Win for Build It Readers

Build It readers Willy and Wendy Graham have won the 2012 Murray Armor Self-Builder of the Year award.

Named in memory of the famous self-build author, Murray Armor, the award is presented annually by the National Association of Self-Builders (NaSBA) to Britain’s most determined self-builder.

The Grahams’ Scottish self-build was up against some stiff competition, with the shortlist of four candidates including two other projects by Build It readers. The judges were particularly impressed by the couple’s commitment to their sustainability agenda, as they used locally-sourced, natural and recyclable materials throughout their build.

The result is a spectacular straw-bale home that fits neatly with the local vernacular while also being inherently eco-friendly. What’s more, at £200,000 it’s a fantastic example of what can be achieved on a limited budget.

“They employed novel methods of construction and were heavily involved themselves in both project managing the development and with much of the on-site work too,” said NaSBA secretary, Valerie Bearne. “They also went on a number of special training courses to ensure they understood the fine detail of the construction of their new home. In the end they have a wonderful, snug and very environmentally friendly home that cost them around £200,000 to build. And in the future they’ll have very low fuel bills.”

You can read more about the award and why the Grahams’ project impressed the judges so much on the Self-Build Portal website or check out the full story of their build in our reader’s home feature here