Open House Festival: 8th - 21st of September
The Open House Festival always comes around at just the right time.
The autumn chill is on the breeze, the sun is still shining and for those who have decided THIS is the year to renovate, it is time to get your ducks in a row.
So what could be better timed than to be able to go and see some projects up close and personal, and chat to the homeowners who have actually done what you’re planning to do, been through the process and lived to tell the tale!
There is a fine crop this year but these are our selected recommendations. Let us know how you get on!
1. Walter's Way by Walter Segal
Open House Info: A close of 13 self-built houses. Each is unique, built using method developed by Walter Segal, who led the project in the 1980s. Houses have been extended and renovated. Sustainable features including solar electric, water & space heating.
Address: WALTERS WAY, HONOR OAK PARK, LONDON, SE23 3LH
2. Curve Appeal by nimtim Architects
Open House Info: Reinvention of a 1920s semi-detached house through the addition of a single joinery element that brings functionality, warmth and tactility. The joinery showcases the clients’ collection of objects through fragments of arched alcoves.
Address: 4 SHELBURY ROAD, LONDON, SE22 0NL
Douglas Fir House By Christian Brailey
Open House Info: A low-energy, prefabricated Canadian Douglas fir rear extension to the garden flat of a converted Edwardian terraced house.
Address: 53 DUKES AVENUE, N10 2PY
Fog House by David Adjaye Architects
Open House Info: Formerly the artist studio of Marc Quinn. Fog house was designed by architect David Adjaye for Janet Street porter. This breathtaking house occupies one of Clerkenwell’s finest locations, quietly overlooking St James’s Church.
Address: 35 CLERKENWELL CLOSE, EC1R 0AU
We have created a FREE Renovation Budget Guide
that unpacks all the figures of a project – from building costs and professional fees to those extra expenses that no-one tells you about.
This will put your construction budget in the context of the whole project’s costs and make sure you’re considering all those added extras from the outset.
How much will my extension cost in 2024?
It’s the all-important question for home renovators: how much is my extension really going to cost? Read on to find out!
Natural Plaster – and why we can’t get enough
Want a material that is beautiful, and works hard for you? Look no further than Natural Plaster. We explain why we can’t get enough of it!
The New DIY: Online Renovation Courses
More homeowners are turning to online renovation courses as a way to save costs on their renovations. Take a look at our top picks!
Where NOT to scrimp on your renovation
Sometimes it’s tempting to cut corners and save a few pounds but it’s likely you’ll regret it in the long term. We share our top tips of where it doesn’t pay to scrimp in your dream home.
Why do we still not have a national retrofit strategy?
We talk to Paul Testa of HEM Architecture about why we need a national retrofit strategy and why it needs to happen now.
How to prepare your house for builders: 10 things you must do
When getting ready to receive contractors into your home it’s important to prepare your property. Get started with these 10 must do tasks!
Our 10 top tips to buying a house
Buying a house is potentially the biggest financial commitment you will ever make, so take the time to prep with our tips!
Don’t move, Improve! 2022 Shortlist
Check out the 15 incredible London renovation projects shortlisted for this year’s Don’t Move, Improve! Awards and get inspired!
Viewing a property: The ultimate checklist
You’ve done your research! But when you’re in the actual property, remember to consider the following things…
How much will my extension cost?
When it comes to home-renovating this is the most common question we get asked. So let’s get right to it, how do you work out the REAL cost? Read on to find out!
How to make the most of a Trade Show
Returning to thoughts of renovating your home? Then jumpstart your project by attending a trade show. But first make sure you read our top tips on how to make the most of your visit!
Top tips for renovating from industry experts
We asked a range of architects and experts working in the residential sector to give us their top tip for homeowners who want to renovate.
Worried about increasing construction prices?
Everyone is concerned about increasing construction costs. We talk to BuildPartner about what measures home renovators can take to reduce risks for their projects.
Your handy guide to assessing builders
Linden from Weaver shares his a handy guide to assessing builders. So before a spade is in the ground, it’s worth taking a moment to prepare.
Product spotlight: Little Bishop Hook
A neat solution for pendant lighting; we take a look at the clean design and appealing simplicity of the Little Bishop Pendant Hook
The ‘Iron Triangle’ you should embrace
It may sound daunting, but knowing about the ‘Iron Triangle’ in advance can help you plan your project and set realistic expectations.
Making the most of your outdoor space
If you’re living in London, then chances are you’re severely lacking in one department: outdoor space. But even if you only have a small patch to play with, this space can do so much for you with a bit of care and forward planning.
Your ultimate guide to extractor fans
Our complete guide answers all your extractor fan questions (even those you didn’t know you had!)
EJ Ryder and the world of joinery
Edwin J Ryder and his team specialise in bold, creative design and impeccable workmanship in their joinery and interior finishes. We spoke with Edwin to find out how they work with clients on their property renovations.
Why well designed homes cost more
Good design isn’t just a luxury for those with the biggest budgets; it’s a sound financial decision for everyone. We take a look at The Modern House and their approach.