From Blueprints to Reality: Chris & Kirstie’s Self Build Adventure

After completing a flat refurbishment, Chris Birakos and Kirstie Pottier were eager for their next project. With Chris gaining experience in property development, they thought, “What’s the worst that can happen?”

They conducted extensive research on materials and design, drawing inspiration from self-build magazines and consulting experienced developers. Their plot was discovered by chance through a local estate agent—five garages with planning permission for a contemporary home. A CGI of the proposed build immediately captured their imagination. After meeting the seller, they submitted a conditional proposal, which was accepted two weeks later. Chris recalls, “It was love at first sight.”

The Build

Chris and Kirstie managed the project themselves, redesigning extensively, overseeing deliveries, and planning each stage. They hired a main contractor for the watertight shell and a skilled craftsman for the intricate external cladding. They were highly involved, completing much of the decoration and preparation work. One of their proudest moments was winning the Daily Telegraph Homebuilding & Renovating Award for Most Inspiring Home 2016.

Finance & Lessons Learned

With Kirstie’s accounting background, they tracked progress using spreadsheets. However, Chris admits they became so focused on achieving perfection that they lost sight of the budget towards the end. He reflects, “It’s a mistake we won’t make next time.”

The couple turned to BuildStore early on for financing advice and later met their team at a self-build trade show. They describe BuildStore as professional and highly supportive, ensuring their best interests were looked after.

Looking Ahead

Despite the complexity and stress of their build, Chris and Kirstie would “absolutely do it again,” though possibly on a simpler project. Chris sums it up: “It’s tough, but completely worth it in the end.”

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