National Homebuilding & Renovating Show 2020 in Birmingham – Preview
PLEASE NOTE THAT DUE TO CORONAVIRUS OUTBREAK, THE NATIONAL HOMEBUILDING & RENOVATING SHOW HAS BEEN POSTPONED FOR THE NEXT YEAR.
It is the time of year that every ambitious self-builder is waiting for. In just a month, the NEC in Birmingham will welcome 40,000 excited self-builders and become the capital of homebuilding for the UK.
The National Homebuilding & Renovating show is the biggest homebuilding event in the United Kingdom, and even if you do not live in this area, it is really worth travelling for. This year, the National Homebuilding & Renovating Show will take place from 26th-29th March and as always, will offer many seminars, masterclasses and an opportunity to discuss your project with industry-leading Self Build experts and hundreds of exhibitors.
This guide is personalised for a self-builder who is just beginning their self-build journey and wants to get as much knowledge as possible from the show. The Birmingham show is the largest in the United Kingdom. It offers a wealth of information, with almost 90 different seminars, masterclasses and workshops, and a full cast of experts ready to give you one-on-one advice!
We know that starting a Self Build project can be overwhelming, and you may be unsure of what to focus on when going to your first homebuilding show. This is why we have developed the ultimate guide to the National Homebuilding & Renovating Show in Birmingham.
We have selected the top seminars and masterclasses you should visit, experts and exhibitors you should speak to in order to get the most of the show. We would always suggest going to the Birmingham show over two days, as there is so much to do – however, if you can only go one day then you will have to pick and choose what to fit in!
The organisers of the show have listened to self-builders’ feedback from the previous years and in response have organised the Land Hub. This area is entirely devoted to a crucial and challenging part of the Self Build journey – plot hunting.
If you are at the stage of looking for a plot of land, then we would recommend that you should take part in some of the sessions organised here.
SELF BUILD THEATRE SEMINARS
The seminars at the National HBR Show 2020 are divided between four theatres: Self Build, Home Improvement, Masterclass and Tricks of the Trade. Additionally, there are several sessions for ‘plot hunters’ organised in the Land Hub. For a prospective self-builder, the most valuable seminars will be presented in the Self Build theatre. Here the Self Build experts will be delivering talks on all the important parts of the self-build process. Below are our top picks for the Self Build theatre:
Top 7 Self Build Theatre Seminars:
Beginner’s guide to building your own home
Jason Orme – Content Director at H&R Magazine and Tom McSherry – Finance Expert at BuildStore, Everyday at 10:30-11:15
How do you get started on the path to creating your dream home from scratch? An essential guide to starting your project off on the right path, from understanding finance, how to find land, deal with designers and builders and much more.
Design: How to make your new home wow
Allan Corfield – Design Expert at H&R Magazine and AC Architects, Everyday at 11:15-12:00
One of the UK’s leading house designers gives their insider guide on how to make your new home special. These are the things that your designer should be looking to include in your design – from inspiring interior spaces to smart space-saving solutions and exterior features that will make your new home have real kerb appeal.
Planning Permission explained
Sally Tagg – Planning Expert at Homebuilding & Renovating, Everyday at 12:00-12:45
Every self-builder needs to navigate the planning system. Our expert gives insider tips on everything from explaining how the process works, what to expect, and how to ensure success when it comes to applying for planning approval.
What will your project cost?
Bob Branscombe – Building Expert, Everyday at 12:45-13:30
Understanding construction costs is critical to bringing in your project without stress. Our expert, an experienced construction manager and surveyor who runs costs on some of Britain’s leading construction projects, gives an insight into where the money goes on home construction, how to control the budget and how to reduce costs without compromising on quality.
How to find and manage builders & tradespeople
Andy Stevens – Master Builder and Broadcaster, Everyday at 14:15-15:00
Our expert, one of the UK’s most acclaimed builders, gives insider tips on how to find the right builder and tradespeople for your project. This seminar includes how to assess quotes, contracts, and how to avoid things going wrong – as well as what to pay.
Creating a low energy home
David Hilton – Eco Expert at H&R Magazine, Everyday at 15:00-15:45
Our new homes will need less energy than ever, but how do you achieve a low energy home successfully? The world of sustainable building is highly complex, and our expert will guide you through how to make the right choices on everything from insulation to heating systems. We’ll talk about PassivHaus and different approaches, including where best to invest.
How to manage your Self Build project
Bob Branscombe – Building Expert at H&R Magazine, Everyday at 15:45-16:30
There are many different ways to build your own home – from running your project to bringing in a package supplier. We explore the pros and cons of each approach and how to decide which one is right for you – and the cost implications of your decision.
MASTERCLASS THEATRE SEMINARS
The Masterclass Theatre will feature exhibitors who will discuss their products and share information from their area of expertise. If you are unsure of which structural system is best for your project or which renewables will be appropriate for you, there will be many masterclasses which will help you make up your mind. Below, we present our top 10 seminars:
Top 10 Masterclass Theatre Seminars:
Bring more light into your life – incorporating rooflights into your renovation or build
26 March 13:30-13:50 – Roof Maker
How to choose a ground source heat pump: application, ground array options & RHI funding
26 March 15:00-15:20 – Kensa Heat Pumps
What is Custom Build, and how can it help you realise your dream of creating an individual home?
27 March 11:30-11:50 – Border Oak
SIPs Explained: All you ever wanted to know to know about building your own home using structural insulated panels
27 March 12:30-12:50 – SIPs Industries
Custom build and new routes to finding land
27 March 13:00-13:20 – Custom Build Homes
Saving money through ventilation: a guide to Mechanical Ventilation Heat Recovery systems
27 March 13:30-13:50 – ADM Systems
Inspirational lighting design and how to avoid some common pitfalls
27 March 14:00-14:20 – Brilliant Lighting
Windows for energy efficiency: how to get it right in Passivhaus and sustainable homes
28 March 13:30-13:50 – Internorm
How to fund your Self Build or renovation project: a guide to stage payment mortgages
28 March 14:00-14:20 – BuildStore
How to design the perfect kitchen
29 March 12:00-12:20 – John Lewis
EXPERT PANEL DISCUSSIONS
At the National Homebuilding & Renovating Show in Birmingham, visitors will have the opportunity to experience a new seminar formula – panel discussions. You will the opportunity to listen to a panel of the top experts debating various self build topics – from how to build an eco-home to what are the latest interior design trends. The panel discussions will be hosted at two stages: the Self Build Theatre and the Real Homes Home Improvement Theatre:
Expert Panel Discussions:
House design success
26 March 13:30-14:15. Moderated by Jason Orme. The Self Build Theatre
The expert panel of some of Britain’s leading house designers will discuss the best ways to engage with designers and approach the design process. They will examine where things go wrong but also look at emerging house design trends and how to ensure your design stands the test of time.
Building greener homes
27 March 13:30-14:15. Moderated by Jason Orme. The Self Build Theatre
The panel of experts will discuss the different approaches to building a greener home and what is realistically achievable for most self-builders. Is Passivhaus worthy of the hype? What should people really be prioritising? If you’re hoping to build a low energy home, this will answer your questions and much more.
What’s the Right to Build
28 March 13:30-14:15. Moderated by Jason Orme. The Self Build Theatre
The Government’s Right to Build offers huge opportunities for self-builders. Three years in, the panel will discuss how it can benefit everyone, the impact on plot availability and explain how you can use it to your advantage.
How to get started
29 March 13:30-14:15. Moderated by Jason Orme. The Self Build Theatre
The panel will discuss the problems faced by people looking to make a start on building their own home, and the best ways to overcome them. With decades of experience on stage, you’ll get inside tips on the easiest ways to make 2020 the year you finally get to build your own home.
Interior Design Masterclass
Everyday at 13:15-14:00 Moderated by Laura Crombie, Sian Astley and Jo Dyson. The Real Homes Home Improvement Theatre.
The panel of experts will discuss the timeless design principles that you’ll want to include in your newly renovated home, along with looking at the latest trends. Packed with brilliant ideas and inspiration, you’ll discover plenty of tips to apply to your new spaces to make them warm and inviting.
LAND HUB SEMINARS
The Land Hub area is entirely devoted to a crucial and challenging part of the Self Build journey – plot hunting. If you are currently looking for a plot of land for your future home, then we would recommend that you should take part in some of the sessions organised here. Some of them are:
Land Hub Seminars:
How to start your plot search
Everyday at 10:30-11:00.
Successful plot hunting requires a well thought through plan. The plot experts will explain how to get ready to search and will look at the reasons why plots are so elusive and how to put together a plot hunting budget.
What to look for
Everyday 11:00-11:30.
To find a plot, you need to know what you’re looking for. Plots come in all sorts of shapes and sizes as well as the most unexpected locations. The experts will show you what plots to look for and also identify what’s not a plot and what should be avoided.
25 ways to find a plot
Everyday 11:30-12:30.
Plot hunting involves much more than trawling websites and search engines. The experts will explain some of the tools used by professional plot hunters and broaden your search skills to increase your chances of finding a suitable plot.
Paying the right price for a plot
Everyday 14:30-15:00.
Valuing a plot correctly is key to making sure your project doesn’t come off the rails before it is even started. The plot experts will explain the valuation process and how to maximise the profitability of your project.
ASK THE EXPERTS
The National Homebuilding & Renovating Show offers the chance to get first-hand advice from many of the top Self Build specialists in the UK. So bring your plans, ideas and any issues you have regarding your project to the Advice Centre. This is an amazing opportunity to get valuable information no matter which stage of your homebuilding project you are at. Here is our list of the 7 experts that every self-builder should speak to at the NHBR show in Birmingham:
Top 7 Experts For Consultations:
Sian Astley
Sian Astley is a lady builder and home renovator with 22yrs experience. Beginning with a small damp proofing company in the 90s she now runs a successful property consulting and interior design business and manages a buy to let portfolio. She enjoys taking part in property shows, with the BBC1s Getting The Builders In being her most recent TV project, and also writing a home blog called The Moregeous Notepad. She’s currently mid her own Self Build and extensive renovation at home in Manchester, running bi-monthly walking workshops for beginning renovators or those stuck in a design rut.
Allan Corfield
Allan is a Chartered Architect, and ACA’s founder, the Self Build Architectural practice, working on one-off homes throughout the UK. His goal is to provide prospective self-builders with the inspiration, support, and education they require to build their own cost-effective, energy-efficient, dream home. You can read more about Allan here.
Jo Dyson
Jo Dyson is an experienced property renovator who enjoys unlocking the potential of a property through clever reconfiguring and interior design. She is also a features writer, diarist and expert for Homebuilding & Renovating Magazine. Jo has become a regular presenter at the London Excel Homebuilding & Renovating Show and co-founded residential property consultancy Mae House Design.
Michael Holmes
One of the country’s leading property experts, presenter of multiple property TV Shows and the Chair of the NaCSBA – organisation founded to support self-builders throughout the UK. His book, ‘Renovating for Profit’, is the definitive guide to home renovations that makes a difference to the value of your property. Michael cannot be missed by any conscious self-builder.
Tom McSherry
Tom has worked in the financial services industry for 27 years – 14 of these, specialising in self build mortgages and finance at BuildStore, providing expert advice to hundreds of customers embarking on major homebuilding projects whether to live in, let or sell. Tom has completed two major homebuilding projects himself and is widely regarded as a self-build finance expert. He presents Finance Masterclasses at The Homebuilding and Renovating Shows throughout the year, and provides one-to-one consultations on finance in our Ask the Expert Advice Centre.
Jason Orme
Jason Orme is Editorial Director of Homebuilding & Renovating Magazine and has worked in the Self Build sector for 20 years. He has built and renovated several homes, Self Building for the first time at the age of 28, and has recently completed a major renovation and extension project. He has advised 100s of self-builders and renovators on how to make their projects a success and helped to advise Government on Self Build policy. He is a well-known broadcast expert on building and renovating homes and is the author of The Self Build Dream.
Sally Tagg
A planning expert with a successful track record of achieving planning permission for a wide variety of clients including individual self-builders, and land owners seeking to unlock the development potential of their land. If you think that your project may be challenging in terms of achieving planning approval, or just want to give yourself peace of mind, consultation with Sally is recommended!
EXHIBITORS
There will be almost 500 exhibitors in the NHBR show in Birmingham. You will, therefore, have the chance to explore their various products and services, which can be used in your project. There will be companies who specialise in design, renewables, exteriors, interiors, financial services and many other categories of services and products related to Self Building. It wasn’t easy, but we chose the top 8 self-build exhibitors you should visit:
Top 8 Exhibitors To Visit:
Ventilation, Stand No. H121
If you are considering the installation of a heat recovery ventilation system (MVHR), then a visit to stand no. H121 should be high on your ‘exhibitors to see’ shortlist. ADM Systems offer a full range of services such as CAD design and proposals, site surveys, compliance advice, complete installation by BPEC approved engineers and full ventilation system maintenance and aftercare packages. They also offer a ‘buddy’ service for self-builders installing their own heat recovery systems.
Finance, Insurance & Mortgages, Stand No. E153
For the vast majority of self-builders getting a mortgage for building their dream home is a necessary mission. BuildStore offers mortgages for clients who are either building their own house, renovating or looking for a better rate on their current house while planning a project. Come over to stand no. E153 and check out what they have to offer.
Home Technology & Security, Stand No. E262
Collison Smart Systems is a leading provider of Loxone Smart Home and Business Automation Systems – managing lighting, heating, security, multimedia and more.
Professional Services, Stand No. G140
Custom Build Homes is the UK’s leading provider of Estate Agency, Marketing & Development Solutions for Developers, Landowners and Local Authorities operating in the Custom and Self Build development sectors.
Structural Systems, Stand No. G198
BCos Logs are the company who are UK representatives for the famous log homes builder – Pioneer Log Homes of British Colombia. Our Technical Director, Robin Gray will be available at their stand (no. G198) to advise every self-builder who would like to build a log home.
Windows, Stand No. D157
Internorm is a strong family business. From the birth of the UPVC window to the production of timber/aluminium windows and the high-tech and high-design innovations nowadays, Internorm is setting standards Europe-wide. Continuous technological further development and continual innovations make us a pioneer in the brand.
Heating, Renewables, Stand No. E231
Kensa Heat Pumps is one of the UK’s most popular ground source heat pump brands with an extensive range and award-winning heritage since 1999. Ideal for heating Self Builds and renovations Kensa ground source heat pumps can save you money on heating bills and maintenance. It will also generate a guaranteed quarterly income through the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI); seven years income for single builds, twenty years income for multiple units.
Structural Systems, Stand No. H123
If you want to build a low-energy house and are wondering what construction method to adopt, The National Homebuilding and Renovating Show is an amazing opportunity to speak with the companies offering sustainable home building solutions and to find the best one for your project. Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) offer a modern, cost-effective, environmental and energy-efficient solution to building construction. Come to stand no. H123 and have a chat with their specialists to find out if SIPs is for you.
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The National Homebuilding & Renovating Show in Birmingham holds a plethora of information for a prospective self-builder. The recommendations we have created are, in our opinion, great for people planning to build their dream home. However, this doesn’t mean that the other seminars, experts or exhibitors are not worth seeing. Depending on the priorities of your project, it may be more appropriate to attend other talks. Or if you can visit the show for three days, you can widen your agenda to see more. It is worth the effort and time to prepare well for the show, as what you will learn will influence the outcome of your project!
If you have decided to visit the show, ACA is happy to offer you 2 free tickets for the show. Just click the button below and fill the form.
ACA AT THE NATIONAL HBR SHOW
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