Sutherns Construction

The property required a complete refurbishment before returning to the rental market. What began as a planned renewal of the kitchen, bathroom and interior finishes developed into a more extensive renovation as the existing building was opened up.

Our aim was to address the underlying issues properly before putting the property back together, while keeping the project moving within a six-week programme.

The existing kitchen and bathroom were completely stripped out, along with the old floor coverings and finishes throughout.

During the works, cracks were discovered beneath wallpaper covering the original lath and plaster ceilings upstairs. Rather than simply covering the problem, the affected ceilings were taken down and renewed.

Further investigation revealed that a number of the internal stud walls were significantly out of level. These were straightened before the new finishes were installed, giving us a sound and accurate base for the remainder of the refurbishment.

Areas of mould were also identified on the external walls. With no cavity within the existing wall construction, sections of affected plaster were removed as part of the remedial works.

A positive input ventilation (PIV) system was installed to improve air circulation and help manage moisture levels within the property.

Once the underlying issues had been addressed, the property could be rebuilt and finished.

The works included new electrical and plumbing installations, a new kitchen and bathroom, bathroom tiling, flooring and carpets, plastering, decoration and final finishing throughout.

Managing the complete refurbishment allowed us to coordinate each stage of the work and maintain progress despite the additional issues uncovered during the project.

Within six weeks, the property had been taken from a tired interior with a number of concealed defects to a completely refurbished home ready to return to the rental market.

More importantly, the work went beyond the visible finishes. The problems uncovered during the refurbishment were addressed before the property was put back together, leaving the client with a home that had been improved both visually and practically.

The existing timber decking had reached the end of its life and required complete replacement. The aim was to create a smart, durable outdoor space while carefully protecting the waterproofed structure beneath.

The terrace sits directly above an occupied property and is protected by a waterproof membrane system. This meant the new decking structure could not be mechanically fixed through the surface without compromising the waterproofing below.

The old, deteriorated decking was removed and a new floating composite subframe installed at 400mm centres. The system was designed to sit securely above the existing membrane without any penetrations through the waterproof layer.

Pressure-treated timber decking was then installed over the new subframe, providing a durable finish designed for long-term outdoor performance.

To complete the terrace, a concealed LED lighting strip was incorporated along the rear edge of the decking. This provides subtle ambient lighting after dark and adds another dimension to the space without detracting from the simplicity of the finished design.

A tired and deteriorating terrace was transformed into a clean, practical outdoor space, with a carefully considered floating construction that protects the occupied property and waterproofing system below.