Self building or renovating is a great opportunity to create a striking design that sets your home apart from the rest and makes it truly unique to you. Georgina Crothers shares some innovative examples to inspire your own project

MARTIN GARDNER

Statement gable ends

The roof of this contemporary Arts & Crafts-style self build in a conservation area in Hampshire boasts impressive gable ends. The grey zinc soffits and fascia and timber cladding provide a lighter contrast to the Hampshire stock bricks used on the ground floor section of the build. Combined with full-height windows on the gable ends, this creates a playful patchwork of materials for a striking design. The barely-there glass balustrades for the Juliet balconies help create a clean, sleek finish from the exterior. (www.adamknibbarchitects.com)

Contextual design

FISHER STUDIOS

This spectacular new home replaced a 1970s barn conversion in the Cotswolds. The topographical design responds to its hillside plot. Its sculptural structure is bedded into the site and flows out from the gradient for a truly unique scheme that harmonises with its setting. Ribbons of cast Portland stone snake around the crinkle-crankle walls, accentuating the curve and providing an effective contrast to the chunky, roughhewn Cotswold stone. The elevated site is exposed, so the tall, slim windows ensure the inside is kept cosy while providing good views. (www.adrianjames.com)