Got rejected for a BTL (buy-to-let) mortgage this week, due to insufficient income. Didn't think that was possible, i thought the whole point of BTL is that rent covers the payments. Anyway, so need to think of plan B, as i'm about 50 grand short on planned budget. Some ideas (the legal ones only):
1. find a specialist lender who will offer the money
2. get a private investor
3. get a job
4. do most the work myself instead (except plastering and electrical/gas)
5. pack up and go to south america for the winter
Currently exploring all options.
What would you do?
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Positive thinking
Ok time to pat myself on the back, jolly good chap, have a pat, how's that.
Project achievements to date:
1. Planning permission, whilst still not officially granted, has been unofficially given and is just awaiting some legal paperwork which is in the pipeline. I bloody hope so anyway.
2. Windows are half done, that is because planning permission is not yet officially received, i cannot touch the outside of the walls yet, but my builder has cunningly knocked out and built the openings on the inside of the wall (this is possible because the wall is stone and half a metre thick).
3. New water supplies installed. Wessex water spent a couple of days pissing about on the road, it was entertaining.
4. All interior carcassing complete, including 3 new bathrooms and one staircase
5. Upstairs 1st fix plumbing complete
6. Two new windows built, one installed
7. Floating floor, independent ceiling, and other acoustic insulation installed
8. Lots of problems solved
God I'm bored, that's enough pat old chap. Go relax.
Project achievements to date:
1. Planning permission, whilst still not officially granted, has been unofficially given and is just awaiting some legal paperwork which is in the pipeline. I bloody hope so anyway.
2. Windows are half done, that is because planning permission is not yet officially received, i cannot touch the outside of the walls yet, but my builder has cunningly knocked out and built the openings on the inside of the wall (this is possible because the wall is stone and half a metre thick).
3. New water supplies installed. Wessex water spent a couple of days pissing about on the road, it was entertaining.
4. All interior carcassing complete, including 3 new bathrooms and one staircase
5. Upstairs 1st fix plumbing complete
6. Two new windows built, one installed
7. Floating floor, independent ceiling, and other acoustic insulation installed
8. Lots of problems solved
God I'm bored, that's enough pat old chap. Go relax.
The cursed to-do list
I hate to-do lists, I constantly try using them but end up getting tired and leaving them to get dusty in a pile or in cyberspace or wherever.
One such list is a whiteboard i use for daily planning, but the whiteboard happens to be just the right size for blocking up an old window I had to take out for repair (i had started to repair the window without taking it out, by giving it a soak of potent wet rot hardener, but it seems this dissolves glue and the frame fell apart in the process). Perhaps "go back to my day job and pay a professional" should be on the list.
Another list is a wall, literally the wall, since it will be plastered i can graffiti it as much as i like. But there's too much clutter by the wall i can't get to it. No doubt clutter-clearing is on the list.
I thought now to sit down and write a list of tasks remaining on my building project. I got to 3 items and got bored. It's Saturday for f&cks sake. But I want a sense of how long I will be imprisoned in this town for. And I'm loath to believe my original project plan which says I'm only a third of the way thru. And considering I started in June, that would mean I'll be here another year at least. I think I'd rather hang myself. But homo sapiens is very resilient, especially considering we are way past our sell-by date.
So let's try try the blog-list, where I ramble the estimate.
Gulp.
Main interior carcassing complete. First fix plumbing half complete. First fix electrics hardly started. Fuck i'm bored already. This lasted about as long as the paper list, except it focused on what has been done rather than what needs to be done. I guess I was trying to cheer myself up.
Another great way of avoiding to-do lists is to get busy only doing stuff you enjoy, and ignore the rest. I enjoy carpentry, so busy myself making windows, fixing barn doors etc. I enjoy design, so i draw plans, and more plans. I don't enjoy talking to people, so I avoid collaboration, though this is probably the one thing that would help me most.
But I'll get there in the end. With or without my fucking to-do lists.
One such list is a whiteboard i use for daily planning, but the whiteboard happens to be just the right size for blocking up an old window I had to take out for repair (i had started to repair the window without taking it out, by giving it a soak of potent wet rot hardener, but it seems this dissolves glue and the frame fell apart in the process). Perhaps "go back to my day job and pay a professional" should be on the list.
Another list is a wall, literally the wall, since it will be plastered i can graffiti it as much as i like. But there's too much clutter by the wall i can't get to it. No doubt clutter-clearing is on the list.
I thought now to sit down and write a list of tasks remaining on my building project. I got to 3 items and got bored. It's Saturday for f&cks sake. But I want a sense of how long I will be imprisoned in this town for. And I'm loath to believe my original project plan which says I'm only a third of the way thru. And considering I started in June, that would mean I'll be here another year at least. I think I'd rather hang myself. But homo sapiens is very resilient, especially considering we are way past our sell-by date.
So let's try try the blog-list, where I ramble the estimate.
Gulp.
Main interior carcassing complete. First fix plumbing half complete. First fix electrics hardly started. Fuck i'm bored already. This lasted about as long as the paper list, except it focused on what has been done rather than what needs to be done. I guess I was trying to cheer myself up.
Another great way of avoiding to-do lists is to get busy only doing stuff you enjoy, and ignore the rest. I enjoy carpentry, so busy myself making windows, fixing barn doors etc. I enjoy design, so i draw plans, and more plans. I don't enjoy talking to people, so I avoid collaboration, though this is probably the one thing that would help me most.
But I'll get there in the end. With or without my fucking to-do lists.
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
A day on the site
A day on (and off) the site
07:30 get up shower and all that. waking up well is important to set the day well.
08:00 shops to buy milk, onto the site, open any mail that looks important. add the rest to the growing stack
08:30 builder arrives starts work. just good morning no discussion as he's just continuing work from yesterday (batten frame on dodgy ceiling prior to fireboarding)
Whiteboard list of things to do today (to rub off each as done, c/f rest if needed) Keep list realistic
Coffee & breakfast onsite. Get distracted by facebook. Sound on PC doesn't work, fucking geek updates screw things up. At least prevents me getting too distracted.
08:45 start this blog
09:00 delivery of chipboard flooring arrives. takeaway old pallets from previous deliveries... at last, those fuckers getting in the way
09:30 shift stuff around with Pete (builder) to make way for further ceiling work. Including piano carcass and 1960's university notes.
No sign of labourer. Text him see if still coming (from Swindon)
Return to making coffee. Eat pear.
10:00 start working out levelling on joists in prep for laying chip floor
12:00 labourer (Scott) arrives 3 hours late. well i pay him peanuts. his jobs today: tidying up, de-nailing floorboards, help bring deliveries in, help me saw up ply packing strips for floor, help Pete put up fireboard
13:00 delivery of Regupol impact sound insulator arrives. a rubber-cork base for absorbing sound of people jumping on wooden floors.
Pete finishes ceiling framework, ready to fireboard
Parking shortage, Pete in neighbour's space, organise re-arrangement of vehicles. Mental note to make space indoors for my car.
Council comes by to re-post planning app on lamppost.
13:45 Pete & Scott start on fireboarding ceiling. Will be 12 whole sheets (31kg each) plus part sheets. Expect sweat. From them. I relax. I'm not doing the work and i'm now covered by employee liability insurance.
14:00 collect my friend Soraya from Chippenham station, she's come to stay for a few days.
Lunch. call mother. get word in edgeways. i'm staying at my mum's since i fell thru my floor the other week i decided that living on the building site was getting a bit hairy.
Soraya siestas while i finish off at the site
15:30 go to bank get money for Scott. back to site. clouds of dust everywhere. Scott is sweeping. get him to PVA wash the concrete floor to seal it.
continue work on floor levelling.
14:45 Pete finishes. one layer fireboard is complete. to finish off tomorrow then dismantle old staircase.
17:00 Scott finishes. he's an honest guy, correcting downwards the hours i'd stated he worked.
17:20 i finish. maybe some sightseeing with Soraya in a bit.. the weather is nice. i'm knackered, Castle Combe green in the deckchairs i think
07:30 get up shower and all that. waking up well is important to set the day well.
08:00 shops to buy milk, onto the site, open any mail that looks important. add the rest to the growing stack
08:30 builder arrives starts work. just good morning no discussion as he's just continuing work from yesterday (batten frame on dodgy ceiling prior to fireboarding)
Whiteboard list of things to do today (to rub off each as done, c/f rest if needed) Keep list realistic
Coffee & breakfast onsite. Get distracted by facebook. Sound on PC doesn't work, fucking geek updates screw things up. At least prevents me getting too distracted.
08:45 start this blog
09:00 delivery of chipboard flooring arrives. takeaway old pallets from previous deliveries... at last, those fuckers getting in the way
09:30 shift stuff around with Pete (builder) to make way for further ceiling work. Including piano carcass and 1960's university notes.
No sign of labourer. Text him see if still coming (from Swindon)
Return to making coffee. Eat pear.
10:00 start working out levelling on joists in prep for laying chip floor
12:00 labourer (Scott) arrives 3 hours late. well i pay him peanuts. his jobs today: tidying up, de-nailing floorboards, help bring deliveries in, help me saw up ply packing strips for floor, help Pete put up fireboard
13:00 delivery of Regupol impact sound insulator arrives. a rubber-cork base for absorbing sound of people jumping on wooden floors.
Pete finishes ceiling framework, ready to fireboard
Parking shortage, Pete in neighbour's space, organise re-arrangement of vehicles. Mental note to make space indoors for my car.
Council comes by to re-post planning app on lamppost.
13:45 Pete & Scott start on fireboarding ceiling. Will be 12 whole sheets (31kg each) plus part sheets. Expect sweat. From them. I relax. I'm not doing the work and i'm now covered by employee liability insurance.
14:00 collect my friend Soraya from Chippenham station, she's come to stay for a few days.
Lunch. call mother. get word in edgeways. i'm staying at my mum's since i fell thru my floor the other week i decided that living on the building site was getting a bit hairy.
Soraya siestas while i finish off at the site
15:30 go to bank get money for Scott. back to site. clouds of dust everywhere. Scott is sweeping. get him to PVA wash the concrete floor to seal it.
continue work on floor levelling.
14:45 Pete finishes. one layer fireboard is complete. to finish off tomorrow then dismantle old staircase.
17:00 Scott finishes. he's an honest guy, correcting downwards the hours i'd stated he worked.
17:20 i finish. maybe some sightseeing with Soraya in a bit.. the weather is nice. i'm knackered, Castle Combe green in the deckchairs i think
Saturday, July 23, 2011
Neanderthals
Apparently this dead breed of humans was both stronger and more intelligent that us Homo Sapiens, so what happened? Well we collaborated, giving up our individuality for the greater good of the species, and beat them.
So what's this got to do with building conversion? Well communication and collaboration is something I struggle with, but it's essential in business. However I am aware of my weaknesses, so this gives me some strategic advantage - I can plan for it if I put the effort in.
Giving instructions. I find it difficult to assert my preferences, or even to know what they are, often erring towards what I think others might prefer hoping they will love me more. This is pointless.
I try to compensate for this by only giving instructions after I have spent time alone and considered a course of action by myself.
I'm not sure now if this has anything to do with Neandertals. I wanted to mention about signals versus requests but my communication skills let me down. Let me try again.
Spot the difference:
1) "This box needs to go over there."
2) "Could you move this box over there?"
The first is a statement, or a signal transmitting information.
The second is a request, also a signal transmitting information, but crucially different because it is requesting information in return.
In the first there is no evidence of an "other" person. My brain sends signals to my fingers which then type without protest. Because my brain and fingers are both part of me. By contrast, the second sentence is a question and so implies the existence of an "other".
In any relationship, in business but especially personally, my tendency is to communicate on the basis of the first kind of statement, and only with effort do I achieve the second. The pattern goes back to my relationship with my mother. We are one, emotionally tied such that when she sends signals I feel inclined to respond... because I AM partly her. I am ashamed of this. I am ashamed of my lack of being a separate person.
And yet none of us are truly separate. That was our condition when as the weaker species we Homo Sapiens overcame the stronger Neanderthals. Beginning with the tighter family unit, we grew to tribes and wider communities, and now nations and whole civilisations. We acted efficiently because we didn't need to ask each other questions and negotiate - we simply sent signals just as our brain does to our limbs, and the "self" became a human collective entity. The individual human died thousands of years ago, along with the Neanderthals.
But it's still a bitch when you want to "be yourself" as they say. Who says? Not me. F*ck the pronoun.
So what's this got to do with building conversion? Well communication and collaboration is something I struggle with, but it's essential in business. However I am aware of my weaknesses, so this gives me some strategic advantage - I can plan for it if I put the effort in.
Giving instructions. I find it difficult to assert my preferences, or even to know what they are, often erring towards what I think others might prefer hoping they will love me more. This is pointless.
I try to compensate for this by only giving instructions after I have spent time alone and considered a course of action by myself.
I'm not sure now if this has anything to do with Neandertals. I wanted to mention about signals versus requests but my communication skills let me down. Let me try again.
Spot the difference:
1) "This box needs to go over there."
2) "Could you move this box over there?"
The first is a statement, or a signal transmitting information.
The second is a request, also a signal transmitting information, but crucially different because it is requesting information in return.
In the first there is no evidence of an "other" person. My brain sends signals to my fingers which then type without protest. Because my brain and fingers are both part of me. By contrast, the second sentence is a question and so implies the existence of an "other".
In any relationship, in business but especially personally, my tendency is to communicate on the basis of the first kind of statement, and only with effort do I achieve the second. The pattern goes back to my relationship with my mother. We are one, emotionally tied such that when she sends signals I feel inclined to respond... because I AM partly her. I am ashamed of this. I am ashamed of my lack of being a separate person.
And yet none of us are truly separate. That was our condition when as the weaker species we Homo Sapiens overcame the stronger Neanderthals. Beginning with the tighter family unit, we grew to tribes and wider communities, and now nations and whole civilisations. We acted efficiently because we didn't need to ask each other questions and negotiate - we simply sent signals just as our brain does to our limbs, and the "self" became a human collective entity. The individual human died thousands of years ago, along with the Neanderthals.
But it's still a bitch when you want to "be yourself" as they say. Who says? Not me. F*ck the pronoun.
Friday, July 22, 2011
Control
Lots of things hang about in my mind competing for it's ability to control..
The gas pipe which is isolated but not capped
Stairs which are installed but not protected
Planning application which is registered but not complete with heritage asset statement
Fireboard which is up but needs some more screws
Labourer who is working but not insured
Acoustic insulation which is fitted but not sealed
VAT registered but admin pending
Valuation done but deed of transfer pending
Floorboards which are up but not treated
Electricity which is re-routed but temporary and not compliant
Wet rot treated and repaired in one room, but not in another
Something is fixed, but something will eventually break
The inbox goes down, the inbox fills up
Now take a break
The gas pipe which is isolated but not capped
Stairs which are installed but not protected
Planning application which is registered but not complete with heritage asset statement
Fireboard which is up but needs some more screws
Labourer who is working but not insured
Acoustic insulation which is fitted but not sealed
VAT registered but admin pending
Valuation done but deed of transfer pending
Floorboards which are up but not treated
Electricity which is re-routed but temporary and not compliant
Wet rot treated and repaired in one room, but not in another
Something is fixed, but something will eventually break
The inbox goes down, the inbox fills up
Now take a break
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Worry
Naturally i want everything to work out fine, and i worry that stuff will go wrong so i try to fix the world around me so that it goes right. Of course this contradicts the immutable Second Law of Thermodynamics therefore my life is destined to be stressful, so long as I am looking after myself that is.
Talking of stress, and the reason for this post really, is my latest worry on the building is the weight burden on a certain steal beam which holds up a wall, half a roof, and soon, so it seems, a new ceiling of considerable weight. The beam is mottled with rust spots, seems to have a slight sag on it, and sits on a column of brick that seems to have cracked away from the main wall. The same column also holds another steel beam which also holds up a wall and a roof.
Without mentioning any details i ask my builder if there is any concern for weight. He seems unconcerned.
Building control is coming today on another matter, i will raise the issue from a side angle.
My father is an engineer and is coming later anyway so I can ask him also.
Watch this space.
* * *
The next day
So no big deal, as expected. I expected the worry, just not the big deal. My dad the engineer didn't seem too concerned, the weight being taken is not large for this type of beam, and there is no evidence of wall cracking from the other side which was hard-wall plastered 18 years ago. Apparently the beam had in it's history also held up another steal beam perpendicular to it about the centre, and this beam supported the lifting of engines and other heavy mechanical parts of vehicles at a time when the building was used as a garage. So the beam of concern had been well tested in it's history.
That said, it maybe just as well to put in some ties on the cracked side of the wall.
Also the new lobby housing the staircase will act as additional support.
Am I still worried? Ok, a teeny bit, but I can live with that.
Talking of stress, and the reason for this post really, is my latest worry on the building is the weight burden on a certain steal beam which holds up a wall, half a roof, and soon, so it seems, a new ceiling of considerable weight. The beam is mottled with rust spots, seems to have a slight sag on it, and sits on a column of brick that seems to have cracked away from the main wall. The same column also holds another steel beam which also holds up a wall and a roof.
Without mentioning any details i ask my builder if there is any concern for weight. He seems unconcerned.
Building control is coming today on another matter, i will raise the issue from a side angle.
My father is an engineer and is coming later anyway so I can ask him also.
Watch this space.
* * *
The next day
So no big deal, as expected. I expected the worry, just not the big deal. My dad the engineer didn't seem too concerned, the weight being taken is not large for this type of beam, and there is no evidence of wall cracking from the other side which was hard-wall plastered 18 years ago. Apparently the beam had in it's history also held up another steal beam perpendicular to it about the centre, and this beam supported the lifting of engines and other heavy mechanical parts of vehicles at a time when the building was used as a garage. So the beam of concern had been well tested in it's history.
That said, it maybe just as well to put in some ties on the cracked side of the wall.
Also the new lobby housing the staircase will act as additional support.
Am I still worried? Ok, a teeny bit, but I can live with that.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Squatters.. your time is up
1. the gutter, a home for many
3. what is this? bees i think, long gone though
4. cobwebs
5. creeping ivy
6. bee-hive under floor
7. maltesers
8. neighbours
9. spider... hang on
10. mice. Departed.
Monday, June 13, 2011
Filler
Poly filler, life filler, no thriller, damn spiller, what a killer.
Crack in the wall, broken heart, no art, just fart, dart.
Depression, obsession, confession. That's it, no tit, just flit, you're it.
And now for an update on the building works....
zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
Wake up, knock knock.
zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
bblblblblblblbllblb
ugh, splat, swagger
Interval
Filler
There will be a short break whilst the poly-filler sets, please return shortly. With sandpaper.
Crack in the wall, broken heart, no art, just fart, dart.
Depression, obsession, confession. That's it, no tit, just flit, you're it.
And now for an update on the building works....
zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
Wake up, knock knock.
zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
bblblblblblblbllblb
ugh, splat, swagger
Interval
Filler
There will be a short break whilst the poly-filler sets, please return shortly. With sandpaper.
Monday, May 30, 2011
Kant's no c*nt
I was awoken from a dream this morning in which I was surveying an old building for left-over materials I could use for it's own refurbishment. This is the story of my family life. Efficiency.
I was awoken by an alarm reminding me to go to the gym, there's some relevance to this too, but I forget.
Then perhaps in the hope of fixing up my life for good I reach for my phone and google "reason wiki"
And decide that the word c&nt must be derived from Kant. [* see footnote]
Then I got up and well the next bit is too much info but it reminded me of the interconnectedness of life and how one thing's trash is another's treasure (sorry for the americanism, that's google again).
Then I made a cup of coffee and thought, let's write some shit. Sorry i didn't mean to mention that subject. I suppose you could say anything you physically eject is shit one way or another, else you wouldn't eject it. So that applies to writing too, inasmuch as it becomes a physical manifestation of something that is you, no hang on does that make sense? Might delete. [yes that was shit, but it's a fine line]
So here's a little dialogue on my mind, there's no winner of course since they're both on my side. No that's not true, one is on God's side and wins eventually.
Scary. Life is scary, we are vulnerable and living is about being open to all that, so just take a chance and have faith and take a leap.
Yes I know that, my ancestors did that and they almost died, how much luck can you have?
You could say they were lucky, but that luck has run from the dawn of time, every being from whom you have descended has overcome incredible odds and passed on their essence to you. Are you just going to give up now and say, well that's enough I think I'm going to retire on package holidays and leave life to someone else.
Very funny. There's no incredible odds, that's just the anthropic principle, of course everything is amazing, where it's not we're not there to witness it.
Clever, but it doesn't make any difference, you're doomed eventually anyway, at all levels. You will die individually, your species too at some point, your planet will explode or be absorbed by an exploding sun, and all will be forgotten. So just give up fixing shit, it ain't gonna make a slither of frozen shit's difference.
God, i'm depressed now.
Yes son, now come to me, it'll all be ok.
Hey, cut that crap you sneaky bastard I was just having a conversation and you're trying to depress the hell of out me.
Indeed the hell it is I'm trying to get out of you.
By making me depressed? I have been quite enjoying "fixing shit" as you so politely put it, until you came knocking on the door. What are you saying, I should give up everything and become a monk??
At this point the transmission breaks down, there is some crackling and I write it off for a bad line. The bastard is teasing me. Bless him, he has the best intentions. And when I stop analysing, he gives me peace.
* * *
* i have since done a couple hundred seconds research on Kant and decided that I like him, and so have changed the blog title from "Kant's a c*nt" to "Kant's no c*nt"
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Next move..
ok the ball is back in my court now so no excuses for sitting around and being mopey. Ok just one excuse, my baby nephew Charlie is sleeping on me right now so i can't really move.
So finally after.. let me count... more than 6 weeks and a number of chasers, the council have come back to me with a response to my second enquiry. This is not even the application process, just pre-application enquiry. Ok so there were a lot of bank holidays recently, royals getting married, prophets dying and rising again etc.
Well i'm more optimistic than before. The council seem to have dropped their objection on "size and layout" presumably as the plans provided were more comprehensive, and were supported by a written statement.
The council still have doubts as no car parking is proposed, but i don't see this as a huge obstacle since there are plenty of other cases where no parking is provided, e.g. i have some flats down the road without parking. That reminds me i better dig up the application for that one see what was said.
So next i need to talk to the highway authority and get my mum to send them some cake.
Maybe also talk to the architects that gave me a load of shite advice but still they might be able to help. eg idea to go two stage, renew lapsed 1995 app that would qualify project for VAT exemption (commercial to residential) then submit second app to split property.
zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
Also to do...
- clear out all the cr@p still in the building, anyone want some old furniture?
- clear out the emotional junk hanging around in my head (see other blogs)
So finally after.. let me count... more than 6 weeks and a number of chasers, the council have come back to me with a response to my second enquiry. This is not even the application process, just pre-application enquiry. Ok so there were a lot of bank holidays recently, royals getting married, prophets dying and rising again etc.
Well i'm more optimistic than before. The council seem to have dropped their objection on "size and layout" presumably as the plans provided were more comprehensive, and were supported by a written statement.
The council still have doubts as no car parking is proposed, but i don't see this as a huge obstacle since there are plenty of other cases where no parking is provided, e.g. i have some flats down the road without parking. That reminds me i better dig up the application for that one see what was said.
So next i need to talk to the highway authority and get my mum to send them some cake.
Maybe also talk to the architects that gave me a load of shite advice but still they might be able to help. eg idea to go two stage, renew lapsed 1995 app that would qualify project for VAT exemption (commercial to residential) then submit second app to split property.
zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
Also to do...
- clear out all the cr@p still in the building, anyone want some old furniture?
- clear out the emotional junk hanging around in my head (see other blogs)
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Outdoor stairs
Checking possibility of putting staircase outside, in order to increase the living space indoors. This search is prompted by an initial planning department response that the proposed plans may not be accepted due to "size and layout"
Building control have confirmed that exterior stairs are allowed for first floor access to dwellings, and furthermore a first floor open porch is also allowed. View from planning department maybe another story though.
Some ideas from google search. Any more stairs suggestions welcome. Bear in mind the British weather!
Building control have confirmed that exterior stairs are allowed for first floor access to dwellings, and furthermore a first floor open porch is also allowed. View from planning department maybe another story though.
Some ideas from google search. Any more stairs suggestions welcome. Bear in mind the British weather!
Fake it till you make it
As I'm not, by trade, an architect (or anything else for that matter), a little study is in order, so I don't get stuck in a stickler with my building conversion project out here in the country, as I did in the last one. So with help from the UK professional body for architects, RIBA, and the internet, here it is in layman's terms: how to manage an architectural project.
Firstly, it's not (as I had thought) only two stages:
1. Planning to do stuff
2. Doing it
It's 11 ! Thankfully, they're not numbered, they're lettered, so it seems a little more friendly:
A - Appraisal: does your idea even stand a chance? Or if multiple ideas, which are feasible?
B - Design Brief: what you going to do?
C - Concept: sketch some plans and see what it's going to cost. Maybe change your mind.
D - Design Development: make it legal - apply for planning permission
E - Technical Design: work out all the details, like how to build it
F - Production Information: the same as stage E, but something extra for architects to bill for (or..?)
G - Tender Documentation: work out what you're going to ask builders, plumbers, carpenters etc to do
H - Tender Action: ask builders, plumbers, carpenters etc to give you a price, and choose whose going to do the work
J - Mobilisation: ask them to come to work
K - Construction: build, crack the whip if they don't
L - Post completion: check the building is all ok and get it legally certified
Click here for a more formal description.
Is it better than a 9 to 5?
One of my aims in this project is to work out if I can make a better living from this than just going back to the office. So I'm keeping a detailed time-sheet. Here it is summarised to date. It seems I like to spend half my time doodling with ideas ("concept"), pretty much the same as I did when I worked 9 to 5, only then I was keeping quiet about it.
Ok, back to "work"...
Friday, March 4, 2011
Window design - east wall
The following picture shows the east wall of the property as it currently stands, with a dotted line indicating how the property is divided internally. On the left-hand section there is a single window set within a larger opening which was previously partly bricked in. This red brickwork jarrs somewhat with the rest of the wall which is of original vernacular stonework.
The proposal is to re-open this window to the original size, improving the character and giving some historical echo of the former use it may have had as a stables hay loft door.
Additionally it is proposed to place an additional window aligned below this, to provide better lighting internally to the ground floor. Furthermore, on the right hand section, it is proposed to add some small fixed windows again to give some additional lighting to the interior, and also to add some interest and character to the expansive stone wall. These windows should be of a smaller size and at a reasonable height, for both security and privacy reasons.
The proposal is to re-open this window to the original size, improving the character and giving some historical echo of the former use it may have had as a stables hay loft door.
Additionally it is proposed to place an additional window aligned below this, to provide better lighting internally to the ground floor. Furthermore, on the right hand section, it is proposed to add some small fixed windows again to give some additional lighting to the interior, and also to add some interest and character to the expansive stone wall. These windows should be of a smaller size and at a reasonable height, for both security and privacy reasons.
Below are a couple of proposals for these windows. Your comments, preference, or suggestions are welcome.
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Round or square?
As part of the design phase in the development of flats at 18 St Mary's Place, Chippenham, I'm looking to brainstorm and get as much feedback as possible from both the local community as well as a wider circle. Whether you're into architecture or not, your views here are valued and will be considered. The proposed development is a conversion of an 18th Century barn into flats. Much of the building was modified in the 19th and 20th centuries for various commercial uses.
How much do you like or dislike the round windows in this picture?
How much do you like or dislike the round windows in this picture?
Friday, February 25, 2011
Concepts and draft plans
Here is the current plan, any feedback or thoughts welcome.
Existing ground and first floor
The building is currently a single apartment / huge family warehouse.
Proposed plans
Idea is to create 4 apartments as follows:
Flat 3 - entrance
Due to a 60cm difference in floor level on two halves of the building upstairs, idea here is to create a landing two steps below the main floor (with a 3rd step to reach the main door from the staircase landing outside). Within the extra room height created by this lower landing, an additional bathroom could be added with a small mezzanine above for a second bed. A Velux window could also be added.
Forgive the basic graphics, just starting to learn google sketchup, amazing app.
this probably only makes sense to me...
flat 3 lounge as it is now... (a mess)
Flat 2
This would be the smallest flat, a studio apartment open plan, with kitchen area by the entrance. The boiler would be to the right of the entrance door as you come in, and the flue would go through the roof, unless i can find a viable communal heating system.
animated...(with added camera-shake effect)
as it is now... (my bedroom)
Flats 1 & 4 (downstairs)
Work-in-progress. To be continued...
Would-be flats 1 & 4, as they are now...
Windows windows
Here is the east-side exterior wall as it is now. The window is recent (last century), the original opening was taller (note the red-brick in-fill), presumably a wooden barn door filled this space, hay bundles thrown up through it from passing delivery carts.
Photo 1 - existing
Idea below is to re-open the full length of the original opening, let more light in etc. Will probably need laminated toughened glazing on all windows to resist vandals throwing stones (sadly). Also open a new window downstairs for additional light into flat 4.
Photo 2 - new window on ground floor, and replacement on 1st floor
Below is one idea to add some crazy round windows onto the right-hand side of the building, to break up the large dull stone wall, and give additional lighting to the staircase and flat 1.
Photo 3 - add 2 round windows in unit 1 and one in staircase
Round windows not everyone's taste, how about some turret openings for taking aim onto the vandals...? Looks a bit prison-like though.
Photo 4 - add slit windows below existing vents
Or maybe arch the window for flat 4... ?
Photo 5 - arched ground floor window
I tried a conventional window on the right-hand side but it just looks lost in the large expanse of wall, no not bothering to show it.
Any other ideas welcome! Especially photos or addresses of properties with potentially suitable windows (i can check on google street-view)
Thanks for your attention.
Existing ground and first floor
The building is currently a single apartment / huge family warehouse.
Proposed plans
Idea is to create 4 apartments as follows:
Flat 3 - entrance
Due to a 60cm difference in floor level on two halves of the building upstairs, idea here is to create a landing two steps below the main floor (with a 3rd step to reach the main door from the staircase landing outside). Within the extra room height created by this lower landing, an additional bathroom could be added with a small mezzanine above for a second bed. A Velux window could also be added.
Forgive the basic graphics, just starting to learn google sketchup, amazing app.
this probably only makes sense to me...
flat 3 lounge as it is now... (a mess)
Flat 2
This would be the smallest flat, a studio apartment open plan, with kitchen area by the entrance. The boiler would be to the right of the entrance door as you come in, and the flue would go through the roof, unless i can find a viable communal heating system.
animated...(with added camera-shake effect)
as it is now... (my bedroom)
Flats 1 & 4 (downstairs)
Work-in-progress. To be continued...
Would-be flats 1 & 4, as they are now...
Windows windows
Here is the east-side exterior wall as it is now. The window is recent (last century), the original opening was taller (note the red-brick in-fill), presumably a wooden barn door filled this space, hay bundles thrown up through it from passing delivery carts.
Photo 1 - existing
Idea below is to re-open the full length of the original opening, let more light in etc. Will probably need laminated toughened glazing on all windows to resist vandals throwing stones (sadly). Also open a new window downstairs for additional light into flat 4.
Photo 2 - new window on ground floor, and replacement on 1st floor
Below is one idea to add some crazy round windows onto the right-hand side of the building, to break up the large dull stone wall, and give additional lighting to the staircase and flat 1.
Photo 3 - add 2 round windows in unit 1 and one in staircase
Round windows not everyone's taste, how about some turret openings for taking aim onto the vandals...? Looks a bit prison-like though.
Photo 4 - add slit windows below existing vents
Or maybe arch the window for flat 4... ?
Photo 5 - arched ground floor window
I tried a conventional window on the right-hand side but it just looks lost in the large expanse of wall, no not bothering to show it.
Any other ideas welcome! Especially photos or addresses of properties with potentially suitable windows (i can check on google street-view)
Thanks for your attention.
Monday, January 31, 2011
Inner chaos, Outer peace
The inner chaos in my head contrasts with the outer peace on the "building site" - it's quiet, works are far from beginning. This little ramble is intended to help straighten things out a bit.
Ok, what is the next step on the critical path, that is the key question. Planning permission is not yet in, nor are the plans done, or even the choice of the way forward. It's very early stages. Confusing times, lots of factors.
Quite a lot is done though, the concept for 4 apartments, a detailed work breakdown (tradesmen), sales valuations etc. Financially, going for apartments looks like it would be a winner on rental, sales, and unit cost. There is good agreement amongst estate agents on the financials, though I need to consider too that this development will be unique because of the building history, so this can affect sales value as it's a niche market.
So next step, what is it? There are tons of things on my to-do list but which is critical? Right now, having breakfast maybe the one. But after that?
Well, I need to get local buy-in if I'm going for 4 flats. Planning permission should go through but there are some political and grey areas. Parking is one, there is only one space. But I'm right opposite the mainline station to London. And I have another block of apartments down the road without any parking and they are all renting fine, without cars. But can still be a concern of the council.
The other grey area is neighbour opinion. It seems to make sense to present plans informally to those who are likely to be approached anyway in the formal process, and get feedback. Obstacles in the formal process cause a lot more delay, whereas informal discussions may resolve matters over a cup of tea.
So my priority it would seem is to get the informal plans drawn up, together with supporting arguments. With this I can then do the rounds. It maybe a professional will assist in this, I am waiting to hear back from one who is expert in planning. On the other hand I may also start this process myself. I am a new resident, and it makes sense that I spend some time integrating with the locals, being a bit less of a caveman perhaps. One of the neighbours is a specialist builder in conversions, and I'm looking for new builders, so could kill a couple of birds there.
Tomorrow i'm going to the local history centre to meet with a historian specialising in architecture. I would like to date the building I'm converting, and get some more info on it's history. I have some tidbits here and there, but the building being a few hundred years old may have a lot more to offer. I may then turn this into a small exhibition, and open the place up to family, friends, and neighbours, with the general intention of having a good time and assuring locals that really I'm a jolly good chap, and so my tenants will be too.
Ok that's enough for now, I'm starvin.
Ok, what is the next step on the critical path, that is the key question. Planning permission is not yet in, nor are the plans done, or even the choice of the way forward. It's very early stages. Confusing times, lots of factors.
Quite a lot is done though, the concept for 4 apartments, a detailed work breakdown (tradesmen), sales valuations etc. Financially, going for apartments looks like it would be a winner on rental, sales, and unit cost. There is good agreement amongst estate agents on the financials, though I need to consider too that this development will be unique because of the building history, so this can affect sales value as it's a niche market.
So next step, what is it? There are tons of things on my to-do list but which is critical? Right now, having breakfast maybe the one. But after that?
Well, I need to get local buy-in if I'm going for 4 flats. Planning permission should go through but there are some political and grey areas. Parking is one, there is only one space. But I'm right opposite the mainline station to London. And I have another block of apartments down the road without any parking and they are all renting fine, without cars. But can still be a concern of the council.
The other grey area is neighbour opinion. It seems to make sense to present plans informally to those who are likely to be approached anyway in the formal process, and get feedback. Obstacles in the formal process cause a lot more delay, whereas informal discussions may resolve matters over a cup of tea.
So my priority it would seem is to get the informal plans drawn up, together with supporting arguments. With this I can then do the rounds. It maybe a professional will assist in this, I am waiting to hear back from one who is expert in planning. On the other hand I may also start this process myself. I am a new resident, and it makes sense that I spend some time integrating with the locals, being a bit less of a caveman perhaps. One of the neighbours is a specialist builder in conversions, and I'm looking for new builders, so could kill a couple of birds there.
Tomorrow i'm going to the local history centre to meet with a historian specialising in architecture. I would like to date the building I'm converting, and get some more info on it's history. I have some tidbits here and there, but the building being a few hundred years old may have a lot more to offer. I may then turn this into a small exhibition, and open the place up to family, friends, and neighbours, with the general intention of having a good time and assuring locals that really I'm a jolly good chap, and so my tenants will be too.
Ok that's enough for now, I'm starvin.
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