What are solar roof tiles and how dothey work?

EDITOR’S LETTER

Editor Beth Murton has been a homes journalist and editor for over 20 years, and has renovated two homes. She is currently planning her next project

Multifunctional hallways

Make your hallway work hard for your home by giving careful consideration to space, storage and light

Government to scrap nutrient neutrality restrictions

A round-up of the latest self-build and home renovation news, products and events

A future proof home

Kathy Li and Richie Elliot’s futureproofed home in Stirlingshire’s Carron Valley turned adversity into innovation

Old to gold

First-time renovator Amanda Goddard couldn’t wait to take the lead when she and her husband Eric bought a 1930s ‘doer-upper’ in Derbyshire

Perfectly formed

Steel-framed window manufacturer Crittall reveals the secret to creating the perfect snug

Straight and narrow

Mark and Adrienne Wheeler’s showstopping zinc-clad house replaced a disused garage on an awkward infill site barely four metres wide

Finding the light

With no space to extend, Russell and Madalina Woolley had to dig deep to achieve the light, bright home they wanted in a warren of dark, dated rooms

Terrific tımber frame homes

From design flexibility to impressive sustainability and energy-efficiency credentials, these wow-factor homes showcase the various advantages of self-building with timber frame

12 things you need to know about Building Regulations

As an essential element of any self-build, renovation or extension, understanding the Building Regulations is key to the success of your project

A BUILDER’S VIEW

HOW TO ENSURE YOU DON’T PAY OVER THE ODDS FOR MATERIALS

HOW TO BUILD A HOUSE

PART SIX: INSTALLING MAINS DRAINAGE AND SERVICES

THE RENOVATION FILES

DA MP-PROOF COURSES EXPL AINED

ASK THE EXPERTS

Got a burning question about your self-build, extension or renovation project that you need answering? Drop us a line by emailing homebuilding@futurenet.com and your question could be answered by one of our magazine experts

Self-build for beginners

Putting together a good design brief is a key part of the process of finding the right architect for your project. Here’s what’s involved in this crucial, but often overlooked, task

How much does it cost to convert abasement?

Instead of creating a larger property footprint at ground level with an extension, converting an underused basement or cellar space could prove to be more cost-effective

THE HEALTHY HOME

PART SEVEN: GETTING AGOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP

EXTENDING ON A SLOPE

There are many points to consider when building an extension on an incline. But it can also be considered an opportunity as much as an obstruction

Inspirational home colours

We all know that colour can affect our mood and emotions, so when choosing colours for your home, it makes sense to go with your instinct and opt for the colours to which you’re naturally drawn…

How to appeal a planning decision

If you have been refused planning permission for your dream project, don’t despair. Simon Rix offers his expert advice on what you should do next

CONTEMPORARY RADIATORS

The ‘hottest’ new designs to warm up your home

Essentials of Living room design

It’s one of the most important spaces in the house for enjoying your home, so getting the design of your living room just right should be high on your list of priorities — this space is meant for family relaxation and enjoyment, so don’t leave it as an afterthought

Woodburning stoves

As an increasingly popular heating option, there’s more to woodburners than meets the eye, so here’s all you need to know before making your choice

INDOOR AND OUTDOOR STOVES

This stunning selection of woodburning stoves highlights the range of available styles — from classic to contemporary

Enjoy a real fire

Winter is coming! With prices from just £269 (+VAT) and a great range of 14 styles, now’s the time to install a multifuel stove to keep warm in the coming months…

10 kitchen ınnovatıons worth getting your hands on

These brilliant designs – of appliances, furniture and decor – are new to the kitchen scene and are set to become must-have items on every homeowner’s wishlist

NATURAL CARPET

HOW GREEN IS YOUR HOME?

Where land meets sea

Coffey Architects transformed a once-dilapidated house into a sustainable timber-wrapped home that sits beautifully within its surroundings.