Prefabricated self-builds, also known as ‘modular’ or ‘kit’ homes, have been around the UK since the 1920’s, but have only recently surged in popularity among home builders. So why the big fuss all of a sudden? Essentially, the shell, or exterior of these modular homes are constructed in a factory and then dropped onsite for… Read more »
Design by Jamie, architect from Guernsey. See more and shortlist them for your home project here. Before sifting through loads of plot finder websites, you might find this very useful… Frustratingly, there isn’t a one-stop-shop for finding your plot of land. Unlike house buying, where you can pretty much rely on RightMove & Zoopla… Read more »
You have finally found the perfect plot to build on, have set a proper budget for your project, and are now ready to select a building material. Believe it or not, many UK homeowners in your shoes are turning away from brick and steel in favour of a different material…timber! That’s right, there has been… Read more »
Title image from Edward, architect from Tooting Bec, London. See his full profile and shortlist him for your project here. Why Sustainable Design? Planning your dream eco-home? We’ve put together a brief summary of the main eco-design principles to follow when designing your new home. Most of us would agree that it is important… Read more »
What is a kit house? A kit house is pre-designed and pre-fabricated, usually bought to site flat-packed. Kit houses have become increasingly popular with self-builders, perhaps after the famous ‘Grand Designs’ episode with the German ‘Huf Haus‘. There are now many kit house companies in the UK. What are self build kit houses made of? Most commonly… Read more »
Renovation is both exciting and challenging. This home improvement process involves a lot of moving parts. There are many logistics to consider if you want to keep everything under control. Whether you’re converting a part of your home or doing a major overhaul, part of the logistics is knowing where you’ll keep all your furniture… Read more »
So you have finally settled on that perfect plot of land and have started brainstorming a vision for your ideal self-build. Wait a minute! Although the temptation to do as much on your own as possible is admirable, we have often found that it is risky business that can be devastating in the long run. Instead,… Read more »
Building a house on Green Belt land It is theoretically possible to build a house on Green Belt land, but it’s not easy nor can it be guaranteed. The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) is the underlying planning policy for the development of land in the UK. However, the local planning office will also have their… Read more »
What is ‘Right to Build’? Very simply, ‘Right to Build’ is a Government initiative (since 2016), encouraging more custom-build homes in the UK. It comes in response to the difficulty custom builders face in finding suitable land. ‘Right to Build’ gives custom builders the right to purchase a plot from a local council, who have an… Read more »
A simple self build cost calculator to help you estimate your self build cost. These figures have been updated in 2022 following recent price increases in construction costs, according to a survey of architects and designers on Design for Me. Image above by Sam, architectural designer on Design for Me. See their full profile… Read more »
