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By rediscovering hemp, we can create breathable, sustainable buildings

By Christophe

By rediscovering hemp, we can create breathable, sustainable buildings

Sometimes, the best solutions have existed for years. This is the case with hemp. Hemp is becoming known as an excellent material to use in construction, bringing wide-reaching benefits not only for the environment, but for our health. How is hemp being used? Hemp is a natural, organic crop that can be grown in the UK. Currently, we don’t have many farms growing...

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Tags: Architectural process, Construction, On Site

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Renovate or Rebuild? The pros and cons

By Christophe

Renovate or Rebuild? The pros and cons

This is a decision facing many people looking to create their ideal home: should they renovate an existing building or knock it down and start again? There are many factors to consider, not least cost, design potential and sustainability. We’ve pulled together some of the key considerations in the renovate or rebuild debate to help you reach a decision. Each...

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Tags: Architectural process, Construction, Design, Planning

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Now on site: A new sustainable home in Hertfordshire

By Paul

Now on site: A new sustainable home in Hertfordshire

TAS Architects has designed a new low energy sustainable home in Hertfordshire for a couple and their four children. Our brief was to provide spacious and versatile living areas that maximise natural light and provide a feeling of a cozy, warm home that’s comfortable and functional. The home is orientated to make the most of the sloping south-facing garden and...

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Tags: Construction, Design, On Site

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Choosing natural building materials could boost your health

By Lizzie

Choosing natural building materials could boost your health

While the impact of buildings on the environment is coming under a brighter spotlight, so is the impact of buildings on the people who inhabit them. More people are keen to live in dwellings that bring in lots of natural light, for example, and maintain a comfortable temperature. Increasingly, home owners are paying attention to how the fabric of their homes could...

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Tags: Construction, Design

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Introducing ‘Collaborate and Build’

By Christophe

Introducing ‘Collaborate and Build’

Traditionally, once a house building project has gained planning permission, the next stage is detailed design followed by a competitive tender process to find a builder. Up to this point, costs are only loosely unknown. The client doesn’t have an exact price for their project until the architect has spent time creating a highly detailed design package. However,...

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Tags: Architectural process, Construction, Design

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Offsite timber frame manufacture: the pros and cons

By Lizzie

Offsite timber frame manufacture: the pros and cons

Offsite timber frame construction has raced ahead in recent years, both in terms of popularity with self-builders and the UK’s ability to manufacture. However, a timber frame structure produced offsite won’t be the right choice for every project. The decision boils down to time and project specifics, including budget and design ambitions. The most important...

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Tags: Construction, Design, On Site

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