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Welcome

What a difference a month makes. Last issue, I was

A country escape

The Milnes hadn’t contemplated selfbuilding before – but taking the plunge has given them the idyllic rural village lifestyle they craved

The best of both worlds

Stephen Campbell and Laura Hilton have successfully transformed a rundown Victorian property in London into a contemporary family abode

Second time lucky

Rob and Jo Glew beat the odds and converted their oak frame barn into a glorious family home

Perfectly formed

A plot on the family farm with stunning marshland views was the ideal spot for Freddie Pack and Katie McNie to build their new tiny house – a cabin on wheels

Fresh start

With a focus on contemporary family living and energy efficiency, Will and Donna Lawrence took on their first ever major project in the suburbs of Sheffield

Why build with oak?

Oak frame offers a natural appeal and characterful allure, but is it right for your self-build? Emily Smith looks at the main benefits of this construction method

Inspiring oak homes

This diverse range of homes proves that oak frame is suitable for any house style, whether traditional, contemporary or somewhere in between

Rooflights for renovators

Overhead glazing is a key element of most renovations, whether on a loft conversion, extension or a reconfiguration of existing space. Emily Brooks explains how to boost daylight on these projects

Rainwater goods: repair or replace?

Chris Bates gives his top tips on how to make sure

Creating a healthy home

Establishing a living space that supports your family’s wellbeing should be an essential ingredient of any renovation project. Nigel Griffiths explains how you can integrate a healthy approach

Design details: Stonework

Stone is currently experiencing a renaissance in contemporary architecture. Emily Brooks reveals how to use it in your project

Creating a multigenerational house

With first-time buyers struggling to get onto the housing ladder and the UK population continuing to get older, many self-builders are looking to provide accommodation for grandparents and adult children in their new homes. Julian Owen reveals how your property could suit everyone’s needs

Troubleshooting your groundworks

From clay soils to high water tables, there’s a raft of issues that could impact the early stages of your project. Mike Hardwick reveals what you Need to know to overcome them

The pros and cons of open-plan design

If it’s designed correctly, this type of layout can be visually appealing and will establish a sociable space for occupants to enjoy. Architect Opinder Liddar weighs up the essential factors to bear in mind when planning this aspect of your scheme

Dealing with bats

Of all the protected species that could influence your self-build project, bats are the most common. Mike Dade explains what to do if you encounter these creatures

Planning your electrics

Tim Doherty shares his top tips for ensuring your new house has a suitable electrical supply

Inspiration

This striking new home is the outcome of a knock-down

Bungalow remodel

This chalet-style bungalow has been transformed into

NaCSBA task force to grow custom build

Councillors Jeremy Christophers and Barry Wood, of

Alok Sharma MP attends plot shop launch

Housing and planning minister Alok Sharma MP recently

Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) overhaul caps payments

Government changes to the RHI scheme come into force

Need to know

I recently had cause to speak at a planning committee

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

Ask the experts

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

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

Smart solution

Peter and Joan Foster want to erect a mobile home in their property’s garden for their daughter and her partner to live in – but would this require planning permission? Mike Dade investigates

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

Focus on:

We catch up with Harvey Fremlin, managing director of the National Self Build & Renovation Centre (NSBRC) about why the venue is such a valuable resource for people tackling a major project

Next month…

December issue on sale 25th October