In the December 2018 issue we announced that we, the Build It team, were going to put all our practical knowledge to the test by taking on our own self build project at the innovative Graven Hill development – a first for a magazine! I visited the build at various stages to see how things were progressing and I can certainly say that I’ve now experienced first hand the buzz of self building; the satisfaction of seeing a house literally rise from the ground before your eyes is brilliant. It’s just over a year since the issue where we shared our project plans with you and now all the hard work from Chris (Build It editor and now self build project manager!) and the rest of our fantastic team on site has paid off. The result is a fine example of how a bespoke home built from scratch can knock spots off those found on mass developed estates. And the best thing about this house is that it’s going to be open for you, our readers, to learn all about self building by seeing one in the flesh. Our Education House will be opening to the public soon – so watch this space! In the meantime you can read all about how we achieved our dream home in the free House Guide bundled with this issue and over at the Build It website by going to www.self-build.co.uk/ourhouse.
Back to this issue and we’ve got lots of inspiring and practical info for you to make your project a success. If you’re self building then check out my breakdown of the main structural systems on page 63, Julian Owen’s guide to how your building plot should influence your design (page 99) and Mike Dade’s advice on keeping your neighbours on side with your build (page 89). This month’s renovation series installment is looking at restoring original period details (page 58) and Alan Tierney is discussing draught proofing old buildings (page 95). If you’re extending then don’t miss our breathtaking cover house on page 18.