Homebuilding & Renovating

Homebuilding & Renovating is the UK's number-one magazine for home extenders and self-builders. From build costs, planning permission, hiring builders, to project managing subcontractors and step-by-step DIY guides, each issue is packed with the best expert advice to help you deliver your project on time and within budget. You'll also find inspiring case studies of completed projects, and all the design ideas and inspiration you need to create your dream home. Whether you're renovating and extending an existing property, or building a new home, Homebuilding & Renovating magazine is your essential project companion.

Homebuilding & Renovating

FROM THE EDITOR

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

High and dry • A small strip of overgrown scrubland on the west coast of Scotland became the unlikely site for a spectacular cantilevered new-build home

Well seasoned • Stuart Whinney’s years of experience in the building trade paid off when he and his wife Tracey took on a timber-frame barn conversion

Unusual conversions • A successful conversion often involves balancing the features and character of the original building with sensitive, modern interventions. These standout projects show how to update properties while retaining their inherent charm and personality

THE FALLBACK POSITION STRATEGY • If you’re worried your self-build design may be deemed a step too far by your local planning department, there is a legal mechanism that could help you achieve that dream home

12 things to know before knocking dow n and rebuilding • From VAT savings to planning restrictions, here are the essential factors to consider before taking on a replacement dwelling project

Flooring choices for your home • Whether you’re renovating, extending or building a new home, your chosen flooring can have a big impact on the look and feel of the finished space (and on your budget). Here’s what to consider before you make your decision

In the pink • Adding a contemporary wing to an historic house has created a new way of living for one family in the East Lothian countryside

BUILDING AN EXTENSION FROM STRUCTURAL INSULATED PANELS

Going green • Colour was one of the standout features when Tobias and Elliot extended their 30-year-old end-of-terrace house

WET ROOM MISTAKES • Wet rooms may look practical and luxurious, but are not without their risks. Build expert Mark Stevenson shares the most common wet room mistakes people make and how you can avoid them

12 ways to make BEDROOM STORAGE WORK HARDER • With some extra thought, planning and a few nifty tricks, you could find yourself with more storage than you initially thought possible

‘I thought renovating would be physically hard – I wasn’t prepared for the emotional impact of decision fatigue’ • If choosing one more paint colour or door handle feels impossible, you could be in the throes of decision fatigue. Experts share why it happens and what you can do to prevent it

APPROVED DOCUMENT P • Our build expert, Mark Stevenson, takes a deep dive into the Building Regs covering electrical work carried out on a self-build, renovation or extension

HOW MUCH DOES A KITCHEN EXTENSION COST? • If you’re looking to add more space to your home in 2027, a kitchen extension is one possible option. Our quantity surveyor advises how to work out a realistic budget for your project

ASK THE EXPERTS • Need some advice on your self-build, extension or home renovation project?

Family-friendly kitchens • Looking for a kitchen that can handle family life? These designer-approved spaces show exactly how it’s done

SHOULD YOU SELL OR USE YOUR EXCESS SOLAR ENERGY? • While some homeowners claim...