CATEGORIES

SOLAR MYTHS DEBUNKED

We ask the experts about the truth behind 12 common myths around solar panels...

Experience pays

Seasoned renovators Sue and Jim Savege put their knowledge and skills to the test when renovating and extending their 19th-century Scottish cottage

10 THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN EXTENDING YOUR HOME

You've got your plans in place and are close to getting started on site, but what other key tasks need completing to keep everything on track? Here's what you need to consider...

Lofts Conversion glazing

Extending upwards is a great way to gain extra space but it is crucial to get the glazing right to capture views, control the light and prevent overheating

A modern slant

After buying an east London Victorian terrace, one couple decided to extend it outwards and upwards to make it fit for 21st-century living

A BUILDER'S VIEW

Make sure you get accurate quotes for your project by following this key advice

12 tips for tackling a slow renovation

Taking on a renovation project? Consider our tips on doing it in your own time and undertaking the work in stages to avoid the pressures of a strict deadline

PLANNING LOOPHOLES

If you get familiar with some of the lesser-known rules, they may just help you get approval for your project

Pastures greener

Having built their previous home themselves Paul and Johanna Suter decided a custom oak frame self-build in a verdant setting was the perfect choice for creating their family home

In perfect harmony

Susi Clark's long-held wish for creating a combined home and workspace came to fruition on a tricky sloping site

Back to black

Dramatic black finishes and industrial touches add impact to Charlotte and Sam Tisdall's extended end-terrace home

Change for good

A last-minute decision to build a kitchen extension instead of a general update turned out to be a wise move for the owners of this detached period property

High praise

After converting a run-down gospel hall into a unique 1930s-inspired home-complete with geodesic dome - Alice Deuchar and Daniel Schamroth pronounced it a resounding succes

Lifetime achievement

Replacing a tired 1960s bungalow with a bespoke prefabricated contemporary house allowed retired architect Helen Heslop Brunt and her husband Martin to fulfil a long-held dream

Self-build for beginners PART 13 PRE-CONSTRUCTION GUIDE

Make sure that your insurance, health and safety, build and cost schedules and all documents are all in place before kick-off

ECO LANDSCAPING

Creating a garden with green credentials isn't without its challenges, but there are plenty of ways you can reduce its impact on the environment, once you know how

WHAT SHOULD I KNOW ABOUT PASSIVHAUS VENTILATION?

Heat and energy expert David Hilton explains the benefits, options and costs of this ultimate heating standard

HOW MUCH DOES EXTERNAL WALL INSULATION COST?

It's touted as an affordable home insulation method, but is external wall insulation worth the outlay and what are the lifetime costs? We look at the figures...

Open-plan kitchen DAVID HOCKNEY EXTENSIONS

From structural considerations and zoning to layout ideas and lighting, our practical guide to creating your new space has it covered

RENOVATING A GEORGIAN HOME

Known for their elegant architectural features, Georgian homes need to be restored sensitively to make them fit for modern life

PERMITTED DEVELOPMENT APPROVE EXCLUSIONS

How to understand whether your project qualifies for Permitted Development and if you are able to use this planning route

14 tips to finding your perfect plot

Finding a plot for a self-build isn't always easy, as the chances are you will be up against stiff competition from builders, land finders and other potential self-builders, but knowing where to start and putting in the legwork will set you in good stead to find your ideal location.

WHY I CHOSE...TO HIRE AN INTERIOR DESIGNER

Hiring a professional to help in an area you're not confident with can be invaluable. Ben Adam-Smith did just that by employing an interior designer to inject character into his and his wife Kay's self-build

HOW TO PREVENT YOUR HOME OVERHEATING

With UK summers getting hotter, what steps can be taken to prevent overheating in homes? We outline what you can do to have a comfortable property all year round

Multifunctional home office

How to create a hybrid space that's suitable for both work and home life

Build a new garage for less

Taking on a self-build or renovation project? Then factor in a garage from the beginning you can benefit from economies of scale and efficiency tactics, says Tim Phillips

The golden rules of house design

Designing a house is hugely exciting, but knowing where to start can also feel daunting. With the help of some top architectural experts, we bring you the golden rules that will ensure you create the home of your dreams

THE HEALTHY HOME

PART THREE: BOOSTING BIODIVERSITY IN OUR HOMES

Victorian overhauls

A carefully conceived extension could be the key to unlocking the potential of your period property without compromising its character. Let our selection of innovative schemes be your inspiration...

Bird's eve view

Peter and Romney Lelliott opted for an upside-down new build, enabling them to enjoy far-reaching country views from the elevated living space of their contemporary new home