Grand Designs Handbook is a new book by presenter Kevin McCloud in which he guides you through each stage of the self-build process. We've got our hands on Kevin's top 10 do's and don'ts for anyone considering their own Grand Design.
DO employ an architect and a good one at that, who shares your view of the world. Don't try to design your home yourself, it's not what you were trained to do, nor will you be any good at it. Look, I've had all sorts of design training and I would still employ an architect, and on a full service contract at that. A good architect is free and they will give you back your dream fully wrought and magnificently detailed - providing you choose the right one.
DO contain your budget and contain your ambition, allowing yourself up to 20% contingency fee on the project. If you don't spend it on the house you can spend it on sofas and a holiday at the end!
DO Spend three years planning your project and putting everything in place in advance, and chances are you'll be on site six to eight months (which is the very expensive bit). Spend six months planning and chances are you'll be on site for three years (which, to remind you, is the very expensive bit).
DON'T risk all for a dream you've never lived. Don't be beguiled by all you see in magazines. Instead incorporate as many elements in your design that you know for sure make you happy.
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