Is now a good time to break ground in the UK? In this article we cover: Q: What way are material and labour prices trending? Hoping to break ground in the next few weeks. Unfortunately, while things may feel more settled than they did a year ago, there’s still a lot to watch out for […] More
Blockwork remains the most common building method in the UK today. In this article we cover: From the majestic pyramids of ancient Egypt to today’s self-built family homes, masonry has been the backbone of construction for centuries. At its core, masonry refers to the process of assembling structures from small, individual units, typically bonded together […] More
From planning permission to choosing construction and roofing methods, here’s what to think about before you get started connecting an extension to your home. Thinking about adding an extension to your house? Whether it’s a new kitchen, living space or simply more room to breathe, knowing how to properly connect an extension to your existing […] More
What you can build without planning permission in Scotland In this article, we cover: If you’re planning to make changes to your home in Scotland — whether it’s an extension, a loft conversion or adding solar panels — you might not need planning permission. That’s thanks to Scotland’s version of ‘permitted development rights’ (PDRs), which […] More
What you can build without planning permission in Wales In this article, we cover: If you’re thinking of making changes to your home in Wales — like building an extension, converting your loft or installing solar panels — you may not need planning permission. Many minor improvements and additions are allowed under permitted development rights […] More
What you can build without planning permission in Wales In this article, we cover: If you’re thinking of making changes to your home in Wales — like building an extension, converting your loft or installing solar panels — you may not need planning permission. Many minor improvements and additions are allowed under permitted development rights […] More
What you can build without planning permission in England In this article, we cover: In England, if you’re planning a home extension, loft conversion or even thinking of installing solar panels, you might be wondering whether you need planning permission. The good news is that many building projects can go ahead without the need to […] More
You can choose a kitchen straight from a catalogue – or design your own by mixing and matching elements. Here are some ideas to inspire you. In this article we cover: Designing a kitchen is one of the most exciting – and sometimes overwhelming – parts of building or renovating a home. It’s where style […] More
With so many building methods available, which is the best today? Architect Micah Jones gives his answer. In this article we cover: I built my home using Cross Laminated Timber (CLT), so mass timber is my top choice. However, every construction method has its role. For me, design takes priority, and then we select the […] More
UK’s construction industry is expected to grow in 2025, but rising input costs remain a challenge. So, what does this mean for self-builders? In this article we cover: How affordable will it be to self-build in the UK in 2025? If you’re planning to build your own home, you may be wondering if it’s affordable […] More
Architect Micah Jones looks at what you can build for 350k in the UK today, and how to get the most bang for your buck. In this article we cover: Q: Can you build a 5-6 bedroom house with £350k to £400k in today’s climate? Micah says: Yes, but to a build quality, sustainable family […] More
Estimating the cost of a new build or renovation can be overwhelming. This guide outlines where to start when budgeting your project. In this article we cover: Building on a budget It is possible to build on a modest budget, but design choices often increase costs. Every upgrade adds up, and budget overruns typically result […] More