Suzanna shares her unexpected self-build journey, highlighting how Covid, bats, and newts complicated timelines. She reflects on transforming a 1930s bungalow into a sustainable modern home, navigating planning permissions and design choices. The conversation delves into crucial partnerships and overcoming challenges in construction. Listeners get insights on managing time, resources, and envisioning a perfect garden space, blending practicality with dreams for outdoor living.
Suzanna's self-build project faced unexpected delays due to Covid-19 and conservation regulations, highlighting the need for thorough planning and research.
Emphasizing the importance of hands-on project management, Suzanna gained essential knowledge through online workshops to ensure effective communication and decision-making on-site.
Deep dives
Susanna's Self-Build Journey
Susanna provides an overview of her self-build project, explaining that they transformed a 1930s bungalow in Surrey into a modern two-story house featuring five bedrooms and four bathrooms. This project was particularly challenging due to the necessity of demolishing the existing structure, which they had not initially planned. The couple focused on creating a well-insulated home using a prefab timber frame, complete with solar panels and an air source heat pump to enhance energy efficiency. Susanna highlights the importance of finding a balance between modern aesthetics and functionality while maximizing green credentials.
Navigating Planning Challenges
The planning phase of Susanna's project presented numerous hurdles, taking nearly two years before they could submit their first application. One major setback involved the initial rejection of their design, which failed to retain the original look of the bungalow, necessitating a shift towards a complete rebuild. During this period, complications arose from COVID-19, leading to delays and requiring additional surveys due to conservation regulations that were not foreseen. Susanna emphasizes the importance of thorough research and preparation to anticipate planning requirements and navigate local regulations effectively.
Project Management Insights
Taking on the role of project manager, Susanna learned about the complexities involved in overseeing such a substantial build, which required considerable hands-on oversight. She attended online workshops to gain knowledge about essential aspects like timber framing and energy-efficient systems, which proved beneficial for making informed decisions. Despite facing challenges with unique design features that could confuse tradespeople, her background in project management enabled her to adapt and improve communication on-site. Susanna advises future self-builders to explore multiple suppliers early in the process to maximize learning and gather diverse insights before making commitments.