Welcome to the April edition of i-build magazine! This issue is packed with inspirational projects and products as well as useful advice for your self-build.

Building the home of your dreams can be a daunting task for anyone. For some, it may seem like an unattainable fantasy, while for others, the reality can prove to be a stressful experience. Between the challenges of securing planning approval, managing costs and overseeing the project while balancing personal and professional commitments, self-building and renovating can quickly become overwhelming. The effort and time invested in the planning application process can make it particularly discouraging when the outcome is a refusal. However, with perseverance and a positive attitude, homeowners can overcome these hurdles and bring their dream homes to life. Sometimes thinking outside the box is all that's needed.

When Francine and Stephen Burns set out to build a modest, accessible and environmentally-friendly home on their small farmstead, they knew they would need to think outside the box. Local planning regulations initially prevented the couple from using their agricultural land for residential purposes, but they remained determined to find an alternative solution. In 2021, they discovered Studio Bark's NBAU (No Building As Usual) programme – a not-for-profit, live-build educational initiative – and decided to take part. In this issue, Studio Bark documents the Burns' journey of transforming their dream home, Nest House, into a tangible reality with the help of NBAU and a team of 12 students. Turn to page 22 to discover how the Burns' new home came to life over the summer of 2021.

This issue's theme perfectly aligns with the drizzly April weather that often occurs during this time of year, as we explore the importance of waterproofing. In an insightful article, Triton Systems' Sales Manager, Alan Sleigh, examines the advantages and potential drawbacks of the most commonly-used waterproofing systems, highlighting why the term 'high and dry' is a desirable outcome for self-builders seeking below-ground waterproofing solutions. Turn to page 30 to discover how you can effectively prevent water from infiltrating unwanted areas.

I hope you enjoy this issue. Don’t forget, if you’re coming to the end of your self-build and would like us to feature your home as inspiration for other budding house-builders, then please do not hesitate to get in touch. Alternatively, if you’re about to embark on your self-build journey and would be keen for us to document your progress, do get in contact.

Rebecca Kemp
Editor

[email protected]