SPECIALISTS IN MODERN CONSTRUCTION

HNB Construction

Natural swimming pool construction is one of the types of projects we can provide for our clients. Natural swimming pools, also known as natural swimming ponds, are becoming more popular as they are an eco-friendly and aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional swimming pools.

These pools use biological filters and plants instead of chemicals to keep the water clean, so they are very environmentally friendly.

Natural swimming pool construction is something we have been involved in more regularly in recent years. In this post, we will be discussing what to expect during the construction process, how to care and maintain your natural swimming pool and what the benefits are of natural swimming pools vs traditional swimming pools.

Natural Swimming Pool Construction – What to Expect During the Process

There are several steps to the natural swimming pool construction process. If you are considering having one built in your outdoor space, then this is what you can expect.

1. Excavation – we mark the outline of your pool with stakes and string before excavating the area to the desired depth. This is typically 6-8 feet for the swimming zone and shallower for the regeneration zone.
   
   If you have a larger outdoor space, then we would recommend utilising it efficiently so that there is space around the pool for relaxing and entertaining. If you need advice and guidance

2. Lining – the next step is to line the entire pool with a waterproof, eco-friendly liner such as EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) or a natural clay liner. The key here is to make sure that the liner is smooth and there are no sharp objects that could perforate it.

3. Build the Filtration System – the biological filter system is then installed, which typically includes a pump, skimmer, and a biofilter with gravel and aquatic plants. The pump circulates water through the regeneration zone where plants and microorganisms clean it naturally. This is what makes it a natural swimming pool. The plants and eco system cleans the water rather than chemicals.

Incorporating Outdoor Living Areas

Once the natural swimming pool is constructed, it’s time to fill it and work on the surrounding area.

At HNB Construction, we have noticed an increase in outdoor living trends in recent years. A natural swimming pool is the perfect addition to your outdoor living area; it allows you to embrace nature and take advantage of what the outdoors can offer.

For the surrounding area, our clients often opt for a dining area, which is great for entertaining and enjoying food alfresco. Outdoor living room areas are also becoming very popular, and there is some beautiful outdoor living room furniture available to make this space cosy. We can also build fire pits to finish off your outdoor living space.

Natural Swimming Pool Maintenance

You may have been put off of an outdoor swimming pool in the past due to the maintenance and upkeep. When it comes to natural swimming pools, the maintenance is very different to that of traditional swimming pools:

• Regular Monitoring – Regularly check water quality, including pH and nutrient levels.
• Check the pump and filtration system are functioning properly.
• Plant Care – for natural pools with plants and wide life, trim and manage aquatic plants to prevent overgrowth. You can also remove any dead plant material to prevent nutrient buildup.
• Cleaning – Skim the surface regularly to remove debris.

Benefits of Natural Swimming Pool Construction

Natural swimming pools offer numerous benefits compared to traditional chemically-treated pools. Here are some detailed advantages:

Environmental Benefits for Natural Swimming Pools

Chemical Free Water – Natural swimming pools do not use chlorine or other harsh chemicals. This creates a safer habitat for plants and wildlife.

Biodiversity – The regeneration zone fosters a diverse ecosystem that attracts insects, birds, and other wildlife, all of which contribute to the ecosystem.

Sustainable Filtration – Biological filtration systems mimic natural water purification processes, reducing reliance on artificial filtration methods for a healthy and resilient eco system.

Health, Safety and Wellbeing Benefits

Gentle on Skin and Eyes – Without chlorine and other chemicals, natural pools are gentler on the skin and eyes and better for your family’s health.

Natural Experience – Swimming in a natural pool feels more like being in a lake or pond, providing a unique and refreshing experience.

Mental Health – The serene and natural setting of a natural swimming pool can provide a relaxing environment for you to de-stress.

Education – Natural pools offer a chance to learn about aquatic ecosystems, plant biology, and environmental stewardship.

Aesthetic and Recreational Benefits

It has to be said that natural swimming pools are beautiful. They blend seamlessly into a natural garden and enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of your property.

They can be a conversation topic for guests and visitors and really give your outdoor space the “Wow” factor.

The design can be tailored to fit your garden style. Natural swimming pools can be any theme from rustic to modern, and can include features like waterfalls, rock formations, and plant islands depending on your preference.

Economic Benefits

Lower Operating Costs – While the initial construction cost might be higher, natural pools often have lower operating costs due to reduced chemical and energy requirements.

Longevity – Natural pools, with proper care, can last for many years with minimal refurbishment. The regenerative nature of the system means that it can become more efficient and balanced over time.

Maintenance Benefits

Low Maintenance – As stated above, routine maintenance primarily involves caring for plants and occasional cleaning rather than constantly monitoring and adjusting chemical levels. The natural balance achieved in the pool means less frequent need for major interventions.

Sustainable Water Use – Natural pools can be designed to use rainwater harvesting and other sustainable water practices, reducing the reliance on municipal water supplies.

The biological filtration system helps to maintain clean water without the need for frequent draining and refilling.

Natural Swimming Pool Construction with HNB

At HNB, we have constructed several natural swimming pools. They are a great way to enhance your outdoor living space and make the most of your garden.

Are you thinking about installing a natural swimming pool and need a construction partner? Contact us today; we can talk you through various options and answer any questions you may have.

At HNB Construction, we specialise in all forms of construction and renovation, one of which is restoring listed buildings.

When we work with clients who are living in a listed building and considering restoring aspects, they often want to know what to expect during the restoration process.

Living in a listed building that is being restored is definitely a unique experience. But, when you choose HNB, we do everything we can to make the process comfortable for you and your family. 

What to Expect When Restoring a Listed Building

If you’re considering restoring a listed building, we would strongly recommend partnering with a professional. Here is what to expect if you’re living in a listed building during the restoration process.

1. General Disruptions

The main concern that people have when restoring a listed building is the physical disruptions. The main issues you may come up against are;

• Noise and Dust – Restoration work involves noisy activities such as drilling, hammering, and sawing; this can be very disruptive, so consider what you will be doing during the days of your restoration. If you usually work from home, you might choose to find a quieter location. Despite cleaning up after ourselves regularly, there will also be a lot of dust and debris present.
• Limited Access – it’s important to consider the dangers of living within a building that’s being restored. This means that we will have to make certain areas of the building off-limits during the restoration process. We understand that this will affect your daily routines so we give you plenty of notice and ensure you have relocated all of your belongings before starting any work.
• Relocation Possibility – In some cases, it might be a better idea to temporarily relocate if the work is extensive or if it involves essential facilities like kitchens and bathrooms. We will discuss this with you at the beginning of the process and can recommend when to relocate and how long you can expect to be out of your home for.

2. Listed Building Regulations

When restoring a listed building there are often strict guidelines on what work can and cannot be done. Here are some things you can expect.

• Listed Building Guidelines – Listed buildings are protected by law, meaning any restoration work must comply with specific regulations. This can limit the scope of changes and require the use of traditional materials and techniques. We can discuss this with you at the start of your project to see what your options are.
• Approvals – When it comes to modifying listed buildings, any restorations require approval from local heritage or conservation authorities. This can be time-consuming and definitely something to keep in mind before you start your project.

3. Perceived Outcomes of the Restoration

If you’re currently living in a listed building and looking into the restoration process, it’s important to understand what the outcome will be once the restoration is complete. Because we are often limited on the materials we can use and the elements we can add, there may be some issues that we cannot bring up to modern day standard.

• Heating and Plumbing – Integrating modern amenities while preserving the historic character and keeping within regulations can be challenging. Elements such as heating, plumbing, and insulation will not be as efficient as they would be in a modern building – although you notice an improvement.
• Energy Efficiency – Listed buildings often have poor energy efficiency compared to modern buildings, this can lead to higher heating costs which is something to be aware of.

4. Costs

Restoring a listed buildings can be expensive. We are often limited on the materials we can use. This is something to consider at the start of your project. If you have questions about materials and labour costs contact us today and we can talk you through what to expect based on your building and the work you would like carried out.

5. Insurance and Legal Aspects

When it comes to listed building restorations, the insurance and legal elements differ from having work done on a modern building.

• Insurance: Insuring a listed building can be more complex and expensive. You may need a specialist insurance policy that covers the specific risks associated with historic properties. We can help you with this at HNB, before embarking on our project with you we will discuss your insurance and what it covers.
• Legal Obligations: As the owner or resident of the listed building, you have a legal obligation to maintain the property and ensure any work complies with preservation laws. Again, this is something we will discuss with you before we begin the project.

How we Help You Manage the Restoration Experience

We know that restoring a listed building can be a stressful process for the owner or resident. So, when you work with HNB, we do everything we can to help the process be as low-stress as possible. Some of the things we do to ensure this are;

Communication – We make sure we maintain open communication and clear communication with you. We keep you updated every step of the way, so you have all the information you need. It can also help to keep communication open with your neighbours to manage their expectations of the overall process.  

Planning – we provide a detailed restoration plan of the works we will be carrying out and a timeline for when each different element will be started and completed. If there are any delays which crop up during the restoration process, we will let you know as soon as we can to help manage your expectations and your plans for living in the restored house.  

Restoring a Listed Building with HNB

We know that embarking on a mission to restore a listed building can be daunting and stressful. It requires patience, careful planning, and a deep appreciation for heritage conservation.

If you are thinking about restoring a listed building and would like some professional advice, then contact the team at HNB today – we look forward to hearing from you.

Are you looking for an experienced barn conversion contractor? At HNB Construction, we have converted and renovated many buildings and barns into luxurious living spaces. 

In this insight, we’ll discuss different elements of barn conversions and examples of barn conversions for which we were contracted. 

What is a Barn Conversion 

A barn conversion is renovating an existing agricultural barn into a residential or commercial property. At HNB, we have worked on several barn conversions. They make beautiful living spaces for family, visitors, or staff. 

Barn conversions have become increasingly popular, particularly in rural areas where country properties may have an unused barn. When working on a barn conversion, the original exterior structure is retained as much as possible, as this often holds the character of the barn. 

Barn Conversion Elements 

Several elements need to be considered when embarking on a barn conversion. The architect will have considered some of these aspects during the design process. 

Structural Integrity: One of the most important aspects is assessing structural integrity. This will determine how much work needs to be done to make the building structurally sound so that it can become liveable. This may involve repairing or replacing beams, walls, and foundations to ensure the building is safe and stable.

Roofing: Depending on the materials used, some barn conversions may involve replacing the roof entirely. In all cases, adding insulation beneath the existing structure is required to comply with building standards and ensure the building is well insulated.

Windows and Doors: Because of the nature of a barn, they often don’t have any windows. Installing new windows and doors is necessary to improve natural light, ventilation, and access. Because barns are usually in picturesque locations, we try to incorporate large windows or sometimes glass walls to take advantage of the beautiful views.

Insulation: Again, because of the nature of what a barn is built for, it often lacks insulation. Therefore, adding insulation to the walls, roof, and floors is essential to bring the building up to a living standard. 

Utilities: Planning and installing plumbing, electrical, and heating systems are also essential elements to make the space habitable. 

Interior Layout: Interior layout design is another consideration and one that property owners tend to get excited about. In some of the barn conversions we have worked on, we create an inverted living layout. This is where the bedrooms are on the bottom floor, and the living space is upstairs so that the views can be taken in from the living room or kitchen. Open-plan living is also very popular in barn conversions because of the shape of the space and the dual aspect opportunities.

Fixtures and Fittings: When working with any character building, it is crucial to choose finishes, fixtures, and fittings that complement the aesthetic while meeting modern standards of comfort and style. 

Exterior and Outdoor Living Space: When working on any project, we like to ensure we also consider the exterior and outdoor pace. Outdoor living is becoming more popular, and barn conversions are often in beautiful locations, which beg for an outdoor living area, dining space or even a pool. 

Regulatory Compliance: When we work as a barn conversion contractor, we ensure compliance with local building codes, zoning regulations, and conservation guidelines, which are essential throughout the conversion process. Budget and Timeline: These are often considered the most important aspects for the client. When we work on barn conversions or any project, we ensure that planning and managing the budget and timeline are critical to its success.

Barn Conversion Contractor Examples  

Over our years in business, we have worked as barn conversion contractors for several clients. Our most recent barn conversion project was in Oxfordshire.  For this project, we installed some beautiful floor-to-ceiling windows so that the residents could take in the views. Take a look at this project here. 

HNB Barn Conversion Contractors

If you’re looking for a barn conversion contractor for your project, then contact us today. We can help with the construction of your barn conversion, and we have architect connections, too, so if you need assistance with the design, we’ve got you covered. 

Contact us today to discuss your project. 

Something which used to be reserved for hotter countries, is slowing but surely making its way over to the UK.

Working in the construction industry, we have witnessed this trend in creating outdoor living spaces first hand. Over the past few years, we have been involved in several outdoor living projects.

What Is Outdoor Living?

Outdoor living refers to the concept of designing and utilising outdoor spaces so that they can be used as functionally as your indoor spaces. They become an extension of your living areas.

Creating outdoor living spaces will encompass making good use of spaces such as gardens, patios, decks, etc. At HNB, we use our construction experience and skills to create functional and comfortable outdoor environments where our clients and their families can use however they wish. This could be to relax, entertain, dine, and engage in various activities.

Creating Outdoor Living Spaces: Examples

There are several ways to go about creating outdoor living areas and different areas you could utilise. Some of our favourite ways to help our clients get the most out of there outdoor space are;

Dining – the most obvious way to create outdoor living areas is to think about outdoor dining. There’s something about alfresco dining which feels luxurious. When creating outdoor dining areas, we would always recommend a large patio to give your dining furniture stability and style.

Outdoor Living Rooms – We’re seeing more of our clients investing in outdoor living room areas. These areas are always great for entertaining as it creates a more relaxed seating area than a dining set. Again, we would recommend some sturdy patio flooring to make your outdoor living room feel cosy and look stylish. You can also invest in fire pits and outdoor heating elements to encourage you to make the most out fo your new outdoor living area in the cooler months.

Outdoor Kitchens – Outdoor kitchens are definitely considered a luxury outdoor living element that you can invest in. these often go down well if you have a very large garden and need another space to store and prepare food.

Swimming Pools – Swimming pools are another great way to create an outdoor living space that will be guaranteed to be used regularly. Natural swimming pools in particular are on the increase in the UK. This is where the cleanliness of the pool is created by a living eco system rather than by using chemicals. We have worked with Clear Water Revival to create some of these pools for our clients.

Why Creating Outdoor Living Spaces Is Important

There are so many reasons why creating outdoor living spaces is important. Aside from the aesthetics it can bring to your garden or grounds, there are also to following benefits.

• Additional space for living and entertaining – when you’re trying to make the most of the indoor space you have, why not also utilise the outdoor space? it’s not just about the size of your garden but how you are using the space to get the most out of it. Having a well laid out outdoor space can work wonders if you love entertaining large groups or just want additional areas to relax.
• Benefits of fresh air – we all know that fresh air is good for our physical health. We get so used to bring indoors, we forget how good fresh air is for your lungs. The natural light is great for your eyes and vitamin D deficiency.
• Mental health benefits –being outside more is also better for your mental health. The fresh air and natural elements are proven to reduce stress and anxiety and improve your overall mood.  Creating an outdoor living space will encourage you to spend more time outdoors and reap the mental health benefits that come with this.
• Increase Home Value – another great benefit of creating outdoor living spaces for your property are the increase in the value. Because outdoor living is relatively sought after, investing in this area of your property will be a good investment long-term.

Outdoor Living And HNB Construction

We have worked with many clients to help them in creating outdoor living spaces. From swimming pools to kitchens and outdoor dining, we have work on various projects for homes in the beautiful countryside to bring our clients the benefits of spending more time outside.  

If you are exploring the possibility of an outdoor living project, or want to discuss an idea with us then contact our team today.

There are various aspects to new home design and construction. Right from the initial thoughts and design to the finishing touches before moving in, there are considerations to take on board and best practices to work towards.

At HNB, we have been working on new home designs and construction for many years. We have experience working with many clients with different preferences and ideas.

One of the best parts about working on constructing new homes is the ability to give our clients their dream homes! We like to say ‘yes’ wherever possible, so we work closely with our designers and architects to accomplish everything we can.

If you are embarking on a new home design and construction project, then contact HNB today. We can help with projects at any stage, but it’s best to talk to us at the beginning if possible. That way, we can work with your architect and guide you through any building regs, the planning application process and any site restrictions, right from the start.

New Home Design and Construction Ideas and Aspects 

When thinking about new home design and construction, there are some ideas you may like to consider.

Open Floor Plans – Open layouts are popular and modern; they provide a sense of spaciousness and facilitate social interaction. They often integrate the kitchen, dining, and living areas, creating a seamless flow.

Outdoor Living Spaces – The concept of outdoor living spaces has grown considerably in recent years. These areas often include comfortable seating, fire pits, outdoor kitchens, and even outdoor theatres, allowing homeowners to enjoy nature and entertain guests. So, when designing your new home, consider the available space and ensure you leave a big enough outdoor space to suit your needs.

Home Offices – With the rise of remote working, home offices have become essential. Designers are creating functional and aesthetically pleasing workspaces within homes, considering factors like natural light, acoustics, and ergonomic furniture. If you work from home, your working space is important to consider from the start of your new home design journey. Make the most of your space to create a pleasant atmosphere for your professional life.  

Storage Space – Something which is often overlooked during new home design is storage space. Somewhere for the boiler, clothing storage, kitchen storage etc., these can be harder to add later, so having them as part of the initial designs is important. Your architect can work with you to ensure your design includes everything it needs for a beautiful and functional home.

Bedroom size and style – How many bedrooms do you require, and what size are you after? It can be tempting to fit in as many bedrooms as possible into a smaller space. However, sometimes fewer larger rooms can make a home feel more grand than lots of smaller bedrooms. It’s also important to ensure you have enough bathrooms for the number of bedrooms you decide upon.

Considerations for your New Home

Here are some elements to consider during your new home design process that you may want to incorporate from the start.

Energy Efficiency – Have you considered energy-efficient elements for your home? You may like to incorporate features such as solar panels, energy-efficient appliances, LED lighting, improved insulation, and smart home automation systems to optimise energy usage and reduce utility bills.

Smart Home Technology – Integrating smart technology into homes has become increasingly common. A smart home system allows you to remotely control elements such as lighting, security, temperature, and entertainment systems via smartphones or voice commands.

Outdoor Sustainability – Can you incorporate anything to make your outdoor space more sustainable? Many homeowners are incorporating rainwater harvesting systems, permeable paving, native landscaping, and vegetable gardens to promote environmental sustainability.

New Home Design and Construction From HNB

At HNB, our management and site teams have extensive experience working with new home design and construction on luxury and prestigious developments for private clients or developers.  

We give a complete service down to advising on materials and development queries. We work closely with your architect and other service consultants to bring the project together and ensure your vision is brought to life.

Contact the team at HNB today to begin your journey with us.

HNB and the #FT1000 List 

The #FT1000 or Financial Times 1000 list recognises and ranks businesses by growth and revenue over the past three years. For 2024, HNB has been ranked as

• #1 Construction and engineering Sector in the UK
• #8 Construction and Engineering Sector in Europe  
• #18 Organisation across all sectors in the UK
• #102 Organisation across all sectors in Europe

To be ranked as the number one organisation in the construction engineering sector in the UK is an astounding achievement. This shows how far we have grown over the recent years. To then go on and be ranked as the 8th fastest construction and engineering company for growth across the whole of Europe is even more incredible.

About the #FT1000 List 

The #FT1000 list is an annual ranking compiled by the Financial Times in partnership with Statista. The list showcases the fastest-growing companies in Europe and the UK, highlighting those that have achieved remarkable revenue growth.

To compile the #FT1000 list, companies across Europe are evaluated based on their compound annual growth rate in revenue over the past three years.

Being included in the #FT1000 list is a fantastic testament to the resilience and hard work the team have put in over the past three years. It is a considerable achievement to have been included in this list at all, let alone three times!

Find out more about the FT#1000 and see the full list of included organisations.

The Details

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The Details

The Details