It can often be the case that when planning a self-build project, conservatories, extensions or orangeries are not considered integral parts of the build, but something that can be added on at a later date. However, deferring your conservatory could be costlier, may require additional planning consents, could mean restricted…

Steve Rooney, Sales Director at Gaia Climate Solutions, explains why we are warming to the idea of heat pumps.

Creating a cinema can help bring the magic of the movies, the tension of the big match or the thrill of online gaming to your home. But where do you start? Connected AV offers some essential guidance.

Whether you’re designing your bathroom from scratch or renovating an existing space, here Matki’s Managing Director, Nicholas Cunild, uncovers the latest shower enclosure trends for 2016.

With a self-build there is so much to think about. Furniture and accessories may be the final consideration, but it is worth taking the time to think, research and plan the big budget rooms at the initial planning stage, saving money and making the most of the space in the…

Often overlooked, mortar contributes greatly to the exterior aesthetics of a property. Iain Betts, an expert in mortar from Tarmac’s Building Products division, discusses how opting for coloured mortar can give a new home a designer edge that makes it stand out from the crowd.

Embarking on a self-build project is both an exciting and daunting prospect, but one thing that can make the experience a lot smoother and more enjoyable is having the right tools for the job. Here Nathan Ford, Application Specialist at FEIN, gives advice on the ‘must-have’ items in every self-builder's…

When it comes to lighting your self-build, it is important to think about it early on in the process – never let it become an afterthought. Being able to start from scratch with a self-build is an exciting opportunity as you can really let the building stand out from the…

Roofline components are the essential parts of your roof that protect your home from the weather – mainly wind and rain in the case of the UK. Chris Coxon, Head of Marketing at Eurocell, explains what they are, how they work and discusses what materials to choose.

Given the huge range of products on offer in today’s market, it can be an overwhelming task to choose which material is best for any given project. The most important factors that one should consider when determining the best cladding materials for a self-build project is the performance and appearance…