Importance of High-Quality Materials: Lessons for Bespoke Homes

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Loakes Bedale’s and a 200 year old Afghan carpet

Introduction: Importance of High-Quality Materials: Lessons for Bespoke Homes

Over fifteen years ago, a friend whose Godfather worked at Lokes introduced me to the enduring quality of leather boots. A pair of 1880 Lokes Bedales, acquired at a discount, not only proved to be a wise investment but also sparked a lifelong appreciation for durability and aesthetics in materials. A lesson we attempt to carry into the projects we design.

Longevity in Use

Contrary to expectations, these boots have become more comfortable and visually appealing over time, surpassing more than a decade of wear as my primary footwear. This experience offers insights into material specification, especially relevant in the field of architecture.

The Monocoque Cabin has been designed to age gracefully over time, blending seamlessly with the surrounding woodland. The aspirations is after many years the cabin will look far more layered, electric and intriguing than when it was first built.

Architecture and Longevity: A Comparative Insight

In Birmingham, where we practice, the fate of buildings varies. Structures from the 1960s to '80s that use concrete are often demolished; whilst many advocate the preservation of these structures, the council deems many of them ugly and to have aged terribly, typically requiring more work to remediate than they’re worth. Just as natural materials in footwear develop a pleasing patina, buildings constructed with quality resources similarly integrate and age within their environments.

The Downside of Manufactured Materials

The contrast with manufactured materials can often be stark, as seen in the tragic example of Grenfell Tower's cladding. What initially looked satisfactory quickly deteriorated, highlighting the shortfalls of inferior products.

Maintenance and Care: Ensuring Durability

Just as my boots require regular maintenance with cedar shoe trees and protective waxes, buildings, too, need ongoing care. Occasional repairs and treatments are essential to preserve functionality and aesthetics, ensuring longevity akin to well-kept leather boots.

Close-up details of the 1880’s Loakes

Conclusion: A Call for Thoughtful Material Choices

This analogy between boots and buildings underscores the importance of choosing quality materials that age well and require manageable upkeep. For architects and clients alike, investing in the right materials can mean the difference between a structure that is temporarily adequate and one that becomes a lasting legacy. If you would like to find out more about and get in touch why not click the About link?

If you care to work with natural materials and have a project in mind feel free to schedule a call with us by clicking the link below.