Steve knew the farmhouse, which had been derelict for almost ten years, would make an amazing family home. He soon started on his 'masterplan' to extend the house, modernise it and ensure it was a solid structure too. "We essentially stripped it out, took it back to the bare brick, added a two-storey extension to one side and a single storey extension at the rear and an almost triple garage in the grounds."
Were there any problems with the build? "I prefer to call it a steep learning curve,' Steve says today. "I wanted to fundamentally change the building to create a dream home but hadn't realised all the restrictions that come with greenbelt land. They meant we had to take a phased approach to planning. First of all we got planning permission for the maximum 30% increase in volume. Then we went for a Certificate of Lawfulness for a single-storey rear extension, then a certificate for the detached garage." This obviously meant the build took longer than Steve initially planned.
Once the New Home Company build team started, though, work was swift: The team started by digging up the old drains in order to install a new drainage system and sewage treatment plant. They also replaced the roof and created new windows with high-quality stone window sills and also repointed the entire house. This is clearly a high-end project with Steve committed to using only the best materials and products throughout, including roof windows. Steve was also keen to include the latest features including upgraded insulation, underfloor heating, an air source heat pump and solar panels with battery storage which all lowered the home's carbon footprint as well as significantly reducing running costs.
High-quality flat roof windows were a must for the single-storey extension. Steve chose two Dakea Azure Electric windows for the project, "I wanted a decent size so went for the 100 x 150cm, knowing they would let the light pour into the room below plus the fact that they angle out at the bottom which lets in even more light.
The glass is also toughened and it has a warranty of ten years." It was a cold day in January when the windows went in so the installers appreciated the speed with which they could fit the windows. But there is another difference with Dakea that Steve likes: "I have to say that value-wise Dakea is pretty awesome. The quality is up there with the best of them but the price is even better. We also chose two Dakea's FSA Solar Blinds as an extra energy-saving measure."
The result is a contemporary yet traditional four-bedroom, three -bathroom country style farmhouse which is due to completed in April 2024, ready for a lucky family to start making memories. Mark Sparvell, European Region Manager at Dakea, told us: “We’re happy to be involved with such a beautifully-realised home and look forward to working with Steve on future projects.”
Why choose Azure Electric windows?
The Dakea Azure Flat Roof Windows are applicable for buildings with roof pitches between 5-15 degrees, above an inhabited room. If you would like to allow more light into your home, but have a flat roof, the Dakea Azure is the ideal choice. The easy-to-wipe PVC internal finish combined with its flat glass exterior design looks sleek and modern. The toughened external pane has easy-to-clean coating as well as a laminated coating applied to the internal pane for enhanced safety.
Each of our Dakea Azure Electric Flat Glass Roof Windows are supplied with a high quality, hidden motor and is operated via a wall switch, which allows for seamless and efficient operation. These roof windows offer a maximum opening of 200 mm, allowing ventilation as and when you need it.
You will also be supplied with a pre-installed rain sensor, which is the perfect accessory for any electric flat roof window. If it begins to rain and your flat roof window is open, the sensor will detect this and close your window, protecting your home.
The Dakea Azure Flat Roof Window is simple and easy to install as all fixing screws and brackets are supplied. You will have real peace of mind with the 10 years’ manufacturer’s guarantee.
Dakea is always here to help, with online installation videos and a team always on hand to offer advice. Get in touch with our customer support team on 2023 970 5080.