We are tantalisingly close to going on site with Build It’s Self Build Education House – a unique project, and UK magazine first, that aims to give you an unrivalled insight into the decisions and processes that go into creating your own bespoke home. But before we can break ground, we need to go into full specification mode to secure Building Regulations approval and – just as importantly – obtain the drawings, plan our construction schedule and engage key partners whose work could influence the final design. Find out what’s gone into this stage of the project on page 60.
If you’re just making your new year’s resolution to commission an individual home, then follow our journey from day one online at www.buildit.co.uk/ourhouse – or turn to page 76 to find out why self building in 2019 could be the ideal chance to create a better-quality, healthier house that’s tailored to your family’s needs. Elsewhere this issue, you’ll find a wealth of practical guidance that gets to the heart of the questions you need answered when planning and specifying your project. We’ve got advice on how using an architect could save you money (page 86), the value of drawing up good contracts with trades (page 99), what you need to know about air source heat pumps (page 81), smart home security (page 66) and more.