Homebuilding & Renovating

Each issue of Homebuilding & Renovating is packed full of inspiration and offers expert advice on a range of topics, from finding land, house design and choosing an architect, to planning permission, selecting materials and budget control – everything you need to ensure your project is a success.

EDITOR’S LETTER • Claire Lloyd has been a member of the Homebuilding & Renovating team for 14 years. She’s currently in the midst of another renovation.

OUR EXPERTS

THE TEAM

INSIGHT • A round-up of the latest self-build and home renovation news, products and events. By Jennifer Grimble

Pitched Black • Rhys and Joanna’s new family home perfectly showcases the potential of awkward brownfield sites and the creative solutions they can inspire

Turned UP SIDE down • Working alongside family and friends, Luke Thomas raced to complete a budget DIY renovation of a near-derelict cottage in his Welsh home town, reversing the layout to better enjoy views of the nearby Norman castle

A bungalow transformed • Creative duo Shaun and Trudy Moulton transformed a run-down bungalow into a show-stopping green oak ‘modern barn’

Cool kit houses • These self-builders worked with package companies to realise their dreams of creating bespoke homes. Here’s what you can learn about the different levels of service and systems that are available…

14 secrets to self-build success • If you’re tempted to step foot into the world of self-build but want to know more, read these words of wisdom from those who built their own!

RENOVATION WORKSHOP REPAIRING YOUR CONSERVATORY ROOF • A leaking conservatory roof doesn’t have to be a headache — Natasha Brinsmead explains how to fix this and other common issues

Flush thresholds • Adding a sliding or bifold door with a flush threshold into your project will add a touch of seamless design, while making the connection between inside and out as accessible as possible

COMPOSITEWORKTOPS • Take a look at these stylish and durable quartz options

NAVIGATING QUOTES IN UNCERTAIN TIMES • With materials costing more each week, it pays to have a clear and fair way of dealing with the unexpected before your builder starts on site, says Andy Stevens

Planning permission for driveways • Looking to add a driveway to a new or existing home? Find out if you need planning permission and, if you do, what the application process entails

Hallways • A hallway can come in any style, shape and size — most importantly, it’s a space that needs to meet the everyday demands of you and your family

The garden office • These days, garden offices are top of many people’s wishlists, as more of us find ourselves working from home. Natasha Brinsmead explains all you need to know before work starts

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO CONVERT A BARN? • If converting a barn is a project you’d love to take on, read quantity surveyor Tim Phillips’ breakdown on how much it’s likely to cost

ASK THE EXPERTS • Got a burning question about your self-build, extension or renovation project that you need answering? Drop us a line by emailing homebuilding@futurenet.com and your question could be answered by one of our magazine experts

WHAT’S ON www.homebuilding.co.uk • Head to the site for reviews on tools to help with DIY in the home and garden

ExtensionVS. loft conversion • Trying to decide between carrying out an extension or loft conversion? Our guide is here to explain which will add the most space and value to your home

Bathroom lighting Ideas • Create a bathroom lighting scheme that’s both stylish and practical with these bright design tips and advice

THE ULTIMATE BUYER’S GUIDE TO Windows • Material, style and size are just some of the...