Structural Changes from LC Design & Build
Many homes in the 21st century are used very differently and laid out in a way that can make a more flowing and connected living space for a family to enjoy. Gone are the days where people had one whole room that was only used for “best” or for guests. My Grandparents had a two up two down house and there was one room that was hardly ever used! Seems like a waste of useful space to most of us now, but these houses are still there and many have been changed to meet our current way of living
There are far more “open plan” spaces and living space is less boxed in and more compartmentalised into different areas, In the last few years we have seen an increase in extensions to kitchens so kitchen/diners are now a space where families can cook and eat together and friends can be together while dinner is cooked. Once where a house may have two separated reception rooms these have become one. In some modern homes there is hardly any physical separation of living space at all.
Knocking down walls opening up an exterior wall to a new extension, converting a loft all need structural changes to the fabric of your home. So once you have a clear idea of how you want to use the space you will need:
- An architect, they are the experts at translating your vision into the best use
- A structural engineer to design best way to current regulations to ensure a safe structure for the work you want done.
- A competent builder, who will be able to find a practical way of turning a piece of paper into the hard reality. To do it safely for the workforce and ensure other problems are avoided during the building process. For example how do you best hold an exterior wall up in order to get the new steel into place so that the property doesn’t fall down during the process?
- Building Control, local council or a private contractor. They will check plans and approve them or suggest changes before any work starts. They will inspect during and after the structural works are done. They are an independent body that will certify that the works have been completed correctly and to the current regulations. An important person to keep on side. Their job is not to hinder and stop the works but to ensure it is done right in the first place.
Many design projects can include some huge structural changes to open up the space and create a completely new living environment, we talk to the architects and structural engineers and may suggest more practical ways to go about things. We follow strict operations and safe protocols to ensure works are carried out efficiently and safely for all.
We will keep building control involved throughout the process and make sure the final touches are now missed either. The more complicated the project, the more fun we have putting it together for you.
