MEET THE TEAM

EMILY SMITH is Build It’s deputy editor and supplements editor. This month, she looks at how to achieve a high-quality basement extension (page 54). For more from Emily, see self-build.co.uk/emily

ANAMIKA TALWARIA is Build It’s editorial assistant. Keen to make an entrance? Head over to page 59 for her buyer’s guide to front doors. Read more from Anamika at self-build.co.uk/anamika

LUCY APLIN is Build It’s digital editorial assistant. She’s created tonnes of practical content for you to enjoy on Self-build.co.uk and has been putting your questions to the experts on page 114.

TIM DOHERTY was the founding MD of the NSBRC and runs Dobanti property surveyors. On page 105 he looks at what you need to know to engage the best electricians.

MIKE DADE is a planning specialist and plot-finding expert. This month he shares his insider tips on what it really costs to design a great home and win planning consent (page 109).

JULIAN OWEN is a self build architect, founder of the Association of Selfbuild Architects. On page 100, he reveals why the roof could be your build’s most important design feature.

ALAN TIERNEY is a historic buildings expert and conservation specialist, offering advice to owners of heritage homes. On page 88 he reveals the best ways to assess a barn conversion.

MIKE HARDWICK is a self build consultant, project management specialist and longstanding Build It contributor. On page 95 he investigates how to secure a self build mortgage.

OPINDER LIDDAR is director of Lapd Architects and was the designer behind the Build It Education House (buildit.co.uk/ourhouse). He’s a regular expert at the Build It Live shows.

NIGEL GRIFFITHS is a sustainability consultant and a fount of knowledge for heating and energy efficiency solutions. Check out selfbuild.co.uk/nigel to read his latest eco building advice.