Across the two days, we welcomed 940 adults (plus a few budding self-builders!). The Friday presented something of a 'first' for us, proving to be the most popular of the two days - though both overall were busy and positive.
It's equally encouraging to see that creating a sustainable and energy efficient home remains a firm priority to many - and we aimed to cater to this through our seminar topics.
Some highlights on our timetable included 'NSBRC Surgeries: LIVE!’, following the success of our monthly webinars, where we explored 'Electrification' and the latest options available to us to power our homes - and cars - in a more environmentally friendly way. Bradfords also discussed the trends and price increases around the cost of building materials, and Andrew Jones - or the 'VAT Man', told visitors all about reclaiming VAT on a project.
For those of you that attended, you'll have noticed Morris Commercial's fully electric and iconic JE Van, wit cutting-edge battery technology and a quintessentially British design, on display near the Coffee House, which proved to be an interesting attraction for attendees.
We also proudly showcased our new Swindog - a giant balloon dog sculpture - named 'Sparky' in the Piazza, which we recently won at an auction in aid of Julia's House following our sponsorship of The Big Dog Art Trail this summer. We are certain he'll be the star of many a selfie in the months to follow! You can find out more about this here.
We also discussed the usual suspects when it comes to topics self builders and home renovators need to know about, including financing your project, planning, design and an array of talks on renewable technologies. Alongside the plethora of seminars, we held our usual guided tours of the Self Build Educational Zone (which takes self builders through each major stage of a new build), as well as our Renovation House Tour - where a technical advisor walks you through a dilapidated inter-war property.
Some of our visitors kindly shared their thoughts on the event:
If you are considering a new build, renovation or extension the NSBRC is a great place to help you. The presentations in the two theatres are very informative, as are the question and answer sessions that follow. Many companies with staff are here, ready to answer any questions about their products. Best of all there are experts in various fields ready to freely give you advice on a range of topics be it finance, builders, construction methods, heating, planning, architecture et al. There is a friendly helpful atmosphere here, you will be inspired.
Trevor, B - ★★★★★
Very well organised two day event. Great support from Corinne and Andrea on the VIP team, and Katy on the desk making all the bookings to ‘ask an expert’. Thank you to everyone.
Lots of exhibitors who are very helpful and informative, no hard selling but who know their products. Well worth going if you are thinking about any changes to your home, large or small. Themed presentations give a great overview of things to consider.Peter, M - ★★★★★
Outstanding two days at the NSBRC. Quality exhibitors and seminars; good opportunity for 1-1 discussions; with excellent organisation and communication before, during and after the event. If you're considering a building project no matter how big or small then get in touch with these guys and prepare to learn!
Dom, M - ★★★★★
If couldn't make it to this show, or you'd like to expand your knowledge on improving your home, we have our final three workshops of 2023 coming up over the next couple of months:
- Saturday 11th November – Eco Workshop: Retrofit & Sustainable New Builds
- Saturday 25th November – Passivhaus Workshop
- Saturday 9th December – Building Systems Workshop
We look forward to welcoming you back to the Centre, and thank you for your continued support!
Team NSBRC.
