Sapphire Balconies’ Post

Eichlers and Quilt are a match made in design heaven. Mid-century modern spaces have a timeless appeal, but their heating and (lack of) cooling systems often require complete overhauls. These beautiful layouts often boast open floor plans, floor-to-ceiling glass windows, and no basement or attic in sight. Because of these unique elements, not just any old HVAC system will do. Mini-split systems offer “the flexibility to be able to work in different spaces and different temperatures," says John Klopf, licensed architect and founding principal of Klopf Architecture. "Especially with an older home that hasn't been renovated, you'll have a situation where the west side of the room heats up fast, where the east side does not. If you can adjust [just one of those rooms], it's more targeted, more efficient, easier to use." Find out more about why mini-split systems like Quilt are the perfect upgrade for Eichler homes: https://lnkd.in/gJuN-HTD

Modern industrial interiors At JLK Architects we love an honest industrial interior.  There is a great opportunity when repurposing former industrial spaces to emphasise the volume and expose the structure to create drama and interest. The history of these buildings adds to the uniqueness of the development.  The large volumes of former industrial units also results in a large roof area that can be utilised for solar panels to offset the carbon used in running the building. 

It's a balancing act 1! When converting existing #office buildings into #residential it tends to feel like everything is against you; existing window placement, column and beam arrangements, #structure, awkward planning requirements, limited drainage, #utilities, etc. We're proud of the success we achieved on this project where 5 spacious apartments share a clean design logic, surpassing the technical housing and #Londondesign standards for kitchen/dining/living area, storage etc, and where most units are double aspect! On entry to each unit you're met with a view out, a key comfort and sale metric, and a contrast to many converted apartments out there! #Islington #angel #retrofit #project #commercial to #residential #conversion #retrofit #sustainable #architecture #inthisroomarchitecture #londonrefurbishment #permitted #development #priorapproval #renovations #londonconversion #londonrefurbishments #officebuilding #artdeco #londonbuild #construction #londondeveloper #propertydevelopment #england #uk #London

‘T’ plan with unequal ridge heights and dormers: " data-image-caption=" A ‘T’ plan with unequal ridge heights and dormers features a distinctive layout where the main building forms a T-shape " data-medium-file="https://lnkd.in/efgtEepD" data-large-file="https://lnkd.in/edFqZ7B6" tabindex="0" role="button" /> A ‘T’ plan with unequal ridge heights and dormers features a distinctive layout where the main building forms a T-shape, with varying ridge heights creating a dynamic roofline and dormers adding architectural interest and functional space. In Jamaica, this design is advantageous for optimizing natural light and ventilation in different sections of the house, particularly […] The post ‘T’ plan with unequal ridge heights and dormers first appeared on Jamaica Homes. #jamaica #glossary #realestate

We are often asked, 'Can I connect balconies to a unitised façade?'  Innovative methods and cutting-edge technologies have made it possible to connect fully functional balconies seamlessly to a unitised façade. Sapphire believes in the power of modern construction methods. Connecting balconies to unitised façades can revolutionize the way we build. Used for technically challenging projects, fast-track schemes, new builds, and refurbishments, unitised façades have become a sustainable and efficient alternative to traditional façades. They offer a range of design variations within the façade structure and a wide mix of panel sizes, colours, and materials. This is for Canadian architects, builders, and contractors who are keen on learning about sustainable building methods or who might be involved in balcony projects. Swipe right to discover how balconies can be connected to a unitised façade.  Download our whitepaper for FREE to learn more: https://lnkd.in/eWAWMJv3 Need help with your next balcony project? Get in touch with us: https://lnkd.in/e5sVfw5w #Innovation #ResidentialConstruction  #Balconies  #Facade #MMC #OffsiteConstruction  #PrefabSolutions 

Attention, Architects, Specifiers, and Builders! If you are passionate about traditional character homes and buildings, we have got some exciting news for you. Privett has developed a unique 'Set Back' Conservation Slimline Casement window range, and it’s a true work of art. Authentic Design: this range was developed to capture the essence of traditional architecture by maintaining the classic proportions and shapes that define the character homes. This range strikes the perfect balance, by providing modern comfort without compromising the period look and charm. Refined Lamb’s Tongue Glazing Bars: The devil is in the details, and Privett knows it. Our period windows feature 18mm Refined Lamb’s Tongue glazing bars, adding elegance and authenticity. High-Performance Double Glazing: Equipped with specialist 20mm narrow high-performance double glazed units, these windows achieve an eye-watering u-value of just 1W/m²K. That is energy efficiency at its finest. So, whether you are preserving a historic gem or creating a new masterpiece, Privett’s Slimline Casement Window range is your go-to solution. Secure, quiet, comfortable, and energy-efficient: what more could you ask for?

Teaching Tuesday How can an architect help with privacy of outdoor spaces? Architects can strategically place walls, fences, trees, and hedges to block views and enhance privacy when designing your outdoor space. They design structures like pergolas, trellises, and latticework for climbing plants, which provide natural screening. They can also assist with the orientation of outdoor spaces to maximize privacy, positioning seating and activity areas away from neighbors' view. They can also add features such as raised decks and sunken patios to ensure outdoor areas are private, functional, and visually appealing.

Flat roof: " data-image-caption=" A sleek, modern Jamaican property with a minimalist flat roof, set against a warm, vibrant island backdrop " data-medium-file="https://lnkd.in/ef9xjxfQ" data-large-file="https://lnkd.in/e59riVDG" tabindex="0" role="button" /> A flat roof is a horizontal or nearly horizontal roof that offers a sleek, modern aesthetic and is commonly used in both residential and commercial architecture. In Jamaica, flat roofs are particularly popular for their versatility and the potential to create usable outdoor space, such as terraces or rooftop gardens, which can be valuable in […] The post Flat roof first appeared on Jamaica Homes. #jamaica #glossary #realestate

Bridge House, Uxbridge, was our fastest installation ever - 62 balconies in a single day - here's how we did it. ⏰ Understanding the logistical and structural constraints of the busy urban area, Sapphire Balconies proposed a solution that would not only respect the building’s architectural integrity but also streamline the installation process. Opting for lightweight aluminium balconies, Sapphire facilitated the addition of outdoor spaces with minimal connections required, thereby preserving the building’s façade and reducing the load on the structure. Sapphire's approved installer, D&A, executed the ambitious plan flawlessly, achieving a record-breaking installation of 62 balconies in just one day. The momentum continued into the second day, with the remaining 48 balconies installed, culminating in a total of 110 balconies fitted in merely two days. The efficiency of the process was highlighted further when a single balcony installation was completed in an astonishing 1 minute and 34 seconds, documented with video evidence, as seen below. 🔗 Click the link in our comments to get access to the full Bridge House case study. #ResidentialConstruction #CaseStudy #Uxbridge #Speed #Installation #Balconies #ConstructionExcellence #UKConstruction #Competency #SupplyChain

Outdoor lighting is the perfect way to accentuate the architecture and landscaping of your home. Here are a few outdoor lighting techniques, placements, and trends we think really set a home apart (in a good way).⁠ .⁠ .⁠ .⁠ #lightingdesign #designtrends #outdoorlighting #bmcisluxe #bmcisluxury