Ask the EXPERTS

Welcome

Back in the 2010s (which seem like an

inspiration

Modern refresh A tired old property has been

PROJECT OF THE MONTH

Contemporary space by Jak Studio This striking rear

Self build & custom build mortgages

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

Land FOR SALE

It’s FREE to subscribe to PlotSearch – the

focus on:

We speak to Paul Broadhead, head of mortgages and housing at the Building Societies Association, about how self building can become a mainstream choice for the UK market

product news

Great shopping ideas for your custom home project

interiors notebook

Create a modern take on ’70s style with bright colours, plush carpets and retro wallpapers

Rural idyll  on the Welsh borders

Leanne Player took on a self build project in her mid-twenties, achieving her first home along with gaining a wealth of experience

Wow factor home extension

This urban end of terrace benefits from a striking new extension that is packed with natural light and mixed materials

modern move

Sam Cartwright and James Heath have created a home that ticks multiple boxes – built to ultralow energy standards, and housing three generations in style

Oak home in the country

Zoe and Matt Jackson used a turnkey package to create the characterful property they longed for

American ★ INFLUENCE

Sophie and Matthew Wiltshire have transformed a run-down property into a warm New England-style abode

Will eco heating save you money?

From boilers to heat pumps, sustainability expert Nigel Griffiths takes an in-depth look at how the main players compare on running costs, installation and green credentials

Can I extend without planning permission?

Anamika Talwaria looks at the ways you can add extra space to your home without putting time and money into gaining consent

Inclusive design:

How smart tech can deliver an accessible home

DESIGN IDEAS: Stove & fire configurations

Add a wow-factor feature to your living space with Build It’s selection of statement-making contemporary designs

Knock down or renovate?

Mike Hardwick looks at the pros and cons of remodelling a property or starting over

GETTING STORAGE RIGHT

Architect Julian Owen shares his tips and tricks to making sure you have enough space to stash everything you own in your new home

Complete guide to preparing your planning application

Build It’s planning expert Mike Dade takes you through how to put together the details needed for success

Alan Tierney’s LISTED BUILDING RENOVATION

We catch up with Alan as he gets his project back on track, in spite of enforced delays with lockdown

Finding good plasterers & renderers

Tim Doherty reveals what to look for in skilled trades, plus what you need to know about specifying and installing external render and internal plaster finishes

TO finding land

BEGINNER’S GUIDE 

A selection of shortlisted companies

Specify

Shortlist the right products & services for your project