Be inspired by the amazing self build projects that picked up trophies at the latest Build It Awards. Each property demonstrates exceptional design and bespoke tailoring to meet the unique needs of each homeowner, ranging from modern impessive builds to modest dwellings that perfectly suit their plot

RICHARD DOWNER

WOW FACTOR COASTAL HOME

Positioned on a south Devon clifftop, this contemporary replacement dwelling features stunning sea views and light-filled rooms. The house sits beautifully within its setting and is bursting with architectural details. One of the key inspiring elements is the 2m-deep cantilevered roof to provide solar shading and shelter for the wraparound balcony. Inside the house every detail has been carefully considered, from the symmetrical layout of the living area to the exposed timber beams and high-end finishes.

“We wanted something strikingly different – not a safe, box-on-box contemporary look,” say owners the Clarks. “Working with James Lock from Roderick James Architects, we created a building that’s anything but square. It has bold angles and a combination of materials.”

This project scooped the prize for Best Architect or Designer for a Self Build Project at the Build It Awards. Open communication between the Clarks and their architect lies at the heart of this project’s success. They had a detailed brief and Roderick James Architects helped early on with appointing consultants and contractors, which led to a smooth process and successful collaboration.

TIMBER FRAME HOME IN THE COUNTRY

For self builders Chris and Jenny Shepperd, the top priority for their new home was thermal efficiency, so they wanted a structural system that boasted great performance. They decided to go with Frame Technologies’TechVantage S timber frame, which provides a breathable yet highly efficient envelope with Passivhaus standards of airtightness.

The frame design was carefully engineered to enable challenging architectural features, including a curved staircase that appears to float, wraparound balconies and vaulted ceilings. “Frame Technologies offered flexible insulation levels to achieve the low U-values we wanted at the right price and were incredibly accommodating,” say the couple. Chris and Jenny also opted for triple glazed windows, high-performance doors, 250mm of insulation under the ground floor and a well insulated roof, all the ensure a super energy efficient building.