The Ultimate Guide to Designing and Building Your New Home by McTernan Design
Introduction to McTernan Design: Architectural Excellence in Solihull, Birmingham, and the West Midlands
Have you ever dreamt of creating the perfect home, one that reflects your unique tastes and personality? At McTernan Design, we specialise in turning your vision into reality. Serving Solihull, Birmingham, and the West Midlands, our expertise in residential construction and self-build projects ensures that your journey from concept to completion is smooth, rewarding, and tailored to your needs.
The Decision to Build: Why Opt for a Self-Build Home?
Building your own home is a significant commitment that offers unparalleled rewards. A self-build project allows you to create a house that caters to your specific needs and aesthetic preferences, often at a more competitive price than buying from a developer or purchasing an existing property. With the right guidance, self-building not only delivers a custom home but also adds significant value to your investment.
Benefits of a Tailored Home
Creating your own home gives you complete control over every detail, from room layouts to material choices, ensuring the final design perfectly suits your lifestyle. Whether you dream of a spacious, open-plan kitchen, multiple bathrooms, or incorporating unique design elements, a custom build offers the flexibility to achieve your vision.
Cost Efficiency: Self-building can be more economical than buying a developer-built home. Purchasing land and obtaining planning permission can increase the land’s value, adding equity to your property from the start. With strategic planning, building your own home becomes not just a personal journey but a savvy financial decision.
Sustainable Choices: Building your home allows you to integrate sustainable materials and energy-efficient technologies, reducing your environmental footprint and lowering future energy bills.
Personalised Design: Customising every aspect of your home means it reflects your personality and caters to your family’s needs, providing a truly one-of-a-kind living space.
Choosing Your House Style
Designing your dream home is a significant milestone, and choosing the right architectural style is crucial. McTernan Design specialises in creating bespoke homes in three primary styles: traditional, contemporary, and hybrid, each offering unique advantages.
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Contemporary homes, often showcased on programmes like Grand Designs, are celebrated for their sleek lines, modern materials, and innovative designs. Characterised by expansive glass windows, open-plan interiors, and minimalist aesthetics, contemporary homes embrace cutting-edge architecture, often incorporating materials like steel, concrete, and glass.
Key Features: Clean lines, large windows, flat or low-pitched roofs, and an emphasis on light and space.
Considerations: While contemporary designs can be more costly due to the high-quality materials and precision required, many homeowners find the investment worthwhile for a stylish and distinctive living space.
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Traditional homes offer timeless appeal and blend seamlessly into natural landscapes. Styles such as cottages, farmhouses, barns, and Georgian houses evoke warmth and cosiness, often featuring classic architectural elements like pitched roofs, stone or brick facades, and symmetrical layouts.
Key Features: Pitched roofs, traditional materials, and classic architectural elements that stand the test of time.
Modern Integration: Traditional designs can be updated with modern amenities, such as larger windows for increased natural light and open-plan interiors that maintain charm while providing contemporary functionality.
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Hybrid Style
Hybrid homes combine traditional shapes with modern finishes, offering the best of both worlds. These homes typically feature conventional structures, such as pitched roofs, but incorporate contemporary elements like clean lines, large windows, and open spaces.
Key Features: Blends classic architectural forms with modern materials and finishes, offering a unique and versatile design.
Advantages: Hybrid designs provide the familiarity of traditional homes with the innovation of contemporary architecture, often without significantly increasing build costs.
McTernan Design House design recommendations Solihull & Birmingham
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At McTernan Design, we believe that the best homes are those that harmonise with their environment. Our designs integrate your plot’s natural features and unique characteristics, ensuring your home not only looks stunning but also functions efficiently within its surroundings. This approach enhances the aesthetic appeal and boosts the sustainability and energy efficiency of your home.
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Planning for the future is key to creating a home that adapts to your evolving needs. Future-proofing involves designing flexible spaces that can be reconfigured as your lifestyle changes, such as accommodating a growing family or adding a home office. Incorporate adaptable room layouts, durable materials, and energy-efficient systems to ensure your home remains comfortable and functional for years to come.
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Efficient use of space is achieved by considering your home in functional zones. This approach ensures easy transitions between rooms and optimises space utilisation. By separating public and private areas, you enhance privacy and functionality. For example, living rooms and kitchens should be positioned near the entrance, while bedrooms and bathrooms should be placed in quieter areas.
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A well-designed home balances sociability with privacy. Public areas like living rooms and kitchens should be easily accessible from entry points, fostering interaction and convenience. In contrast, private spaces like bedrooms and study areas should be situated further away to provide a retreat from the hustle and bustle. This thoughtful placement enhances the overall living experience.
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Investing in high-quality, energy-efficient materials is crucial for creating a lasting, contemporary home. Materials such as timber and stone provide durability and contribute to the home's aesthetic appeal and environmental sustainability. Quality materials reduce maintenance costs and improve the home's overall energy efficiency.
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Circulation spaces, including hallways and landings, should be designed to be spacious and engaging. Natural light and strategic views can transform these areas into attractive parts of your home. Consider incorporating windows, skylights, or glass doors to bring in light and create visual interest, making these transitional spaces more enjoyable.
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Transition spaces like lobbies and dressing rooms are crucial in daily living. Well-designed transition areas enhance the flow and functionality of your home. For instance, a well-organised lobby can serve as a buffer between the outside world and your private living areas, while a thoughtfully designed dressing room can simplify your morning routine.
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Connecting your home with its surroundings through visual and physical links enhances the living experience and promotes well-being. Large windows, sliding glass doors, and consistent use of materials can blur the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces. Creating outdoor rooms, patios, or gardens that extend from indoor living areas fosters a seamless connection with nature.
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The placement, size, and number of windows significantly impact your home's interior and exterior. Strategically placed windows can balance natural light, views, and privacy, creating a harmonious design. Consider the orientation of your home to maximise natural light and take advantage of scenic views while ensuring privacy where needed.
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Designing bathrooms requires careful consideration of both environmental impact and ease of cleaning. A well-designed family bathroom can be more practical than multiple ensuites. Consider different family members' needs and plan for accessibility, water-saving fixtures, and easy-to-clean surfaces to create a functional and sustainable space.
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Planning early for the placement of plant equipment and essential services is crucial for practical daily living. Ensure that boilers, heat pumps, and meter cupboards are accessible yet discreetly located. Proper planning of these elements helps maintain the home's aesthetics and functionality.
McTernan Design Residential Design Guide Solihull & Birmingham
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Your home's entrance sets the tone for the rest of the interior. A well-designed hallway balances aesthetic appeal and practicality, providing a welcoming space that protects your living areas from the elements. Consider features like durable flooring, ample lighting, and convenient storage solutions to enhance the entrance.
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Hallways often suffer from a lack of natural light. Consider installing partially glazed doors, high-level windows, or roof lights to counter this. Natural light can make these spaces feel larger and more inviting. If natural light is limited, use strategically placed artificial lighting to brighten the area.
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Hallways should be practical and functional, offering storage for shoes and coats and serving as a buffer against the cold. Durable and easy-to-clean flooring, such as hardwood or stone, ensures longevity and ease of maintenance. Adding rugs and stair runner carpet can soften the look and provide additional comfort.
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Selecting durable flooring for high-traffic areas like hallways is essential. Hardwood and stone are excellent choices due to their resilience and ease of cleaning. These materials can withstand heavy use while maintaining their appearance. Complement the flooring with area rugs or runners for added warmth and style.
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A centrally located hallway with ample storage and easy movement can optimise your home's layout. Efficient use of space ensures that hallways are not just passageways but functional areas that contribute to the overall living experience. Consider built-in storage solutions to maximise space without cluttering the area.
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Integrating the entrance hall with another room, such as the dining room, can reduce wasted space and enhance functionality. This open-plan approach makes smaller homes feel more spacious and connected, creating a seamless flow between different living areas.
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Incorporating solar panels into your home design enhances energy efficiency and sustainability. Various installation options, such as placing panels on flat roofs, using integrated solar tiles, or positioning them in less visible areas, ensure that your home's aesthetics are not compromised. Ground-mounted panels can also be effective, especially if roof space is limited.
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Our designs consider your family's future needs, offering adaptable spaces that can easily be reconfigured as your lifestyle changes, such as turning a guest room into a home office or adding an extension.
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We implement innovative water management techniques that promote sustainability, such as permeable pavements and natural drainage systems, to manage stormwater runoff and enhance your property’s resilience.
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We incorporate universal design principles to ensure your home is accessible and comfortable for all, including features like step-free entrances, wide doorways, and accessible bathrooms.
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We integrate biophilic design elements that foster a connection to nature, such as large windows for natural light, indoor plants, green walls, and natural materials that enhance your well-being.
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Our multi-generational home designs provide flexible living solutions that accommodate different age groups, including separate living quarters, shared spaces, and adaptable layouts to meet the needs of extended families.
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We collaborate with lighting specialists to design and install unique lighting solutions, such as integrated LED systems, custom chandeliers, and outdoor lighting, highlighting architectural features and landscapes.
Custom House Design Information & FAQs
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Securing the right plot can be challenging. Patience and realism are essential, as well as ensuring the land is suitable for your budget and construction needs.
Utilising Family Land and Local Registers
Consider subdividing family land to create a new plot. Alternatively, join your local council's self-build register to stay informed about available plots and planning permissions.
Exploring Development Opportunities
Look for plots within larger developments or self-build communities. These options provide the benefits of custom builds, community support, and shared resources.
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Self-build mortgages generally have higher interest rates and require larger deposits than standard mortgages. The government's Help to Build scheme offers additional financial support, providing an interest-free loan for the first five years, helping to reduce overall costs—research other financing options such as bridging loans and equity release from existing properties to supplement your budget.
Setting a Realistic Budget
Establishing a budget is crucial for a successful build. You should have three key figures: your ideal spend, your maximum budget, and a contingency fund for unexpected costs. This approach helps prevent financial strain and prepares you for unforeseen expenses.
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According to nationally described space standards, any new home should have a minimum floor area of 37 square metres. Check local council requirements for specific room sizes, especially for houses of multiple occupations (HMOs).
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Determine what you need from your house, including the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, kitchen type, and any special requirements like accessibility. Consider maintenance levels, as some finishes require more upkeep than others.
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Maximise your plot’s natural features. Design your home to take advantage of excellent views and natural light, creating bright, welcoming spaces.
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Securing planning permission and building regulation approval is critical. Proper preparation and professional guidance are essential for a smooth process. Research local council requirements thoroughly and engage with a planning consultant if needed. Detailed site surveys and pre-application consultations can identify potential issues early, ensuring your project stays on track.
Planning Permission: Key Considerations
Local Planning Policies: Understand the specific planning policies in your area. These can affect the design, materials, and even the size of your build.
Neighbour Consultation: Engage with neighbours early to address any concerns they might have, which can help in gaining approval.
Heritage and Conservation Areas: Additional restrictions may apply if your plot is in a conservation area or near a listed building.
Environmental Impact: Consider the environmental impact of your build. Sustainable designs and materials can support your application.
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There are various self-build approaches, each with different levels of involvement and expertise required:
DIY Approach: Manage and execute the entire project yourself.
Self-Managed Project: Oversee the project while hiring professionals for specific tasks.
Professionally-Managed Build: Hire a project manager to handle the whole process.
Contractor-Led Construction: Hire a contractor for construction while managing the rest yourself.
Pre-Designed Package/Kit: Choose a pre-designed house from a package build company.
Custom Build Community: Work with a developer to customise a house within a community of similar homes.
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Understanding and managing construction costs is crucial. Here are some key areas to consider:
Material Costs: Prices for materials can vary significantly. High-quality materials like timber and stone are durable but may be more expensive. Compare costs and consider long-term benefits.
Labour Costs: Skilled labour can be costly. Obtain multiple quotes and check references to ensure you get good value for money.
Professional Fees: Architectural services, surveyors, and planning consultants charge fees that should be included in your budget.
Contingency Fund: Always include a contingency fund for unexpected expenses, typically 10-15% of your total budget.
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Modern construction techniques can enhance the longevity and efficiency of your home:
Energy-Efficient Designs: Incorporate energy-efficient features such as insulation, double glazing, and solar panels to reduce long-term costs.
Sustainable Materials: Use sustainable materials that have a lower environmental impact.
Prefabrication: Consider prefabricated elements to reduce construction time and costs.
Smart Home Technology: Integrate smart home systems for heating, lighting, and security to improve convenience and efficiency.
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The construction phase can be time-consuming and challenging. Depending on your involvement, you may need to manage the project, hire professionals for inspections, and ensure everything stays on track.
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Self-build costs vary by location, size, materials, and professional rates. On average, a self-build in the UK costs around £270,000, with plot costs around £190,000. Always include a contingency for unforeseen expenses.
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While the average house price in the UK may be slightly lower than a self-build, the benefits of a custom home often justify the additional expense. Consider local market conditions and available properties before committing to a self-build.
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If you are building a new home or converting an existing property, you can reclaim VAT on building materials and services. Here’s a detailed guide:
Eligibility: Ensure your project qualifies. New builds, conversions, and particular renovations are eligible, but you cannot claim VAT on repairs or extensions to existing homes.
Zero-Rated Services: Construction services for new builds should be zero-rated for VAT. Confirm with your contractors that they are applying this correctly.
Fixed Materials: You can reclaim VAT on fixed building materials, like bricks and insulation, but not on items like carpets and appliances.
Documentation: Keep all original receipts and invoices. HMRC requires these to validate your claim.
Application: Submit your VAT reclaim application to HMRC within three months of completing your build. Use the VAT431NB form for new builds and VAT431C for conversions.
Professional Advice: Consult a VAT specialist to ensure compliance and maximise your reclaim.
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A self-build warranty differs from self-build insurance. While insurance protects during the build, a warranty covers workmanship, materials, and design issues for up to 10 years post-completion. This warranty is crucial for future mortgage applications and resale value, as it assures potential buyers and lenders of the build quality.
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Ensure access to essential services like water, electricity, and sewage. If you need to arrange access, costs can range from a few hundred to thousands of pounds. Consult a solicitor if you need to install connections across private land or public highways.
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Consider the build timeline when planning where to live during construction. A typical home takes six to nine months to construct, but always factor in potential delays. Weather, supply chain issues, and labour availability can impact your timeline, so it’s wise to build in some flexibility.
Get in Touch
Ready to start your self-build journey? Contact McTernan Design today to discuss your ideas and discover how we can help create your perfect home. Our dedicated team will guide you through every step, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.
Our Bespoke New Dwelling Service
Custom Home Design in Solihull, Birmingham, and the West Midlands
Whether you dream of a modern minimalist retreat, a classic countryside estate, or a cutting-edge urban home, our design team can create a wide range of architectural styles that perfectly suit your vision.
Bespoke Architectural Solutions
Our bespoke designs harmonise with the surrounding environment and adhere to local requirements, offering a perfect balance between beauty and functionality. We stay current with the latest Building Regulations and local planning policies, ensuring your home meets and surpasses government standards, minimising delays and issues.
What McTernan Design Can Achieve for You in Solihull, Birmingham, and the West Midlands
Partnering with McTernan Design ensures:
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Bespoke Designs: Tailored to your vision and lifestyle, our bespoke home plans reflect your unique taste and requirements.
We incorporate sustainable architecture practices, such as passive solar design, green roofs, and rainwater harvesting, to ensure your home meets your needs while supporting environmental well-being. Our commitment to sustainability includes collaborating with suppliers who provide eco-friendly materials, reducing the environmental impact of your home’s construction and finishes. From eco-friendly insulation to advanced roofing materials, our choices ensure durability and performance.
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Before starting any project, we conduct detailed feasibility studies that evaluate the viability of your design vision, considering factors like site conditions, budget constraints, and regulatory requirements.
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Our extensive local knowledge allows us to navigate regional planning processes efficiently and design homes that blend seamlessly with the character and charm of Solihull, Birmingham, Warwickshire, Coventry, Walsall, and Wolverhampton.
Expert Guidance: Navigate planning permissions smoothly with our comprehensive expertise and local knowledge.
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Our client-focused approach ensures we take the time to understand your specific needs, preferences, and aspirations, creating a personalised design experience that results in a home ideally suited to you. Our in-depth design consultations involve detailed discussions about your lifestyle, preferences, and future needs, allowing us to create a custom design that perfectly suits you and your family. Our personalised engagement process includes regular design workshops and feedback sessions, allowing you to be intimately involved in every step of the design journey.
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Cutting-Edge Techniques: Utilising the latest architectural technologies for a modern, efficient home.
Quality Craftsmanship
With attention to detail and a commitment to superior craftsmanship, our team ensures that every element of your home is built to the highest standards, using premium materials and the latest construction techniques.
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Enhance the market value of your property with a bespoke new home designed by our expert team.
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Experience your future home before it’s built with our virtual design walkthroughs. Our advanced VR technology lets you explore and modify your home design in real time.
Contact us to discuss your aspirations for your new home.
A home is more than four walls.
mark@mcternandesign.co.uk
07955 572811