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Self Build & Renovation: Live! - Episode 6 - 'Battle of the Building Systems'

Do you know your timber-frame from your steel-frame? Do you understand the difference in cost and performance between Insulated Concrete Formwork and traditional brick and block masonry? Do you know what considerations need to me made for these respective building systems, or how they impact the environment?

In this episode, our Self Build & Renovation: Live! series host Chris Dawes (Visual PR) is joined by experts representing different building systems, to explore the benefits and considerations of each of them...

Our FREE Building Systems Workshop on Saturday 15th March (10:00 – 16:00) is aimed at people in the early stages of a project, who have yet to decide which building method they are using. One of the most important decisions you will make during your project is which building system to use, as this is used to construct the superstructure of the house.

A range of expert advice and presentations is also on offer at The National Self Build & Renovation Show, from Friday 31st January - Sunday 2nd February. Find out more and book FREE advance tickets (£12 each OTD).

Episode 7 of Self Build & Renovation: Live! on Tuesday 21st January (13:00-13:45), will feature a real-life case study, as we proudly chat with Clive Spencer, one of our visitors who has completed a fantastic self build project to Passivhaus standard.

We will also be speaking Rosie Farmiloe, Head of Trader Engagement at Which?, about the importance of trusted traders for your project.

Head over to YouTube and click the 'Notify Me' button to make sure you don't miss us going live!

To watch all our episodes live or on-demand, make sure you’re following our social media channels, including YouTube, Facebook and LinkedIn.

We look forward to welcoming you to the Centre soon!

Latest articles


Move or Renovate? Harvey Fremlin weighs in on BBC Radio 4’s Money Box Live

If your current home no longer suits your needs, should you move - or improve? It’s a dilemma millions face, and Money Box Live on BBC Radio 4 tackled the issue in its latest episode (first broadcast on May 7, 2025).

Felicity Hannah was joined by key voices in the property and renovation space, including Harvey Fremlin, Managing Director of The National Self Build & Renovation Centre. Using his insight into the self build & renovation industry, Harvey offered guidance for homeowners grappling with this decision.

April Trade Village Newsletter 2025

New Partners & Upgraded Stands Edition

We are proud to introduce some of our newest exhibitors and fresh, upgraded stands at the Centre. Our partners are experts in self build and renovation, and are highly engaged in this community. Visit our upcoming events to meet them and explore their amazing displays!

Keep reading to discover the latest offerings at the NSBRC...

VIEW THE FULL LIST OF EXHIBITORS AT THE NSBRC

Seize the Moment: Why Now Is the Perfect Time to Self Build Your Dream Home

We received this blog from longstanding exhibitor, Fleming Homes and found the piece inspiring, and wanted to share this with you. We hope this offers encouragement as you embark on your homebuilding project.

"Do not wait until the conditions are perfect to begin. Beginning makes the conditions perfect." Alan Cohen*

Alan Cohen's quote captures a powerful truth that’s particularly relevant to self-building. When the housing market feels uncertain, when interest rates continue to feel elevated in comparison with the record lows of 2020-2021, or when material prices fluctuate, it’s tempting to put the brakes on our plans - to hold off until things calm down.

The National Self Build & Renovation Show: Friday 10th & Saturday 11th October 2025


Create your perfect home at The National Self Build & Renovation Show! Join us for two days of an unrivalled line up of exhibitors and experts on hand to share their advice, this is an unmissable event for anyone thinking of self building or renovating their home.

The National Self Build & Renovation Show