Building a home for retirement: Margaret and Mike’s self-build story

When Margaret and Mike decided to build their own home in Norfolk, they knew what mattered most: a sustainable, well-insulated house designed around their lifestyle, with generous living space, a large garden and beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. Having [...]

Energy Donkey: Your heat pump expert, on demand

Heat pumps are becoming an increasingly popular way to heat homes, but understanding how they work, how to get the best from them and what to do when something seems wrong can still feel overwhelming. Energy Donkey is a platform [...]

LickPro: Uncompromising on quality, trusted by trade

High-quality paint, in technologically advanced formulas, expertly designed for a long-lasting flawless finish. From Class 1 scrub-rated MAX+ Walls & Ceilings paint to the highly rated Interior Wood & Metal (now available in all Lick colours). Visit www.screwfix.com for more [...]

Building better homes: why fabric performance matters more than ever

By Roly Ward, Head of Business Development at MEDITE SMARTPLY For anyone planning a self-build, the temptation is to focus first on the visible elements: kitchens, finishes, glazing and heating technology. But some of the most important decisions are hidden [...]

JK Floorheating: Underfloor Heating Without Compromise for Self-Build and Renovation Projects

Underfloor heating has become one of the most desirable features in modern homes. Whether you’re building your dream self-build property, extending your current home, or renovating an older house, it offers exceptional comfort, improved energy efficiency and complete design freedom [...]

Latest Articles

An industrial edge

Architect Richard Norwood has transformed James Sellicks’ former builders’ yard in Uppingham into a characterful new home, where industrial inspiration, local materials and clever planning unlock a remarkably generous modern... View Article

Four storeys of light

James and Rachel Tilson saw an opportunity to create a 21st century home in this Victorian terrace with subsidence. Any major build project or renovation is an act of creation... View Article

The Garden Connection

A small extension and clever redesign transformed the connection between James Lockwood’s Edwardian home and his exquisite garden. Architect James Lockwood wanted more living space and was considering self-building when... View Article

Smart, stylish kitchens

Magali Reisser at Schmidt shares five layout solutions to optimise every square centimetre of your kitchen while elevating the space, proving that clever storage and striking design are never mutually... View Article

Render boosts kerb appeal & value

When it comes to updating a tired and dated exterior or completing a new build, first impressions matter. Jason Nicholson at K Rend explains how silicone renders can enhance the... View Article

The Myth of the ‘Simple’ Extension

By Tania Udaondo Bernau, TUB Architects.  A rear infill extension. A loft conversion. A side return. These are projects we see regularly, and because they are so common, it is... View Article

Rise of timber frame & closed panel solutions

As timber frame and closed panel systems gain popularity, Demi Kinghorn of Fleming Homes explores how offsite manufacture can give self-builders greater control over costs, timescales and the construction process.... View Article

Close suppliers make for a better finish

Door provenance is about accountability, not patriotism. Deuren’s Ian Chubb explores how a door designed, built, and fitted by one team can become a defining feature of the entire space.... View Article

More room in the roof

Matthew Evans at Kingspan Insulation GB explains why getting the insulation right is crucial for loft conversions. Loft conversions are a great way to unlock extra living space, potentially raising... View Article

Radiating the right style

Richard Lister at The Radiator Company explores how the choice of designer radiators can help to establish a successful interior design scheme and create a truly personal aesthetic. It is... View Article
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Product & Supplier News

Protect your build and the people behind it

A successful self build starts with more than plans and materials. Clear health and safety arrangements and specialist insurance help protect your project from the outset. Before work begins, agree... View Article

More choice for every style of home

Rationel products are now part of the VELFAC range, bringing familiar window and door solutions together under one brand. If you’re planning a self-build or renovation and have previously considered... View Article

Fire Doors at Home: What You Need to Know

Building or renovating? Find out where fire doors may be required in your home and why independently certified products matter. Understanding Fire Doors in the Home Fire doors are designed... View Article
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