Any build project – a self-build, extension or renovation – will need trades on site at some stage. Most builds need them from the very beginning. So how can you make it a successful project, where you and the trades you employ work in harmony together?
As a homeowner taking on a build project, you will undoubtedly want the best people for the job, for the best price, all completed to a timely schedule. It’s a lot to ask trades — especially reputable, busy ones. Engaging with trades from the off is therefore essential in forming a great working relationship that will last throughout the project. And how do you do that? “The overriding thing to keep in mind when getting your builder (and trades) on board is clarity — clarity of vision, of design, of information, of working conditions, of costs and of the terms and conditions of engagement,” says project manager Bob Branscombe. “Achieving this is challenging, and takes time and effort.” So being organised from the very beginning will put you in good stead to be able to deal with a build project, and with the trades who will be working on delivering it for you. Here are 12 ways to do it.
1 Figure out what you want first
Bu hikaye Homebuilding & Renovating dergisinin July 2023 sayısından alınmıştır.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Giriş Yap
Bu hikaye Homebuilding & Renovating dergisinin July 2023 sayısından alınmıştır.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Giriş Yap
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