The judges’ shortlist of six incredible homes is in, so now it’s down to you to help us crown the nation’s best home in 2026 for this year’s Build It Awards: self-build.co.uk/best-home

The judges’ shortlist of six incredible homes is in, so now it’s down to you to help us crown the nation’s best home in 2026 for this year’s Build It Awards: self-build.co.uk/best-home

Looking to make an impact with your home’s entryway? Here are our key considerations and top tips for a functional and eye-catching hallway design: ow.ly/mm7W50ZZkok

Sealing up gaps is a key step in creating a comfortable and efficient home – but you’ll need to think about how you replace that airflow to maintain a healthy environment. Here’s your guide to draughtproofing and ventilation for renovation projects: ow.ly/Kiui50ZWMFB

How can you tell when it’s time to replace your roof’s tiles, slate or thatch, what’s involved and what should you budget for a roof replacement or repair? Alan Tierney explains the ins and outs: ow.ly/tGyc50ZWMzs

How much should you really pay for a plot of land for a self build? Project manager and serial self builder Mark Stevenson reveals what you need to know to value land effectively and bag the perfect site for the best price: ow.ly/43Sr50YVUKw

There’s a whole host of different extension roof types on offer, but which is right for your project? Your chosen roof style can add architectural wow as well as function. We look at the various options and where each might be best suited: ow.ly/mqc250ZURzo

Undertaking a period house renovation requires patience, attention detail and thorough planning. Build It expert Alan Tierney sets out how to avoid some of the classic renovation pitfalls to ensure a successful project from start to finish: ow.ly/hBO650Zf3cS

In search of a warmer, more manageable house to enjoy her retirement, Fiona Henderson built a contemporary timber frame home in Aberdeenshire on her own land: ow.ly/jQbI50ZURco

Whether it’s timber cladding, brick slips or characterful stone, there are plenty of cladding options for your self build, renovation or extension. We take a look at the key considerations for the different materials and how to use them effectively: ow.ly/hbl050ZUQV9

These two barn buildings have been completely remodelled, creating one building. Norrsken glazing ensures a sleek, high-performance build that’s flooded with daylight: ow.ly/fvn650ZSHsl

Christine Green and Ceri Shields replaced a run-down bungalow in the Devonshire countryside with their dream forever home. The spectacular self build won Best Oak Frame Home at the 2025 Build It Awards: ow.ly/o9I850Z9gZl

With build costs ranging from £124,000 up to £750,000+, this collection of 10 house extensions of all shapes and sizes demonstrates what you can build for your extension budget: ow.ly/NNKk50ZSH8G

Stuck for ideas on how to add space to your home? Take a look at this impressive line-up of light-filled oak frame extensions, packed with eye-catching design details and plenty of character: ow.ly/Gt8A50ZUyJE

Inspired by his travels, Mike Cowen built a striking lodge-style eco home on a sensitive riverbank plot in Devon: ow.ly/WMIJ50ZTyiJ

Are you considering a retrofit to upgrade your existing house’s thermal efficiency? Rebecca Foster explains why a successful eco renovation starts with understanding your home’s age, construction, condition and constraints: ow.ly/PxBn50ZS7SP

From site constraints to local policy, Build It’s planning expert Martin Gaine sets out exactly what you need to know before appointing an architect to manage your planning proposal: ow.ly/1PJq50ZQVmx

What does retrofitting a heat pump involve, how much does it cost, and when does it make sense? Build It’s sustainability and heating experts, Nigel Griffiths and David Hilton, break down what you need to know: self-build.co.uk/retrofittin…

Extension vs conservatory: what’s the difference and which one is right for you? Scarlett Deamer looks at design, energy efficiency and costs to help point you towards the right solution: ow.ly/vTJp50YekZU

After snapping up a 1970s chalet home in the Hampshire countryside, Adrian and Jackie Andrews undertook a hands-on retrofit project: ow.ly/ELFv50ZQUrY