People Who Live in Glass Houses...
30 October 2007
People living in glass houses are the envy of the UK, according to a new report released which reveals that glass design is rocketing up the list of home must-haves. The research, among architects across the UK, found that glass has become an essential part of home design with 81% of architects reporting a rise in interest in the last five years and 75% actively recommending glass within their home designs.
According to the research their homeowner clients, having their imaginations sparked by TV programmes (73%) , want 'lighter, brighter spaces' (81%) and 'to bring the outside in' (73%).
'The Glass Report' also found that 66% of architects have reported a rise in popularity of traditional glass extensions. Also popular are contemporary 'glass boxes' with more than half (53%) of the architects surveyed agreeing they are on the up. Fifty% are experiencing more demand for glass walls, while up to 61% say their clients are demanding bigger and better feature windows, skylights or glass doors.
British homeowners are spending on average more than £6,500 adding glass to their homes as they seek to brighten their lives and promote well-being, and in some regions the average is as high as £15,000 according to research amongst the UK's architects.
According to industry experts, going for glass could be a savvy investment for homeowners; The Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) estimates that a glass extension or conservatory could add 5% to a property's value.
Ashley Ramsay, trends expert at Standard Life Bank, said: "2007 is shaping up to be the Year of Glass as homeowners realise they can make major design statements while adding value to their properties. Architects told us that investing in glass could not only pay long-term financial dividends but promote a sense of well-being, as people connect with the outdoors and benefit from more natural light in the home.
"Getting this level of expert advice is key, ensuring homeowners comply with planning and environmental regulations while making the most of this major new home trend.
"For those looking to create their very own 'grand design', and bring the outdoors in, there are innovative finance packages designed to help. In the case of new builds, there are mortgages available which allow money to be released at different stages so you don't have to pay interest on the full amount right at the beginning - a welcome helping hand in turning glass design ideas into reality."
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