Build a better lifestyle

Welcome

We are tantalisingly close to going on site with Build

Inspiration

Warwickshire based Studio Spicer Architects was given

interiors notebook

Making eco-conscious choices for fittings and finishes can help protect the environment as well as create a stylish and welcoming abode. Find inspiration among these sustainable options

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Fantastic inspiration & expert advice for each

Self build & custom build mortgages

Looking to fund your bespoke home project? Each month we round up the best deals from leading lenders and update you on what you need to know to secure the right finance

Ask the EXPERTS

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

A rural retirement

Richard and Madeleine Harman took a DIY approach to designing and building a beautiful chalet-style home to relax and unwind in

LABOUR OFLOVE

Lou and Shaun Renwick have spent over seven years bringing this Northumberland farmstead, on the edge of the historic Cragside estate, back to life by turning it into a unique family home

Ocean INSPIRATION

Mark and Clare Flower seized the opportunity to create a stunning pair of properties overlooking the Taw-Torridge Estuary in North Devon

The Remake

With no room to extend, Ronnie Southerton knocked through into her garage instead. This was just one part of a comprehensive remodelling of her late-60s townhouse to maximise use of the space, and satisfy her love of clean-lined, simple design

Scandi-chic cottage

The Hemingways faced strict planning guidelines for the look of their new self build home, but have achieved the contemporary open-plan style they were after

Part 3 Mapping out the project

As we get closer to finalising the technical design, we need to make core specification decisions and appoint the key partners who will deliver the superstructure of the Build It Education House. Chris Bates looks at what’s involved

HOW TO PICK THE RIGHT smart home security system

Feel confident that you’ve picked the best solution for protecting your property with Charley Ward’s guide to smart home security

DESIGNING a timber frame home

Find out what you need to know to commission a successful scheme for your timber frame self build

Build cost basics: Guide to rainwater goods prices

The Build It Estimating Service’s Adrian Wild compares the upfront and lifespan costs of fitting diff erent types of guttering for your home building project

AIR SOURCE HEAT PUMP FAQs

This renewable tech takes warmth from the air and repurposes it for space heating. But is it the right option for your project? Our expert Q&A goes beyond the basics to answer the in-depth questions you really want to ask

Could an architect save me money?

Julian Owen explains how a registered design professional can add value to your project and potentially help you save cash

15 common things self builders & renovators forget to do

Project management expert Mike Hardwick takes a look at some of the pitfalls that are all-too-easy to fall into – and how you can avoid them

Renovating old floors

Find out how to get the best results for your period home with Alan Tierney’s advice on repairing and replacing cold, damp and unappealing floors

Drawing up contracts

When you employ people to work on your project, it’s wise to put the agreement in writing so that everyone knows what’s involved. Here Tim Doherty takes a closer look at what to include in a contract

BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO finding land

The first step in your self build journey is tracking down a viable building site. Keep yourself ahead of the competition with Build It’s top plot hunting tips

Land FOR SALE

It’s FREE to subscribe to PlotSearch – the UK’s premier

RIPE WITH POTENTIAL

Could this charming semi-detached off er the new home this couple are looking for? Mike Dade takes a closer look

next month…

March issue on sale 30th January

focus on:

We have a chat with sustainability expert Nigel Griffiths about his role at the Build It Live shows and our new Heating Advice Clinic for 2019