Welcome to Prefab Profiles, an ongoing series of interviews with people transforming how we build houses. From prefab tiny houses and modular cabin kits to entire homes ready to ship, their projects represent some of the best ideas in the industry. Do you know a prefab brand that should be on our radar? Get in touch! After more than 15 years spent in construction, high school friends Simon Fyall and Richard Egli began to think that there must be a better way to build. When the two visited the indigenous island of Haida Gwaii in Canada in 2019, suspicion grew…
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The roof over our heads is not just a protective shield against the elements; it’s a testament to human innovation and adaptability. Throughout history, roofing materials have evolved in response to changing needs, technologies, and environmental considerations. From the earliest days of human civilization to our modern, eco-conscious age, the roofing industry has witnessed a remarkable transformation. In this article, we’ll embark on a fascinating journey through time to explore the evolution of roofing materials. 1. Thatch: A Humble Beginning We begin our journey with thatch, one of the earliest roofing materials used by humans. Thatch roofing consists of natural…
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Thatched roofs, recycled bricks and bundles of sticks were used to construct this hostel on Shanghai’s Chongming Island, which Chinese studio RooMoo has organised around two existing buildings. The site is surrounded by water and forests, creating a secluded rural environment on the island that’s located across the Yangtze River estuary from the vast metropolitan area. RooMoo completely transformed two existing buildings using materials found on-site The Som Land hostel was designed to integrate with this natural landscape and respect the local customs and traditions. “The resort’s name Som Land comes from the traditional Chinese colour, the warm green between…
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After finding the clients, designing your rental space might be the most challenging aspect of the rental property industry. When you’re doing up a property for rental purposes, it’s important to consider what materials you’ll use. Rental properties inevitably suffer wear and tear and, in reality, people tend to pay less attention to not damaging property when it isn’t theirs. So what can you do? It comes down to choosing good quality materials which are both durable and aesthetically pleasing. There are lots of different options available, so in this post we’re exploring the best materials for rental properties and providing…
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Windows let in light, protect your home against the elements, and improve your home’s curb appeal. Choosing the window materials is important when installing new or replacement windows. Various materials are used to construct window frames, and they differ in aspects, including cost, energy efficiency, style, and durability. Below is a simple guide to choosing the best window materials for your home. Types of Window Materials Today’s primary materials include aluminum, vinyl, wood, composite, and fiberglass. Aluminum is strong and durable, offering a long service life. It’s highly resistant to environmental elements, aging, and rot and requires little maintenance. Aluminum…
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If you enjoy hosting get-togethers with family and friends, from pool parties to gatherings around the fireplace, a well-designed outdoor space should be your priority. This might include amenities like an outdoor cooking area, a fire pit, and, of course, inviting seating for guests to unwind and socialise. As you may know, outdoor garden furniture usually comes with a higher price tag. Therefore, it’s crucial to choose pieces that can withstand the elements. Your furniture must be strong, long-lasting, and resistant to all the natural forces of the environment. Although there is no outdoor furniture that is completely weatherproof, there…