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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

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

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July issue on sale 25th May

ARCHITECT’S VIEW

Founder of RDA Architects, Richard Dudzicki, explains why you should consider Passivhaus for your low-energy home

Get Free Advice & Ideas for Your Project at Build It Live

Whether you’re self building, renovating or extending your home, maximise your chances of project success with a visit to Build It Live Bicester

INDUSTRIAL CHARM

When Nick Rinylo and Lucy Christie decided to create a new home, they didn’t anticipate doing it during a global pandemic and with a baby on the way

In full bloom

Rose Cottage was in a poor state of repair before Sue and Paul Brereton undertook a hands-on labour of love to transform it

Traditional build, modern twist

Swapping a rural lifestyle for suburbia, Janet and Richard Deacon have achieved this glorious oak frame forever home

GETTING GLAZED LINKS RIGHT

PROJECT INSPIR ATION A glass link building can

JOINED UP THINKING

This ultra modern home in the countryside makes the most of the picturesque surroundings thanks to its unique double-height glazed link

THE FOREVER HOME

John Gahan has transformed his dark home into a welcoming space with a new kitchen extension and a clever glass link

BUILDING WITH ICF

Often touted as Lego for adults, insulated concrete formwork is fast becoming a favourite construction method among self builders, says Anamika Talwaria

MULTI-FUNCTION OUTBUILDINGS

Jane Crittenden brings together a selection of stunning, multipurpose garage and garden room ideas to help you make the most of your plot or property

MODERN CLADDING & RENDER SYSTEMS

From design options to installation costs, Rebecca Foster sums up what you need to know about the various solutions available

BIFOLD DOORS WHAT’S THE BEST CONFIGURATION?

Glazed folding doors can deliver on views, daylight and flexible functionality – but it pays to spend time selecting the right panel arrangement, says Chris Bates

RENOVATING FLOORS IN PERIOD HOMES

The charm of a historic property often lies in its wealth of original features. Here, Rebecca Foster explains how to restore an existing surface back to its former glory

WHAT MAKES A BAD ARCHITECT VS A BAD CLIENT?

Julian Owen reveals the red flags to look out for when choosing a professional and advises on how you, the client, can ensure the design process runs smoothly

EMBODIED ENERGY

WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR YOUR PROJECT?

SELF BUILD COST CALCULATOR

Want to know how much it costs to build your own home? Our ready reckoner, powered by the Build It Estimating Service, will help you gauge what size, style and quality of house you can achieve on your project budget

10 TIPS TO KEEP YOUR PROJECT ON SCHEDULE

Chris Bates sets out some of the key steps you can take to minimise delays en route to completing your new home

HOW TO GET PLANNING PERMISSION IN THE COUNTRYSIDE

From understanding the various ins and outs of rural policy, to crafting an application that’ll be well received by the council, Julia Riddle shares her expert advice