Grand Designs Live

A grand day out

Uncertain about the next steps in your project or don’t know where to begin? You can find more expert advice than ever before, discover exciting products, and spark inspiration at this year’s show. Why should you visit Grand Designs Live?... View Article

Paving perfection

Trevor Knight, head of group technical operations at Marshalls, shares expert tips to help you make the right choice for your self-build project. Creating an inviting outdoor space enhances your home, and the right paving slabs used for patios, paths... View Article

NSBRC- THE FESTIVAL OF SUSTAINABLE HOMES

The ‘Festival of Sustainable Homes’ returns for its second year! The ‘Festival of Sustainable Homes’ is an exciting, family-friendly show, highlighting how we can enjoy better sustainable homes, reducing our energy bills and impact on the environment. Offering the latest advice – for... View Article

TrustMark reaches milestone of 40 Scheme Providers

TrustMark, the only UK Government-Endorsed Quality Scheme for work carried out in and around the home, has achieved a significant milestone of 40 Scheme Providers to help drive-up standards and consumer protection across the home repair, maintenance and improvement (RMI) sector.... View Article

Converts to the Passivhaus way

The completion of one couple’s project has brought joy and a sense of achievement, delivering more living space, greater energy efficiency and a comfortable environment to suit their needs. TEXT JESS UNWIN IMAGES JANE SIMPSON Where once stood a tired... View Article
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