Denys and Marjorie Randolph embark on their second self-build project after being inspired by a television programme about Oak-Framed Buildings.
Proving that age is just a number when it comes to following your dreams this review picks out the best bits of the build.
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Research and understand the architectural style you want before starting a build, as it can set the tone for your entire project. The Randolphs were motivated by the beauty and concept of a barn-style home.
Building on a site with an existing structure can be expensive. The Randolphs paid more by demolishing a bungalow for access to land that already had planning permission, highlighting the need to be financially prepared for potential complexities.
Recognise that obtaining planning permission can be challenging, especially for certain types of builds like barn conversions. If you can, choose a plot with existing permission.
While aesthetics matter, ensure that the structural integrity and functionality of spaces are not sacrificed for design elements (e.g., the Randolphs noticed that their barn-like structure lost some of its intended spaciousness).
Open-plan designs can lead to a loss of privacy and functional challenges, particularly when adapting spaces originally not designed for residential use. Consider incorporating defined living spaces while maintaining openness.
Understand that not everything can be planned down to the last detail. Be prepared to make on-the-spot decisions and adjustments as the build progresses.
It can be beneficial to work with experienced professionals, such as architects and local builders, to navigate complexities and ensure that elements of the home are designed for liveability and aesthetics.
Incorporating environmentally-friendly materials and systems, such as using native timber and energy-efficient heating, can enhance sustainability and appeal.
Don’t rush decisions regarding key components, such as heating systems, as they can significantly impact your build timeline and overall living environment.
Prepare for unforeseen site-specific challenges, such as drainage or the ecological viability of landscaping plans (e.g., the Randolphs’ pond was more complicated than expected).
Construction timelines often extend beyond initial estimates. Build in buffer periods for unforeseen delays, as was the case with the Randolphs.
Ensure that chosen heating systems meet your living requirements without excessive energy consumption. The Randolphs found their heat pump system efficient but had to finalise details during construction.
Understand that materials like green oak, while aesthetically pleasing and durable, may require ongoing maintenance (such as cleaning tannin stains).
Consider your and your family’s future when designing living spaces; the Randolphs frequently adapted their home requirements as their lifestyle changed.
Engaging with the environment surrounding your build can enhance your living experience, as demonstrated by the Randolphs’ plans for a wildflower meadow and lake.
Building a home can be stressful but also rewarding. Focus on enjoying the process and the results, as it creates not just a building but a legacy.
It is more expensive to buy a plot with property on it and then demolish because you have to buy the remaining utility in the building and also pay for the demolition.
Barn conversions are typically open plan to allow for the original building to remain undisturbed.
During the groundworks the rooms often look smaller than imagined but they grow again once the walls are up.
Buildings can never be planned to every minute detail, countless day to day decisions need to be made.
Availability Bias during the planning stage can limit the design output. Even veteran builders change their mind.
Changes mid-build adds complexity to the build and can also add significant costs.
Employ a local architect or project manager if the design architect is remote.
If you want a pond/lake nearby it is sensible to have it near the house to use the rain water from the roof and surfaces of the building.
Applying mineral coatings to renders can help set the property into the surrounding area and is relatively cheap too in comparison to the other materials.
It is stressful even for experienced people.
It is never too late. The builders in series 1 episode 2 of #GrandDesigns started the build in their 70’s!
Acknowledgment:
This is a non-commercial review carried out for the purposes of study in developing an understanding of the requirements of self-build in the UK.
The views and opinions expressed are my own and is not affiliated in any way with Grand Designs or Channel 4. All information on this page has been gathered from publicly available sources.
The plot/site information was located using Land Registry and The Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities Data which contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
The lessons learned are derived from my interpretations and observations of a publicly disseminated case study and are in no way meant to be a substitute to the original.
