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

A collage to treasure

Kirstin Eriksson has transformed her Cotswold property by taking it from a neglected cottage to a perfect family home packed full of clever design ideas

Hidden, paradise

With hard work and a lot of initiative, Minnie and James Vosper lovingly brought their run-down home into the 21st century

Desirable downsize

To create a home that was tailor-made for their needs and lifestyle, Steve and Susanne Clarke built a stunning oak frame home in their very own garden

13 steps to interior design success

It's the final flourish which brings together your self-build, renovation or extension, but a successful interior design scheme starts at the very beginning of your project, says Claire Lloyd, who shares some of the secrets to creating cohesive interiors

Knocking down and replacing a house

Demolishing and rebuilding on the same site may or may not need a planning application, so before you start navigating this potentially tricky route, take planning consultant Simon Rix’s advice

HOW TO SAVE MONEY ON LANDSCAPING

To get the most out of your time and money the landscaping aspect of a build should be planned in from the start. Quantity surveyor Tim Phillips lays the groundwork…

OLD HOUSE, NEW HOME RENOVATING AN EDWARDIAN HOME

Natasha Brinsmead explains how to update and renovate an Edwardian property, focusing on the 10 most common design features

Creating an indoor/outdoor space

Encourage your home to be at one with the great outdoors by linking up your inner and outer spaces

THE ART OF MATCHING MATERIALS

When you take on an extension and opt to match materials like-for-like, it can be a challenge. Chartered surveyor Ian Rock shares his advice on how best to source exactly what you need

Sliding doors

There’s a lot to consider when it comes to choosing sliding doors. We shed light on what you need to know before you buy