On Thursday 8th June we welcomed Heidi Alexander, Labour’s parliamentary candidate in South Swindon along with Janine Howarth, member for housing with Swindon Borough Council.
We began with a short walking tour of the Centre's educational resources with the team, and provided an overview of the NSBRC's history, current projects and future plans, delivered by Harvey. We then discussed the potential for self build to deliver better, energy efficient homes and the power of employee-ownership to transform businesses.
It was great to meet Heidi & Janine and we thank them both for their time and interest in our company. 🤝🏡
Planning a self-build or major renovation? Before you start choosing paint colours, ripping out bathrooms or getting builders through the door, there are a few things I’d strongly recommend doing first.
I’ve renovated, styled and worked on enough properties to know that the projects that run most smoothly aren’t necessarily the ones with the biggest budgets - they’re the ones where the homeowner has thought ahead.
Because when you’re in the middle of a renovation, there will be things you didn’t expect. There will be decisions you need to make quickly, deliveries that don’t arrive, costs that change and, inevitably, the odd moment when you wonder why on earth you started.
So, here are my five top tips for getting yourself organised before the work begins.
Our Trade Village is home to more than 200 permanent exhibiting partners, selected for their reputable and relevant services and their expertise in the self build and renovation community.
Keep reading to discover the latest offerings & events at the NSBRC...
Each year The National Self Build & Renovation Centre produces a survey in partnership with the National Custom & Self Build Association (NaCSBA).
The 2026 survey marks our sixth edition and was completed by 415 people. This data provides a detailed view of those planning, undertaking, or having recently completed substantial homebuilding projects.
