If there’s one thing nearly all self-builders and renovators have in common, it’s the desire to make the most of their opportunity to tailor a home specifically to suit their needs. Achieving great results often relies just as much on careful planning as what actually happens on site, so this issue we’ve got plenty of advice for those of you at the early stages of your project. Over on page 113, Mike Hardwick sets out the 10 key things you need to know before you start a self-build. Once you’ve decided to take the plunge, one of the big questions will be how much living space you need. Architect Julian Owen gives his advice on how to get room sizes right on page 94. If you’re keen to add more space and value to your existing property, find out whether you need planning consent – and the tactics that will help you obtain it – with Mike Dade’s guide on page 104.
Those of you who already have a project in mind will no doubt want to maximise its potential. We’ve got a raft of inspiration and practical advice to help you do just that – from ideas for a statement-making entrance (page 76) through to guides on built-in storage (page 88), the pros and cons of PVCu windows (page 85) and more. Plus, you’ll find plenty of ideas – and learning points – in our selection of real-life builds, including the Spillane’s stunning modern oak home (page 20).