Building Regulations update set to make homes greener

Welcome

Whether you’re self building, renovating or extending, undoubtedly

Sky-high self build

inspiration CHARLES HOSEA Nestled cut into a Welsh

Coastal retreat

Backing onto sand dunes and overlooking the sea,

Graven Hill launches nine new plots

The UK’s pioneering self and custom build development

£18.6bn

was spent on updating the UK’s gardens in

Heat pump networks given green light

Innovative district heating schemes have been identified by

What’s on?

IDEAL HOME SHOW 11TH-27TH MAR £14, LONDON From

need to know

How to light up your home

product news

Great shopping ideas for your custom home project

interiors notebook

Bold blue hues can make a luxe statement or be paired with neutral tones for a sophisticated look

SELF BUILD MORTGAGES EXPLAINED

Jane Crittenden takes a look at the key self build finance options that will help you move your project forward

The latest mortgage rates

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

BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO finding land

The first step in your self build journey is tracking down a viable building site. Keep yourself ahead of the competition with Build It’s top plot hunting tips

Ask the EXPERTS

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

next month...

April issue on sale 23rd February

ARCHITECT’S VIEW

Ian Phillips explains how a glass link can add wow factor to an extension or existing building and help you gain planning

The Highland Boorach

Maureen and Johnny Boyle took their time to create a small and perfectly formed self build in the Scottish Highlands

BESIDE THE SEA

This stunning contemporary abode has been created as a multigenerational holiday home in a breathtaking setting

Historic character

Louis Pouyanne took on a mammoth task to revive a 14th century barn into a naturally-bright family home in the country

THE HOUSE ON THE HILL

This RIBA award-winning home is a unique mix of old and new, with a spacious extension that brings fresh modern character to the Georgian farmhouse

Speedy self build

A chance encounter with a local estate agent led Cameron and Angie McMillan to buy a plot, design a home, submit planning and build a house in East Sussex all within 18 months

EXTENSIONS KEY FIT-OUT COSTS

If you’re thinking of adding more space to your home, the structural side is just the start. Emily Brooks’ guide to glazing and fit-out options will help you keep your project budget on track

PASSIVHAUS-RATED BUILDING SYSTEMS

Do you need to choose a method that’s pre-accredited to achieve this gold standard of energy performance? Rebecca Foster takes a closer look

WOW-FACTOR BARN CONVERSIONS

Each of these inspiring projects showcases how it’s possible to draw on the building’s histor y, quirks and unique character to create a stunning modern home

Underfloor HEATING

Find the best system for your project and discover what it will cost to install UFH

HOW TO MAXIMISE HEAD HEIGHT IN A LOFT CONVERSION

Having a low roof ridge doesn’t always mean you can’t convert your attic. Jane Crittenden explains how to turn a tight space into comfortable accommodation

PRIORITISE YOUR ECO SELF BUILD BUDGET

Nigel Griffiths unravels some of the common misconceptions around constructing a sustainable house, weighing up the best ways to boost your project’s green credentials

Beating the postcode lottery

PLANNING PERMISSION

The best building systems & techniques FOR ADDING DRAMA

Architect Julian Owen explains how you can use the bones of your home’s structure to make a powerful design statement

FINDING A GOOD BUILDER

So, your house plans are in motion, but how do you choose the right person to bring it all to life? Read on to learn the best ways to vet a tradesperson

CUSTOM BUILD ROUTES

Discover the best planning-guaranteed approaches to a new bespoke home