FROM THE EDITOR

T his month we’re once again thrilled to launch

Architects predict the future of self-build

A round-up of the latest self-build and home renovation news, products and events

UNLOCK YOUR DREAM HOME: CLAIM YOUR FREE TICKETS TO THE NATIONAL HOMEBUILDING & RENOVATING SHOW!

Get two free tickets, worth £36*, to the Homebuilding

Is your home the best in Brıtaın?

In partnership with The Times and The Sunday Times, we’re launching the Homebuilding & Renovating Awards 2026 to find the best completed projects in the UK

HERE’S HOW TO ENTER YOUR PROJECT

IMAGES: JULIET MURPHY PETE HELME Submitting a project into

THE JUDGING PANEL

LAURA JANE CLARK Is founder of Lamp Architects,

THE CATEGORIES

Best Self-Build Have you built your dream home from

Boxing clever

In their quest to turn a derelict site into a home with a view, Nicola Robinson and David Carr rejected tradition in favour of cuboid perfection

Going green

A commitment to the environment led an Oxfordshire couple to design and build an eco-friendly house that stands out for all the right reasons

Self-builds with incredible planning stories

Securing planning consent can be one of the biggest obstacles when it comes to designing a bespoke home. Discover the creative planning strategies that went into realising these amazing properties

TOWER power

Morveth and Abi Ward fell in love with a derelict industrial building and cleverly converted it into an award-winning home

Glass act

When David and Jenny Hewitt decided they wanted an extension with a difference, the choice was a clear one

KNOCKING DOWN AND REBUILDING

How easy is it to get permission for a replacement property and are planners open to this route? Our planning expert has the lowdown

14 things you need to know about oak frame

This tried and trusted building method has long been a favourite among the UK’s self-builders – but is it right for your project?

GUIDE TO RENOVATING

Knowing where to spend and where to save on your projects is key to making your money go further without compromising on the final result

Self-build for beginners

Want to build your own home but not sure about the best way to finance it? Our expert discusses the pros and cons of different funding routes so you can make the right choice

Exterior makeovers

From low-cost upgrades to total transformations, an exterior makeover can boost the kerb appeal and value of your home

5 RULES FOR RENOVATING A LISTED BUILDING

Doing up a listed building takes time, care and expert help. But understanding where to start and how to tackle it will help make the job a little easier

THE ULTIMATE BUYER’S GUIDE TO roof glazing

Improve your home in terms of both light and looks by adding glazing above

COSTS OF RENEWABLES

From solar PV to heat pumps, renewables are becoming increasingly commonplace on every project. Our quantity surveyor lays out the common cost considerations

ASK THE EXPERTS

Need some advice on your self-build, extension or home renovation project?

Spaceenhancing small extensions

Good things come in all shapes and sizes, as these compact additions prove perfectly well

HOW LONG DO HEAT PUMPS LAST?

It may cost more than other types of heating, but installing a heat pump could prove a wise investment for the future

Hidden treasure

O n paper, a contemporary new-build in the heart