JENNIFER GRIMBLE Is an experienced property writer with a passion for mid-century modern design, upcycling and period home renovations.
There's nothing more satisfying than creating your own home, but self-building isn't without its challenges. Whether it's site preparation or effective budgeting, there are countless tasks to juggle throughout, and tackling them all yourself would be a fool's errand. For the best results, you need proper planning, a level head and, most importantly, support from industry experts. The right trades and professionals will not only alleviate stress, but help you to better manage the cost and overall finish of your new home. Establishing where to save and where to spend can be tricky but arm yourself with the knowledge and you'll be able to hire a team for project success. From quantity surveyors to carpenters, these are the trades you can't afford to forgo.
1 Project manager
Project managing your self-build can be a daunting prospect, which is why many choose to hire a PM. The role of a PM is to manage and coordinate schedules, timeframes and deliveries, make decisions and deliver the project on time and to budget - basically "It's getting other people to do things to achieve what you want and need," says professional PM Bob Branscombe. "If a PM procures correctly, your bricklayers will know how to lay bricks, and your carpenters will know how to pitch a roof. But the role of PM might also involve ensuring that the wall plate (the 'interface' between the walls and the roof) is fitted correctly, strapped down, and level." A PM's job is varied and involved - they are the eyes and ears on the job, there to help fill the gaps that you might not see if you took on the role yourself.
THE PM ROUTE
This story is from the June 2022 edition of Homebuilding & Renovating.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the June 2022 edition of Homebuilding & Renovating.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
WHY I CHOSE...TO HIRE AN INTERIOR DESIGNER
Hiring a professional to help in an area you're not confident with can be invaluable. Ben Adam-Smith did just that by employing an interior designer to inject character into his and his wife Kay's self-build
HOW TO PREVENT YOUR HOME OVERHEATING
With UK summers getting hotter, what steps can be taken to prevent overheating in homes? We outline what you can do to have a comfortable property all year round
Multifunctional home office
How to create a hybrid space that's suitable for both work and home life
Build a new garage for less
Taking on a self-build or renovation project? Then factor in a garage from the beginning you can benefit from economies of scale and efficiency tactics, says Tim Phillips
The golden rules of house design
Designing a house is hugely exciting, but knowing where to start can also feel daunting. With the help of some top architectural experts, we bring you the golden rules that will ensure you create the home of your dreams
THE HEALTHY HOME
PART THREE: BOOSTING BIODIVERSITY IN OUR HOMES
Victorian overhauls
A carefully conceived extension could be the key to unlocking the potential of your period property without compromising its character. Let our selection of innovative schemes be your inspiration...
Bird's eve view
Peter and Romney Lelliott opted for an upside-down new build, enabling them to enjoy far-reaching country views from the elevated living space of their contemporary new home
A collage to treasure
Kirstin Eriksson has transformed her Cotswold property by taking it from a neglected cottage to a perfect family home packed full of clever design ideas
Hidden, paradise
With hard work and a lot of initiative, Minnie and James Vosper lovingly brought their run-down home into the 21st century