MEET THE TEAM

EMILY SMITH is Build It’s deputy editor. She has an in-depth understanding of the challenges self builders and renovators face. On page 76, she explains how creating a bespoke property can help enhance your lifestyle and wellbeing.

CHARLEY WARD is Build It’s editorial assistant, and newest recruit. She has a passion for architecture and loves visiting readers’ real-life projects to hear their self build stories. This month, she looks at smart home security systems (page 66).

TIM DOHERTY was the founding MD of the NSBRC and runs Dobanti property surveyors. He advises on a range of project issues, including finance. On page 99, he explains what you need to know about drawing up contracts.

MIKE DADE is a planning specialist and plot-finding expert. He’s the author of several must-read books on land and planning. This month, he assesses a project with potential to extend and complete a new build in the garden (page 115).

JULIAN OWEN is

Build It’s design doctor. He is a self build architect and the founder of the Association of Self-build Architects. This month, he reveals how a professional designer can help to save you cash (page 86).

ALAN TIERNEY is a historic buildings consultant and conservation specialist, offering hands-on advice to owners of heritage homes. On page 94, he unveils the dos and don’ts when it comes to revamping old floors in period properties. MIKE HARDWICK is a consultant and project management specialist, and has been heavily involved in promoting self build with NACSBA. Check out his advice on page 91 to avoid those common self build and renovation pitfalls. OPINDER LIDDAR is director of award-winning practice Lapd Architects and a regular expert at the Build It Live shows. He’s a regular expert at the Build It Live shows and is the designer behind the Build It Education House (page 60). NIGEL GRIFFITHS is a sustainability consultant and author of Haynes’ Eco House Manual, and a fount of knowledge for heating options. On page 130 he discusses the advice you can tap into at the upcoming Build It Live shows.