4 bedroom detached house for sale in Foxley Drive, Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire, CM23

Read article : 4 bedroom detached house for sale in Foxley Drive, Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire, CM23

Full description

Tenure: Freehold

Folio: 13650 A 4/5 bedroom detached family home with a contemporary design, situated in one of Bishop’s Stortford’s most sought after roads. The property is conveniently located close to Hockerill Anglo European school and other JMI and senior schooling. Bishop’s Stortford’s train station is approximately an 8 minute walk which serves London Liverpool Street and Cambridge. The bustling market town of Bishop’s Stortford is ever popular with people wishing to gain an excellent education for their children and commute into London. Bishop’s Stortford benefits from restaurants, public houses, shopping centres, sporting facilities along with an M11 access point leading to the M25.

The property is designed for modern living with a contemporary high gloss kitchen/family room, space for living/dining, separate living room, bi-folding rear doors to rear garden, study/playroom with en-suite wet room (could ideally be used for a relative etc), underfloor heating throughout and the property is media ready. There is a good sized garden with an Indian sandstone patio, double garage, parking, landscaped gardens and the remainder of a 10 year NHBC guarantee. Internal viewing is recommended.

Property ref: 121_2630_4439879

General 
Covered entrance with outside recessed low voltage lighting, outside power point, Indian sandstone threshold leading to a contemporary modern front door with light panel to side, leading to:
Spacious Entrance Hall 
With oak effect flooring, carpeted oak and glass staircase to first floor, low voltage lighting, understairs storage cupboard.
Downstairs Cloakroom 
Comprising an enclosed flush w.c., granite work surface, built-in cabinetry, wash hand basin with monobloc mixer tap, tiled surrounds and shelving, mirror, heated towel rail, opaque double glazed window to side, ceramic flooring with underfloor heating.
Cloaks Storage Cupboard 
Housing plumbing for washer/dryer, double opening oak doors.
Study/Playroom 
12' 6" x 10' (3.81m x 3.05m) with a double glazed window to side, fitted carpet, door giving access to walk-in wet room.
Agents Note 
Could be used as bedroom 5 for a dependent relative/teenage child, if required.
Walk-In Wet Room 
A shower area with part glazed sides, wall mounted designer shower with detachable hand held shower, flush w.c., vanity wash hand basin with a drawer and monobloc tap, contemporary tiling, double glazed window to side, electric shaver socket, heated towel rail, ceramic tiled flooring with underfloor heating.
Living Room 
17' 6" x 14' 10" (5.33m x 4.52m) with bi-folding doors to rear Indian sandstone patio, low voltage lighting, media ready with a Samsung 50” Smart t.v., skirting, fitted carpet.
Enormous Kitchen/Family Room 
31' 4" x 17' 8" (9.55m x 5.38m) the kitchen area comprises a contemporary high gloss kitchen with base and eye level units, inset china bowl sink with monobloc mixer tap and granite work surfaces, integrated dishwasher, integrated recycling bins, five-ring Neff hob with designer stainless steel and glass extractor over, wine chiller, built-in Neff double oven, coffee machine and microwave, large integrated fridge and separate freezer, low voltage lighting, under cabinet lighting, ceramic tiled flooring, granite topped breakfast bar area, media ready. The family area has space for a large dining table and chairs and a sofa. With bi-folding doors leading to the rear patio, wall mounted media point, low voltage lighting, high gloss ceramic tiled flooring with under floor heating.
First Floor Part Galleried Landing 
With oak and glass staircase, full height window to front, access to loft space, fitted carpet, large walk-in airing cupboard with bespoke shelving and pressurised hot water cylinder.
Bedroom 1 
16' 8" x 14' 10" (5.08m x 4.52m) with a double glazed bay window to front, further ¾ height window to front, wall mounted media point, fitted carpet, underfloor heating.
Luxury En-Suite Bath/Shower Room 
With a Villeroy & Boch toilet with surface mounted flush, vanity Villeroy & Boch wash hand basin with cabinet beneath and monobloc mixer tap, panel enclosed bath with mixer tap, large walk-in shower cubicle with ceiling mounted shower head, low voltage lighting, heated towel rail, fitted mirror, fully tiled walls and flooring, 2 light tubes, low voltage lighting.
Bedroom 2 
13' 6" x 11' 6" (4.11m x 3.51m) with a double glazed window to rear, media point, fitted carpet.
Luxury En-Suite Shower Room 
A modern suite with a flush w.c, pedestal wash hand basin with monobloc tap, corner shower cubicle with a wall mounted shower, fitted mirror, heated towel rail, opaque double glazed window to rear, low voltage lighting, ceramic tiled flooring.
Bedroom 3 
14' 10" x 11' 6" (4.52m x 3.51m) with a double glazed window to rear overlooking the garden, wall mounted media point, fitted carpet, door giving access to Jack and Jill shower room with bedroom 4.
Jack and Jill Shower Room 
A fine suite with a double sized shower cubicle with wall mounted shower and hand held shower, flush w.c. with surface mounted flush, sink unit with drawers and monobloc mixer tap, heated towel rail, fitted mirror, low voltage lighting, light tube, fully tiled ceramic walls and flooring.
Bedroom 4 
10' 8" x 10' (3.25m x 3.05m) with a double glazed window to front, wall mounted media point, fitted carpet.
Outside 
The Rear 
The property enjoys a lawned rear garden with outside designer lighting and is fully enclosed by fencing with an enormous, full width Indian sandstone patio area which leads to the front.
The Front 
To the front of the property is a tarmacadam driveway with granite set edges and parking for 4 cars. There are landscaped areas and lead to:
Double Garage 
16' 10" x 16' 6" (5.13m x 5.03m) with an electronic roller shutter door, rafter space, power and light and a cold water tap. The garage houses the boiler and a water softener.
Local Authority 
East Herts District Council
Band ‘G’

5 Bathroom Innovation Award concepts to make it into production

Read article : 5 Bathroom Innovation Award concepts to make it into production

Product design awards have a tendency to yield amazing, ambitious but unrealistic concepts, however every now and then works that showcase great innovation reach the production stage.

There have been a few success stories coming out of the Reece Bathroom Innovation Award (BIA) over the past seven years that underpin this trend.

Here are five successful products from the awards that are on the market or being developed for production.

The ‘Halo Shower’(2005)

 

 

 

 

 

 

In 2005, the competition’s inaugural year, Reece awarded its professional BIA to Duncan Ward for his ‘Halo Shower’ design.

The Halo innovation came from its effective redirecting of the droplet array coming from the shower head. This was achieved by inverting the standard rain head shower design which increased the diameter of the droplets and gave the user a sensation of water immersion akin to being in a bath.

The Halo was quickly picked up by manufacturer Phoenix Tapware and has since been sold in Reece stores nationwide.

 

 

 

 

The ‘Eaux Eaux basin’ (2011)

2011 professional category finalist, Joel Roberts designed the Eaux Eaux basin which has since been picked up by Romanian manufacturers. The all-encompassing design consists of a rolling crest trough which acts as its catchment area, spout and splash back.

In use, the spout expels water which completes the basin cycle through an entire crest with a clear blade of water. Eaux Eaux’s lean body is hollowed to embody and eject the water without a hint of fixturing, evoking a playful yet mysterious nature.

The base is secured into a recessed counter top and the stainless steel cast body is coated with a soft touch paint to maximise its tactility.

The Fl’eau Bath 2012

Joel Roberts was also featured in the 2012 BIAs with his Fl’eau bath design a finalist in the professional category.

Fl’eau is a freestanding bath created from a single surface corian body and since 2012 has been picked up by a Chinese manufacturer and will be on show at USA design and trade shows this year.

The Koeda Intuitive tap mixer (2012)

Designed by 2012 Student category winner ShanShan Wang, the Koeda intuitive mixer tap subverts the traditional mixer tap controls. The dial control mixer tap has been picked up for production since its award and will be manufactured in two versions; a non-electrical and electrical version.

The Koeda utilises a modified progressive cartridge that provides an innate dial control. By rotating the dial in a clockwise motion, water temperature gradually changes from cold to hot. Water pressure flow will progressively increase as the dial is rotated further - ensuring users are less likely to accidentally turn up water flow and waste excess water.

Koeda is handcrafted in porcelain and features an aerator that manages the directional flow of the water and softens the water’s texture. A slight bump angled at a 15 degrees incline in the faucet also minimises excess splashing.

A series of six LED lights, efficiently powered by two lithium cells, change from a light sky blue to a warm orange and finally to a dark searing red, indicating the mix of cold and hot water.

The Wind Rain Fire (2013)

Wind Rain Fire was designed by Chris Connell and was awarded the 2013 Professional category award. 

The design features a flush-mounted shower head combined with an extractor fan in one single unit and Connell has hinted that the design has attracted manufacturers’ attention since its win. Connell says he is currently in discussions with manufacturers and believes the Wind Rain Fire will be available on the market in the near future.

By incorporating the shower head and extractor fan in one unit, the Wind Rain Fire eliminates the issue of another appliance on the ceiling and also minimises trade and fit time. The unit places the extractor at the closest point of steam which Reece suggests will minimise foggy mirror and condensation build up on wall surfaces. The shower/extractor is operated automatically by the touch sensor on the shower mixer unit.

Apart of the design also includes an 800mm wide by 80mm strip rail towel-warm. The long flat surface is heated by an internal element incorporating an inbuilt fan, gently blowing heat down the surface of the towel drying the towel much quicker than a conventional towel rail.

The 2014 edition of the Reece BIA will also guarantee another manufactured project with the winner of the professional category promised a prototype model by Omvivo, one of Australia’s leading vanity unit manufacturers.

See our coverage of the awards for information about entrant criteria and the judging panel.  

Images courtesy of Reece. 

Custom Line Navetta 33 Crescendo for Sale

Read article : Custom Line Navetta 33 Crescendo for Sale

Enter the musical universe that is the Custom Line Navetta 33 Crescendo.

The Ferretti Group likes designing the impossible and they pursue making dreams come true. Incorporating the newest technology, committing themselves to perpetual and breakthrough development, and making unique investments, they have concreted their place in the nautical world, hand in hand with the best ones. They have been designing a wide range of boats like coupe, flybridge, open, maxi and mega yachts. While working on aesthetic and functional attributes of their boats, the Ferretti Custom Line Navetta 33 Crescendo has come to light. The Ferretti Group added this beauty to their group of fiberglass maxi yachts. The name Crescendo derives from the Italian word with reference to classical music (crescendo – gradual increase in force, intensity and volume). Therefore, the yacht depicts the paramount culture of Italian style, gentle elegance, and classical harmony. The Custom Line Navetta 33 Crescendo is the after effect of an adjacent collaboration between the Ferretti Group Engineering, Studio Zuccon International Project, AYT Advanced Yacht Technology and the team of architects at Ferretti Group’s Centro Stile. The Custom Line Navetta 33 Crescendo price is entirely adequate with respect to the yacht’s assets and fabulous features.

"Crescendo" presents the contemporary evolution of yachts with its semi-displacement range possessing an overall length of 107 feet while the beam is 23 feet. The yacht has been designed with advanced GRP fiberglass. The fiberglass was used for both the superstructure and the hull too. The aforementioned semi-displacement hull has a hard chine and at the same time, the keel of the hull is pretty deep. The vessel meets all the demands by navigations classification standards. Regarding the motor craft’s displacement, it is approximated 308.647 pounds under the full load conditions. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries ARG (Anti Rolling Gyro) stabilization system is integrated within this yacht, together with gyro stabilizers positioned in two parts of the yacht – in the middle and aft. The Custom Line Navetta 33 Crescendo embodies conventional outward lines that merge accordingly with the interior design. She encompasses three decks, including an ingenious sundeck, which are in accord with the lines of the yacht.

When it comes to the performance and the engines of the yacht, The Custom Line Navetta 33 Crescendo was designed in consonance with the "slow motion" conception meaning that these semi-displacement yachts are namely representing "mansions on the ocean" which puts aside the velocity and highlights of comfort and entertainment. The clientele has the option of choosing between two MAN turbo diesel engines. The Navetta 33 Crescendo is equipped with standard MAN V12 Common Rail engines with a 1400 horsepower. Each engine contains a total cylinder capacity of up to 1.479 cubic inches. The top speed of this yacht is 17 knots with a range at 550 nautical miles. Moreover, the cruising speed is estimated to be 15 knots. Obviously, the yacht is not a speed boat, but she can take you to places safe and sound with comfort one has not yet had a chance to experience. However, if the customer opts for the other option, then one gets MAN V12 engines containing 1550 horsepower. With this engine, the yacht has the ability of a maximum speed of around 20 knots and displays the cruising speed of 16 knots. Last, but not the least, the freshwater tanks possess a capacity of 859 gallons and the fuel tanks possess a capacity of 4.306 gallons.

The style and interiors of the yacht have been elevated to another level especially relating to the functionality. Stefano Campanelli, Ferretti Group EMEA Sales Director, said: "We have increased contact with the sea through innovative solutions, whilst maintaining the classical style which characterizes this kind of yacht, where it is possible to enjoy spacious areas, natural light and high levels of well-being. We expect to ‘grow’ more with this model, whose name expresses our wish to improve the success achieved in Italy and abroad with her predecessor."

The Custom Line Navetta 33 Crescendo is appropriately ventilated and receives bountiful natural light into the internal parts of the boat resulting in a more capacious layout. The Navetta 33 Crescendo layout encompasses the cockpit which serves its purpose. One can put his mind at ease and relax in luxurious comfort with family and friends. The cockpit is furnished with a brown wooden table that can seat 8 people and a sofa behind it. Right next to the sofa, the skipper has the option of dock maneuvering controls for an easier and more visible approach to the docks. Behind the cockpit, a vast sunbed is placed eyeing the sea and the swim platform just beneath it.

This Custom Line's bridge deck is luxuriously furnished and the level of functionality is at its peak. The bridge saloon, situated aft, accommodates an extremely vast L-shaped sofa. It is closely connected with the bridge dining area. The bridge dining area boasts an elegant glass table that can seat up to eight people. The bridge salon is also connected with aforementioned areas and contains a small L-shaped sofa with a table. Opposite is a large TV screen for entertainment during sailing. One can ascend the stairs on the bridge lounge and will find himself on the sundeck. Amid the sundeck, a sink and grill have found their place. Sunbathing on the sundeck is certainly an option; however, relaxing in the hot tub is quite dazzling too.  

Entering the main saloon is via a glass sliding door and one can notice a junction of the main saloon and the dining room. The cockpit is set in a "gentle palette and calm interior." A huge sofa with a rectangular table is placed looking at the big screen TV and a glass cabinet next to the TV. The dining area consists of a glass seating lounge that can seat up to 8 people. The cockpit and the dining area are bathed with natural light due to the numerous windows on both sides. By opening the sliding door on the starboard side of the main saloon, a beautiful hallmark terrace is revealed. Moving forward, towards the bow in the main corridor, a day head is conveniently located for passengers on the main deck. Moving forward, the master suite can be found. It comprises of an en-suite bathroom, an outstanding Jacuzzi, shower and even a walk-in closet. The room flatters itself by a floating bed with nightstands. The crew quarters are divided from the guest cabins which are placed below deck.

Going below deck, four VIP cabins with double beds are situated. All areas below deck are furnished with large windows bathing the area with natural light and ventilation. The engine and control room are situated aft. Additional features span from the garage, space for the tender or jet skis to another sundeck at the bow. That’s not all. The new Furla.net control system is installed throughout the yacht. Passengers can observe and manage different utilities, alarms, and services with a touch screen control. All furnishings, décor and fabrics can be changed at the owner’s request. 

The Navetta 33 Crescendo is a powerful yacht in terms of illumination, functionality and entertainment. It’s not the roadrunner, but it will take you safe and sound to any destination and at the same time, you will be entertained and relaxed. Versatile options are presented throughout the yacht so no one is left out. You get an extraordinary experience with the direct contact with the ocean. This dreamboat, together with all fabulous its features, can be yours.

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity! Contact us for all the information! This Custom Line Navetta 33 Crescendo certainly justifies her name, so make sure you get on board and begin your life journey before someone beats you to it!

Testing out the new Salina 48 Evolution

Read article : Testing out the new Salina 48 Evolution

Caroline Strainig checks out the new Salina 48 Evolution, a slightly tweaked version of the Salina 48.

Charles Darwin’s famous theory of natural selection and evolution was based on the premise that a species either adapts to the demands of the environment or dies out. Mother Nature makes this possible by ensuring different traits crop up from time to time. Those traits - such as skin colour - can increase a particular animal’s chance of survival so it has a higher chance of living to breeding age and passing those traits on.

French manufacturer Fountaine Pajot is applying that theory to its boats in a slightly more business-like way, tweaking models in response to feedback and releasing a new version a couple of years down the track. The new versions have the same name but with the addition of the word “Evolution”.

The Salina 48 Evolution is the tweaked version of the 48 Roger Priest reviewed in CH in October 28. There are only a few changes, and these are largely aesthetic rather than major structural ones. However, they do improve the boat.

Mark Elkington of Australian distributor Multihull Solutions said they include a new interior design by an Italian company called Costa renowned for making the most of small spaces (they also did the Airbuses), an improved helm station, upgraded galley and roomier hulls.

Sail-plan-wise, the Evolution has a new square-topped mainsail — designed to give more sail area in lighter winds but spill air in strong
winds — and a soft-topped dodger-cum bimini with clears to give the helmsman protection from the elements.

Other tweaks include:
• Additional storage in saloon and galley.
• Huge owner’s bathroom for’ard in owner’s hull, which is to starboard. (The original was central and a lot smaller.)
• Larger portholes to afford even more natural light and even better views.
• New cherrywood interior with more timber fit-out.
• New vynilester resin-infused hull.
• Leather bedheads,
• 240L additional storage in starboard hull.
• Even higher-quality fittings and fixtures throughout.
• New galley benchtops.
• Saloon table also converts to a coffee table.
• LED lighting.
• View panel in cockpit hardtop bimini to see the sails when lazing around the cockpit.

Okay, enough of that. Let’s take a look at what you get for your $955,000 plus.

The general look

Any boat is a balancing act between a number of factors, the main ones being space, seaworthiness and speed. It is important that you get the right balance for you, and it is something Mark and his sales team are all too aware of. “It’s no good sacrificing space for speed if you plan to spend 80 percent of your cruising time at anchor,” Mark said.

“The same obviously goes the other way around. I have seen far too many people make that mistake.”

To me, the Evolution looked a cross between the Lagoon catamarans built by a French competitor and some of the more streamlined cats we have in Australia like the Lightwaves built on the Gold Coast. That should mean it should have reasonable space but still perform well under sail.

I won’t go into too much detail because we have already run a full-length story on the earlier version, but the Evolution has fairly plumb bows, huge trampolines with twin single pulpit seats for’ard in both hulls, wide side decks with shrouds well outboard (no running into things in the dark!) and a flat cabin top with good access to the boombag and boom. Access to the cabin top is via a fold-down step on the base of the mast and easy even for someone vertically challenged like me. The huge anchor locker is just for’ard of the mast, with the anchor (45lb plough standard) stored well aft, as are the water and fuel tanks, helping keep weight central, and thus reduce pitching and hobby-horsing. The only exception to this are the engines, which are just aft of the aft berths instead of under them, but the trade-off is no smell and less noise below.

A large hardtop shelters the cockpit aft, which is a great place to entertain with a good-sized table, plenty of seating and lots of stowage. One locker near the door to the saloon is ideal to be converted to a fridge.

A few steps on the side of the cockpit to starboard lead to the large helm station, which easily seats three, and is protected from the elements by a soft-top dodger-cum-bimini. Sail controls come back to a Harken electric winch and two manual Harken winches on the cabin top near the helm. As Roger noted in the previous story, unlike many cats, the traveller in the Salina 48 is atop the cockpit hard cover, so its control lines go to the helm – where you can use power if feeling lazy.

The halyards can be led back here too, but on the test boat they were still adjusted on the mast. The owners of the test boat were a novice couple and Mark Elkington suggests learning reefing at the mast before moving it aft.

Apart from depth, speed and wind and a compass, instruments are owner’s choice so I won’t go into them here.

As are many distributors, Multihull Solutions encourages buyers to tick the box just for basics at initial purchase stage and then add as they work through what they really need at their leisure. Sails are a dacron composite and a screecher and bowsprit are available as optional extras. A Facnor headsail furler and a 1200W Lofrans anchor windlass are included in the standard package price.

Engines are in each hull (40hp standard, 55 optional, choice of Yanmar or Volvo), with lots of space to access those sometimes-hard-to-get-at spots although the owner of the test boat had added a generator in the port hull, which did make that a little squeezier.

Davits aft have been disguised under a large platform that doubles as a sunbed. Within reason the latter can be customised — you can even axe the platform altogether in favour of heavy-duty davits with an electric winch. A swimming ladder and hot-and-cold shower complete the list of features here.

Inside/below

Sliding doors lead into a spacious saloon with an L-shaped settee and adjustable dining-cum-coffee table to port and U-shaped galley to starboard.

Features include twin opening ports for’ard to enable plenty of through breeze. The galley has a high-set gas oven with separate bench-top burner range, front-opening fridge and a second lift-top fridge/freezer.

I agree with Roger that the views are fantastic and the Salina 48 has one of the biggest saloons I have seen on a catamaran.

Below

The Evolution is available in two versions; the accommodation-maximising Quatuor version and the owner’s Maestro version. The port hull is the same in both, with twin berths with head and shower for’ard and aft and a single berth central (in many boats the owners turn this single berth into stowage). However in the Maestro version the starboard hull is given over to a luxurious owner’s hull with a large semi-island berth aft, office and more stowage midships and a large head for’ard.

Escape hatches in both hulls double as wonderful places to watch the fish go by in normal circumstances. Ventilation is excellent courtesy of a myriad of opening ports and ducted air-circulation system. Lighting is LED, so no need to worry about draining the batteries if you cannot sleep and want to read late at night.

Construction

French builder Fountaine-Pajot is one of the world’s most forward-thinking companies, and I wasn’t surprised to learn the Salina 48 Evolution is manufactured with modern technology, which includes an infused sandwich composite hull plus a deckhouse moulded with new RTM eco-technology.

How she sailed

On the day of our outing we had hardly any wind, so it is probably fairer to refer to Roger Priest’s outing in stronger winds back in 2008, although I will note that even in the light winds, she was responsive and I had no issues tacking. In fact, I had to be reminded by Mark Elkington that the other parties on board had things to do later in the day because I was enjoying myself so much I had forgotten time constraints and was heading down SE Queensland’s Moreton Bay as if I didn’t have a care in the world!

On Roger’s outing in 13-16 knots true he recorded 6.1 knots at 40 degrees apparent and 7.3 knots at 45 degrees. Then a broad reach at 100-110 degrees apparent produced speeds of 9-11 knots.

On our outing under motor with the optional 55hp Volvos we achieved 6.5 knots at a mere 1700 rpm and 8.4 knots at 2400 rpm.

Because the motors are just aft of each interior cabin instead of under the berths as they are in some catamarans – plus have water- and smell-tight bulkheads between them and the accommodation, this means that motoring does not create noise or smell issues, which is a plus, although in many instances you will use just one motor anyway to conserve fuel. I went and lay on a bunk aft while we were motoring and the sound was such a low hum I could easily have fallen asleep. The downside is that the engines are a little further aft weight-wise, but  Mark assured me they were still central enough not to exacerbate pitching and the 48 was extremely comfortable offshore.

Summary

Roger Priest liked the original version in 2008, and from what I saw, the Mark II has only improved on an already-winning recipe. Oh, and if you’d like something a little cheaper or different, Multihull Solutions also sells the Mahé 36 Evolution ($395,000), Lipari 41 ($525,000) and Orana 44 ($725,000). Those with spare cash to burn can go for the Sanya 57 ($1,650,000) or Galathea 65 (POA).

SPECIFICATIONS
Length 14.3m
Beam 7.7m
Draught 1.10m
Displacement unloaded 10.5T
Mainsail area 80sqm
Genoa area 56sqm
Motors two x 40 CV diesel or 2 x 50hp optional (choice of Yanmars or Volvo)
Bridgedeck clearance 0.8m lightship
Fuel 480L
Water 750L
Standard version four double cabins
Owner’s version three double cabins with workshop/single bed fwd
Quatuor version four doubles
Distributor:
Multihull Solutions Australia, 33-45 Parkyn Parade, PO Box 15, Mooloolaba, Queensland 4557,ph 1300 855 338, (07) 5452 5164 mobile 427 88 99 10 www.multihullsolutions.com.au

What about those Mark 1 queries?
Roger Priest had a few suggestions for minor tweaks in his October 2008 story, which I put to Mark Elkington.
Roger:“No standard shelter from sun, rain or spray at the helm. Others (especially Australian cats) do this better. The dealer is working on an Australian-designed add-on because the factory option is only a sun shelter.”
Mark: “No, an option and fitted to almost every order; we do customisation as well for specific clients.”
Roger: “Stern berthing cleats need re-locating. You have to stand on one to enter the boat from an alongside berth. EC Marine is shifting this cleat, pending a factory change.”
Mark:“Option for relocation, but most of our clients like this position.”
Roger: “Lack of a dedicated start battery for the starboard engine, allowing current and voltage surges through electronics.”
Mark: “Separate start batteries now standard.”
Roger: “Two of the three heads in the standard boat are manual, thus having no maceration for legal discharge in some Australian waters.”
Mark: “Again, most our orders are bluewater sailors who like a few manual heads. Electric are options and fitting to most owner versions.”
Roger: “Small standard sewage-holding tanks. With three couples on board, the standard boat will only last between 1 and 1.5 days before needing to discharge or pumpout the three 45L tanks.”
Mark: “150L now standard.”
Roger:“Lifelines are not standard across the bow (they are an option).”
Mark: “Most production cats and one-off’s have no lifelines across the bows. Yes, they are an option, but only ever requested for charter.”

11 Most Badass RVs You Can Buy Today

Read article : 11 Most Badass RVs You Can Buy Today

Views:264

Driving cross-country in a multi-million dollar RV is an experience few Americans will ever get to enjoy. While many may fawn over massive machines like the unstoppable Zetros 6×6, few of us have the means to obtain a purpose-built doomsday machine. Sure, there’s the obvious financial obligation, as luxury RV setups can run north of $3 million, but concerns about parking, maintenance, winterizing, insurance, and who’s going to drive the damn thing are also factors to consider.

Earthroamer XV HD is about as ferocious as it gets outside of military spec | Earthroamer" />

Riding atop a Ford F-750 chassis, the Earthroamer XV HD is about as ferocious as it gets outside of military spec | Earthroamer

Fortunately, many of the world’s elite moneymakers have the means to hire a trained driver, and with some of these land yachts running well over 40 feet long, merging and parking can be a real pain for the untrained. But RV enthusiasts aren’t just into slate tile floors and crystal chandeliers, and hardcore 4×4 vehicles are still a hot commodity as they crush terrain by day and then raise their rooflines at night for spacious living.

King Aire line takes a unique, but very ornate approach to RV-making, and the amount of time, money, and energy that goes into making one is insane | Newmar" width="757" height="482" />

Newmar’s King Aire line takes a unique, but very ornate approach to RV-making, and the amount of time, money, and energy that goes into making one is insane | Newmar

We recently took the time to peruse the web in search of some of the most over-the-top RV options money can buy, and came up with a surplus of unique options. There really is something out there for everyone, and if your pocketbook is up to the challenge, you can have an entire penthouse suite on wheels built to your personal taste.

1. IKON by Renegade

The IKON by Renegade is one purpose-built RV, with trailer towing being one of its strongest suits | Renegade

The IKON by Renegade takes semi-truck styling and combines it with luxury amenities and industry leading self-sufficiency. From handcrafted solid hardwood cabinetry and plush Villa Ultraleather furniture to quartz countertops and heated porcelain tile floors, the good life comes standard in this RV. Tech-wise, it also features things like Samsung 4K LED TVs, Bose Home Theater Sound, and a set of high-tech stainless steel appliances that deliver the goods when it’s time to eat.

It also features VegaTouch control systems, which have dual 10-inch touchscreen controllers with iPad, smartphone, and tablet compatibility. This means you can integrate interior lighting, systems monitoring, HVAC controls, window coverings, awning and slide-out controls, and a whole lot more into an all-in-one touchpad that doubles as a monitor for the perimeter observation camera system.

The Renegade IKON can be outfitted with all manner of amazing interior amenity | Renegade

Buyers will love finding features like hand crafted hardwoods, and a Theater Mode that automatically lowers the shades, dims lights, and raises the 50-inch Samsung UHD 4K TV so it can automatically tie into the Bose home theater system. While a porcelain tile shower and adjustable LED vanity lighting systems are also nice, it’s the Renegade’s attention to towing capacities and ability to be lived out of for weeks on end thanks to its oversized water, septic, and fuel tanks that make it a preferred RV for motorsport enthusiasts.

2. Winnebago Brave

Winnebago Brave takes vintage styling and applies modern technology and mechanics to form a restomod RV | Winnebago" width="757" height="424" />

The Winnebago Brave takes vintage styling and applies modern technology and mechanics to form a resto-mod RV | Winnebago

Back in the late 1960s and 1970s, there was no mistaking a Winnebago motorhome for another RV thanks to its bold “Flying W” badging, iconic “eyebrow” designs, clever interior, and boxy body lines. But over time the iconic styling of yesteryear began to morph into a mish-mash of ho-hum engineering and bland RV styling.

But now it’s time to fall in love with classic RV styling all over again, because Winnebago has followed in Dodge’s Challenger footsteps and has rolled out a resto-mod version of the machine that got America hooked on RV life in the first place.

Vintage interior within the Winnebago Brave looks straight out of the 1970s | Winnebago

The all-new Winnebago Brave takes vintage styling cues and blends them with modern practicality, efficiency, safety, and useful amenities in order to give the next generation of motorhome enthusiast an RV that is both retro and reliable. While you won’t be able to pick one up for the $4,000 price tag associated with the original, these classic and quirky motorhomes are priced to fit a more modest budget, and can be customized in a wide array of colors and interior design layouts.

3. Global X Vehicles Pangea “Perky Mog”

Pangea roof lifter" width="757" height="504" />

Global X Vehicles takes safety orange and gives it a new purpose on this Pangea roof lifter | Global X Vehicles

Global Expedition Vehicles’ Pangea Lifting Roof version of the unstoppable Mercedes-Benz UniMog can be built on either a medium or heavy duty chassis, and can be tailored around various cab configurations. Referred to as the “Perky Mog,” this clever 4×4 RV has a unique lowered position that allows the windows to be covered with the hard side top section, while maintaining full walking height within. Once in the raised position, a huge loft area becomes exposed, which can be reconfigured to the buyer’s preferred sleeping layout, and can hold up to two queen size beds.

Pangea Lifting Roof monster are gorgeous living quarters that feature ornate wood floors, and a loft for sleeping | Global X Vehicles" width="757" height="504" />

Inside the Pangea Lifting Roof monster are gorgeous living quarters that feature ornate wood floors, and a loft for sleeping | Global X Vehicles

Since each vehicle is tailor-made to the buyer’s specifications, there is no cut-and-dry approach to purchasing one of these machines, so be prepared for a lengthy build list and turnaround time. A few of our favorite touches include the G-KAS mounting body isolating mount system, having cab-to-cabin access, exterior tool/utility boxes, how the seating area converts into an additional sleeping space, and how the stair treads are hinged and lift to reveal hidden storage. Add on a duo of high efficiency 200-watt PV solar panels, a 140 gallon fresh water tank, amazing off-road capabilities, and the ability to buy one in 16- to 18-foot lengths, and you’ve got one hell of a capable 4×4 RV on your hands.

4. Newmar King Aire

Engineered to embody “the pinnacle of luxury travel,” the Newmar King Aire takes style, comfort, and technology to a whole new level, with the 2017 model sporting a restyled exterior, and a Spartan K3 tag axle chassis that has been attached to a steel superstructure. Inside, contrast cross stitching highlights the dash, which features a wireless non-slip charging pad, full LCD driver display, and two 12.1-inch touchscreens for system controls and 360-degree outward visibility. Meanwhile, a one-off 11-speaker JBL cockpit audio system and exclusive fabrics from Ralph Lauren add additional flare to the front of the cabin.

King Aire line takes a unique, but very ornate approach to RV-making, and the amount of time, money, and energy that goes into making one is insane | Newmar" width="757" height="482" />

Newmar’s King Aire line takes a unique, but very ornate approach to RV-making, and the amount of time, money, and energy that goes into making one is insane | Newmar

For tailgating purposes, two Girard Nova side awnings extend over a specially designed sidewall housing a 43-inch Sony 4K UHD TV and a Bluetooth-compatible Bose soundbar, which rests atop one of the tallest basements in the Class A segment. Buyers can choose Maple, Cherry, or Rift Oak hardwood cabinetry, while polished porcelain plank tile, heated and cooled Pompeii leather front seats, and a 49-inch Sony 4K UHD TV come standard, with a Blu-ray/DVD player and Bose CineMate home theater system. The King Aire’s master bath is available with an industry-leading 50-by-34-inch shower, complete with full tile and a Fresca panel with massage sprayers and a foot washer, and even comes finished with a Whirlpool stacked washer and dryer.

5. Earthroamer XV HD

Earthroamer XV HD is about as ferocious as it gets outside of military spec | Earthroamer" width="757" height="409" />

Riding atop a Ford F-750 chassis, the Earthroamer XV HD is about as ferocious as it gets outside of military spec | Earthroamer

EarthRoamer has just expanded its product line in order to offer the highly anticipated F-750-based XV-HD. Designed to accommodate up to eight people comfortably and sleep six, this off-road RV features enough ingenuity to make living off-grid for a few days a breeze, as the HD offers anyone looking for wilderness adventures both driving prowess and fantastic amenities.

Extra windows and a raised roof allows living quarters to feel anything but confined in Earthroamer’s XV HD | Earthroamer

The XV-HD takes luxury off-grid ingenuity and infuses it with solar panels, a monolithic battery bank, 46-inch military tires, 200 gallons of fresh water, a compact washer/dryer, and a whole lot more. At just over 35-feet long this is no mini RV either, giving all the more reason for Earthroamer to utilize Ford’s 6.7-liter PowerStroke Diesel engine and all 725 pound-feet of torque.

6. Bespoke Coach Sprinter Van

typical Bespoke Coach Sprinter is not overtly adorned with external upgrades, but leans more toward a VIP look | Bespoke Coach" width="757" height="466" />

A typical Bespoke Coach Sprinter is not overtly adorned with external upgrades, but leans more toward a VIP look | Bespoke Coach

This next road trip specialist is a bit of a hybrid, because while it isn’t a massive RV, it isn’t really a van either. Bespoke Coachworks has been customizing vehicles in Southern California since 1985, and over the past 30 years has created countless custom audio, video, interior, and exterior solutions for celebrities and the elite. So when the Sprinter van finally began getting imported and badged by Dodge and Freightliner back in 2007, requests for customized versions flooded their ears.

After decades of working with companies like Bentley, Rolls Royce, and Mercedes-Benz, the thought of pimping out vans seemed a bit strange, but after one luxury van conversion spawned the next, Bespoke Coachworks knew it was on to something. From opulent mobile offices, to family coaches with built-in beds and entertainment suites, this unique chassis offers an endless array of options for anyone wanting a small and swanky RV, all without the headaches associated with piloting a land barge.

The interior of one of Bespoke Coach’s Sprinter vans may not be large, but it certainly is luxurious | Bespoke Coach

Bespoke Coach’s luxury mobile office incorporates the best technology, design, and materials into a first-class experience, tasking top engineers, designers, and fabricators to make coaches that are both user friendly and innovative. A few of our favorite options include the driver wall partition with motorized privacy window, custom upholstered walls and ceilings, the marine-grade circuit breaker panel, and those Maybach inspired captains chairs. There are also standard iPads, Samsung TV screens, power inverters, customizable lighting, Focal audio upgrades, and Dynamat sound deadening throughout, with a laundry list of unique upgrade options waiting on the wing for the right price.

7. Marathon Show Coach

Marathon Coach, Inc. is widely revered as the world’s largest luxury bus converter and dealer, and specializes in taking commercial buses supplied by Prevost and customizing them into the most opulent RVs imaginable. Built around a Prevost H3-45 chassis, these custom buses feature engineer-driven technologies and a unique “California design viewpoint” that leans toward shades of warm taupe and rich chocolate brown, with deep indigo blue accents inside and out.

Inside, buyers will find things like a marble, limestone, and travertine “basket weave” floor inlay that has been surrounded by Italian porcelain tile, as well as a custom fireplace enclosure designed for both ambiance and warmth. There are soft touches like velvet tufted sofas finished with chrome nail heads, and a stitched leather recliner at the large work desk for when duty calls on the open road.

Marathon Show Coach is a swanky, multi-million dollar cruiser designed for the world's elite | Marathon Coach Inc." width="757" height="504" />

The Marathon Show Coach is a swanky, multi-million dollar cruiser designed for the world’s elite | Marathon Coach Inc.

In the back you will find features like an oversized glass and limestone mosaic shower with a telescopic, glass pocket door that goes opaque at the touch of a button, an integrated, 8-inch rain shower head, as well as a hand-held shower wand. There also are Hans Grohe faucets and fixtures, custom-made hammered stainless steel sinks, a walk-in closet, a TechLink electrical system, and Crestron controls.

8. Sportsmobile Classic 4×4

With the camper lowered and doors closed, this house on wheels turns into a 4×4 Ford battering ram | Sportsmobile

The Sportsmobile Classic is one of the most recent creations in a long line of heavy duty 4×4 “Adventure Vans” coming out of Sportsmobile. After a successful prototype testing phase, the Classic 4×4 can now be had in a Ford Cutaway body that molds it with a steel reinforced fiberglass shell and an integrated penthouse top that drops flush into the shell for streamlining purposes.

The Sportsmobile 4WD Vehicle is designed to appeal to the most discerning off-road enthusiast, and in order to do so only the best heavy-duty components are installed for a balance between maximum off-road performance and on-road comfort. Over five decades of experience in the designing and manufacturing of van campers has led to this point, and while these machines can only be had on 2008–2014 Ford E-350 models equipped with the 6.8-liter V10 and barn doors, sourcing a gently used donor shouldn’t be an issue.

Sportsmobile has long been synonymous with hardcore off-road vehicles that can be lived out of | Sportsmobile

Full production of the Classic started in late 2016, and the 4WD Conversion model includes a lot of hardcore 4×4 upgrades. A few key features include an Advance Adapter Atlas II All Gear Driven transfer case, a Dynatrac Pro-Roc 60 front axle, Dana 60 rear axle, Fox 2.0 Performance Series Shocks, a high knuckle front end for extra tie rod clearance, and an extra heavy duty steering arm.

We could go on about the military wrap springs that were specifically designed for this van, or how the front sway bar comes with a quick disconnect system and custom shocks, but it would take forever to go over this list of performance upgrades. Finished with a practical and rugged, adventure-ready interior, this RV is a pop-top for the most discerning 4×4 enthusiast.

9. ShowHauler Motorhomes

melding semi tractor trailer strength with high dollar RV resplendency | ShowHauler" width="757" height="568" />

ShowHauler specializes in melding semi tractor trailer strength with high dollar RV resplendency | ShowHauler

ShowHauler Motorhomes are heralded as “the safest motor coach on the road,” and their coach frames utilize a unique tubular steel structure consisting of super strong floors, sidewalls, and ceilings. The underbelly is completely undercoated, block foam is placed between steel side-wall supports prior to bonding aluminum exterior walls to the frame, no rivets are used, interior walls are reinforced to create a structural cage, and adhesive bonding is used to apply a bubble type insulation.

Being built on a standard truck chassis with a higher Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) than a typical motorhome allows for greater carrying capacities, so weight is never a concern and neither are highway crosswinds nor oncoming traffic. Internally, buyers get to choose the hardwood they want for cabinets and fabric patterns and colors, all window framing is finished with hand-formed hardwood, counter-tops are genuine Corian, and buyers can choose either polished ceramic tile floors or carpet.

A ShowHauler interior can be outfitted with anything the buyer desires, it just depends upon how deep your pocketbook goes | ShowHauler

We personally dig the cab pass-thru, having 7-feet of interior headroom, the cab-over bunk and vent, the 12 gallon gas/electric water heater, 30,000 BTU ducted gas furnace, and the ability to tow damn near anything. ShowHauler Motorhomes are part luxury living quarters, part big-rig, and all cross-country cruiser.

10. Mercedes-Benz Zetros 2733 A 6×6

Mercedes-Benz Zetros 2733 A 6×6 is one hell of an intimidating RV | Daimler

We eluded to it in our intro, and here it is up close. The all-wheel drive behemoth commonly referred to as the Mercedes-Benz Zetros 2733 A 6×6 is based off a semi with a cab-behind-engine layout, and offers sensational traction and versatility, plus customizable living arrangements.

This triple-axled truck typically weighs in between 25 and 27 tons, and while its powertrain and chassis configuration either come out of the Actros and Axor series of full-size work trucks, it also utilizes a unique Unimog/G-Class 6×6 approach. Powered by a 7.2-liter inline six-cylinder engine, this lumbering beast only puts down around 326 horsepower, but generates around 1,000 foot-pounds of torque in the 1,200–1,600 RPM range.

With room for ATV loading in the rear, this 27-ton monster is all you need to dominate the wild | Daimler

Buyers can opt for either a hydraulically/pneumatic nine-speed manual transmission (eight forward gears plus crawler), which has a direct-ratio top gear, or they can get the six-speed Allison 3000 SP/PR automatic. The permanent all-wheel drive VG 1700 transfer case has an off-road ratio that is about 20% lower than its all-wheel drive cousins, so crawl control is a strong suit here. Towing capacity has also been increased by about 70% when compared to the on-road gears, and torque distribution between the front and rear axle(s) is 1:3.21 thanks to the splitter box, which becomes 1:1 if the differential lock is engaged.

All told, the Zetros has three mechanical differential locks, all of which can be easily selected via a rotary control that shows the logical sequence in which they need to be engaged. Drivers must start with the center-axle before engaging the rear, with the front remaining the final option, reserved for when terrain is at its most extreme.

11. Iveco Astra HD8 8×6 Expedition Truck

Expedition Truck Brokers" width="757" height="505" />

Expedition Trucks always has something insane on its for sale page, like this 8×6 behemoth for instance | Expedition Truck Brokers

Our final contender today comes from Expedition Truck Brokers, a company that has specialized in connecting buyers and sellers of expedition trucks for over 20 years thanks to a crew that tackles every aspect of the purchasing and customization process. Everything from buying and building, to long distance overland travel and selling transactions get attended to by this highly trained team of 4×4 specialists, and getting things right requires “first hand experience with vehicle based travel in rough conditions through remote regions.”

Simply put, Expedition Truck Brokers sources hardcore off-road “wheel estate” for private individuals and professionals in order to provide the ideal vehicle for overland journeys, expedition support, promotional events, and film. While most people would never need something as insane as an 8×6 diesel behemoth, there is a very particular kind of clientele out there that has the bankroll and need for something like what you see here.

Iveco Astra HD8 8x6 also features 8 wheels and more torque than an ocean liner | Expedition Truck Brokers" width="757" height="504" />

It may take eight hours to parallel park, but this Iveco Astra HD8 8×6 also features eight wheels and more torque than an ocean liner | Expedition Truck Brokers

While plenty of other heavy-duty RV options are available on the Expedition Truck Brokers’ website, it’s this Iveco Astra HD8 that has our vote for most badass of the bunch. Professionally manufactured in Germany, this chassis has been widely revered internationally as a construction and mining industry staple, but never a weekend getaway machine … until now.

A few of our favorite highlights and features outside of the Astra’s massive cabin and practical living quarters are the highly autonomous multi-climate design that handles both tropical and frigid environments, and the 600 horsepower EURO-5 Cursor 13 diesel engine. There’s also that dedicated motorcycle platform, all those external storage units, and a slew of locking differentials designed to tackle any terrain.

(cheatsheet.com, https://goo.gl/I0gYaI)

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Bathrooms - Gray Bathroom Pink Accents

Read article : Bathrooms - Gray Bathroom Pink Accents

Glam bathroom features a walk in shower finished with a frosted glass door with gold trim next to a gold trimmed mirror.

Sotheby's Realty

Luxurious long white bathroom features a gray damask mirrored stool placed on statuary marble floor tiles beneath a white built-in makeup vanity fixed beneath a small inset mirror located under a television niche.

Lucy Interior Design

Black and white bathroom with pink accents features an accent wall clad in Schumacher Agadir Screen in Noir Wallpaper lined with a black washstand topped with contrasting white quartz.

Vanessa Francis Design

Fabulous gray bathroom with gray walls framing extra-wide grey vanity with calcutta marble countertop paired with white lacquer mirror flanked by Visual Comfort Lighting Ziyi Sconce in Polished Silver and white and gray hers bath mat.

Palmetto Cabinet Studio

Gorgeous beach cottage bathroom boasts walls covered in gray and white marble subway tiles holding a whitewashed circular vanity mirror positioned above a polished nickel gooseneck faucet supported by a polished nickel washstand fitted with white marble countertops and a sink.

Rosemary Beach

Fantastic gray bathroom with light blue ceiling and gray walls framing grey vanity with calcutta marble countertop paired with Visual Comfort Lighting Ziyi Sconce in Polished Silver on white lacquer mirror and white and gray his bath mat over marble tiled floor.

Palmetto Cabinet Studio

Incredible bathroom with floating gray lacquered vanity with towel shelves, filled with white and pink towels finished with a white quartz counter which frames an undermount sink with modern faucet situated below a beveled vanity mirror which reflects a brass arch top lantern lit by a glass sphere pendant light.

PNE Prize Home

Chic bathroom features an ivory lacquered washstand fitted with slide out drawers topped with thick grey countertop accented with his and her sinks under wall-mount gooseneck faucets and polished nickel vanity mirrors alongside a dark gray slate tile herringbone floor.

Stonefox

Incredible bathroom design with gray dual vanity accented with nickel hardware and a white and gray marble countertop framing the undermount sinks with gooseneck faucets.

Artistic Designs for Living

Chic master bathroom features a arched doorways leading to walk through shower for two with two entrances and exits fitted with a grey marble surround lined with multiple shower heads over a white hex tiled shower floor.

Rock Paper Hammer

Navy blue and gray bathroom features walls clad in grey grasscloth lined with a polished nickel framed medicine cabinet illuminated by polished nickel sconces accented with white plated shades over a navy washstand with ring pulls topped with white marble alongside a marble hex floor next to a walk-in shower.

Meg Lonergan

Pink and gray en suite girl's bathroom boasts marble floors framing a light gray washstand accented with satin nickel pulls and a white quartz countertop fitted with a sink and polished nickel faucet kit positioned beneath a frameless vanity mirror illuminated by a quatrefoil flush mount.

LUX Design

Chic bathroom features a corner walk in shower fitted with a steel and glass shower enclosure and a polished nickel shower head mounted on marble shower surround with a small niche.

Lucy and Company

Fabulous pink and gray bathroom with walk-in doorless shower enclosure with marble tiled walls and ceiling.

Lewis and Weldon

Pink and white contemporary girl's bathroom boasts a white step stool positioned on a hot pink striped bath mat sits on gray wood like floor tiles in front of a white washstand fitted with nickel hardware and a hot pink countertop finished with an oval sink and a polished nickel faucet kit fixed under a polished vanity mirror mounted on a white wall illuminated by light bulb pendant.

Kim Lewis Designs

Gorgeous gray bathroom design with gray walls and light blue ceiling over modern freestanding soaking tub over marble tiled floor.

Palmetto Cabinet Studio

Stunning gray bathroom with gray walls and light blue ceiling over modern freestanding soaking tub over marble tiled floor.

Palmetto Cabinet Studio

Steel and glass doors open to a walk in shower clad in gray plaid wall tiles and concrete floors complementing a concrete shower bench and exposed plumbing nickel shower kit.

Tiffany Farha Design

Gray country style bathroom dons flagstone tiled floors leading to a gray washstand adorning small nickel knobs and gray quartzite countertops supporting tall cabinets on either side of a gray framed vanity mirror positioned above a polished nickel faucet and rectangular sink lit by mirror mounted glass dome sconces.

Tiffany Farha Design

Under a slope ceiling, a light gray washstand donning small brass knobs and marble countertops fitted with a satin nickel deck mount faucet sat under inset vanity mirrors lit by brass sconces.

Jackson and Leroy

Small rustic cottage bathroom features a plank accent wall holding a beveled medicine cabinet between two nickel and glass sconces mounted above a light gray single vanity fitted with a shelf holding a towel tray, polished nickel hardware, and a white marble vanity top placed between gray walls.

Norwell Design Build

Melissa Haynes - Chic girl's bathroom features a nook clad in white beveled subway tiles lined with a cream bone inlay mirror illuminated by sconces with pink shades placed over a white washstand with shelf fitted with pink baskets topped with a bowl sink and wall mount sink.

At Home in Arkansas