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Welcome

For many self builders and renovators, the start of

Living in a barn

Reading self build magazines convinced Brian and Love day Ellis that creating their own dream home from scratch in a quiet Hampshire village was the way forward

Modern country home

Even though Diana and Colin McCabe originally aimed to self build a traditional farmhouse, they’ve ended up with a contemporary dwelling that they absolutely adore

Characterful barn conversion

Emma Gordon’s methodical approach to project management proved to be a success when she took on the challenge of transforming a derelict barn into a stunning dwelling

Heading for the hills

Replacing a tired 1840s lodge with a beautiful holiday home has helped Lucy Holt breathe new life into the estate that houses several generations of her family

Playing the waiting game

After 10 years of failed planning applications to remodel their old cottage, John and Sue Lawson were ready to move on – only to discover that starting from scratch could give them the opportunity to create their ideal oak frame home

5 steps to a bespoke oak frame home on a budget

It’s important to keep a close eye on costs but that doesn’t mean you can’t create something truly special. Andrew Hobbs reveals how you can get a character-filled oak self build at a price you can afford

Water-based underfloor heating

Rebecca Foster reveals the facts you need to know about this highly-efficient heating system

Specifying windows for renovations

Fenestration is an integral part of any project, but what do you need to consider when choosing something that suits you and your property? Anna-Marie DeSouza’s essential guide will help you get it right

Double-sided stoves & fires

A dual-aspect unit could make a stunning centrepiece for your home. Emily Smith takes a closer look at the various ways to incorporate this stylish design element in your project

How to combine renewable heat sources

Sustainability expert Nigel Griffiths gives his inside advice on which technologies make the perfect partners for heating and hot water

Creating the wow factor

Julian Owen explores what areas of a home offer the opportunity to design something a little out of the ordinary, which will continue to inspire occupants and visitors

Understanding site insurance

Getting the right policy in place to protect your site and self build or renovation project, both before and during works, is hugely important, says Tim Doherty

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

11 COMMON PERIOD HOME RENOVATION MISTAKES

Thinking of revamping a heritage house? Alan Tierney’s expert tips will help you avoid some of the classic pitfalls and ensure you enjoy a successful project

DEALING WITH PLANNING OBJECTIONS

Even the best-laid plans can face opposition. Mike Dade reveals the tricks and tips that will help you overcome resistance to your design from planners, neighbours and more

How to create your perfect side-return extension

As well as boosting your home’s living space, this kind of addition can have a dramatic eff ect on the fl ow of the interior layout. Architect Opinder Liddar shares the secrets to developing a successful scheme

Sourcing materials abroad

Mike Hardwick looks at the pros and cons of purchasing goods for your build overseas – and what you need to consider before you sign on the dotted line

GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY

With outline permission in place to build a new home on this plot, Mike Dade explains how Oliver and Sarah Farnden can take their plans forward

Inspiration

The designers at Giles Pike Architects have successfully

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

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

Ask the EXPERTS

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

Land FOR SALE

It’s FREE to subscribe to PlotSearch – the UK’s premier

In Focus

Home technology made simple and home cinema rooms made

Focus on

We catch up with Christian Engelke, technical director at Viessmann, about the recent changes to the government’s Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) cashback scheme