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Thailand’s National Housing Authority Tests Amphibious House in Ayutthaya

In this picture provided by Site-Specific Co Ltd, the 2.8 million baht ($86,000) amphibious house, designed and built by the architecture firm Site-Specific Co Ltd for Thailand’s National Housing Authority (NHA) rises up 85cm after architects and NHA staff fill a manmade test hole underneath the house with water during a trial run in Ban Sang village of Ayutthaya province

AYUTTHAYA – Nestled among hundreds of identical white and brown two-storey homes crammed in this neighbourhood for factory workers is a house with a trick — one not immediately apparent from its green-painted drywall and grey shade panels.

Hidden under the house and its wraparound porch are steel pontoons filled with Styrofoam. These can lift the structure three metres off the ground if this area, two hours north of Bangkok, floods as it did in 2011 when two-thirds of the country was inundated, affecting a fifth of its 67 million people.

The 2.8 million baht (RM314,000) amphibious house in Ban Sang village is one way architects, developers and governments around the world are brainstorming solutions as climate change brews storms, floods and rising sea levels that threaten communities in low-lying coastal cities.

“We can try to build walls to keep the water out, but that might not be a sustainable permanent solution,” said architect Chuta Sinthuphan of Site-Specific Co. Ltd, the firm that designed and built the house for Thailand’s National Housing Authority.

“It’s better not to fight nature, but to work with nature, and amphibious architecture is one answer,” said Chuta, who is organising the first international conference on amphibious architecture in Bangkok in late August.

Asia is the region most affected by disasters, with 714,000 deaths from natural disasters between 2004 and 2013 — more than triple the previous decade — and economic losses topping US$560 billion, according to the United Nations.

Some 2.1 billion people live in the region’s fast-growing cities and towns, and many of these urban areas are located in vulnerable low-lying coastal areas and river deltas, with the poorest and most marginalised communities often waterlogged year-round.

For Thailand, which endures annual floods during its monsoon season, the worsening flood risks became clear in 2011 as panicked Bangkok residents rushed to sandbag and build retaining walls to keep their homes from flooding.

Vast parts of the capital — which is normally protected from the seasonal floods — were hit, as were factories at enormous industrial estates in nearby provinces such as Ayutthaya. Damage and losses reached US$50 billion (RM182.91 billion), according to the World Bank.

And the situation is worsening. A 2013 World Bank-OECD study forecast average global flood losses multiplying from US$6 billion per year in 2005 to US$52 billion a year by 2050.

Floating House

In Thailand, as across the region, more and more construction projects are returning to using traditional structures to deal with floods, such as stilts and buildings on barges or rafts.

Bangkok is now taking bids for the construction of a 300-bed hospital for the elderly that will be built four metres above the ground, supported by a structure set on flood-prone land near shrimp and sea-salt farms in the city’s southernmost district on the Gulf of Thailand, said Supachai Tantikom, an advisor to the governor.

For Thailand’s National Housing Authority (NHA) — a state enterprise that focuses on low-income housing — the 2011 floods reshaped the agency’s goals, and led to experiments in coping with more extreme weather.

The amphibious house, built over a manmade hole that can be flooded, was completed and tested in September 2013. The home rose 85 cm (2.8 feet) as the large dugout space under the house was filled with water.

In August, construction is set to begin on another flood-resistant project — a 3 million baht (US$93,000) floating one-storey house on a lake near Bangkok’s main international airport.

“Right now we’re testing this in order to understand the parameters. Who knows? Maybe in the future there might be even more flooding… and we would need to have permanent housing like this,” said Thepa Chansiri, director of the NHA’s department of research and development.

The 100 square metre (1,000 square foot) floating house will be anchored to the lakeshore, complete with electricity and flexible-pipe plumbing.

Like the amphibious house, the floating house is an experiment for the NHA to understand what construction materials work best and how fast such housing could be built in the event of floods and displacement.

Floating Cities?

The projects in Thailand are a throwback to an era when Bangkok was known as the Venice of the East, with canals that crisscrossed the city serving as key transportation routes. At that time, most residents lived on water or land that was regularly inundated.

“One of the best projects I’ve seen to cope with climate-related disasters is Bangkok in 1850. The city was 90 per cent on water — living on barges on water,” said Koen Olthuis, founder of Waterstudio, a Dutch architecture and urban planning firm.

“There was no flood risk, there was no damage. The water came, the houses moved up and down,” he said by telephone from the Netherlands.

Olthuis started Waterstudio in 2003 because he was frustrated that the Dutch were building on land in a flood-prone country surrounded by water, while people who lived in houseboats on the water in Amsterdam “never had to worry about flooding”.

His firm now trains people from around the world in techniques they can adapt for their countries. It balances high-end projects in Dubai and the Maldives with work in slums in countries such as Bangladesh, Uganda and Indonesia.

One common solution for vulnerable communities has been to relocate them to higher ground outside urban areas — but many people work in the city and do not want to move.

Olthuis says the solution is to expand cities onto the water.

Waterstudio has designed a shipping container that floats on a simple frame containing 15,000 plastic bottles. The structure can be used as a school, bakery or Internet cafe.

Waterstudio’s aim is to test these containers in Bangladesh slums, giving communities flood-safe floating public structures that would not take up land, interfere with municipal rules or threaten landowners who don’t want permanent new slums.

“Many cities worldwide have sold their land to developers… and now when we go to them, we say, ‘You don’t have land anymore, but you have water,’” Olthuis said. “If your community is affected by water, the safest place to be is on the water.” by Alisa Tang, Reuters

Learning

First-Time Buyer’s Guide to the UK Property Market

Entering the UK property market as a first-time buyer can feel both exciting and daunting. The process is filled with potential pitfalls and complex decisions, but with the right guidance, it can be navigated smoothly. The estate agents in Yorkshire demystify the journey from the initial decision to buy a home to the moment you step over the threshold of your new property.

Understanding Your Financial Position

The first and perhaps most crucial step in the home-buying process is understanding your financial situation. This includes assessing your savings, income, and current debts. Here’s how you can prepare:

1. Deposit: Generally, you’ll need at least 5% of the property price as a deposit, though aiming for 10% or more can provide better mortgage rates.

2. Income and Expenses: Use a budget planner to assess your monthly income against your expenses. This will help you understand how much you can afford in monthly mortgage repayments.

3. Credit Score: Lenders will evaluate your credit score to determine your mortgage eligibility. So it’s important to have a good credit score, and you should work on it if required.

4. Mortgage Options: Speak to a mortgage advisor to understand different types of mortgages, such as fixed-rate, variable-rate, and help-to-buy schemes.

Getting a Mortgage Agreement in Principle

A Mortgage Agreement in Principle (AIP) is a statement from a lender indicating how much they’ll likely lend you. You will be a more attractive buyer with an AIP as it shows sellers you’re serious and financially prepared.

Deciding What You Want

Before you start viewing properties, it’s essential to know what you’re looking for. Consider the following factors:

1. Location: Proximity to work, schools, public transport, and amenities are key. Research neighbourhoods to find the best fit for your lifestyle.

2. Property Type: Decide whether you want a flat, terraced house, semi-detached, or detached property. Each has its pros and cons.

3. Must-Haves: Make a list of non-negotiables, such as the number of bedrooms, garden size, and parking facilities.

4. Future Proofing: Consider your future needs. Are you planning to start a family? Do you need space for a home office?

Starting the Property Search

With a clear idea of what you’re looking for, you can begin your property search. Here are some tips:

1. Use Online Portals: Websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and OnTheMarket are excellent starting points. Set up alerts to get notified of new listings that meet your criteria.

2. Visit Estate Agents: Register with local estate agents who can provide insights into the market and inform you of new properties before they’re listed online.

3. Attend Viewings: Don’t rush this part. Visit several properties to get a feel for what’s available in your price range.

Making an Offer

Once you find a property you love, it’s time to make an offer. Here’s how to approach it:

1. Research: Check the selling prices of similar properties in the area to gauge a fair offer.

2. Negotiate: Don’t be afraid to negotiate. The starting point is most usually the asking price.

3. Conditions: You might include conditions in your offer, such as the inclusion of certain fixtures or a specific moving date.

The Legal Process

If your offer is accepted, the legal process begins. You’ll need a solicitor or licensed conveyancer to handle the legalities. Here’s what to expect:

1. Conveyancing: This is the legal transfer of property ownership. Your solicitor will handle this, including conducting searches, dealing with the Land Registry, and transferring the funds.

2. Surveys and Inspections: Arrange for a property survey to check for structural issues. There are different types of surveys, from basic condition reports to full structural surveys.

3. Mortgage Finalisation: Once the survey is complete and satisfactory, your mortgage can be finalised.

4. Exchange of Contracts: This is when the sale becomes legally binding. You’ll pay your deposit at this stage.

5. Completion: On the agreed completion date, the remaining money is transferred, and you receive the keys to your new home.

Moving In

Moving day can be hectic, but planning can ease the stress:

1. Hire a Removal Company: Book a reliable removal company well in advance. Discover the best deals by getting quotes from multiple companies.

2. Pack Strategically: Label your boxes by room and keep essential items accessible.

3. Notify Utilities and Change Address: Inform your utility providers of your move date and update your address with banks, the DVLA, and other important institutions.

Settling In

Get settled. Introduce yourself to the neighbours, familiarise yourself with the local area, and really start to make the place your own.

Here are a few final tips:

1. Safety Checks: Make sure that your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are working, and make sure that you know where the gas and electricity meters are located.

2. Maintenance Plan: Keep a record of the smooth functioning of your new home with a maintenance schedule, complete with regular checks and seasonal tasks.

3. Personal Touches: Add personal touches to make the space feel like home. This can be from putting up family photos or redoing the decoration in your rooms.

Conclusion

Buying your very first home in the UK is most definitely a milestone, difficult and full of challenges but rewarding in the end. Such a philosophy guides you in understanding finances and knowing what you want to achieve from detailed research, and seeking professional advice that confidently helps you navigate the property market. Yes, the journey may have its hurdles, but in the end—owning your own home—the reward will be worth the effort. Welcome to your new chapter!

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5 Health Benefits of Regular Pedicures

There’s nothing quite like a pedicure to keep your feet looking and feeling their best, but did you know that pedicures do more than simply enhance the appearance of your feet? Many people don’t realize that regular pedicures can come with a wide range of health benefits that can promote the well-being of your feet, so here are some ways that your routine pedicure keeps both your toenails and feet in the best condition possible!

Smoother Skin

One of the biggest misconceptions about pedicures is that they only cater to and look after your toenails. While you’ll definitely be leaving each session with a fresh coat of nail polish, your pedicure can also do wonders for the health of your skin. Aside from trimming and shaping your nails and cuticles, you’ll notice that your nail technician also dedicates a few steps to the skin of your feet.

After inspecting your feet and looking for any issues or imperfections that may need to be addressed, your technician will work on an exfoliating scrub to remove any dead skin cells. This step may also be aided by a foot file, which can be used to buff away any calluses and other problem areas manually.

Softer Skin

After your nail technician addresses all the problem areas of your feet and removes any unwanted dead skin cells, he or she will often massage in a moisturizing product, such as lotion, cream, or butter, to ensure that your skin is properly moisturized. These products contain skin-loving ingredients that will ensure that your feet have everything they need to look and feel their best so that you can walk out of your pedicure with a renewed sense of confidence.

Healthier Nails

After your pedicure session, your nails will not only look better due to the fresh coat of nail polish, but they’ll also be healthier and stronger. This is because your nail technician takes their time to ensure that your nails are properly looked after through steps that include deep cleaning, nail trimming, nail filing, and cuticle care. All of these things work together to prevent issues like ingrown nails from occurring, all the while improving the appearance of your nails.

Increased Blood Circulation

While the specific steps included in your pedicure will depend on the beauty salon, most pedicures will have a massage step somewhere in the mix. One of the often overlooked benefits of these massages is the increased blood circulation, which can deliver more nutrients and oxygen to your feet and nails, promoting their health and appearance. Aside from that, better blood flow means reduced tension and soreness, as well as better distributed heat throughout your body.

Reduced Infections

A significant amount of dirt and bacteria can build up on your feet without you even realizing it, but pedicures can be a great way to prevent these from happening in the first place. The exfoliation step of a pedicure removes dead skin cells as well as all the debris that may have accumulated underneath, and the deep cleaning of your toenails and cuticles also gets rid of any impurities that may have slipped beneath them, which can stop infections from happening.

These are some of the many health benefits that you can look forward to at your next pedicure appointment. However, it’s worth noting that you need to book regular sessions to truly reap all the rewards. This can be difficult, especially when you don’t feel like driving to your nearest nail salon after a long day, but the good news is that you can enjoy the salon experience in the comfort of your own home with a home pedicure service.

Learning

Commercial Boiler Installation Services London

For businesses in the bustling city of London, having a reliable heating system is crucial. Whether you’re opening a new office, expanding your current premises, or simply upgrading an outdated system, commercial boiler installation services for businesses in London are essential to ensure your operations run smoothly and efficiently. Proper installation and maintenance of commercial boilers can make a significant difference in energy efficiency, cost savings, and the overall comfort of your workspace.

The Importance of Professional Installation

When it comes to installing a commercial boiler, professional expertise is paramount. Here’s why:

Efficiency and Performance: Professional installation ensures that your boiler operates at peak efficiency, reducing energy consumption and lowering utility bills. A well-installed boiler can effectively meet the heating demands of your business without unnecessary energy waste.
Safety: Commercial boilers are complex systems that require precise installation to operate safely. Professional installers adhere to stringent safety standards and regulations, minimizing the risk of accidents and ensuring the safety of your employees and premises.
Compliance with Regulations: Commercial properties are subject to various building codes and regulations. Professional installers are well-versed in these requirements and ensure that your boiler system complies with all local laws and standards.
Longevity and Reliability: Proper installation is critical to the longevity and reliability of your boiler. A professional installation can prevent common issues such as leaks, pressure problems, and system failures, ensuring that your boiler runs smoothly for years to come.

Key Considerations for Commercial Boiler Installation

When planning for a commercial boiler installation, several factors need to be considered:

Type of Boiler: The type of boiler you choose will depend on your business’s specific needs. Options include gas boilers, oil boilers, and electric boilers, each with its own set of advantages. Consulting with a professional can help you determine the best choice for your business.
Sizing and Capacity: The boiler’s size and capacity must match the heating demands of your commercial space. An undersized boiler will struggle to meet your needs, while an oversized one will lead to inefficiencies and higher costs.
Location: The placement of your boiler affects its efficiency and accessibility for maintenance. Professional installers can help you choose the optimal location for your boiler.
Integration with Existing Systems: If you’re upgrading or replacing an existing boiler, it’s essential to ensure compatibility with your current heating system. Professional installers can seamlessly integrate the new boiler with your existing setup.

Choosing the Right Installation Service

Selecting the right installation service provider is crucial to the success of your boiler installation project. Consider the following when making your choice:

Experience and Expertise: Look for a provider with a proven track record in commercial boiler installations. Experienced installers can handle the complexities of commercial systems and provide high-quality workmanship.
Reputation: Check reviews and testimonials from previous clients to gauge the provider’s reliability and customer satisfaction.
Comprehensive Services: Choose a provider that offers a full range of services, including installation, maintenance, and repair. This ensures that all your boiler needs are met by a single, trusted source.

In London, ROWLEN is a reputable name known for delivering top-notch commercial boiler installation services. Their team of experts is dedicated to providing efficient, safe, and compliant installations tailored to the unique needs of businesses.

Conclusion

Investing in professional commercial boiler installation services for businesses in London is essential for ensuring efficiency, safety, and long-term reliability. By choosing an experienced and reputable service provider like ROWLEN, you can rest assured that your heating system will be installed correctly and maintained to the highest standards. Proper installation not only enhances the performance of your boiler but also contributes to the overall comfort and productivity of your business environment.

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