How to reclaim VAT for conversion projects

Welcome

As I write, we know the result of Theresa May’s snap

Garden state

Graham and Betty Mc Nicol’s decision to downsize led them to self-build a Passivhaus bungalow on a site in their former garden

A complete makeover

Nathan Berger and Donna Pettefer followed their hearts and injected new life into an abandoned architectural project

Contemporary package home

Won over by the amazing views, the Sawyers took a gamble on being able to knock down the existing bungalow and replace it with a stunning new home

Rising ambition

A simple plan to add some natural light and create a family-friendly kitchen in an Edwardian home has ended up as a dramatic extend-and-refurbish project for Scott and Anne Leiper

Creating a characterful farmhouse

David and Susan Lockwood have designed and built a striking new country home, with the focus on feature brickwork inside and out

10 projects that maximise natural light

Homes filled with sunlight feel bright and spacious, plus providing clear views out will help to promote a greater sense of connection with nature. Here, Emily Smith shares some of her favourite light-filled projects and takes a closer look at the innovative ways they make the most of natural illumination

7 lightweight cladding options

Whether you’re building from scratch or updating an existing property, these finishes could bring practicality and good looks to your project

Up-and-coming construction techniques

Looking for quicker build speeds, better efficiency or greater design flexibility for your project? Chris Bates looks at some of the systems challenging the status quo

Is contemporary design right for me?

Architect Opinder Liddar reveals the top architectural trends to feature in today’s self-builds and explains how to incorporate them into your project successfully

Does triple glazing make sense?

If you’re keen to boost your home’s thermal performance, upping the spec of your fenestration to incorporate triple glazed windows might seem like a smart choice – but will the greater outlay deliver the results you want? Rebecca Foster investigates

Design details: Vaulted ceilings

An open ceiling will help to add an airy sense of volume to your home; here, Emily Smith explores how to make the most of this feature

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Pocket doors: the basics

Installing a door that slides back into the wall cavity is an efficient alternative to traditional swinging units; here’s how they could save you space in your home

Pocket door showcase

Be inspired by our hand-picked selection of sliding units

Choosing your package home supplier

Working with a single company to deliver a chunk of your self-build project will help make your project a success

Design & build Directory

Who will help you to build your dream home? Our essential guide to design and package companies will assist you in selecting the right partner

Architect’s guide to house design

From interpreting a brief to accurately visualising the way that three-dimensional plans will work, the experts juggle a multitude of ideas to shape your dream home. Julian Owen explains how it’s done

Rewiring an old house

Alan Tierney explains how to update the electrics on a period property – without compromising the character and fabric of the building

How to find land with real potential

Mike Dade reveals what it takes to spot a golden self-build or renovation opportunity

Getting services on site

Connecting your home to utilities such as electricity and water is often time consuming and, depending on the site, can be expensive. Mike Hardwick explains what you need to know

Self-build mortgages: what you need to know

Securing the funding you need is a major part of self-building. Rebecca Foster summarises the essential information

Inspiration: old meets new

Positioned on a plot that was formerly part of the

Project of the month: Cambria House

This contemporary renovation of a 1970s dwelling has

The Melton launches new self-build starter mortgage

The Melton has added to its selection of self-build

Khan invests in self-build communities

London Mayor Sadiq Khan has invested £250,000 in a

What’s on?

NaCSBA publishes new manifesto to boost self-build

The National Custom and Self Build Association (NaCSBA)

Need to know

Self-builders are still losing out to the big developers

Spend v save

Featuring swathes of black with silver veining, this

Product news

Great shopping ideas for your custom home project

3 of the best modern shower enclosures

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

Plot watch: on the edge

Angela and Daniel Foster have discovered a site for

Next month…

See how a rear extension and loft conversion have completely

Focus on:

We catch up with Marianne Shillingford, creative director at Dulux Trade, about why paint is such an effective tool when it comes to transforming your living space