Take the first step

Take the first step

A staircase can be far more than a way of connecting storeys. Tom Blakeman of Winthill Engineering explains what makes a successful staircase and considers practical and aesthetic factors. Investing in a custom-designed staircase which suits your needs and your... View Article

Common costly mistakes when renovating a bathroom

With nearly six decades of experience in the bathroom world, Schlüter-Systems knows all there is to know about the challenges of installing a perfect one! Avoiding these five common mistakes will make the whole process run smoothly and ensure a newly installed... View Article

A highland hideaway

For many self-builders, the prospect of a steep sloping site surrounded by the inaccessible Scottish Highlands might feel overwhelming, but for Suzanne and Mark McPhillips, it was a chance to put their experience as architectural designers to good use. TEXT... View Article

Spiral UK Bespoke Staircases – Excellence at Every Step

With 40 years of experience in the design, manufacture and installation of custom staircases, Spiral UK is the industry leader when it comes to bespoke staircase solutions. Spiral delivers a full in-house service from concept to completion, with resident design... View Article

Planning applications made easy with new guidance service

To help people achieve their ambitions for their homes and businesses, Planning Portal has launched its new Planning Guidance Service, enabling the public to obtain expert advice from planning professionals with a simple phone call. Before making certain home improvements,... View Article

The rise of seamless wall panels

Offering ease of installation and aesthetic flexibility Amanda Mills of SFA Saniflo UK (Kinedo) explains why seamless wall panels are emerging as an alternative to traditional tiling, painting or wallpaper. Today’s self-builders and renovators demand high-quality, efficient project solutions. This... View Article

Interior Inspiration: Lighting

Lighting is arguably one of the most important considerations for your home, given its ability to impact wellbeing and alter the mood of the room. Find inspiration with our selection of products, from table lamps and outdoor lighting to statement... View Article

RICS launches residential retrofit and improving energy

The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) has launched its guide for retrofitting homes. The free guide provides in-depth information on all aspects of making homes more energy efficient, known as retrofitting. There is an increasing public interest in retrofitting... View Article

Mitsubishi Electric unveils Ecodan R290 Heat Pump Range

Mitsubishi Electric is proud to announce the expansion of its highly efficient and environmentally friendly Ecodan R290 heat pump range. Following the successful launch of the 5kW and 6kW models in October 2023, the range now extends to include 8.5kW,... View Article

Timber frame specialist growing business with West Fraser boards

An Aberdeenshire-based timber manufacturing and building solutions company is growing its client base and reputation for delivering on sustainability as well as customer satisfaction, employing a selection of high-performance panel products from the range of West Fraser. Brudon Joinery was established in 2013... View Article

The art of window dressing

Debbie Leigh of ILIV shares expert insights into selecting the perfect curtains and blinds for every home, with the right window dressing able to transform a room. When it comes to interior design, window dressings are often an overlooked yet... View Article

W20 steel screens define spaces in modern mansion

A longstanding member of the Steel Window Association has helped the designers of a luxurious modern mansion delineate and enhance a variety of living, as well as more functional, spaces using both clear and privacy-glazed steel framed screens throughout the main floors... View Article
Stelrad radiators

Research highlights radiators ‘best option’

Research providing information on the performance of different heating systems at the Energy House 2.0 facility at the University of Salford, has provided clear evidence that self-built new homes heated by radiators have lower running costs than those heated by... View Article

Selfbuilder Diaries… the next chapter

The Selfbuilder catches up with Olly and Veronika Stothert who are building their family home and overcoming challenges like clay soil, financial hurdles, and self-building logistics, while balancing professional expertise and hands-on work for a sustainable, personalised space. “And… Action!”... View Article