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Straw shortage hits thatch supplies

Years of wet weather have impacted straw production,

2,200

is the estimated number of planning officers needed

Lords inquiry shows grey belt policy largely redundant

Peers examining the government’s proposal to re-designate land

What’s on?

DESIGN FESTIVAL NORTH 26TH MAR

New plans to make home buying faster & cheaper

The government has announced that it will modernise

need to know

Can we overcome nutrient neutrality issues?

MERRY ALBRIGHT

is creative director at Border Oak and has

spend v save

£225.60 r m 2 2 MATTHEW SMITH

product news

Great shopping ideas for your custom home project

3 of the best ELECTRIC ROOFLIGHTS

1 IQ Glass ARES rooflight, from

Self build & custom build mortgage table

Looking to fund your bespoke home project? Each month we round up the best deals from leading lenders and update you on what you need to know to secure the right finance

Ask the EXPERTS

Essential advice on your problems with building, budgeting, DIY & planning from the most experienced names in the self build industry

FIND YOUR DREAM BUILDING PLOT

PlotBrowser.com is a 100% free-to-use plot and property finder, packed with 1,000s of home building opportunities. Here’s a taster of the fantastic self build plots, renovation properties and conversions currently for sale near you

In Focus Architects & designers

We take a closer look at the myriad benefits a skilled and experienced design professional can bring to your self build, renovation or extension project

next month...

May issue on sale 26th March

Loft conversions on a budget

From gauging your attic’s potential to maximising your budget, Curtaz Studio’s Marco Curtaz shares his tips on how to make your build a success

AMAZING HOMES BY ARCHITECTURAL TECHNOLOGISTS

Wondering who can take on the design of your bespoke home build or extension? An architectural technologist could be the perfect solution for you. Sander Tel speaks to the experts about what this route involves and shares his top pick of real-life projects

SWAN SONG

After securing a backland plot in the heart of Edinburgh, experienced self builders Andrew Laing and June Russell took on their final project

Double-sided fireplace…

readers’ homes

CONSERVATION INSPIRATION

On the hunt for a fixer upper, Ian Turkington transformed a Victorian property in east London with a contemporary extension and sustainable upgrades

Golden opportunity

Tracy Gordon took a chance on buying an allotment at the end of her garden to build on, working through some early planning challenges to create a bespoke haven she loves

WHAT IS A PASSIVHAUS?

This design and construction approach focuses on comfort and energy efficiency in both new builds and retrofit. Anna-Marie DeSouza explores how it works and what you need to know 

FRONT DOORS & HALLWAYS

Looking to make an impact with your home’s entryway? Erika Chaffey shares the key considerations and top design tips for a functional and eye-catching design

GUIDE TO KITCHEN ISLANDS

A well-designed centrepiece enhances both style and practicality. Scarlett Deamer explores the key factors to consider when planning your layout

Kitchen island gallery

NICK SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY SIDE BY SIDE If

RE-ROOFING A HOUSE

How can you tell when it’s time to replace your roof’s tiles, slate or thatch, what’s involved and what should you budget? Alan Tierney explains the ins and outs 

FLOOR PLANS FOR EXTENSIONS

Designing the ideal configuration for your new space is key to a successful and cost-effective project. Erika Chaffey shares the core considerations for getting it right, plus some inspiring setups 

BUILDING WITH TIMBER

Find out why offsite-manufactured systems such as timber frame, SIPs and oak offer a fantastic route for self builders to achieve a quality, high-performance home 

TIMBER WINDOWS

Looking for a durable, thermally-efficient option packed with design potential and character? Take a look at why wood could be the ideal choice for your home

TIMBER DOORS

Specifying wooden doors for your home will enhance aesthetic appeal and character. Plus they’re a durable, practical and functional choice for your self build or renovation

TIMBER STAIRCASES

Looking to add a characterful, timeless cent repiece to your brand new home? Take inspiration f rom this collection of hand-picked timber flights

TIMBER CLADDING

Balancing great aesthetics with impressive performance values, explore the benefits of wood-based external finishes for enhancing your home's style and efficiency

TIMBER FLOORING

Wood provides an at tractive, timeless solution for your home’s interior finishes – but which type should you specify under foot? Here are the options

High-quality alternatives to Siberian larch cladding

Siberian larch has long been a go-to choice for self builders seeking a stylish, durable facade. But with supply shortages making it harder to source, what are the best solutions on offer? John Russell explores some innovative options that deliver the same aesthetic appeal and performance values

TIMBER OUTBUILDINGS

From luxurious pool rooms to wholesome studios, these external structures can provide impressive additional living space to your outdoor landscape

How to turn your garden

Martin Gaine explains how to assess your land’s potential, and outlines the different routes you might take for planning success

Rainwater harvesting pros & cons

Repurposing rainfall is a great way to save money and reduce pressure on the mains supply – but does it make sense for your home? Nigel Griffiths sets out what you need to know

GROUND SOU RCE HEAT PUMP COST GUIDE

This fit-and-forget heat source can deliver savings on bills and carbon – but what should you budget for a quality install?

SIMPLIFYING PLANNING

WILL THE GOVERNMENT’S CHANGES WORK?