Stunning new home on a sloping plot
best self build or renovation 2019: the shortlist
When a building plot on a road known for its panoramic views and ample sunlight went up for auction, Simon and Nicola Wells jumped at this rare opportunity. “I had been gazumped on a similar gem of land five years earlier and was determined to win this bid,” says Simon. “I took a huge risk in that the site didn’t come with planning. But it already housed a dilapidated shack, so I knew we could find a way to work with the local authority to create something sympathetic to the landscape.” The couple won the plot, but they experienced six long months of negotiations to secure permission to build. Thankfully, having a planning consultant involved helped to chivvy things along. “Our specialist was well worth the money – he helped us obtain 98% of what we wanted,” says Simon.