Nick Green, author of the Self Build Garden Room Guide, shares his top tips for building your own garden room.
Interior designer and founder of design studio Violet & George, Nicky Mudie presents guidance on how to decorate your home in shades that suit your style.
Simon Orrells recognised the potential of offsite construction methods when he started he career in the early 1990s. Here, Simon offers his perspective on why the timber frame industry is at its strongest to date.
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timber frame
If you’re new to self-build, working out which foundation application is best for your project can be one of the most daunting aspects of all the construction phases and is difficult to budget for accurately.…
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foundations
Space and water heating normally accounts for more than 60% of a household’s energy, so it’s crucial that self-builders make the right choice when planning their heating system. Karen Trewick, Director of Communications at electric…
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heating
Worktops are the crucial accessory of the kitchen. Much like combining the wrong coloured handbag or shoes with an outfit may ruin the ensemble, mismatch your worktop and cabinets and the kitchen could loose its…
Inspired by a renovation project that their previous neighbours had completed, Jack and Georgia Giles decided to fully refurbish their newly purchased East London Victorian terrace.
A three-year renovation project has transformed a new build property into an open-plan home that makes the most of its riverside views.
Although a bright and attractive plant, Japanese knotweed is well known for wreaking havoc on building sites, often causing structural damage and costly eradication fees, as well as jeopardising your mortgage eligibility.
Completing your build not only brings an element of satisfaction and achievement but it also signifies a new chapter in your financial obligations. Here, Rachel Pyne, Group Sales Director of BuildStore Ltd provides advice on…
David Jackson, Director and General Manager of one of Europe’s leading distributors of stainless steel and brass fasteners, STF – Stainless Threaded Fasteners – talks saving time and money in a buoyant photovoltaic market.
Every month i-build follows Will Anderson as his self-build adventure unfolds. This issue the draughts are driven out of his low energy home.
Welsh Oak Frame has welcomed the latest developments in the push towards getting the Self-build and Custom Housebuilding Bill ...
When the Quinlan family took on a self-build project in 2008 to build a ‘Double Log’ construction as their new home in Woodhead, Aberdeenshire, they were in need of interior and exterior wood treatment.....
For the vast majority of self-builds, their plots are chosen based on the stunning vistas that surround them....
Presenting an ideal complement to its increasingly popular Alpha and Regatta TRIO block paving product ranges,.....
Create a beautiful kitchen that works perfectly at the same time as being an entertaining space to be proud of.....
Yeoman Rainguard’s XL Aluminium rainwater systems were chosen for Bridge House – a stunning new build property in Norfolk....
A commercial pilot for a well-known short-haul package holiday airline can now extend his flight time from the comfort of his own home, thanks to his own personal garden aircraft hanger.
Ishai Novak has specified products that make the most of natural light as well as his garden in a new extension of his seven bedroom Hertfordshire home.
A multi-million pound refurbishment in Suffolk has sought inspiration from American architecture. The revamp has seen significant interior remodelling and extension work completed in order to create the desired look.
The Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) is the world’s first long-term financial support programme for renewable heat. In April 2014 the domestic Renewable Heat Incentive was launched to offer financial support to the owners of renewable…
There are 101 things to think about when planning and creating your own home, and according to Richard Chapman of timber window and door manufacturer Dale Windows, the doors and windows you choose have the…
While the pages of interior design books are littered with images of beautifully styled and perfectly preened schemes, it’s the unique and personal touches that make a house a home. Nadia McCowan Hill, resident style…
Jane and Ian McClintock have built a modern home for retirement on the land of their family heirloom farmhouse.
An impressive 1970s glass home in Suffolk has been brought to the 21st century.
Often associated with black magic and darkness, bats have certainly played havoc with many renovations and conversions. Here, i-build presents how to not let bats get in the way of your project.
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legislation
Although it’s easy to get carried away with the ‘niceties’ of a home-build project, such as design, build schedules and materials, none of this will be possible without a secure and appropriate financial arrangement. Rachel…
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mortgage
The self-build marketplace is home to a growing number of 'green' retail websites focused on satisfying the increasing demand from UK households for cost effective, energy efficient products and solutions.
Every month i-build follows Will Anderson as his self-build adventure unfolds. This issue the cables and pipes go into his new low energy home.
Cutting installation time by up to 70%, boasting an extremely low assembly height and providing one unique underfloor heating system, the Schlüter-DITRA-HEAT-E has arrived!...
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underfloor heating
What works on large commercial projects is also possible on a small roof area, such as your garage, carport or garden building - Roof Greening!...
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garden
James Hardie is launching the first ever fibre cement acoustic structural flooring product into the UK construction products market.....
While it is widely acknowledged that home improvements can increase the value of a property, it is often not a guarantee, with many unwary homeowners inadvertently spending money to no discernible effect. However, there are…
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conservatories
If you are at the stage of choosing your bathroom for your new-build or renovation, one room that deserves special attention is the bathroom.....
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bathrooms
IronmongeryDirect, the UK’s biggest online and mail order supplier of ironmongery products to the trade, has announced that it is bucking the sector’s inflationary trend, having kept its average prices flat since 2010....
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The Levato Mono Porcelain paver system is designed for fast, cost effective installation over most surfaces including single ply membranes, roofing felt and other delicate waterproofing systems...
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flooring
Solarlux’s SL 22 received high praise from architects attending the world’s leading exhibition for windows, doors and facades, Fensterbau Frontale, earlier this year...
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sliding doors
With an increasing number of self-build projects endeavoring to achieve self-sufficient principles, i-build presents everything you need to know to create a garden that can sustain these aims.
Professional building services, Holloways of Ludlow and interior designer Clare Gaskin have transformed an 18th Century, Grade II listed penthouse apartment into the perfect bachelor pad.
Tim Riley, Director of architects RCKa, discusses the hurdles his team had to overcome in order to gain planning permission for a Sussex home extension.
Wetrooms add a wow factor to any bathroom and can be fitted anywhere in the home. From cellar to attic, even the smallest spaces can be converted into a luxury wetroom.
With such an abundant variety of timbers, colours, textures and styles available on the market, choosing the right wood for your project can be a challenging task. Help is at hand with Peter Keane, Director…
Condensation in the home is not just a nuisance; it can lead to significant structural problems, costly redecoration and can even affect the health of the occupants if left to develop into mould.
Maes Yr Onn Farm, Manmoel, sits high above the Gwent valleys as Wales’ first fully off-grid and truly self-sufficient farm.
A Grade II listed church building and former aquarium has undergone a major renovation project to be transformed into a family home.
Most self-builders will come up against at least one unexpected building guideline that they might not have considered prior to planning. Here, i-build outlines the Code of Practice for the sustainable use of soils on…
Raymond Connor, Chief Executive of BuildStore Ltd gives a useful insight into finding that elusive plot.
New Government incentives are putting self-builders in a great position to get on-board with eco-conscious products. Here, Adrian Wright, CEO of renewable energy specialist Happy Energy, looks at some of the measures that will not…
Every issue i-build follows Will Anderson as his self-build adventure unfolds. This month, a brick skin brings character to his soon-to-be home.
Carpenter Oak & Woodland specialises in truly bespoke oak frames; buildings that are as individual as you. For most people, building your own home is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It’s an opportunity to get exactly what…
Neil and Stephanie Jackson love their new home, recently built by Baufritz near the banks of the River Thames in Buckinghamshire. Neil and Stephanie wanted a contemporary and sustainable house for their family, and chose…
As self-builders will know, there are rules and regulations to follow and consents to obtain when embarking on a project. What you might not know is that for plumbing systems, both installer and homeowner have…
When creating an energy efficient home, consider infrared heating panels for an affordable electric heating solution. Infrared uses little energy, is highly efficient and very natural to our bodies. Just like the suns warmth, infrared…
Over her last eleven collections Vanessa Arbuthnott has gained a much-deserved reputation for creating fresh and invigorating designs that bear her own very distinctive handwriting. A statement in their own right, the designs have been…
The Harlequin Studio has produced Artisan Embroideries, an enchanting and stylish collection that is the embodiment of homespun chic. Combining traditional techniques with modern sophisticated design, this delightful drapery collection comprises six highly individual designs,…
For 2014, British brand Scion has pulled out all the stops, producing two very diverse, trend-inspired collections of printed fabrics, complemented by funky statement wallpapers and contemporary weaves. Spirit is a collection of modern tribal…
Glass balustrades are great for offering safety alongside unobstructed views. Effi Wolff, MD of balcony specialist Balcony Systems, explores some interesting options for all types of properties.
While modern, urban living has restricted the space available for development, there are options that can help transform a design and property of any size to incorporate natural light.
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lighting
As with any paint product, preparation is key, especially when painting with gloss. Here, Judy Smith, Crown Paints’ Colour Consultant, provides a step-by-step guide to using gloss properly.
With a very particular set of design challenges, experienced building professional David Maxwell tested the flexibility and craftsmanship of materials in his own self-build venture.
With a visual appeal that is not easily surpassed, natural stone paving is a premium landscaping choice for budding self-builders. However, as worrying reports about unethical manufacturing practices continue to surface, choosing the right supplier…
When a young Russian couple bought a house on the prestigious Wentworth Estate in the Berkshire countryside, they were keen to transform the space to reflect their own stylistic preferences.
The eco-conscious self-builder knows that highly insulated walls and renewable energy sources boast green credentials, but ensuring a property is completely airtight is key to sustaining that precious heat.
Every issue i-build follows Will Anderson as his self-build adventure unfolds. In this installment, his project moves fast as winter approaches.
Skylights are a light-enhancing feature that are rapidly gaining popularity for home-builders and enhancers, however regulations can sometimes limit grand plans. Here, i-build identifies key permission considerations for installing skylights.
Self-build consultant Adrian Hateley gives his insight into how to source reputable tradesmen/contractors and effectively manage them on your project.
When a pair of dilapidated listed barns were presented to Kath and Marco Walker, they ignored their own lack of building experience and answered its cry to be restored to former glory.
When architects Adam and Annelise Penton visited a plot for their development company they were so blown away by its natural perfection that it led them on an unexpected self-build journey.
We have used biomass energy for thousands of years, ever since people started burning wood to cook food or keep warm. Today, wood is still our largest biomass energy resource that provides carbon-neutral heating.
Trends in landscaping products, which not only relate to changing preferences for different styles and materials but the creation of innovative solutions, is the basis of an exciting industry sector. Richard Oates, Landscaping Category Manager…
For those who choose to improve their existing home rather than move, a conservatory or orangery can provide the perfect space-enhancing solution. Carol Parry, Marketing Manager at oak frame specialist Aboreta, provides top tips for…
The self-build journey can be long and tiresome, but the last hurdle is an entirely new project in its own right – the garden.
During a trip to Norway in 2012, James and Bryony Alder were inspired by the country’s strong geometric architecture. Two years later their home has undergone a drastic transformation from modest bungalow to breathtaking angular…
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extension
Whether building a new basement or upgrading an existing one, it’s crucial to get the waterproofing right. Michael Earle, Technical Director at Safeguard Europe, explains what systems are available and where they should be used.
Wall insulation is an essential element of home-building that can dramatically aid a property’s long-term eco-credentials. But what about the environmental impact of how that product is produced? i-build takes a closer look at an…
A recent survey has revealed that unlucky Brits have squandered more than £185m at the hands of rogue traders in the past 12 months. Trade verification expert Checkatrade offers advice for spotting cowboy traders before…
There are many facets to self-build, and following on from his Viewpoint on Project Management in the last issue, Adrian Hateley of the National Self Build & Renovation Centre explains some of the self-build options…
Within the rolling Welsh hills, surrounded by a picturesque Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and near to the remains of a Celtic hill fort, sits Stormy Castle – a vision of environmentally sustainable homebuilding at…
In separate quests in find the perfect plot, two couples – both first-time self-builders – became great friends, consequently hiring the same architect to design highly eco-efficient homes right next door to one another.
Each issue i-build follows Will Anderson on his self-build journey. This month, the timber frame reaches for the sky.
Each issue i-build follows Will Anderson on his self-build journey. This month, the weather turns sour as Will begins his groundworks.
A delay to the start of his project gives Will Anderson a chance to build his kitchen.
Every issue i-build follows serial self-builder Will Anderson on his latest project journey as it unfolds. The story starts in a six-metre wide patch of South London mud between two magnificent self-build homes.
The external refurbishment of The Bothy at Gorthleck was required due to the failure of the existing heather roof. After the most recent roof refurbishment, 6 years ago, the roof was still leaking. Heather roofing…
Rundum Meir ventilated garage doors in solid oak have been installed on new houses in Cambridge. The vertically slatted design met architect requirements for bringing light into integrated carports. Each garage door was made-to-measure ranging…
Brio, the leading architectural sliding and folding door hardware manufacturer, has made its Bifold 16 folding door gear available in handy retail packs. Bifold 16 provides a cost effective solution for folding cupboards, wardrobes or…
Kaldewei introduces Scona in response to wide demand for enamelled shower surfaces and “democratises” floor-level shower design Floor-level shower surfaces have long since become standard equipment in the bathroom. Kaldewei has been instrumental in shaping…
The latest Bauhaus collection of beautifully formed basins has been created to offer pioneering ceramic design with stunning visual appeal. The Gallery collection features a comprehensive and creative mix of shapes, from organic and elegantly…
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bathrooms
James Latham offers a trio of innovative and contemporary surface solutions to Interior Designers, Architects and Kitchen Installers looking to achieve limitless creativity with their kitchen projects. HI MACS® Distributed exclusively in the UK and…
Enfield Speciality Doors has been manufacturing flush timber doors for many years. The company specialises in making bespoke fire doors, acoustic doorsets and security doors, all made to exact requirements. A wide range of finishes…
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doors
Blue Haze – an 80 year old bungalow in Somerset – has been fitted with a NIBE ground source heat pump in a bid to enhance energy efficiency, deliver savings on fuel and provide a…
A beautifully refurbished but traditionally structured farmhouse has had its space heating requirements and comfort levels brought up to date through the use of two very contemporary technologies. The private residence, which dates from the…
River Cottage has rebuilt its damaged buildings after a devastating fire in early 2012, choosing a Windhager biomass wood pellet boiler as the form of sustainable heating. The famous property near Axminster in Devon is…
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sustainable
Leading builders merchant Travis Perkins has launched a new Inspirational Gardens & Driveways brochure with new products, photography and advice to inspire homeowners making landscaping plans. Backed by Travis Perkins’ heritage of providing heavyside and…
A family conundrum was the unexpected catalyst for the creation of a breathtaking annex in the garden of a Victorian house in Battersea, South West London.
Stylish shades of grey are the perfect backdrop for professional photographer Mike Penn’s work in his stylish mews renovation.
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renovation
When Hannah and Lee Wood bought their four-storey London townhouse in 2006 they fell in love with the picturesque Victorian exterior and private gardens, however the confused and chaotic interior required drastic revamping.
With the heat of British Summer Time on the horizon, the UK Wet Leisure Trade Associations SPATA and BISHTA offer advice for adding some healthy water fun to your self-build or renovation project.
Innovative thinking offers a new solution to managing water consumption and improving water efficiency for self-builders. Stephen Bates, CEO of water recycling expert Reaqua Systems, explains the technology behind greywater reuse systems.
When it comes to keeping up with developments in lighting technology, many self-builders are overwhelmed by the variety of options available. Phillip Pini, Residential Business Development Manager at automation system specialist Crestron, outlines the key…
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lighting
Having made a successful business out of helping others to achieve their self-build dreams, Barrie and Jan Lane decided that their garden was the perfect plot of land on which to build their own ideal…
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self build
Honeycomb is an efficient hexagonal structure built by bees in which to live and work. This fascinating natural process was the inspiration behind Barry Jackson’s new modular living system, Hivehaus.
