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Kevin McCloud’s Grand Designs – What stood out for me last night

What stood out for me last night on the Bromley episode was those amazing high-tech windows The glazing is what allowed them to be so indulgent with their design and use of space and natural light. It’s why you don’t have to compromise anymore. You can enjoy the light and views and you are still comfortable both in high summer and low winter.

High performance windows
High tech glazing

In Spain you would probably shade them too perhaps to create a terrace for eating and maybe cooking outside. And that, ladies and gentlemen, is how you build a stylish and comfortable home.

Did you notice the cost overrun? The original budget was £1M and he ended up spending an extra £600,000. SIX HUNDRED FLIPPING THOUSAND POUNDS EXTRA!!! That cost overrun did not come from his Design and Build contract. It was the security of his Design and Build contract that tempted him away from not using his architect as project managers. So heaven knows where it came from but it’s not a small sum.

As Kevin McCloud said “if I were spending a million on building a house I would want my hand held very tightly”. Absolutely!!

Author: John Wolfendale

Bio: John is a founder of Eco Vida and is passionate about bringing modern design and construction practices to Spain. He believes a home which is warm in winter and cool in summer is largely a matter of design and selective use of materials. He is British and a Chartered Surveyor with 18 years experience living and working in Spain.

John Wolfendale founder at Eco Vida
John Wolfendale founder at Eco Vida

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