by TimCrump
17. December 2009 14:49
Welcome to our self- build diary. We are going to track the complete self build process for Derek and Sue, who are building a highly insulated and well appointed house in Herefordshire.
Derek worked in the oil exploration industry and was based, for a period of time, in Norway. Derek first built a house in Norway back in 1982. This house had a basement, and the main structure was a highly insulated softwood timber frame. The house was heated by cheap electricity that was generated from a hydro- electric source and was extremely ecologically friendly.
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In 1999 they returned to the UK and moved into a holiday cottage that they had in West Wales. While the stone cottage was picturesque and beautiful they found that it was too remote from friends and family. In 2002 Derek and Sue bought a 400 year old oak infill panel cottage in Weobley, Herefordshire. Whilst they enjoyed village life in Weobley, it became obvious that their cottage did not occupy enough space, and so they began their search again.
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In 2006, a 1930’s bungalow sitting on what is one of the best plots in the village came on the market. The bungalow had views over the village towards the church in the north, and towards the Black Mountains in the west. Position is everything when looking to build your dream home!
Before making an offer Derek spoke with the planning department at Herefordshire Council and gained in writing their support for the demolition and rebuild of a structure on the site. Whilst fully understanding that buying an existing building to knock down and re build can be an expensive way of acquiring a plot, it is sometimes the way to gain the best setting for your new home.
| Derek and Sue gained ownership of the plot in 2007. At first, they seriously considered the option of renovating the existing bungalow. However, the bungalow was in poor condition and it became obvious that extensive renovation would not result in a satisfactory outcome. The combination of the additional cost of 17.5% vat on all renovation work, together with the restrictions of working with an existing structure, soon took Derek back to the idea of designing a new house. |
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This is where our story really begins.