Best Home 2013 Announced

You voted, now we can reveal the Best Self-Build or Renovation Project of 2013!

We are delighted to announce that Joshua Penk’s sustainable self-build home in Cornwall (pictured) topped our Build It Awards reader poll this year.

This year’s Build It Awards was graced with a fabulous shortlist for the best home accolade that spoke volumes about the desire and determination of self-builders and renovators, as well as celebrating the quality and scope of design and construction in the UK.

You voted in your droves to decide between some fabulous projects, including an ultra-efficient self-build that’s the realisation of a childhood dream and a £150,000 build that’s set to provide a model for more affordable builds to highlight but two of the inspiring homes shortlisted by the judges.

By the end of the voting, it was clear that Build It magazine readers were enchanted by Joshua Penk’s stunning woodland home. Built for under £82,000 and largely designed and constructed with his own hands, Joshua’s fabulous self-build in Bodmin shows that hands-on, low-cost projects can be eco-friendly and beautifully designed.

Aged just 19 when he broke ground on his scheme, Joshua’s first home is hugely inspiring to novice self-builders and first-time buyers alike. Not only has he created a sustainable home for an affordable price, but he’s shown off his talent for design and willingness to muck in, all-the-while supporting local industry with his choice of materials.

The contemporary house takes advantage of many of the latest sustainable building techniques to create a comfortable living environment. “It’s very eco-friendly,” says Joshua. “There are no synthetic materials, so it’s extremely breathable.”

Joshua collected his award at the Build It Awards ceremony on 21st November, presented by QI comedian Alan Davies. He was joined by a host of award winners as Build It magazine celebrated innovation and excellence in the self-build sector.