Should you hire a project manager for a self build or home renovation project? The question should really be, ‘what does a project manager do, and do I need one?’. In the building industry the term ‘project manager’ often gets muddled. When a building professional refers to a ‘project manager’ their meaning could fall broadly… Read more »
This is a simple and concise guide to understanding VAT on house conversions. Please note that there is different guidance in relation to new builds. Be aware that all projects are unique and some projects will not be eligible for tax reductions – please consult with your architect / quantity surveyor in relation to your… Read more »
What is a self build mortgage? A self build mortgage is different to a traditional mortgage in that the funds are released in stages as the build progresses. This is ultimately to reduce the risk to the lender. Featured image above by Allister, architect from Oxfordshire. See more and shortlist them for your home… Read more »
Rethinking Concrete’s Potential Concrete remains a cornerstone of modern construction, but advancements in its composition and application are transforming its durability. Precast concrete, for example, is gaining recognition for its superior strength, consistency, and eco-friendly benefits. Companies like JP Concrete demonstrate how tailored precast solutions address specific construction challenges, ensuring optimal performance and resilience. Other… Read more »
What is the Help to Build loan? The Help to Build loan will help people with small deposits (from just 5%) access the finance they need to build their own home. This equity loan scheme is provided by the government to top up a standard self-build mortgage. Following MP Richard Bacon’s review of the sector,… Read more »
Custom build house ideas – inspiration for your dream home Design for Me has a community of hundreds of architects and architectural designers all across the country and we’ve complied the most inspiring custom build house designs for you. If you like the look of one, you can click on the image to see that architect’s other work… Read more »
This week, Hugh, one of the architects on Design for Me, has offered up some top tips on finding building plots for a self-build house in London. However, much of the advice extends to other areas in the UK too. Hugh, London based architect on Design for Me Self-build plots are notoriously difficult to find in… Read more »
Hollow clay blocks are not new. They have been a staple of the German construction industry (and elsewhere on the continent) for a long time. After decades of cavity-wall construction, the the UK market is now recognising hollow clay blocks as a viable alternative, and has been gaining popularity for its excellent thermal and acoustic… Read more »
Sponsored post If you want to redecorate this year and make your home more inspiring – more you – here are some simple tips to help. 1. Add an entertainment wall Entertainment walls are a popular feature of many living rooms and are a fierce competitor of the classic feature fireplace as the key… Read more »
If you’re starting a self-build project you may already be aware that the key to a successful, stress-free project is thorough research and planning! Choosing the right building materials and construction method are important early decisions. This week, we’re here to give you a helping hand on choosing your construction method. Have you ever heard of SIPs? Here… Read more »
