February 2010

Writing this at the end of a decade in which the housing market has enjoyed astonishing growth and experienced the fear of recession, it’s good to take a step back and get some perspective on just quite how far self-building and renovating has come in ten years.

In 1999, Grand Designs had just started on the telly and self-build was still seen as a pretty crazy thing to do. These days, it’s everyone’s dream, although sadly still only reality for a small minority. Also in 1999, H&R ran its first piece on getting energy from the ground. Ten years on, ground-source heat pumps have become part of mainstream housebuilding. The big stories of the past decade have to be eco homes, the rise of contemporary house design and, in general terms, a huge explosion in interest in creating an individual home.

So how does this year look for self-builders? We reveal all in this issue, and take a look into the crystal ball to see what the next decade brings. Enjoy.

Jason Orme, Editor

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

Homes

The Exe Factor - A contemporary masterpiece designed for views of the River Exe
Country Crafts (Cover Story) - A brand new self-build at home with its Mediaeval neighbours
Sixties Revival - A 1960s house gains a contemporary façade and open plan layout
River Cottage - A light, characterful cottage replaces a poky holiday home

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE: Barn conversions: A design masterclass - Choosing the right shower for your home - Maximising bathroom space - Rainwater goods explained - How to build in a flood zone

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

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FULL CONTENTS

Design

Cooker Hoods
Design Masterclass: Barn Conversions - How to please the planners and unlock potential
Before & After Design: A Cottage Re-crafted
How to Choose the Right Shower for Your Home
Fireplaces
Small Bathrooms - Your guide to maximising space
2010: The Year to Self-build?
Portfolio: Projects from Home and Abroad

Advice

Rainwater Goods Explained
Contracts - Do you need one, and what to do when things go wrong
How to Build in a Flood Zone
Solving Damp
Self-sufficiency: A Green Dream or Reality?
Plots: Ransom Strips - Could your plot be held to a £10,000 ransom?
Self-build Story
Floor Structures: Solid or Suspended?
Build Costs: The Superstructure
Expert Solutions to Your Questions

Regulars

Upfront - Latest news, products and competitions for homebuilders
In My View: The Future of Building Regulations
Looking Back

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