Ask the experts

Welcome

Last month, I reported on the new Right to Build registers.

Modernist transformation

Heather Nevay had a clear vision for how this derelict barn could be transformed into her perfect home; and her partner, John Burke, knew exactly how to make it work

Fast track

Chris and Sheila Marwood’s new prefabricated German kit home took just twelve weeks to build, despite their sloping Cornish site

Sea change

Having relocated to the coast, Jane and Andy Hearn decided to convert and extend a dated property to create a light-filled gem of a home

Highland haven

After a fruitless search for their perfect home in

A code to follow

Set in a stunning green belt location, Tamas Rigo and Andrea Szaradics’ self built family home features interesting architectural details, while respecting the local authority’s conservative restrictions

A beginner’s guide to self build

Every year, more people embark on a project to create their perfect home from scratch. If you want to become one of them, Mike Hardwick’s advice will answer all your questions about what to expect

8 hot ideas for stoves & fires

Keep warm and create a dazzling focal point with these smart designs, says Emily Brooks

Kitchen design for renovators

Whether you’re completely replacing tired units and worktops or simply making a few well-chosen updates, a new kitchen should be both beautiful and functional, says Emily Brooks

Flat roof design basics

Emily Smith weighs up the pros and cons of flat roofs, and explains how to select the right specification and materials for your project

Building a log home

Building a log home They’re known for their in-built character and rustic appeal, but log-based structural systems can be used to create a rich modern living experience, says Rebecca Foster

Staircases - what will it cost?

The right flight will bring your home’s entrance zone to life – but what can you get for your money?

6 great staircases design ideas

Looking for the ideal focal point for your home’s interior architecture? These stunning flights could fit the bill

Choosing rainwater goods

An efficient guttering system is your home’s first line of defence against the elements. Mike Hardwick advises on how to specify a setup that’s right for your house

Getting room sizes right

Achieving a home that flows properly, with the right balance of rooms to match your lifestyle, is all down to good preparation. Julian Owen explains how architects approach space planning

Dealing with conditions

Building materials, parking arrangements, landscaping and the welfare of wildlife are just a few of the areas where restrictions could be imposed on your planning permission. Here, Mike Dade explains how to tackle them

Adding value sympathetically

Heritage homes are full of character and historic interest, but making alterations, whether structural or decorative, could have a negative impact on their market value. Here, Alan Tierney takes a closer look at how to maximise the potential of an older building

Working with trades: Landscapers

All too often left until last in a self build project, a landscaping scheme is incredibly important for making sure a home blends in to its setting. Tim Doherty sets out the main considerations you need to account for when planning your outdoor space

Self build mortgages

Looking for funding for your self build project? Each month we round up the best deals from leading lenders – and update you on what you need to know about securing the right finance

A family abode

PLOT WATCH: Mike Dade investigates

Inspiration

Making a statement

PROJECT OF THE MONTH

Pilot’s House

News round up

Housing and planning minister Gavin Barwell has revealed

What’s on?

Industry news

Have you signed up to your local authority’s self build register?

10 ways a visit to Build It Live can help make your dream home happen

The year’s most inspiring self build and renovation shows kick off in February with two information-packed exhibitions in the South East and North West. Build It editor Chris Bates highlights 10 reasons you can’t afford to miss out

Product news

Great shopping ideas for your custom home project

Interiors notebook

It’s never too early to start looking for the finishing touches for your self build

Your views:

Got a funny story, a gripe or some superb self build advice? Write to us at buildit@castlemedia.co.uk or the address below for your chance to win a prize

Land for sale

It’s FREE to subscribe to PlotSearch – the UK’s premier land finding resource with over 8,000 genuine building opportunities, all with planning permission guaranteed. The plots collated here are a hand-picked selection, but you can find plenty more in the online database. To find out more and to subscribe call 0345 223 4499 or visit the website at www.plotsearch.co.uk

Next month…

March issue on sale 25th January

Focus on:

We speak to Jackson Moulding, director of the Ecomotive self and custom build social enterprise, about the organisation’s recent triumph in NaCSBA’s annual Self Build on a Shoestring competition