Planning a Spring Self-Build Project? Start Smart

Spring is one of the most popular times to start a self-build, renovation or conversion project. Better weather, longer days and improved ground conditions all help work progress smoothly. But a successful build does not start on site. It starts... View Article

Rising from the rubble

Amy and Adrian Mole self-built their stunning new family home on a disused site adjacent to greenbelt land. TEXT Alexandra Pratt IMAGES Alan Williams (images courtesy of Emrys Architects) Adrian and Amy Mole have managed the impossible: building their dream... View Article

Timber Frames Designed For Self-Builders

Planning a self-build? Our specialists help you design and build the perfect timber frame home with expert advice and completely free, no-obligation quotations. Building your own home is one of the most exciting projects you’ll ever take on – but... View Article

TrustMark strengthens consumer protection with new Board appointment

TrustMark, the UK’s only Government-Endorsed Quality Scheme for home improvements, has strengthened its commitment to consumer protection with the appointment of Raj Kakar-Clayton, former Managing Director at Which?, as an independent Non-Executive Director.  With over 25 years of leadership experience,... View Article

Tile of Spain reveals four ceramic tile trends for 2026

Tile of Spain has revealed four key ceramic tile trends for 2026, reflecting a shift toward natural materials, emotional design, heritage influence and expressive luxury. Together, Geomatter, Innerland, Heritage Play and Opulis show how surfaces can shape both the look... View Article

Choosing the right slate

Steven Pearson at CUPA PIZARRAS explores the importance of material selection for longevity and why your new home’s roof is one area where it doesn’t pay to cut corners. If there’s one thing that’s certain about building your own home,... View Article

NSBRC Masterclass: Passivhaus

With rising energy costs and growing awareness of how our homes affect our health, Passivhaus is no longer a niche ambition. From new builds to deep retrofits, this proven performance standard is helping homeowners create comfortable, future-ready homes and the... View Article

Carpenter Oak Open House – visit two oak frame homes in Oxfordshire

When: Saturday 11th April 2026 Where: Oxfordshire Self-builders are invited to join Carpenter Oak for an opportunity to visit two different oak frame homes in Oxfordshire. Discover what it’s really like to live in an oak-framed house – experience the warmth, character and scale of the spaces, explore the... View Article

selfbuilder Diaries

From reserving a serviced plot to moving into a high-performance home, Martin and Siobhann reflect on two challenging, rewarding years of self-building on the edge of the Lake District. If you’d told me a few years ago that I’d be... View Article

Choosing a kitchen that lasts

Sebastian Aronowitz, founder of The London Kitchen Company explores why material choice is so important when designing a kitchen, deserving the same attention as the overall appearance. Kitchens are usually chosen for how they look. Layout, door style, colour and... View Article

Interior Inspiration: Home Office

With more of us working from home than ever before, it’s increasingly common for self-builders to create a dedicated working space. Find inspiration in our selection of products, whether your space will be a small-but-functional corner or a full blown... View Article

Heat pump evolution

James Parker speaks to Rick Clarke, product manager at NIBE, about why air source heat pumps are not the only answer, and how self-builders can benefit from an array of user-friendly smart tech to fine tune their heating’s efficiency. WHAT... View Article