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Is your home eco friendly – Earth day tips

Is your home eco friendly – Earth day tips

To celebrate Earth Day today, we wanted to share a few tips to help you make your home more eco-friendly – ideal if you are planning a renovation – add these to your plans.

First up….

1. Loft insulation is vital

Loft installation tends to be fitted as standard in most homes but some older properties may be inadequately insulated and letting out the heat in the winter.
You can insulate the loft yourself with the right materials from your DIY store or call a professional to insulate and renovate your loft. Why not consider a loft conversion and make better use of the space too?

2. Ensure you have double glazed windows

Modern homes tend to have these already, but a surprising number of older houses in the UK letting out the hot air through the windows. By installation double glazing you can help reduce your energy usage and costs plus help retain the heat into the home – ideal for the winter months!

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3. Looking for new furniture? Consider second-hand furniture

Don’t panic! Secondhand does not always mean dirty old that nobody wants. Sometimes there are some fantastic items to be found almost brand-new from online and local reselling websites. Scuffed or slightly marked items can be made as good as new with a refurbishment project too – lots of ideas of YouTube and Pinterest.

By purchasing a pre-owned item, you’re recycling – helping your budget and the environment. It may also help you add something different to your home no longer on sale on the high street.

4. Manage your electrical item usage better, purchase some smart plugs and switch them off.

Leaving items plugged in all day and night, even if not in use, can still use energy. Whilst companies are making devices more energy efficient, making sure they are switched off is always a more effective solution.

If you are forgetful and never remember to unplug or turn off electrical items when rushing out the door to work or before going to bed – smart technology has the answer.

Smart plugs are inexpensive solutions (can range from around £15-30 each) will save you money in the long run – lowering your electricity bills and using less energy. You can also time them to turn off or on at certain times and even control them from your mobile device.

5. Install a smart thermostat.

Smart thermostat technology is becoming increasingly more popular. Companies such as Nest & Hive are two of the UK’s most popular as the trend grows. Nest boast having saved over 8 million kWh of energy worldwide to date.

How does it work? The smart thermostats will learn how you use your energy in your home, and manage your routine, adjusting the temperature to your typical needs. When you leave the house, it turns it off to save your heating bills – and of course you can turn it on, off, up and down from your smart phone when you are not home.

Our teams can help install smart technology into your home, to make it more efficient and eco-friendly – call or email us to discuss your home renovation plan this week – visit our profile for links.[vc_single_image image=”10040″ img_size=”600×400″]

What are your favourite garden hacks?

Let us know over on Instagram or Facebook

CONTACT RED BOX LONDON

CALL US 02073811539

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Benefits of Natural Light in your home

Benefits of Natural Light in Your Home

To celebrate Earth Day today, we wanted to share a few tips to help you make your home more eco-friendly – ideal if you are planning a renovation – add these to your plans.

First up….Natural light brings numerous benefits to a home, both in terms of aesthetics and well-being:

  • Enhanced Mood:Exposure to natural light has been linked to the release of serotonin in the brain, which can improve mood and promote feelings of happiness and well-being.
  • Better Sleep: Natural light exposure helps regulate the body’s circadian rhythms, leading to better sleep quality.
  • Energy Savings: reduce the need for heating and lighting during the day.
  • Visual Comfort: Natural light is better for your eyes and avoiding eye strain.
  • Visual Appeal: make spaces appear larger, airier, and more inviting.
  • Health Benefits Natural light exposure has been associated with various health benefits, including improved vitamin D synthesis, reduced risk of seasonal affective disorder (SAD), and enhanced immune function.
  • Productivity and Concentration: Studies have shown that natural light exposure in indoor environments can improve productivity, concentration, and cognitive function.

[vc_single_image image=”10325″ img_size=”600×400″][vc_single_image image=”10408″ img_size=”600×400″][vc_single_image image=”10106″ img_size=”600×400″]How can you maximise the natural light coming in to your home, here’s a few tips:

  • Add Windows or Skylights: Installing additional windows or skylights in strategic locations can bring in more natural light.
  • Optimise Window Placement: If you’re not adding new windows, consider repositioning or enlarging existing ones to allow more light to enter. Focus on areas where natural light is most needed, such as living rooms, kitchens, and home offices.
  • Choose Lighter Colours: Lighter wall colours and finishes reflect more light, helping to brighten up interior spaces. Consider painting walls, ceilings, and trim in light hues to maximise the effect of natural light.
  • Use Light-Reflective Materials: Incorporate materials with reflective properties, such as glass, mirrors, polished metals, and glossy finishes, to bounce natural light around the room and amplify its brightness.
  • Minimise Obstructions: Remove or trim foliage, trees, or structures outside windows that obstruct natural light from entering your home. Keep window treatments like curtains or blinds open during the day to allow sunlight to filter in freely.
  • Consider Interior Layout: Optimise the layout of your home to ensure that natural light can penetrate deeper into interior spaces. Use open floor plans, glass partitions, or interior windows to facilitate the flow of light throughout the home.
  • Utilise Light Tubes: Light tubes, also known as solar tubes or sun tunnels, are tubular skylights that capture sunlight from the roof and channel it into interior spaces through reflective tubes. They’re particularly useful for bringing natural light into rooms with limited access to exterior walls.
  • Install Light-Transmitting Surfaces: Incorporate light-transmitting surfaces, such as frosted glass doors, interior windows, or glass block walls, to allow natural light to travel between rooms while maintaining privacy.
  • Opt for Light-Coloured Flooring: Choose light-coloured flooring materials, such as hardwood, laminate, tile, or light-coloured carpeting, to help reflect natural light and brighten up interior spaces.
  • Keep Spaces Clutter-Free: Clutter can absorb and block natural light, so keep interior spaces clean, organised, and clutter-free to maximise the effect of sunlight.

What are your favourite natural light hacks?

Let us know over on Instagram or Facebook

CONTACT RED BOX LONDON

CALL US 02073811539

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Your Ultimate Spring Cleaning Checklist

North Sheen Case Study: Detached home in South West London

Spring is finally officially here!

Spring has officially begun, so time to start on that spring cleaning, here’s our handy home owner spring cleaning checklist!

  • Make a Plan: Start by making a checklist of all the areas in your home that need cleaning. This will help you stay organised and focused.
  • Declutter: Before you start cleaning, declutter each room by getting rid of items you no longer need or use. Donate, recycle, or discard items accordingly.
  • Dust from Top to Bottom: Begin by dusting ceiling fans, light fixtures, and top shelves. Work your way down to furniture, baseboards, and finally, floors. Use a microfibre cloth or duster to trap dust effectively.
  • Wash Windows and Screens: Clean windows inside and out using a glass cleaner or a solution of water and vinegar. Don’t forget to wipe down window screens as well.
  • Clean Upholstery and Carpets: Vacuum upholstery and carpets thoroughly, and consider steam cleaning for a deeper clean. Spot-treat any stains as needed.
  • Scrub Surfaces: Wipe down countertop, tables, and other surfaces with a gentle cleaner. Pay attention to high-touch areas like doorknobs, light switches, and remote controls.

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  • Deep Clean Appliances: Clean out the refrigerator, oven, microwave, and dishwasher. Remove shelves and drawers for a more thorough clean. Run a cleaning cycle in your dishwasher and washing machine.
  • Freshen up Fabrics: Wash curtains, pillow covers, and throws according to their care instructions. Air out mattresses and cushions to eliminate any odours.
  • Organise Storage Spaces: Tidy up closets, cabinets, and drawers. Consider using storage bins or organisers to keep items neat and accessible.
  • Don’t Forget the Outdoors: Sweep or power wash outdoor spaces like patios, decks, and sidewalks. Trim bushes and trees, and clean out gutters if needed.
  • Change Filters: Replace air filters in your HVAC system to improve air quality and efficiency.
  • Finish with a Pleasant Scent: After cleaning, add a fresh scent to your home with candles, diffusers, or potpourri. Alternatively, you can simply open windows to let in some fresh air.

What are your go to products or tasks for your spring cleaning?

Let us know over on Instagram or Facebook

CONTACT RED BOX LONDON

CALL US 02073811539

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Home Improvements for Book Lovers

Home Improvements for Book Lovers

Do you love reading? Lets look at ways you can update your home for your passion!

It’s World Book Day – let’s talk home improvement and upgrades for book lovers!

Here are some creative ideas for home renovation projects inspired by books:

  • Library Nook: Dedicate a corner or a room in your home to create a cosy library space. Install floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, add comfortable seating like bean bags or armchairs, and incorporate soft lighting to create a welcoming atmosphere. You can even paint the walls with quotes from your favourite books or authors.
  • Themed Rooms: Choose a favourite book or series and design a room in your home around its theme. For example, a Harry Potter-inspired room could feature Hogwarts house colours, floating candles, and magical decor elements. A jungle-themed room inspired by “The Jungle Book” could incorporate lush greenery, animal prints, and adventure-themed decor.
  • Bookshelf Wall Mural: Transform a wall in your home into a giant bookshelf mural. You can either paint the mural yourself or use removable wallpaper with a bookshelf design. Arrange real books on shelves for an added touch of authenticity.
  • Reading Nook Under the Stairs: If you have unused space under a staircase, convert it into a charming reading nook. Install built-in bookshelves or floating shelves to store books, add a comfortable seat or cushions, and hang soft curtains for privacy.
  • Storybook-Inspired Playroom: Create a whimsical playroom inspired by classic children’s books. Paint colourful murals of storybook scenes on the walls, hang character cutouts from the ceiling, and incorporate themed toys and games. You can even add a small stage area for dramatic readings or puppet shows.

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  • Literary Quote Wall Art: Use stencils or decals to create wall art featuring your favourite literary quotes. Arrange the quotes throughout your home to inspire and uplift your family and guests.
  • Book-Themed Kitchen or Dining Area: Bring your love of literature into the heart of your home by incorporating book-themed decor into your kitchen or dining area. Use book pages to create unique table runners or placemats, hang framed book cover art on the walls, and display literary-themed dish ware and accessories.
  • DIY Bookends: Get creative and make your own bookends inspired by your favourite books or characters. You can use materials like old books, action figures, or even miniature dioramas to craft unique and personalised bookends for your shelves.
  • Literary-Inspired Colour Palette: Choose paint colours for your walls inspired by the covers of your favourite books. Whether you prefer the rich burgundy of “The Great Gatsby” or the serene blue of “The Secret Garden,” incorporating literary-inspired hues into your home can add depth and character to your space.
  • Reading Garden: If you have outdoor space, create a tranquil reading garden where you can escape into your favourite books surrounded by nature. Add comfortable seating, shade-providing plants, and perhaps a small fountain or bird feeder to enhance the ambiance.

These ideas can help you infuse your home with the magic of literature and create inviting spaces where you and your family can enjoy reading and storytelling together.

CONTACT RED BOX LONDON

CALL US 02073811539

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Have You Checked Your Roof For This Winter?

Design and Planning

Have You Checked Your Roof For This Winter?

It’s been a tough winter for London’s homes, especially the roofs of older properties with the strong winds and rain.

Roof maintenance is essential for preserving the integrity and longevity of your home’s roof. Here are some tips for effective roof maintenance:

  • Regular Inspections: Conduct visual inspections of your roof at least twice a year, ideally in the spring and fall. Look for signs of damage such as missing or cracked shingles, rust spots on metal roofs, and signs of algae or moss growth.
  • Clean Gutters and Downspouts: Clogged gutters and downspouts can cause water to back up and damage your roof. Clean them regularly to ensure proper drainage.
  • Trim Overhanging Branches: Tree branches hanging over your roof can cause damage during storms or high winds. Trim back any branches that could potentially fall onto your roof.
  • Remove Debris: Keep your roof clear of leaves, branches, and other debris that can accumulate and trap moisture, leading to roof damage and deterioration.

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  • Repair Leaks Promptly: If you notice any signs of a leak, such as water stains on your ceiling or walls, address them immediately to prevent further damage to your roof and interior.
  • Check Flashing and Sealants: Inspect the flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights for signs of damage or deterioration. Replace any damaged flashing and reseal around these areas as needed.
  • Maintain Attic Ventilation: Proper attic ventilation helps regulate temperature and moisture levels in your attic, which can extend the life of your roof and prevent problems like ice dams in winter.
  • Schedule Professional Inspections: Consider hiring a professional roofing contractor to conduct a comprehensive inspection of your roof at least once every few years. They can identify potential issues early on and recommend necessary repairs or maintenance.

CONTACT RED BOX LONDON

CALL US 02073811539

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A Pizza Lovers Home Renovation Dream

A home renovation plan for pizza lovers

As its National Pizza Day today, it seemed the right moment to share these tips for pizza lovers planning a home renovation!If you’re planning a home renovation, especially for your kitchen – and your household has a love of all things pizza, then these tips might be the right ideas for you.

Join us as we explore innovative renovation tips and tricks tailored specifically for pizza lovers.

  1. Kitchen Renovation: The heart of every pizza lover’s home is undoubtedly the kitchen. Transform your cooking space into a pizza-making haven with these renovation tips:
    • Install a high-quality pizza oven: A dedicated pizza oven can take your homemade pies to the next level. Whether you prefer a traditional wood-fired oven or a modern electric model, invest in a quality oven that suits your cooking style.
    • Create a designated pizza prep area: Designate a section of your kitchen counter for pizza preparation. Install a spacious countertop with ample room for rolling out dough, assembling toppings, and slicing pizzas.
    • Optimise storage for pizza-making essentials: Organise your kitchen cabinets and drawers to accommodate pizza pans, pizza stones, pizza cutters, and other essential tools. Consider installing custom shelving or pull-out racks for easy access to ingredients and equipment.

[vc_single_image image=”10260″ img_size=”600×400″][vc_single_image image=”10261″ img_size=”600×400″]2. Outdoor Pizza Patio: Take your pizza obsession outdoors with a dedicated pizza patio or backyard kitchen:

    • Build a DIY pizza oven: Explore DIY pizza oven kits or construction plans to build your own outdoor pizza oven. Invite friends and family to gather around the fire and enjoy freshly baked pizzas in the comfort of your backyard.
    • Design a cosy seating area: Create a welcoming outdoor oasis with comfortable seating, ambient lighting, and weather-resistant furnishings. Incorporate features like a pergola or canopy to provide shade during sunny pizza parties.

3.   Pizza-Inspired Colour Palette: Infuse your home with a pizza-inspired colour palette to evoke the warmth and vibrancy of your favourite pizzeria:

    • Choose rich reds, golden yellows, and earthy browns reminiscent of tomato sauce, melted cheese, and crusty dough.
    • Accentuate with pops of green to represent fresh herbs and vegetables commonly found on pizzas.
    • Incorporate neutral tones like beige and tan to balance the boldness of pizza-inspired hues and create a harmonious overall look.

CONTACT RED BOX LONDON

CALL US 02073811539

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February Home Renovation Planning Ideas

Design and Planning

February home renovation planning ideas

 

February might be the shortest month, but there’s still time to be productive.

Whether you’re ready to get started or planning things out, here are some areas to consider around the home to get your started during the winter months:

1. Indoor Painting: February is a great time to refresh the interior of your home with a new coat of paint. Consider updating walls, trim, or cabinets for a fresh look.

2. Kitchen Remodel: If you’ve been considering a kitchen remodel, February is an ideal time to start planning and executing the project. You can focus on updating cabinets, countertops, backsplash, or appliances to give your kitchen a modern and functional makeover.

3. Bathroom Renovation: Renovating a bathroom can greatly improve both the functionality and aesthetics of your home. Consider upgrading fixtures, replacing tiles, installing a new vanity, or adding storage solutions.

4. Flooring Upgrades: Upgrade your flooring to enhance the overall look and feel of your home. Consider options such as hardwood, laminate, tile, or luxury vinyl plank flooring for durability and style. – Have you considered underfloor-heating?![vc_single_image image=”10183″ img_size=”600×400″][vc_single_image image=”9932″ img_size=”600×400″]5. Lighting Updates: Improve the lighting in your home by installing new fixtures or upgrading to energy-efficient LED bulbs. Consider adding dimmer switches or smart lighting systems for added convenience and ambiance.

6. Window Replacement: Replace old or inefficient windows with energy-efficient models to improve insulation and reduce energy costs. This can also enhance the appearance of your home and increase its resale value.

7. Insulation Improvements: Enhance the energy efficiency of your home by adding or upgrading insulation in walls, lofts, and crawl spaces. This can help maintain a comfortable indoor temperature and reduce heating and cooling costs.

8. Organisation and Storage: Maximise storage space and organisation in your home by renovating closets. Install custom shelving, drawers, and racks to optimise storage and keep belongings neatly organised –or if you have the space, have you always wanted a walk in wardrobe?

CONTACT RED BOX LONDON

CALL US 02073811539

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Red Box Tips for Improving Your Home

Red Box Tips for Improving Your Home

 

You have probably decided at this stage to improve your own home rather than move and it is surprising what you can achieve with a little thought and ingenuity for a fraction of the overall cost of moving house. The following suggestions are a summary of our 15 years in the business, which you will almost certainly find helpful. Some might seem obvious but it’s surprising how often they are overlooked.1) Explore what’s possible with a company like ours, preferably recommended,to find out what’s possible within your budget.
You may be surprised as to what can be achieved without needing an architect or planning permission.

2) Obtain a specification which is worded in a way that relates to your home and without hidden costs.

3) Agree a proposed timescale and how you may be affected.

4) Check company credentials and agree a payment plan.

5) Ask for references and possibly seeing a finished project.6) Request a copy of the company’s insurance and expect around£2million Employers’ Liability and a minimum of £2million Public Liability insurance.
You might wish to consider Home Works Insurance Policy too.

7) Speak to neighbours before any planning application or party wall awards have started. Your neighbours may carry out similar works in the future, so demonstration of goodwill helps!

8) Receive written confirmation of any planning permissions and party wall awards.

9) Ensure that your chosen company introduces themselves to neighbours up front and provides them with a reliable point of contact and business card or leaflet.

10) Ensure that your company does tidy up properly at the end of each day including pavements.

11) Alert neighbours in advance of any particularly noisy work or deliveries.

12) Check your company’s guaranteesand also ensure that all appliance instruction manuals and other important documents are retained in your ‘House File’.[vc_single_image image=”10235″ img_size=”600×400″][vc_single_image image=”10068″ img_size=”600×400″]Project Management:

Here are some handy hints  on the project management role which is often overlooked but vital.

Tempting though it may be to ‘project manage’ works in your own home we recommend that you engage the help of a professional and in the case of our company project management is included as standard and always has been. Good project management will not only help you with timing and the overview as per our Recommend Tips leaflet but also at least some of the following as well:

 

  1. Delivery arrangements for the larger ‘kerbside delivery only’ consignments
  2. Help with sourcing not only the main products but also all the support products, the absence of which at the right time can bring a project to an expensive standstill
  3. Liaison with third parties
  4. Communication with your neighbours
  5. Ensuring that insurance appropriate for your project is in place
  6. Being available when you may not be to address any issues as they arise
  7. Compatibility of different products, plans and integration
  8. Ensuring completion on time and within budget, including managing additional items both cost and time wise

Suggestion for quotes:

Colours: we’ve noticed during our last half dozen Fulham projects that clients are increasingly choosing neutral but not bland wall colours so as to provide an effective backdrop behind brighter furniture or wall art colours. One particular choice has been Ammonite for walls with oil based white eggshell or more refined Satinwood for woodwork.

Sliding pocket doors: these are more sophisticated than they used to be and can be really valuable way of designing in a space saving feature as they avoid the need for a swinging door. They are now more cost effective to fit and the mechanisms can hold a door that’s in keeping with the rest of the property, but instead of swinging open it can slide back discretely inside the wall. Great particularly for bathrooms.

Skylights: these can be great way of bringing in additional light into both a kitchen extension or top floor mansard or loft extension. The latest electronically controlled skylights sense rain for automatic closing and bring valuable other features. Skylights also provide useful access to the roof for cleaning and general maintenance whilst at the same time enhancing your home. There are a wider variety available now giving both a good choice of style and size.

Doorbells: whenever we install a new doorbell or door entry system we ensure that there is some audible indication to the caller at the front door that the bell is working. A bell near the front door really helps as the caller can heart the bell which discourages endless pushing of the button!.

CONTACT RED BOX LONDON

CALL US 02073811539

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Crittall Style: The 19th Century Method Making a Comeback

Bathroom Remodelling Battersea

Planning a Home Update? Let’s Talk About Crittall Style

 

Crittall Style: The 19th Century method that’s making a comebackWhilst Crittall style is nothing new, it is gaining popularity with interior designers and home owners.  The method was first used and created in 1860 by Henry Crittall, an Essex ironmonger, to create steel-framed windows.  Whilst the style has been around for over 150 years it still gives the contemporary and modern feel, and metal framed windows and doors have never looked so good!

Crittall Style has been gaining popularity across the pond in New York city art deco or industrial style apartments and lofts, making use of large window spaces and the UK are catching up, but the style is not only being used for window frames anymore, but designers are also making walls, extensions, room dividers, and even shower screens!

The sturdy and stylish frames tap into the current industrial trend for an edgy and versatile look and feel.  A Crittall style design can turn a room into a cool, modern space plus will help open it up and let in more light at the same time!Crittall doors are perfect for inside and outdoor spaces – inside they help to keep light running through the house, outside they look good as courtyard frames and home extensions/outside buildings.

Decorative yet minimalist, these steel-framed grid-like doors can blend with other styles too to make the most of your home.

A little newer to the scene is a lighter alterative to steel Crittall – aluminium. The on trend, sleeker and smoother aluminium look.A lot of companies are now offering the Crittall “Lookalike” for the customer who wants they cool grey look.

Aluminium frames can be more cost effective to build and install than their more famous steel Crittall[vc_single_image image=”10251″ img_size=”600×400″]

No matter what you choose, both styles offer a sleek and bright finish to any home renovation design.

CONTACT RED BOX LONDON

CALL US 02073811539

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Radiator Care Tips for Homeowners

Radiator care tips for homeowners

 

It’s not all about the design with radiators, don’t forget to care for them, today we’ll share some tips from our team for making the most out of your radiators.First up, make sure you bleed your radiators.  When should you bleed them? Typically, there are two reasons you’ll need to bleed your radiators.

  1. They’re making funny noises (trapped air in the pipes can make strange gurgling noises) – your radiators should not contain any air – only water.
  2. Your radiators do not warm up fully. Again this can be caused by trapped air in the pipes.

 

If either of these apply – it’s time to find that radiator key – check out Youtube or Google for how to’s on bleeding your radiator.Other things you can do to optimise your radiators effectiveness include a “power flush”. This helps remove any gunk or elements inside of the pipes such as debris or rust that can cause the radiator to not work properly.

The chemical power flush will remove any blockages in the central heating system.

Similarly, there you can get a filter called a “Magnaclean”, which is capable of capturing virtually 100% of the Magnetite within a system. Magnetite is the official name of system sludge, it’s made up from Iron Oxide the result of a chemical reaction between the different metals and air ingress into the system.

 

If you’ve tried bleeding, balancing, and a flush and things still aren’t right – get a plumber in (If you haven’t already) soon so you’re ready for the cold winter months![vc_single_image image=”10247″ img_size=”600×400″]

Once you’re all clean and cleared – your radiator will give off the warmth you need to sit back and relax.

CONTACT RED BOX LONDON

CALL US 02073811539