduce the amount of tax that they had to pay. Many Georgian house owners decided to leave the windows blocked rather than reinstate them, therefore this is one of the main features that sets a Georgian house apart from the rest.
Victorian Properties
Some of characteristics of a Victorian property are…
- Different coloured brickwork
- High pitched roof
- Long, narrow hallways
- Fireplace in every room
- Large bay windows which were usually turned into window seats
- Stained glass
Under the rule of Queen Victoria I the Victorian period was ranging from 1837 to 1901. During this period people who typically owned a Victorian house were wealthy landowners and middle-class workers. When the Industrial Revolution took place there was an increase in terraced houses, including back to backs. These houses were built extremely close together and were located close to factories for workers to be able to easily access them and work.
Edwardian Properties
What are the main characteristics of an Edwardian property?
- Red brickwork
- Wooden framed porch
- Wide, bright rooms
- Simple decorative features
- Houses in a straight-line
The Edwardian period took place from 1901 to 1910 and the houses were a much simpler design than the Georgian and Victorian periods. Builders were forced to build Edwardian homes in the suburbs where there was more space. Therefore, unlike darker Victorian homes, the style of the Edwardian homes were more squat and a lot wider with more windows.
For more information about our building services such as conversions, garden rooms, extensions, renovations or new builds, get in contact with our team by calling 01748529700.
Arcadia Builders In Northallerton – Our Tips For Preparing Your Home For Autumn
Sweater weather is very nearly here so it is important to start preparing for the autumnal months. As much as we need to prepare ourselves, we also need to prepare our home to ensure that the different seasons don’t have an effect on what we can do. When having your own home there are lots of preparations that you may not have thought about. As experienced builders in Northallerton, we can provide you with our tips for preparing your home.
Check Your Gutters
It’s no secret that leaves can cause problems. As much as they create a beautiful, crunchy carpet outside they can also have an impact on how businesses operate and our drains. If your gutters become full of leaves and we experience heavy downpours, the British weather is unpredictable, you could end up with a blocked drain. Gutters and drains allow thousands of gallons of water to pass through them yearly so they could do with some TLC. If they become clogged up, you could damage the interior of your home with damp patches or floods.
Move Your Outdoor Furniture
It is so lovely to spend time outdoors in the summer months and enjoy our outdoor furniture, however during the colder months you don’t want to ruin your furniture. Bring it inside, store it in your garage so that it is in a sheltered, dry place. You spent money buying the furniture and took time to build it so don’t let it be ruined. If you don’t have enough space to store the furniture some place dry, you can purchase a waterproof cover that will protect the material during all kinds of weather storms.
Stop The Drafts
Autumn and winter are a cold enough time of the year, so if you have drafts coming from under the doors or windows, now is the time to block these up so you can keep warm all year. Heat loss through windows is responsible for around 25% of heating energy use. One way to check if there is a draft issue in your home is to close a window or door on a piece of paper and if it can slide through you will need to have to take a closer look at what the issue is.
Don’t delay it any longer, prepare your home for autumn! Our expert team of builders in Northallerton can help you to improve your home with a new kitchen, extension, renovation, conversion or even build you a BRAND NEW house! Contact us today on 01748 529700 or email enquiries@arcadiabuilders.co.uk.
What You Should Consider Before Renovating Your Home
Many homeowners across the North East either consider renovating their home or carry out a full home renovation. Quite often many of them reach the end of the renovation process and have fallen at a few hurdles because there were a number of things they didn’t know before they started. It is also advised that you put together a plan of what needs carrying out and any deadlines you have for contractors.
Without the correct preparation, there can be many disappointing aspects along the way as you are not starting this process with a clean slate. You already have the foundations, its building on them to create your dream property.
Creating A Realistic Timeline
If your renovation takes longer than expected, you will be disappointed as it will cost you more money and more frustration. Removing existing elements from your property such as stud walls, kitchen or bathroom units can take a few hours, yet locating new appliances to replace the ones you have removed could take weeks if not months for them to be designed manufactured, delivered, and installed. Therefore, speak with your contractors and team to set a realistic timeframe and budget.
Expect the Unexpected
Within every home there are always going to be a few surprises and hidden elements that you weren’t aware of. It could be something like a builder saying that your floor is uneven or there is a pipe that can’t be moved. The older the property is the more you need to be preparade for the unexpected. To prepare for things like this, allow extra time for the work to be carried out and keep in contact with your team as they will be able to tell you if things are being slowed down.
Be Confident With Your Design
As soon as you start the process of renovating your property, meet with your interior designer, collaborate on ideas and look at inspiration of what you like and what you don’t. Knowing what direction you would like to go in with your design will allow your interior designer to know exactly what route you would like to go down and what your vision is.
The Arcadia Builders team are friendly, professional and experts when it comes to building. Our services include kitchens, renovations, new builds, extensions, garden rooms and conversions. Call 01748529800 or visit: www.arcadiabuilders.co.uk
