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

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

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

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

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

An auspicious decision

When James and Amy Savage moved from Hong Kong to Wiltshire, they took a chance on a poorly converted byre, transforming it into a unique, futureproofed home. TEXT ALEXANDRA PRATT IMAGES CHARLES EMERSON Relocating between continents isn’t an easy thing... View Article

Exclusive Discovery Day at Callum Park

Lower Halstow, Kent – Future homeowners and self-build enthusiasts are invited to an exclusive Discovery Day at Callum Park, a prime opportunity to explore bespoke self-build plots in a breath-taking location. Event Details: Saturday, 12th April 10am – 3pm  Callum Park,... View Article

TrustMark unveils new research to build competent workforce

TrustMark, the UK’s only Government-Endorsed Quality Scheme for work carried out in and around your home, today publishes a new report with views from frontline micro and small businesses on the factors contributing to the skills gap in the UK construction... View Article

Electrical Safety: The visual checks to do today

With 53.4% of all dwelling fires in the UK resulting from electrical hazards, it’s clear electrical hazards often go unnoticed and that householders may not be aware of the warning signs to look out for. The consequences of not spotting them can... View Article

TrustMark appoints new Chief Operating Officer

TrustMark, the UK’s only Government-Endorsed Quality Scheme for work carried out in and around the home, announces the appointment of Charlotte Carter as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO), a newly established role in the organisation.    Charlotte joins TrustMark after... View Article

Timber frame construction

In light of Labour’s push for timber frame construction as part of its net zero strategy, Michael Holmes, property expert for the Homebuilding & Renovating Show, says: The potential for timber frame construction to address the UK housing crisis is both... View Article

Interior Inspiration: Home Office

Whether you’ll be working from home full time or only part, creating a cosy dedicated nook or designing a whole room, we’ve compiled products from desks and chairs to storage and lighting solutions to provide all the inspiration you need... View Article

Clay brick: A timeless material

With clay bricks capable of retaining structural integrity for more than 150 years, Rob Flello of the Brick Development Association (BDA) explains why self-builders are increasingly viewing them as a long-term investment.   Whether you consider buying or building, a... View Article

How much do ‘U-value’ insulation?

Matthew Evans of Kingspan Insulation GB discusses what to think about when it comes to insulating your self-build. Ensuring your new home is effectively insulated is an important consideration for all self-builders. It can help to significantly reduce your long-term... View Article