A new sustainable decade
Change is afoot. Last year saw us all shaken out of our collective apathy to feel that global shift from armchair to action: the call to change our habits and look after the earth. We have awoken to the “realisation that the earth is ours to lose”, as Aaron Betsky puts it. And so has a new sustainable decade arrived?
Many are already well on their way to adopting a zero-waste lifestyle, and it is finally getting easier for consumers to make better eco-friendly choices when it comes to sustainable products, food, etc.
But what about our homes? The construction industry has a significant impact on our natural habitats and accounts for nearly 40% of energy-related carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions.
Are we changing the habits of building our buildings?
Our architecture practice Poulsom Middlehurst recently signed up to the UK Architects Declare Climate and Biodiversity Emergency. We also acknowledge the importance of ensuring these public declarations aren’t empty rhetoric, as Architecture for London brilliantly points out in the article “Net zero: sustainability in the construction industry”.
However, knowing how to create real change is complex; there are a lot of different parties involved. As architects, we’ve seen passionate clients have to opt out of sustainable choices due to the associated price tags. And even if there is a mutual desire for sustainability between the client and the architect, there’s also the builder to get onboard.
It can all feel a bit of a minefield and hard to navigate, especially if you’re looking into retrofitting your existing home. Kit Knowles, the founder of sustainable property developer Ecospheric, sums it up perfectly: “It’s like needing to cook the perfect meal without having any choice over the ingredients, with none of your normal implements to hand, and lots of hungry guests with complex dietary requirements. It’s possible, yes, but much, much harder”.
As daunting as it seems, change IS possible. And it IS happening. Here at HomeNotes, we pledge to be an active part of the change. We want to start this new year and new decade with a renewed commitment to researching and promoting eco-focussed practices for homeowners like you. We want to help you make sustainable renovations.
We are going to start with a series of articles introducing practices that are already well versed in delivering low-energy housing (such as the brilliant Enhabit and Bere Architects, among others). You can also read our material spotlights for more sustainable choices for your finishes. And along the way, we’ll be road-mapping the choices available for homeowners so that you can make informed decisions for your own homes.
Be part of the journey with us. Because if we’ve learnt anything so far, what is needed is a collective will. Change is possible if we do it together.
We have created a FREE Renovation Budget Guide
that unpacks all the figures of a project – from building costs and professional fees to those extra expenses that no-one tells you about.
This will put your construction budget in the context of the whole project’s costs and make sure you’re considering all those added extras from the outset.
How much will my extension cost in 2024?
It’s the all-important question for home renovators: how much is my extension really going to cost? Read on to find out!
Natural Plaster – and why we can’t get enough
Want a material that is beautiful, and works hard for you? Look no further than Natural Plaster. We explain why we can’t get enough of it!
The New DIY: Online Renovation Courses
More homeowners are turning to online renovation courses as a way to save costs on their renovations. Take a look at our top picks!
Where NOT to scrimp on your renovation
Sometimes it’s tempting to cut corners and save a few pounds but it’s likely you’ll regret it in the long term. We share our top tips of where it doesn’t pay to scrimp in your dream home.
Open House Festival: 8th – 21st of September
For those who have decided THIS is the year that they’re going to bite the bullet and renovate, Open House London is a chance to go and see some projects up close and personal. Here’s our list of recommended projects to go visit.
Why do we still not have a national retrofit strategy?
We talk to Paul Testa of HEM Architecture about why we need a national retrofit strategy and why it needs to happen now.
How to prepare your house for builders: 10 things you must do
When getting ready to receive contractors into your home it’s important to prepare your property. Get started with these 10 must do tasks!
Our 10 top tips to buying a house
Buying a house is potentially the biggest financial commitment you will ever make, so take the time to prep with our tips!
Don’t move, Improve! 2022 Shortlist
Check out the 15 incredible London renovation projects shortlisted for this year’s Don’t Move, Improve! Awards and get inspired!
Viewing a property: The ultimate checklist
You’ve done your research! But when you’re in the actual property, remember to consider the following things…
How much will my extension cost?
When it comes to home-renovating this is the most common question we get asked. So let’s get right to it, how do you work out the REAL cost? Read on to find out!
How to make the most of a Trade Show
Returning to thoughts of renovating your home? Then jumpstart your project by attending a trade show. But first make sure you read our top tips on how to make the most of your visit!
Top tips for renovating from industry experts
We asked a range of architects and experts working in the residential sector to give us their top tip for homeowners who want to renovate.
Worried about increasing construction prices?
Everyone is concerned about increasing construction costs. We talk to BuildPartner about what measures home renovators can take to reduce risks for their projects.
Your handy guide to assessing builders
Linden from Weaver shares his a handy guide to assessing builders. So before a spade is in the ground, it’s worth taking a moment to prepare.
Product spotlight: Little Bishop Hook
A neat solution for pendant lighting; we take a look at the clean design and appealing simplicity of the Little Bishop Pendant Hook
The ‘Iron Triangle’ you should embrace
It may sound daunting, but knowing about the ‘Iron Triangle’ in advance can help you plan your project and set realistic expectations.
Making the most of your outdoor space
If you’re living in London, then chances are you’re severely lacking in one department: outdoor space. But even if you only have a small patch to play with, this space can do so much for you with a bit of care and forward planning.
Your ultimate guide to extractor fans
Our complete guide answers all your extractor fan questions (even those you didn’t know you had!)
EJ Ryder and the world of joinery
Edwin J Ryder and his team specialise in bold, creative design and impeccable workmanship in their joinery and interior finishes. We spoke with Edwin to find out how they work with clients on their property renovations.
