Greg Mathers Greg Mathers

Natural Materials for Sustainable London Homes: An Architect's Guide for Homeowners

In this guide, we will explore the various natural materials that can be used to create sustainable homes in London. From cork insulation to bamboo flooring, these materials help reduce a home's carbon footprint and add a unique and natural aesthetic to the space. Learn how incorporating natural materials can help homeowners make their urban homes more eco-friendly and sustainable.

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Greg Mathers Greg Mathers

Should An Architect Be Involved During Construction?

When it comes to construction projects, the involvement of an architect can be crucial in ensuring the project's success. From overseeing the construction process to making design decisions on-site, architects can provide valuable expertise that can help streamline the construction process and prevent costly mistakes. In this blog post, we'll explore why having an architect involved during construction benefits homeowners and contractors.

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Greg Mathers Greg Mathers

A London Architect’s Guide To Installing An Air Source Heat Pump In Your Home

If you plan to install an Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP) in London, it is important to understand the process and considerations involved. ASHPs are a sustainable alternative to traditional heating systems. In this guide, we discuss the benefits and challenges of installing ASHP to make your London home sustainable and eco-friendly.

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Greg Mathers Greg Mathers

The Cost of Passivhaus Construction and Retrofit in London

As the world becomes increasingly aware of the need to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change, the construction industry faces growing pressure to adopt sustainable building practices. This pressure is particularly acute in London, one of the most densely populated cities in the world. With millions of residents and countless businesses occupying its urban landscape, London is a city that demands innovative solutions to its energy needs. One such solution is Passivhaus construction.

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Greg Mathers Greg Mathers

Unravelling the Cost of Hiring a Sustainable Architect for your Home

Get a clear understanding of the architect's fees for your home building project with our comprehensive guide. Learn about the different types of fees and the factors that can impact them. Discover how to budget for your project and hire the right architect. With expert advice and insights, you can ensure the success of your construction project.

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Greg Mathers Greg Mathers

How Long Would a Home Alteration or Extension Take in London?

Undertaking a home extension in London can be an exciting endeavour, but one of the biggest questions on your mind is likely how long the process will take. The timeline for domestic projects can vary depending on factors such as the size and complexity of the project, statutory permissions, and availability of materials and labour. 

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Greg Mathers Greg Mathers

How Long Would A Sustainable Home Retrofit Take in London?

The timeframe for a sustainable home retrofit in London can vary depending on several factors, such as the size and complexity of the project, the availability of materials and contractors, and the level of customisation required. Generally, a home retrofit can take a few weeks to several months to complete.

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How To Use Artificial Light In Your Home
Daniela Ciarcelluti Daniela Ciarcelluti

How To Use Artificial Light In Your Home

This article outlines what to consider when designing artificial light (for evenings and nights) and how darkness plays an essential role in a healthy, sustainable home.

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How To Insulate A Period London Home
Greg Mathers Greg Mathers

How To Insulate A Period London Home

From choosing the correct insulation products to the location of your new insulation, we’re going to delve into everything you need to know about insulating your period property.

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The Case For Daylight
Daniela Ciarcelluti Daniela Ciarcelluti

The Case For Daylight

Daylight has advantages and disadvantages. A good design should consider both. This article outlines the aspects to consider, giving tips for good daylight penetration when designing a new or refurbished home.

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How To Design An Energy Efficient Home
Greg Mathers Greg Mathers

How To Design An Energy Efficient Home

Thermal comfort is the ultimate benefit of an energy-efficient home. In this article, I will discuss what to consider when designing a thermally efficient home.

Like all journeys, it's essential to be clear on the destination. Always start with the brief. Think of the big picture and be aspirational. Your project may be a lifetime opportunity to build a dream home and do your bit for the planet. Make sure you are clear on the ultimate goal of your project.

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How To Improve Indoor Air Quality
Greg Mathers Greg Mathers

How To Improve Indoor Air Quality

The subject of indoor air quality is about more than just stuffy air; it is about air pollution inside your home. This article discusses what contributes to indoor air quality and the best solutions to ensure your home creates a healthy indoor environment.

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The Elements That Make A Healthy Home
Greg Mathers Greg Mathers

The Elements That Make A Healthy Home

In my last article, I discussed the relationship between the Passive House standard and the making of a healthy home. I spoke about how the Passive House standard, which can be considered a measure of peak fitness, can serve as a strong foundation for your healthy home, a home that will also embrace more holistic issues.

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What Is A Healthy Home And What Does It Have To Do With Passivhaus?
Greg Mathers Greg Mathers

What Is A Healthy Home And What Does It Have To Do With Passivhaus?

When we tell people that we make healthy homes, they often look confused. And that is fair given the unhealthy state of the UK building stock which is the oldest and poorest performing in Europe. As architects, we have met successful people, middle to upper-class families, whose homes were so rotten they found slugs in their shower and insects in the children's cereal. If these experiments in indoor biodiversity were the spark for their refurbishment project, you don’t need statistics to say that we are accustomed to a low standard for our homes.

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