OUR SOLUTION

When first surveying the property, the existing drain was located in the footprint of the new extension and the invert level of the drain was 2m deep. This resulted in very deep foundations to avoid putting any loads onto the existing drain. We looked at various alternative approaches such as piling but there was only limited side access so the foundations had to be hand dug. To make matters worse, we were excavating alongside an existing conservatory. To avoid undermining the conservatory the foundations were dug and cast in sections. The other interesting part of the project is the vaulted ceiling. This was created without the use of horizontal ties by spanning the rafters onto the ridge beam. The combination of the vaulted ceiling, roof lights, bi-fold doors and side windows create a very light space but as a result of a large area of glazing, a SAP calculation was required by Building Control to assess the heat loss through the glazing.