A beginner’s guide to self-build

Self-building is the process where you design and build a new home that meets your needs, aligns with your budget and is finished to your exact requirements.

Contrary to what the term may suggest, embarking on a self-build project does not mean you have to approach the whole journey alone! Just like their dream oak frame homes, our clients’ journeys vary and so does the amount of support they receive from industry experts such as Architects, designers, planning consultants and builders. The beauty of self-building is that it’s a process you can completely tailor!

In March 2020, the Secretary of State issued a letter of thanks to those working within the construction industry and offered words of encouragement

‘Where’ do I begin?

If you’d like to build your own home, visit ‘The Local Self Build Register,’ where you can sign up to let your Council know you’re looking to do just that! Click here to learn more.

Start your self-build journey from the ground up. We understand it takes time and perseverance to find a plot in an area you love and ticks all the right boxes; so, let us help you! Our ‘Plots for sale’ webpage is bursting with unique, self-build opportunities in a range of locations for you to explore. We also recommend you build relationships with local estate agents, so you’ll be the first to know when plots come onto the market and keep an eye on sites such as Plotfinder.

Did you know you can purchase a serviced plot with provisions for utility connections such as gas, water and electricity already in place, and outline planning permission attached? Known as custom build, this approach enables you to remain in control of the design of your future home while ensuring you enjoy a hassle-free journey that’s supported by an experienced developer. Click here to view these custom build sites which have outline planning permission for bespoke oak framed homes.

The design of Church cottage (pictured) was incorporated onto a plot on a Herefordshire development site

How can I find an Architect?

It’s important to work with a professional who understands your self-build aspirations; someone who’ll transform your wish list into a design that truly inspires and excites you! Word of mouth is a great place to start your research, so ask your family and friends for their recommendations.

Oak is not only naturally beautiful, when used in construction it’s also extremely versatile and complements contemporary or more traditional self-builds. Our in-house Architectural Design team will work with you to create a structure that captures your vision and if required, they can also submit your planning permission application and create a Building Regulations package to drive your self-build project forwards! Call 01432 353 353 or email enquiries@configurator-oakwrights.nzi.me to book an appointment with our Architectural Design team.

Our team will turn your home building ideas into your dream oak frame design

What level of project management is involved?

Self-building is such a rewarding process and for many of our clients, is a once in a lifetime experience.

It’s important to assess how much time you have to oversee the process from start to finish. If you’d like to be completely hands-on and manage the day-to-day construction schedule along with the relevant trades and suppliers, click here to read the first blog in our self-build diary series as we discover how two couples have project managed the build of their oak frame cottages on a Herefordshire development site.

Alternatively, you can employ the services of a contractor or project manager who’ll work with you and look after every aspect of your build on your behalf. This approach forms the basis of our turnkey service, which you can learn more about here.

Depending on your project and your self-build approach, also consider:

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