
Mark Stevenson
Mark Stevenson is a construction professional with almost 35 years’ experience across housebuilding, timber systems manufacturing and bespoke residential development. He is the owner of Elsworth Projects Ltd, a consultancy specialising in the project management of bespoke self-build homes.
Previously Managing Director of Potton and former Chair of NaCSBA and the Structural Timber Association, Mark is widely recognised for his specialist knowledge of timber construction, land finding and appraisal, and the construction of self-build projects.
Alongside his professional career, Mark is a skilled joiner, hands-on renovator and serial self-builder. He regularly shares his knowledge at Homebuilding & Renovating Shows and coaches self-builders.
Latest articles by Mark Stevenson

Is a timber frame construction method right for you? Experts explain what's involved when creating your dream home from wood
By Mike Cruickshank, Mark Stevenson, Sarah Harley last updated
Using a timber frame construction is a popular choice amongst homebuilders, but what's involved? Experts explore this method of creating a home

'This is the secret to ensuring your kitchen extension timeline stays on track, and you avoid lengthy delays,' says self build expert
By Mark Stevenson published
When planning a kitchen extension, it's important to correctly assess how long the project might take, not only for practical reasons but also for budgeting

Don't make this mistake when adding light to a basement conversion and you'll end up with a much brighter space below ground
By Mark Stevenson published
Getting enough light below ground is one of the biggest challenges of basement conversions. Mark Stevenson explains how to add light to a basement conversion

Avoid these 13 kitchen renovation mistakes if you want your scheme to succeed, urges home building expert
By Mark Stevenson published
If you are planning a kitchen renovation any time soon, check out the main mistakes to avoid, as explained by self build expert, Mark Stevenson

How much more will it cost to build an eco home? The answer isn't as clear cut as you might think
By Mark Stevenson published
If your self build design is based on an eco-led approach, the chances are you'll need deeper pockets, but here's why it's worth the investment upfront

'I’ve seen more damage caused by wet room mistakes than almost any other bathroom feature' – here's how to avoid making the same errors in your home
By Mark Stevenson published
Wet rooms may look great, but are not without their risks. Build expert Mark Stevenson shares the most common wet room mistakes and how you can avoid them

Can you build an extension from SIPs? Yes says build expert, but you need to weigh up if it's right for your project
By Mark Stevenson published
Using SIPs to build an extension is not without its benefits. But is it the right material for you? Mark Stevenson explains what to consider before you choose

Should I knock down or convert my barn? How to assess whether to renovate or replace your structure
By Mark Stevenson published
Sometimes conversion isn't always the most sensible route. We explain the factors to consider when deciding what to do with an old barn

Can you extend a barn conversion? Yes, but it could be more complicated than you might think says expert
By Mark Stevenson published
Extending a barn conversion isn't the same as your average extension project. Build expert Mark Stevenson examines the potential obstacles you might face

Don't be put off by the sight of roof trusses in your loft, a truss loft conversion is still an option for extending upwards
By Mark Stevenson published
Truss loft conversions can be trickier than normal loft conversions, but with some structural changes you can still create the loft conversion you need

Considering a vaulted ceiling in your kitchen? Here's the one problem no-one ever warns you about
By Mark Stevenson published
Kitchens with vaulted ceilings look great, but can be risky. Building expert, Mark Stevenson reveals the hidden problem you might not have considered

Where to spend and where to save on your self-build to make your project budget go further
By Mark Stevenson published
Our self-build expert reveals which elements are worth investing in and where smart compromises can help keep costs under control

The cavity wall insulation mistakes to avoid when adding this area to your home
By Mark Stevenson published
Our self build expert Mark Stevenson talks through all the mistakes people make when installing insulation in cavity walls

Lowering a ceiling — the pros, cons and implications of reducing your room height
By Mark Stevenson published
There's a number of reasons for lowering a ceiling. Self build expert, Mark Stevenson explores your options and explains just what's involved

Choosing the right barn conversion windows is a delicate balancing act between ensuring integrity and the need for natural light
By Mark Stevenson published
Self build expert, Mark Stevenson explains why your barn conversion windows need to do more than just bring in the light to your new home

15 warning signs that a barn conversion could end up being a money pit
By Mark Stevenson published
Our self build expert explains how to spot a bad investment when looking for a barn conversion – so you can avoid losing money

I see these insulation mistakes time and time again and the results can be damaging. Here's the 8 main errors and how to avoid them
By Mark Stevenson published
Building expert, Mark Stevenson shares the top 8 insulation mistakes he regularly encounters, so you can avoid doing the same in your next project

Is moving a staircase ever worth the cost and disruption? A build expert weighs up the pros and cons
By Mark Stevenson published
Mark Stevenson talks through the process of moving a staircase, as well as exploring the motivations for doing so, and how to decide if it's worth it

Changing your bathroom lights? These are the bathroom lighting regulations to know before you start
By Mark Stevenson published
Our expert talks through all the lighting regulations for bathrooms to make sure your project is not only compliant – but also safe

How much is too much insulation? An expert explains the ideal amount
By Mark Stevenson published
You might think adding extra insulation is always a good thing, but – as our expert explains – this isn't always the case

Could the 'LEGO' of the homebuilding world be the right system for you? What to know about insulated concrete formwork
By Mark Stevenson last updated
Fast, efficient and highly insulated, could this innovative build system be for you? Our build expert reveals the pros and cons of insulated concrete formwork

Building with structural insulated panels — everything you need to know if you're considering it for your self build home
By Mark Stevenson, Allan Corfield last updated
Structurally strong, excellent for airtightness and quick to build, could a structural insulated panels construction method be the right one for your project?

What loft conversion fire regulations do I need to know? Our self build expert explains
By Mark Stevenson published
We explain how to make sure your build complies with all the fire regulations concerning loft conversions

What is Approved Document K? How your windows, balcony and stairs must comply with these regulations
By Mark Stevenson published
Our self build expert explains what design features are needed to ensure your windows, balcony and stairs comply with Part K of the building regulations

Change of use — 'How we turned designated commercial land into a residential plot for a family home'
By Mark Stevenson published
If you've found a plot but you need to apply for change of use, building expert Mark Stevenson explains what's involved and how he successfully obtained permission to do just that
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