September 2010

Why build in oak? It’s a relatively expensive material to use in house construction and, because ‘green’ oak is effectively still living, it’s far from the most stable of structural choices. It requires specialist craftsmen and is a type of construction that struggles to incorporate that most modern of requirements, airtightness.

And yet it’s partially because of these difficulties that, year in year out, the re-emergence of oak as a building choice for hundreds of self-builders (it’s on the wishlist of thousands more) continues apace. We’ve devoted some space in this issue to a fine example of an oak frame self-build, as well as a comprehensive guide to getting the most out of a new oak frame home — and how to avoid the common design mistakes. Lastly, we’re also taking a look at the unique construction issues that dealing with this ancient building form brings up.

Elsewhere, those new to self-building (and quite a few more experienced readers) would benefit from taking a look at our ‘20 Top Tips for Self-build Success’. The article gathers the sagest advice from just-done-it self-builders, designers and industry experts. We’ve also got a couple of great barn conversion case studies (one costing just £84,000 to build) that should inspire anyone to take on this most complex of projects.

Enjoy the issue.

Jason Orme, Editor

Inside the September 2010 issue of Homebuilding & Renovating magazine...

Homes

The Red House
A family bungalow is replaced with a stunning barn-style self-build
Turning the Tide
A nondescript seaside house receives a dramatic makeover
A New Identity
Two stone barns are converted into a contemporary home
Timber Triumph
One couple’s third self-build becomes a testament to eco living
Good Neighbours
A cattle barn becomes a cosy new home for under £100,000
Portfolio: A Selection of More Homes Across the UK

ALSO IN THIS MONTH'S ISSUE: Shopping for period-style windows - Specifying kitchen units - 20 lessons for self-build success - Do you need a chimney? - Advice on building regulations

PLUS: Buyers guides, expert advice and opinions, build cost guide and much, much more...

SUBSCRIBE TODAY

FULL CONTENTS

Design

Shopping for Period-Style Windows
Before & After: A Fruitful Conversion - A derelict apple-pressing barn is transformed into a home
The Definitive Guide to Specifying Kitchen Units
The Latest Switches and Sockets
How to Create Your Perfect Home Office
Oak Frame Design Masterclass - The must-read guide to creating your dream oak frame home

Advice

Do You Need a Chimney?
20 Lessons for Self-build Success
Eco Challenge: “Help Us Build a Greener Home” - H&R’s eco expert spends a day on site advising one couple
The Easiest Way to Self-build - How to choose the best build route for your project
Repairing Your Home’s External Cladding - Your practical guide to repairing stonework and weatherboarding
Plots: When Nature Gets in the Way - Conquer trees and adverse ground conditions on your plot
Build Costs: Finishing Trades - Our comprehensive cost series concludes with the finishing touches
Solutions - Expert Answers to Your Questions
Getting Started - Building Regulations

Regulars

Upfront - Latest News, Reviews and Products
In My View - “Local Planning is a Cauldron of Self-Interest”
Subscribe - Just £2.50 an issue!
Looking Back - An open plan family self-build

See extra online content from the September issue...

Looking for a feature from a previous issue? See the archives...

Call 01527 834435 or visit subscribetoday.co.uk to order back issues