What is the floor area of your project in sq ft or sq m?
The studio space is approximately 20ft x 16ft, the kitchen & bathroom are approximately 8ft x 6ft, and the hallway from the front door is approximately 10ft x 3ft.
Could you tell us any interesting facts or remarkable features about your project?
The renovation was a complete refurbishment of a standard 1960s purpose built flat. Quite a few of the original 1960s features were still there including the original gas and electricity meters, a tiny vented window in the kitchen that was part of the original little kitchen larder (to keep things like milk, butter, etc cool and fresh – perhaps before everyone could afford a fridge?), the original 1960s bathroom suite (yellow), the original 1960s kitchen suite (lots of formica), and the original wooden front door. I project managed the renovation during the first COVID-19 lockdown. Luckily, most of the contractors I used were happy to keep working (keeping safe at all times, only one person working in the flat at one time, etc) and, although there was a bit of disruption at first in terms of sourcing materials, I was able to keep the project to my 3-month schedule (March-May 2020) and I moved in on 1st June 2020.
Experience at the Centre
How many times have you visited The National Self Build and Renovation Centre before?
Once
What would you say is the most helpful feature or resource at the NSBRC?
Lots of exhibitors and contractors to do with all areas of self-build, renovation, interiors, energy, etc, under one roof, and the facility to arrange slots to talk to experts, and to come away with new, forward thinking, and different ideas for self-build/renovation.
Did you use any exhibitors at the NSBRC? If so, who?
Yes. Herschel Infrared Heating
What did you enjoy most about your visit to the NSBRC?
The day I visited, 7 December 2019, was a good day to visit. It was a Saturday and was quiet within the exhibitor area itself. I was able to have a good look round the exhibitor stands, to read information easily, and to pick up various brochures/leaflets. I had booked an appointed to chat to an architect and an energy efficient expert, and I didn’t have to wait long to speak to either. They were both very helpful, and I have used an idea suggested by the architect to make the most of my small studio space by keeping fixings and furniture around the edges of the room thus keeping the centre of the room empty and achieving a feeling of space. I was also looking for a sustainable, economical and energy efficient method of heating the space, and I picked up the information on Herschel Infrared whilst looking at the exhibitor stands.
Would you recommend the NSBRC to a friend, and if so, what aspects of the Centre would you recommend and why?
Yes, definitely. I would recommend all aspects of the Centre. From just picking up initial ideas to the very helpful training courses and the technical help desk facility, it’s a great centre for anyone who is keen to learn more about any aspect of self-build/renovation/home improvement.
