Welcome Editor's

I-BUILD APRIL 2023

Bu ilding the home of your dreams can be a daunting task for anyone. For some, it may seem like an unattainable fantasy, while for others, the reality can prove to be a stressful experience. Between the challenges of securing planning approval, managing costs and overseeing the project while balancing personal and professional commitments, selfbuilding and renovating can quickly become overwhelming. The effort and time invested in the planning application process can make it particularly discouraging when the outcome is a refusal. However, with perseverance and a positive attitude, homeowners can overcome these hurdles and bring their dream homes to life. Sometimes thinking outside the box is all that's needed.

When Francine and Stephen Burns set out to build a modest, accessible and environmentally-friendly home on their small farmstead, they knew they would need to think outside the box. Local planning regulations initially prevented the couple from using their agricultural land for residential purposes, but they remained determined to find an alternative solution. In 2021, they discovered Studio Bark's NBAU (No Building As Usual) programme – a not-for-profit, live-build educational initiative – and decided to take part. In this issue, Studio Bark documents the Burns' journey of transforming their dream home, Nest House, into a tangible reality with the help of NBAU and a team of 12 students. Turn to page 22 to discover how the Burns' new home came to life over the summer of 2021.

This issue's theme perfectly aligns with the drizzly April weather that often occurs during this time of year, as we explore the importance of waterproofing. In an insightful article, Triton Systems' Sales Manager, Alan Sleigh, examines the advantages and potential drawbacks of the most commonly-used waterproofing systems, highlighting why the term 'high and dry' is a desirable outcome for self-builders seeking below-ground waterproofing solutions. Turn to page 30 to discover how you can effectively prevent water from infiltrating unwanted areas.

I hope you enjoy this issue. Don’t forget, if you’re coming to the end of your selfbuild and would like us to feature your home as inspiration for other budding house-builders, then please do not hesitate to get in touch. Alternatively, if you’re about to embark on your selfbuild journey and would be keen for us to document your progress, do get in contact.

Rebecca Kemp Editor

@ibuildmagazine @ibuildmagazine ibuildmagazine

Cover story: XUL Architecture has created a contemporary glass extension for a family home in Hampstead, balancing modern design with the age of the existing building. See page 14.

Red Hut Media Ltd 5 Mansion Row, Brompton, Kent, ME7 5SE 01622 946150 www.redhutmedia.com

Inspiration

Desired Designs: Fit For a King

It’s almost coronation month, and what better way to celebrate than by bringing a touch of regal elegance to your home decor? Whether you’re hosting a coronation party or simply looking to add majestic flair to your living space, we’ve got you covered.

Desired Designs: The Secret Garden

Incorporating secret garden-inspired accessories in your home interior can instantly transport you to a tranquil and enchanting world. Think lush greenery, delicate florals, whimsical bird motifs and rustic garden elements.

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I-DEAS i-Build: Rural Homes i-Scape: Front Garden Design i-Nterior: Children’s Rooms & Nurseries

Elevate your countryside home with these interior design tips from Paul Garland, Lead Designer at LUXE by Andrew Henry Interiors (AHI).

Want to make your front garden low maintenance and aesthetically pleasing? From easy-to-clean paving to large flowering shrubs, check out Bradstone’s top 10 tips.

Christopher Lusty, Founder of Little Folks Furniture, explains how you can maximise space and create a sanctuary for your little ones.

Viewpoint

Dr. Sam Chapman, Managing Director at Kenoteq, explains the idea of the circular economy and its potential application in self-building, with the aim of minimising waste and cutting down carbon emissions.

Contracts & Legalities Location is key when it comes to building your own home. Find out the top-ranked council areas for home building, according to Marshalls’ Home Build Index.

Waterproofing Sales Manager for Triton Systems, Alan Sleigh, explains the benefits and possible pitfalls of the most widely-used waterproofing systems.

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MATERIALS

Timber & Oak

Understanding the difference between green and air-dried oak is essential for anyone considering an oakframed building project. Here, Karen Bell from David Salisbury explains the advantages and disadvantages of both

Cladding

Lisa Grosse, Brand Manager at Cedral, explains why more homeowners are turning to fibre cement cladding when it comes to their DIY projects.

Case Studies

Urban Sanctuary

XUL Architecture has created a contemporary glass extension for a family home in Hampstead, balancing modern design with the age of the existing building.

Impressive Innovation

Meet Francine and Stephen Burns, who battled rising construction costs and health challenges to build their dream home, Nest House. With the help of Studio Bark’s No Building As Usual (NBAU) programme, the couple’s ambition to build an environmentallyresponsible home that is accessible to those with disabilities became a reality.

NEWS/PRODUCT GUIDE

Grand Designs Live

Grand Designs Live is back at ExCeL, London, from 29th April to 7th May 2023, featuring expert advice, top brands, educational seminars and much more.

Clerkenwell Design Week

Clerkenwell Design Week (CDW), one of the UK’s leading design festivals, returns to London between 23rd and 25th May 2023 with a strongerthan-ever programme.

Product Guide

The latest innovative products in the marketplace, designed with your build in mind.