A tired and neglected 1930s bungalow has been transformed into a beautiful high-spec, eco-home, perfect for life in retirement
When Jane and Steve Marshall bought an ordinary-looking property on the edge of Radcliffe-on-Trent in Nottinghamshire, they saw the potential to convert it into a light, airy, open-plan living space with a roomy extension.
“We wanted to make this bungalow our ‘forever home’, a home which would reflect our personalities through a bold modern interior design scheme, be highly energy efficient, and future-proofed for our old age,” said Jane.
A family project
The refurbishment and remodelling were very much a family affair. Jane and Steve did most of the work themselves, with the help of their two sons and daughter.
“We designed a new layout ourselves to include three bedrooms and two bathrooms and a new extension to the rear of the property. We hired a builder to do the heavy work of digging out the floors and laying the blockwork but after that, we managed most of the interior refurbishment and fittings between ourselves.”
In order to maximise the energy efficiency of their eco-home, they installed underfloor heating, air-source heat pumps, solar panels and batteries, a heat recovery system, and energy-efficient triple-glazed casement windows.
Why Alu Clad windows and doors?
“Installing Allan Brothers’ windows and French doors was a no-brainer for us! Our son had previously used their products when refurbishing his own house and recommended them to us for their high-quality craftsmanship and customer service.”
Jane and Steve chose casements and fixed lights from the Alu Clad range, which have timber on the inside and weather-resistant aluminium cladding on the outside. The triple glazing delivers excellent U values down to 0.77.
“We were attracted primarily to the thermal efficiency and durability of the windows and doors, which should help keep the bungalow warm and cosy for a long time to come!
“We also liked the combination of the timber interior and aluminium exterior, which we ordered in a black finish to add individuality and contrast to our light, free-flowing design scheme.
“They are shown off to great effect in our large open-plan kitchen, where a wall of Allan Brothers’ French patio doors overlooks the garden.”
Accessibility in old age was an important consideration, so the large French doors were installed level with the patio to allow easy wheelchair access.
What is the verdict?
“For us, Allan Brothers’ products just ticked all the boxes, and Dave Scraggs, their senior account manager, was extremely helpful throughout.
“He visited us several times to make sure that our measurements were accurate, and the company also agreed to split the order and delivery so that we could install the windows in stages and at our own pace.
“I recommend that anyone building or refurbishing their home choose manufacturers and suppliers like Allan Brothers, who are prepared to accompany them on their journey, be flexible, and always be on hand for encouragement and advice.