Here you can read about Visitors of the Centre who have been inspired by the resources at the NSBRC, be it our popular National Self Build and Renovation Shows, or the array of Training Courses and Workshops run throughout the year, many have gone on to successfully complete a construction project. Why not take a look and see how the NSBRC can help you with your project?
Guy & Susan Hargreaves
Guy and Susan Hargreaves, based in Oxford, undertook a major renovation and extension of their mid-terrace home (originally built in 1906), achieving Passivhaus EnerPHit certification through multiple retrofitting methods, blending modern sustainability with traditional townscape character.
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Chris & Vicky King
Chris and Vicky King completed a traditional-style self build home in West Devon using ICF Woodcrete construction. The 329 sq. m. project began in July 2021 (with the purchase of land) and finished in April 2024.
Alan Muncaster
Alan completed a major retrofit of his detached bungalow in Weymouth, Dorset. The project included better insulation, photovoltaic systems, mechanical ventilation with heat recovery, battery storage, and an air source heat pump, preserving the original floor plan. The bungalow's 82 square meter area saw its Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating rise from D in 2011 to A, significantly lowering imported electricity requirements.
Lea & Peter Fellows
Lea and Peter undertook their second self build to create a contemporary-styled home in Hampshire. Find out how the Centre helped shape their build journey here.
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Fraser Besant
Fraser Besant, a self builder and exhibitor at the NSBRC (owner of Ablectrics), undertook his project in Bristol in September 2023, demolishing an existing house to rebuild his family’s forever home using block work construction.
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Martin & Jane Smethurst
Martin and Jane self built in Milton, a strong conservation area with many surrounding Grade 1 & 2 listed buildings which provided challenges in gaining planning consent.
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Dan Stewart
Dan Stewart, an Architect & Self Builder, built a modern, low energy, 'forever home' in Wembury, South Devon using ICF (insulated concrete formwork). ‘Birdsong’ is designed to the Passivhaus standard, and is certified to the AECB CarbonLite New Build Standard.
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