0:00:02 > 0:00:04We all dream of finding the perfect home, but finding a property
0:00:04 > 0:00:07that suits both your wallet and your way of life isn't easy.
0:00:07 > 0:00:13Well, I have a solution. Stop searching for something to buy and consider somewhere to build.
0:00:15 > 0:00:19Every year in Britain, 20,000 people build their own home.
0:00:20 > 0:00:24And we'll be following some of them as they go from foundations to finishing touches.
0:00:24 > 0:00:31I was gobsmacked and I'd never realised that it would be wow factor that it actually is.
0:00:33 > 0:00:37Along the way our brave self-builders will experience amazing highs...
0:00:37 > 0:00:41We just never would have been able to afford to buy what we've built. And that's why we built.
0:00:42 > 0:00:44And some frustrating lows.
0:00:44 > 0:00:48I've spoken to the council and they're going to help me pull it down if I have to pull it down.
0:00:50 > 0:00:52But if they can overcome these trials and tribulations,
0:00:52 > 0:00:55they'll end up with the home they've always desired.
0:00:55 > 0:00:59So if you're looking for your perfect pad, the question is simple.
0:00:59 > 0:01:02to build or not to build?
0:01:06 > 0:01:10The Buckinghamshire family whose supposedly super-quick
0:01:10 > 0:01:14German kit house is anything but speedy.
0:01:14 > 0:01:19Today is 4 July and, as you can see, no house again!
0:01:19 > 0:01:21Take me to the river!
0:01:21 > 0:01:25The stunning home on the banks of the Trent in Nottingham.
0:01:25 > 0:01:26This is exactly why we built it here.
0:01:28 > 0:01:31- Roger's favourite view. - The best view, I think.
0:01:31 > 0:01:35And I'm in deep when it comes to fitting a bath at building college.
0:01:36 > 0:01:38I'll show you how you put a bath in.
0:01:38 > 0:01:41"Kev the plumber? I need a bath putting in. What are you doing on Thursday?"
0:01:43 > 0:01:49If there's one man that knows all about winning, it's legendary Olympian Sir Steve Redgrave,
0:01:49 > 0:01:52and here in his home town of Marlow in Buckinghamshire,
0:01:52 > 0:01:56dentist Stephen Robinson and his wife Rachel are hoping to emulate the great man's success
0:01:56 > 0:02:01and strike gold by building a contemporary kit house which should be awesome.
0:02:03 > 0:02:08Set in its leafy gardens in London's commuter belt, this 1970s dormer bungalow
0:02:08 > 0:02:12might look like a perfectly presentable pad, but delve a little deeper
0:02:12 > 0:02:14and it's clear all is not what it seems.
0:02:17 > 0:02:23With its battered roof and rotting woodwork, it's clearly in need of some serious TLC.
0:02:23 > 0:02:29But, believe it or not, Stephen and Rachel plan to transform this into their dream family home
0:02:29 > 0:02:33for them and their three boys, Sam, Ben and Josh.
0:02:33 > 0:02:35Time for me to meet Mum and Dad and find out more.
0:02:38 > 0:02:42So, Marlow? Very desirable place to live. Why were you looking here?
0:02:42 > 0:02:47We used to live about half a mile up the road, which we sold about two years ago.
0:02:47 > 0:02:50- We moved in above my business. - Right.
0:02:50 > 0:02:55We lived there and we wanted to move back into Marlow, so we found this, it came up for sale.
0:02:55 > 0:02:59- We bought it as soon as it came up for sale.- Yeah...
0:02:59 > 0:03:04I hate to point the obvious out to you, but this programme is about building your own house!
0:03:04 > 0:03:09- Rachel, there's a house here already, you see.- Yeah.
0:03:09 > 0:03:17- The house that's here is not quite big enough for myself, Stephen and the three boys.- Ah, OK.
0:03:17 > 0:03:19Also it's not really to our taste.
0:03:19 > 0:03:25It's always been our dream to build our own house, to have something that's perfect for us.
0:03:25 > 0:03:30This is a great piece of land, and it's in an area which we want.
0:03:33 > 0:03:37For the Robinsons, this is clearly the right location but the wrong house.
0:03:41 > 0:03:45Fast-forward to the future and this is what they plan to put in its place,
0:03:45 > 0:03:49a unique kit house they've helped to design that will be made in Germany
0:03:49 > 0:03:51and then erected on site in four months.
0:03:51 > 0:03:55The contemporary detached property will have four bedrooms, three bathrooms
0:03:55 > 0:03:59and be packed with the very latest in eco-friendly features.
0:04:00 > 0:04:03The plot with the existing bungalow has already cost them...
0:04:06 > 0:04:09And they plan to spend another...
0:04:09 > 0:04:11That's a total of...
0:04:14 > 0:04:18That's the equivalent to some top-end prices for similar-sized homes in the area,
0:04:18 > 0:04:23but before they knock down this dated dormer, we're going on a trip back in time.
0:04:25 > 0:04:30- Oh, we are back to the '70s, aren't we?- Lovely, isn't it?- I like this.
0:04:31 > 0:04:34Now, I'm all in favour of a bit of retro chic now and then,
0:04:34 > 0:04:37but this kitchen takes the biscuit.
0:04:40 > 0:04:41Wow!
0:04:41 > 0:04:46- Now, there's pine with a bit of extra pine involved. - Oh, it's fantastic, isn't it?
0:04:46 > 0:04:49It's kind of like kitchen meets Finnish sauna, isn't it?
0:04:51 > 0:04:55Absolutely fabulous! You should keep the wood and make your own steam room.
0:04:56 > 0:05:01And as my trip down memory lane continues, there's another '70s classic.
0:05:04 > 0:05:07There's something about it makes me want to say, "I think this is an original!"
0:05:08 > 0:05:10That's fantastic, isn't it?
0:05:10 > 0:05:13They really just don't make them like that any more,
0:05:13 > 0:05:18and particularly the black pointing just really is a bit special, isn't it?
0:05:18 > 0:05:20But if that doesn't light your fire,
0:05:20 > 0:05:24there's one feature no self-respecting '70s house could afford to be without
0:05:24 > 0:05:26its very own bar!
0:05:29 > 0:05:32Oh, you kept a surprise for me, didn't you?
0:05:32 > 0:05:35- We did indeed.- Look at this!
0:05:35 > 0:05:38Cork tiling, bamboo...
0:05:38 > 0:05:40- not just effect. - TAPPING
0:05:40 > 0:05:43Real bamboo...and look at that!
0:05:43 > 0:05:46I think I'm going to have to have a word with the authorities.
0:05:46 > 0:05:49This whole place needs a preservation order put on it.
0:05:49 > 0:05:50You should not pull it down!
0:05:52 > 0:05:55But, while the current house might have plenty of faults,
0:05:55 > 0:05:58its garden seems to have a few pluses.
0:05:58 > 0:06:02Will the outdoor swimming pool go the same way as the house, though?
0:06:02 > 0:06:06Is that going to end up in there, if you know what I mean?
0:06:06 > 0:06:09- No, it's not. The swimming pool's going to stay.- Is it?
0:06:09 > 0:06:11- Yes, absolutely. - Cos that's actually...
0:06:11 > 0:06:16it's almost a bold decision in the 21st century, if you know what I mean.
0:06:16 > 0:06:19- People don't do swimming pools any more, do they?- It's there.
0:06:19 > 0:06:24And it needs a little bit of refurbishment, but we might as well use it if it is there.
0:06:24 > 0:06:27I completely agree, absolutely!
0:06:27 > 0:06:32With a growing family, the Robinsons are looking for plenty of space from their new home,
0:06:32 > 0:06:35and a top priority is somewhere they can feel relaxed.
0:06:35 > 0:06:42We've created a big open-plan downstairs, but with two separate rooms,
0:06:42 > 0:06:44and adults' room and a children's playroom...
0:06:44 > 0:06:49- cos open-plan can be very noisy and I want to be away from the noise. - I can see the design already.
0:06:49 > 0:06:52I can see what is driving this design.
0:06:52 > 0:06:57- How can we have a family home and some peace and quiet?- Yes. - Yeah?- Absolutely.- Absolutely.
0:06:59 > 0:07:04One striking feature of their new kit house is that it comes with its wiring already in place.
0:07:04 > 0:07:10This means they've already had to think clearly about exactly how the rooms will be laid out inside,
0:07:10 > 0:07:13and they've been involved in a lot of the design work themselves.
0:07:15 > 0:07:18If you build a normal brick-and-block house, you put the structure up,
0:07:18 > 0:07:22and then you go "I want a plug socket there, I want a plug socket there." With a kit house,
0:07:22 > 0:07:26you have to decide where every single cable run goes before you start,
0:07:26 > 0:07:30which means you have to know where your furniture is going to go,
0:07:30 > 0:07:34you have to have your kitchen design done. It's building a house backwards!
0:07:34 > 0:07:37- The imagination needed to do that as well...- Yeah.- ..Is incredible!
0:07:37 > 0:07:40- Yeah.- I bet you're scared!
0:07:41 > 0:07:42Yes!
0:07:42 > 0:07:48You've got to be scared. You can't be going, "The telly looks rubbish there!"
0:07:49 > 0:07:51And it's got to stay there!
0:07:54 > 0:07:57But before they're in a position to get their wires crossed over the TV,
0:07:57 > 0:08:00they need to get rid of the old place first.
0:08:05 > 0:08:08First thing on the list is to make the site safe,
0:08:08 > 0:08:10and the pool has to be emptied of water.
0:08:11 > 0:08:15But although the Robinsons are desperate to get on with their demolition,
0:08:15 > 0:08:18their extremely tight four-month schedule soon springs a leak.
0:08:18 > 0:08:22Because of a mix-up over switching off the gas supply to the house,
0:08:22 > 0:08:24it's not been properly disconnected,
0:08:24 > 0:08:29and they've been told it could take another three months to secure permission to demolish the house.
0:08:29 > 0:08:32Weeks go by and not a brick of the bungalow had budged.
0:08:33 > 0:08:36My feeling about it at the moment is frustration,
0:08:36 > 0:08:39but I'm also trying very hard not to get stressed about it.
0:08:39 > 0:08:44I'm sure there are going to be a lot more stressful things in the coming months...
0:08:44 > 0:08:47so I'm trying to take quite a laidback attitude.
0:08:47 > 0:08:52The most frustrating thing is everybody's asking me when the house is going to be demolished,
0:08:52 > 0:08:57and I keep having to repeat the same story over and over again... so we'll get there.
0:08:59 > 0:09:03It's a huge setback. What should have been a rapid four-month build
0:09:03 > 0:09:07is now running months behind schedule,
0:09:07 > 0:09:09and with the house still standing and plenty of groundwork still to do
0:09:09 > 0:09:12the arrival of the new home seems a long way off.
0:09:19 > 0:09:20Finally, some good news.
0:09:20 > 0:09:23It's build month 1 and the demolition crew are on site,
0:09:23 > 0:09:27but the build's running almost three months behind schedule already,
0:09:27 > 0:09:30not that the Robinsons' children mind about delays.
0:09:30 > 0:09:36Today's a chance for them to see some of their favourite boy's toys in action!
0:09:36 > 0:09:40- Oh, we wanted to smash the windows. - You wanted to...
0:09:40 > 0:09:42I wanted to hear the siren.
0:09:45 > 0:09:49Seeing it come down is just... What a brilliant sight!
0:09:49 > 0:09:50Absolutely fab!
0:09:50 > 0:09:53- Can you see?- Let me in!
0:09:53 > 0:09:55There goes the roof!
0:09:55 > 0:09:58There's a tank.
0:09:58 > 0:09:59Look! Look!
0:09:59 > 0:10:02Look at the digger. Is it going to take the tanks out?
0:10:02 > 0:10:05Oh, yeah, look!
0:10:05 > 0:10:09- It squashed it! - It squashed it, didn't it?
0:10:09 > 0:10:12And it's not just the kids who are enjoying the show.
0:10:13 > 0:10:15I can't believe how flimsy these house are.
0:10:15 > 0:10:21I mean, I know they're not, but that digger is just going through it so...fast!
0:10:21 > 0:10:24It's just amazing.
0:10:24 > 0:10:26- And you want a go.- And I want a go!
0:10:29 > 0:10:32For Stephen it's the first sign that his dream is starting to take off.
0:10:35 > 0:10:38You wonder if it's ever going to start
0:10:38 > 0:10:44- and now it is I'm quite happy... and the spending will commence even more!- Yeah!
0:10:44 > 0:10:48I can feel my wallet crying out already, but it'll be worth it in the end.
0:10:50 > 0:10:55Once the bungalow has been knocked down, work can begin preparing the site for the new house,
0:10:55 > 0:10:57but until the site has been fully cleared,
0:10:57 > 0:11:00they won't know how difficult the next stage is likely to be.
0:11:02 > 0:11:04Now we'll see what's underneath, then.
0:11:04 > 0:11:08- Yes.- We've got to get all the site level... we know what site level we want,
0:11:08 > 0:11:13but we don't know what's under the house and how much work that's going to be and if there are any problems.
0:11:15 > 0:11:19And there's still plenty more for the wrecking crew to get stuck into.
0:11:19 > 0:11:21The house might have been slowly falling down on its own,
0:11:21 > 0:11:25but it still takes another couple of days before it's totally demolished.
0:11:25 > 0:11:29With the bungalow turned to dust, Rachel can look to the future.
0:11:29 > 0:11:31Day 3 of the demolition.
0:11:31 > 0:11:34And, as you can see, the site is almost cleared now,
0:11:34 > 0:11:37ready for construction of the ground slab.
0:11:37 > 0:11:39We've had a date for the connection
0:11:39 > 0:11:42of the electricity to the house,
0:11:42 > 0:11:46which includes digging up some of the pavement outside,
0:11:46 > 0:11:48but otherwise everything's going to schedule.
0:11:48 > 0:11:50We're really, really happy.
0:11:50 > 0:11:52Something, at last, is being done,
0:11:52 > 0:11:56and hopefully things will move forward fairly quickly from now.
0:12:04 > 0:12:07It's easy to see why people dream of living by the waterside,
0:12:07 > 0:12:11but often self-builders can't compete with large developers
0:12:11 > 0:12:13when it comes to finding an ideal plot by the riverbank.
0:12:13 > 0:12:17However, when one couple noticed a rundown bungalow right on the Trent in Nottingham,
0:12:17 > 0:12:22they beat the big boys to it and built a beautiful home right on the river.
0:12:26 > 0:12:32Walking along the tranquil banks of the River Trent has always been a pastime of Roger and Jane Poulson.
0:12:32 > 0:12:36However, with every relaxing stroll they took, came a strong desire
0:12:36 > 0:12:39to live permanently down by the water's edge.
0:12:40 > 0:12:43I do like being by the river. I think it's fantastic.
0:12:43 > 0:12:47It's peaceful, and it was a bit of a derelict bungalow we found,
0:12:47 > 0:12:50and it started from there, really.
0:12:52 > 0:12:53The bungalow cost...
0:12:56 > 0:13:00..and they certainly pushed the boat out with the striking property that replaced it.
0:13:02 > 0:13:07What we wanted was a house full of light spaces,
0:13:07 > 0:13:11maximise the views and then to fit with how we live,
0:13:11 > 0:13:16so we do a lot of entertaining, so he made us all these spaces to fit how we live.
0:13:16 > 0:13:19So we have a house that we love with a view that we love.
0:13:20 > 0:13:26What they've created is a contemporary three-bedroom house, split over ten different levels,
0:13:26 > 0:13:29with almost all the rooms having views overlooking the water.
0:13:34 > 0:13:36This is exactly why we built it here.
0:13:38 > 0:13:41- Roger's favourite view. - I think the view is fantastic.
0:13:44 > 0:13:49Designing this stylish home themselves did create a challenge.
0:13:49 > 0:13:52Fortunately their architect had a novel solution to their dilemma.
0:13:53 > 0:13:58He came with about 300 images that he'd torn out of a magazine
0:13:58 > 0:14:02and he just left us with these images and said, "Do it in three piles,
0:14:02 > 0:14:04"like it, don't like it, not sure."
0:14:04 > 0:14:09And that was the start of this process where you think you know what you like,
0:14:09 > 0:14:14but you're not very capable of articulating it. And so he made this house fit this plot.
0:14:16 > 0:14:19In keeping with the sharp, clean lines of the exterior,
0:14:19 > 0:14:25Roger and Jane didn't hold back when it came to the luxurious interior fixtures and fittings either.
0:14:25 > 0:14:28But building their dream riverside home wasn't plain sailing.
0:14:29 > 0:14:32I think the frustrating bits were the red tape.
0:14:32 > 0:14:37Planning permission was big thing. The architect worked hard for us,
0:14:37 > 0:14:42and we got stuck with the flood wall, so there was a big flood alleviation scheme
0:14:42 > 0:14:47that obviously had far bigger priority than us building our house.
0:14:47 > 0:14:50All the time you're worried because nothing much is happening,
0:14:50 > 0:14:53so a massive high when we finally got planning permission.
0:14:53 > 0:14:58After a four-year wait, work finally got underway
0:14:58 > 0:15:01but there was soon another unlucky break for Jane to deal with.
0:15:01 > 0:15:06We went skiing and I broke my leg in eight places,
0:15:06 > 0:15:12and they did wonder whether they were going to have to amputate it. That was a pretty low point.
0:15:12 > 0:15:15I couldn't get on the site, I couldn't get up to see what was happening...
0:15:15 > 0:15:20- That was a tough year. That was our hardest bit, I think.- Yes.
0:15:21 > 0:15:25Jane spent the majority of the 14-month build with her feet up
0:15:25 > 0:15:27while Roger kept the project on course.
0:15:28 > 0:15:30It cost...
0:15:32 > 0:15:35..and including the plot...
0:15:39 > 0:15:42But with the home now valued at...
0:15:42 > 0:15:44it appears messing about
0:15:44 > 0:15:46by the river was definitely worth it.
0:15:47 > 0:15:51Quite sad, but we do often walk round here,
0:15:51 > 0:15:53particularly on an evening when you've finished work and we walk past,
0:15:53 > 0:15:56and sometimes, sadly, we even sit on the seat and look at the house,
0:15:56 > 0:15:58- and just think it looks lovely. - We do.
0:15:58 > 0:16:01And we like it when people walk past and go, "Wow! Look at that!
0:16:01 > 0:16:05"What do you think that house is?" Yeah, it's lovely.
0:16:05 > 0:16:10It just gives you a glow looking at it, thinking you've left a landmark here on the river.
0:16:10 > 0:16:13And it's something quite different for here.
0:16:29 > 0:16:32Back in Marlow, it's now...
0:16:32 > 0:16:36and the skip full of builders' rubble marks the spot where Rachel and Stephen's dream home
0:16:36 > 0:16:38should now be.
0:16:40 > 0:16:44But a protracted legal wrangle over contracts involving the couple, their architects
0:16:44 > 0:16:49and the German suppliers of the kit means work on the house has been on hold
0:16:49 > 0:16:51since their old place was demolished.
0:16:51 > 0:16:53It's a bitter blow.
0:16:54 > 0:16:57We are incredibly angry.
0:16:57 > 0:16:59The structural calculations
0:16:59 > 0:17:01weren't done when they were promised.
0:17:01 > 0:17:05I want to get going, I want this to be done,
0:17:05 > 0:17:07I didn't want to be doing it this time in the year,
0:17:07 > 0:17:09I wanted to be in by this time,
0:17:09 > 0:17:12but, obviously, things have been taken out of our hands.
0:17:15 > 0:17:20The only thing they can work on, the swimming pool, has also become an unexpected financial drain.
0:17:20 > 0:17:24Close inspection has revealed this needs totally relining,
0:17:24 > 0:17:28setting the couple back a further £20,000.
0:17:32 > 0:17:34It's now...
0:17:34 > 0:17:37and desperate to get the build back on track,
0:17:37 > 0:17:39Rachel and Stephen take a bold decision
0:17:39 > 0:17:44to start on the foundations, despite no guarantee that their legal dispute with the house supplier
0:17:44 > 0:17:46will be sorted out.
0:17:47 > 0:17:49It's been a long time coming.
0:17:49 > 0:17:55We still have absolutely no idea when the house itself is arriving.
0:17:55 > 0:17:58At least work has started on the house again.
0:18:00 > 0:18:06With the trenches for the footings now dug, today is a crucial one for Stephen and Rachel's build.
0:18:06 > 0:18:08For the first time, the German team,
0:18:08 > 0:18:11responsible for making sure the measurements for the base of the house are accurate,
0:18:11 > 0:18:12have arrived.
0:18:14 > 0:18:16THEY SPEAK GERMAN
0:18:25 > 0:18:29But nothing has been straightforward on this site, and today, as they prepare for the concrete foundations
0:18:29 > 0:18:33to be laid, the temperature has plummeted to just above zero.
0:18:33 > 0:18:37And there's a question mark over whether it's too cold to go ahead.
0:18:39 > 0:18:44If it hits minus-4 and below, then the concrete isn't going to...
0:18:45 > 0:18:46..set properly.
0:18:46 > 0:18:50But what we are going to do is put insulation over it tonight
0:18:50 > 0:18:53to make sure no frost gets into it and keep it warm.
0:18:56 > 0:18:59If frost gets into the concrete, it loses its strength
0:18:59 > 0:19:02and the foundations would have to be dug out and the whole lot replaced.
0:19:02 > 0:19:05With the temperature hovering around the critical point,
0:19:05 > 0:19:09the building inspector arrives to decide whether it's safe to go ahead.
0:19:09 > 0:19:12As long as you protect it, we don't have a problem.
0:19:12 > 0:19:14- We've protected it. - OK, fine.
0:19:17 > 0:19:21Fortunately, they're given the thumbs-up and the concrete can start going in.
0:19:23 > 0:19:26Yeah! It's fabulous to see that!
0:19:27 > 0:19:33The team work quickly to get the concrete in before the temperature starts to drop any further.
0:19:34 > 0:19:37Come on, get out, so we can get the next one in.
0:19:40 > 0:19:41And there's ice on that one!
0:19:43 > 0:19:47With all the concrete now poured, it's time to make certain it's properly protected.
0:19:49 > 0:19:53For Rachel today has been a major step forward.
0:19:54 > 0:19:56Hopefully this is the start...
0:19:56 > 0:20:00although, again, we still don't know when the house is coming.
0:20:00 > 0:20:02We shall wait and see.
0:20:05 > 0:20:07Oh, I'm just so pleased!
0:20:08 > 0:20:09And cold!
0:20:14 > 0:20:17But by...
0:20:17 > 0:20:20the weather's changed, but the situation hasn't,
0:20:20 > 0:20:22and Rachel's patience is at breaking point.
0:20:24 > 0:20:30Today is 4 July and, as you can see, no house again!
0:20:30 > 0:20:35The whole project has been delayed by another two weeks.
0:20:35 > 0:20:39This is incredibly disappointing and frustrating now,
0:20:39 > 0:20:43especially as we were only told last Thursday, so four days ago,
0:20:43 > 0:20:45that it wouldn't be arriving on time.
0:20:46 > 0:20:53However, 18 July, we've been assured that this is going to be the date.
0:20:53 > 0:20:56I mean, how much more delays can we actually have?
0:20:59 > 0:21:03Two weeks later, and it appears the Robinsons' luck has finally changed for the better.
0:21:03 > 0:21:05It's 6.20
0:21:05 > 0:21:09on a very overcast Monday morning.
0:21:09 > 0:21:16We're now hoping that the house is going to arrive...
0:21:16 > 0:21:19in ten minutes or so, according to the schedule.
0:21:21 > 0:21:24But even with German builders and the crane on site,
0:21:24 > 0:21:27Rachel still can't believe her house is about to arrive.
0:21:27 > 0:21:32I'm not believing this until I actually see a portion of house drop in.
0:21:34 > 0:21:38It's been a long time coming, a lot of frustration, a lot of anger, a lot of upset,
0:21:38 > 0:21:42but when that first bit goes in, I think I'm...
0:21:42 > 0:21:46it's going to hit me that we're actually progressing with this,
0:21:46 > 0:21:50and that we could actually have a house any time soon.
0:21:52 > 0:21:56And with the first truck rolling up to site, it looks as if this build is going to happen at long last,
0:21:56 > 0:21:59much to Stephen's relief.
0:21:59 > 0:22:01Thought it would never happen. They're finally here, though.
0:22:01 > 0:22:04The delays might have been agonising,
0:22:04 > 0:22:08but once on site the German builders aren't hanging around.
0:22:08 > 0:22:11The first wall is soon being lifted into place.
0:22:11 > 0:22:12Very excited.
0:22:12 > 0:22:17I just can't believe that the first wall...after waiting so long!
0:22:17 > 0:22:19Are you excited?
0:22:19 > 0:22:22You're excited! Good!
0:22:22 > 0:22:26Too right, Josh, you might have your bedroom done by the end of the day.
0:22:34 > 0:22:37It's gone up really quickly. I mean, we're now at what? 9.35.
0:22:37 > 0:22:43We've got one internal wall left to be put in situ.
0:22:43 > 0:22:48I've got walls for a living room, utility room, kitchen,
0:22:48 > 0:22:53playroom, bathroom, snug... it's all here.
0:22:54 > 0:22:57And it's brilliant. It's a good way of building...
0:22:57 > 0:23:00if you get it right straightaway.
0:23:01 > 0:23:05So far it's been straightforward, but the next stage will be much trickier,
0:23:05 > 0:23:09lifting the two giant window sections that form the centrepiece of their house.
0:23:09 > 0:23:16They'll put it upright, slot it in, secure it somehow, and job's done. How hard can it be?
0:23:16 > 0:23:18- How hard can it be?- Exactly!
0:23:19 > 0:23:23With that kind of weight, it could be a little harder than you think, Stephen!
0:23:25 > 0:23:27Can they just give that a bit of a push that way?
0:23:29 > 0:23:32Whoa, whoa, whoa!
0:23:32 > 0:23:35And halfway though manoeuvring the first piece there's a major problem.
0:23:35 > 0:23:40They've just started to get the window to lift up to put it in the upright position,
0:23:40 > 0:23:45and it's cracking the wood structure of the actual framework.
0:23:45 > 0:23:49Now, I'm not sure if it's supporting and it's just going to be taken out afterwards,
0:23:49 > 0:23:53or it's actually part of the structure. But there's a crack in the wood there.
0:23:53 > 0:23:58The section's weight combined with the angle of lift means there's too much strain on the wooden frame.
0:23:58 > 0:24:04The solution - a few more scaffolding planks screwed on to give extra support.
0:24:05 > 0:24:07But will it hold this time?
0:24:10 > 0:24:13It's straining a little bit but that looks cool.
0:24:14 > 0:24:19With only minor damage to the wooden frame, it's lifted into position and the supports removed.
0:24:22 > 0:24:25Fortunately, the second all-glass piece isn't such a "pane",
0:24:25 > 0:24:28despite Rachel's nerves, as it's manhandled into position.
0:24:28 > 0:24:31There's an awful lot of glass
0:24:31 > 0:24:34and it's very, very tall!
0:24:34 > 0:24:38So we'll just see... This is the nerve-racking one
0:24:38 > 0:24:42probably of the whole build. Everything else is fairly simple compared to this.
0:24:42 > 0:24:46But then we did ask for a bespoke house, so, hey...
0:24:48 > 0:24:50Once this one is in, I think I'll be happier.
0:24:50 > 0:24:52We can walk through our front door.
0:24:52 > 0:24:55I haven't got a house, but we can walk through our front door!
0:25:03 > 0:25:07Two days later, I'm back in Marlow to meet up with Rachel
0:25:07 > 0:25:09and check on the rapid progress.
0:25:14 > 0:25:17- I can see you are very excited now. - Oh, yeah.
0:25:17 > 0:25:20But how was it in the interim period?
0:25:20 > 0:25:24Frustrating, because we were... we had a slab here.
0:25:24 > 0:25:27We've had a slab here for the last seven months. Not good!
0:25:27 > 0:25:30Er...we got on with other things.
0:25:30 > 0:25:34The back garden's more or less... completely different.
0:25:34 > 0:25:35LAUGHTER
0:25:35 > 0:25:40- So you've spent a year gardening? - Yes!- Fantastic!- Yes.
0:25:40 > 0:25:44- Great big space. Is this going to be separated out at all?- No, this is all open-plan.
0:25:44 > 0:25:48- This is how it's going to be at the end of the day.- All right!
0:25:48 > 0:25:54So, obviously, welcoming entrance hall there, huge atrium...coming through to...?
0:25:54 > 0:25:56Kitchen.
0:25:56 > 0:26:01We've got a dining room, then we've got our little quiet area.
0:26:03 > 0:26:06Downstairs there will be a couple of separate rooms too.
0:26:06 > 0:26:08There'll be a gym-cum-playroom at one side,
0:26:08 > 0:26:12while the lounge will include a state-of-the-art cinema system once it's finished.
0:26:14 > 0:26:19Upstairs the decision to install the full-length windows becomes obvious.
0:26:21 > 0:26:23- You really see the space here now, don't you?- Oh, yeah.
0:26:23 > 0:26:26It's standing here, just that window.
0:26:26 > 0:26:29- Yeah.- It's amazing.
0:26:30 > 0:26:32- And it's a complete waste of space. - Yes.
0:26:32 > 0:26:37And why not? Sunlight in the house. I don't want a dark house.
0:26:37 > 0:26:39You haven't got a dark house, that's for sure!
0:26:42 > 0:26:46Each of the boys gets their own double room,
0:26:46 > 0:26:49while the master bedroom benefits from an en-suite bathroom
0:26:49 > 0:26:52and views over the already immaculate garden.
0:26:52 > 0:26:57Are you now...? I can see you're excited, but has it been worth the wait?
0:26:57 > 0:27:01- Yes. It...- Would you have said that two months ago?- No.
0:27:01 > 0:27:03- Mmm...- Er...
0:27:03 > 0:27:07It's been worth the wait in the fact I've now got the house here.
0:27:07 > 0:27:15It's solid. I can touch it now. And everything I've been looking at on 3D and 2D plans for so long,
0:27:15 > 0:27:20is now coming to... It's here, it's exactly the way we wanted it.
0:27:20 > 0:27:23Yes, there's still a lot of hard work to go,
0:27:23 > 0:27:27because we still have to make sure that everything, all the services come in at the right time.
0:27:27 > 0:27:29A lot of the stress has gone.
0:27:32 > 0:27:34How quickly now till you've finished?
0:27:34 > 0:27:38- Is there pressure with that? - Yes, there is pressure with that.
0:27:38 > 0:27:42We have to be out of our rented accommodation by 1 September...
0:27:42 > 0:27:46which is very tight. Six weeks away.
0:27:46 > 0:27:49- You've got to move out of your rented accommodation in six weeks' time?- Yes.
0:27:53 > 0:27:54There are ways and means.
0:27:54 > 0:27:57Yeah, there are! It's called a tent.
0:28:09 > 0:28:13If you're self-building, then being a dab hand at DIY is a good way to save money.
0:28:13 > 0:28:16But you definitely need the know-how,
0:28:16 > 0:28:19so I'm taking a crash course of classes at building college.
0:28:23 > 0:28:28Today I'm dipping my toe into the world of plumbing again with tutor Mark Cawood.
0:28:36 > 0:28:39- HE WHISTLES - OK!
0:28:39 > 0:28:42- Hi, Mark.- Hiya.- Ready for the bath?
0:28:44 > 0:28:45What?
0:28:45 > 0:28:51- I'm not having a bath? - Well, you've got to assemble it and fit it first.- No, no, no...
0:28:51 > 0:28:56- Left for later.- There's our bath, there's our fittings. What do you think we're going to do first?
0:28:56 > 0:28:58- Put the bath together. - What we need to do first of all...
0:28:58 > 0:29:01We've got our fittings here. We need to put the legs on the bath,
0:29:01 > 0:29:04we need to attach the taps to the bath, and put the waste on the bath.
0:29:04 > 0:29:07Once that's all assembled, it's then easier to get it into position.
0:29:07 > 0:29:10"Then it's easier to get it into pos..." Yeah, yeah!
0:29:11 > 0:29:16Mark's given me just 30 minutes for this task and the first thing I need to do is tip the tub upside down.
0:29:16 > 0:29:19Makes sense...that they go in there.
0:29:21 > 0:29:25The frame which will support the bath's adjustable feet then needs fastening into place.
0:29:25 > 0:29:27- You've done this before! - No, I haven't!
0:29:27 > 0:29:29No, I really haven't!
0:29:29 > 0:29:34I'll show you how you put a bath in. I'll show you exactly how you put a bath in. It's dead simple.
0:29:34 > 0:29:39You go, "Hello? Kev the plumber? I need a bath putting in. What are you doing on Thursday?"
0:29:41 > 0:29:44So on with the four feet and the bath's central support.
0:29:46 > 0:29:47Time to turn it over again.
0:29:47 > 0:29:52Don't worry, I'll level it up later. Next, taps.
0:29:52 > 0:29:57OK, trying to apply common sense to this, I think that as we use the cold tap more often than not,
0:29:57 > 0:30:01cold should be on the right-hand side because we're right-handed.
0:30:01 > 0:30:03- If you say so.- Oh...!
0:30:04 > 0:30:07So much for tapping up Mark for information.
0:30:08 > 0:30:12It just makes sense to me, that. That's all I'm saying.
0:30:13 > 0:30:15And I'm actually correct.
0:30:15 > 0:30:17The standard is hot left, cold right.
0:30:22 > 0:30:26Mark does give me some good advice when it comes to connecting the taps to the water supply.
0:30:26 > 0:30:30Because that's a compression fitting there, I would attach it to the pipes before,
0:30:30 > 0:30:32and then set the bath up,
0:30:32 > 0:30:36because it'll be difficult to get two spanners in underneath the bath.
0:30:36 > 0:30:43- And this will avoid all the cursing and screaming, to a degree, which is about to happen?- Some of it.
0:30:47 > 0:30:51- I can feel the pressure mounting. How long have I got?- 15 minutes. - Oh, blimey!
0:30:51 > 0:30:53Right, can you give us a hand, do you mind?
0:30:53 > 0:30:56- Don't want to get your hands too dirty, like, you know!- OK.
0:30:57 > 0:30:59This was a nice tight fit.
0:30:59 > 0:31:03- It's a real bathroom fit.- Good grief!
0:31:03 > 0:31:07We've shoehorned the bath into place, but it's nowhere near level.
0:31:08 > 0:31:14All right, then? This is where the time's going to go, levelling it up.
0:31:14 > 0:31:17Each foot needs individually adjusting and that's not easy.
0:31:17 > 0:31:22If anyone wants it, I have got the number for Kev the plumber! He's very good...
0:31:22 > 0:31:24very good rates.
0:31:24 > 0:31:25And you'll never have to do this!
0:31:27 > 0:31:28Time check, please, Mark.
0:31:28 > 0:31:31- Eight minutes to go.- Oh, my word!
0:31:34 > 0:31:36That did it!
0:31:36 > 0:31:38My bath!
0:31:38 > 0:31:42- It's a bad corner, isn't it? - It always is. - Yeah, of course it always is.
0:31:42 > 0:31:43Always is.
0:31:43 > 0:31:46Horrible, horrible, horrible job!
0:31:46 > 0:31:48Grrr!
0:31:48 > 0:31:52So much for my relaxing afternoon!
0:31:55 > 0:31:56Ouch!
0:31:56 > 0:31:59I could really start to hate this, you know.
0:31:59 > 0:32:01Two minutes to go!
0:32:01 > 0:32:02Good!
0:32:02 > 0:32:06I could do with some water on. I'd rather have water on than have it level.
0:32:06 > 0:32:08OK.
0:32:08 > 0:32:10And as the man requested...
0:32:12 > 0:32:14..water on tap.
0:32:17 > 0:32:21Have I finally perfected plumbing?
0:32:21 > 0:32:23- Time.- Thank you.
0:32:23 > 0:32:24Thank heavens for that!
0:32:26 > 0:32:28Let's have a look, shall we?
0:32:29 > 0:32:32Feeling a little bit cocky here!
0:32:34 > 0:32:36- Well, it's in.- It is in.
0:32:36 > 0:32:40It's...a little bit of tweaking on the level, but yeah...
0:32:40 > 0:32:42- It was that tight fit.- Yeah.
0:32:42 > 0:32:46Tap's just a bit out of line, but, certainly under here, it's watertight.
0:32:46 > 0:32:50I wonder if the waste is watertight? Let's have a look.
0:32:50 > 0:32:52Let's put a bit of water in here.
0:32:53 > 0:32:56Come on, then!
0:32:56 > 0:33:00- Give us a score. - Well, if you're telling me you've never fitted a bath before,
0:33:00 > 0:33:02this is a half-decent attempt.
0:33:02 > 0:33:07I think you have to be a bit leaner this time and I'll give you an 8!
0:33:07 > 0:33:11I finally got a decent score off Mean Mark!
0:33:15 > 0:33:17Well, in that case...
0:33:17 > 0:33:20- if you'll excuse me... No leaks at all?- No, not to worry.
0:33:20 > 0:33:23- Is the hot plumbed in right? - It looks all right,
0:33:23 > 0:33:27- apart from a bit skew-whiff. - Never mind that! Excuse me, I'm having a bath here!
0:33:33 > 0:33:37Back in Marlow, Rachel and Stephen have come back down to earth with a bump.
0:33:42 > 0:33:45After the euphoria of seeing their kit house go up in a flash,
0:33:45 > 0:33:47a harsh reality has begun to sink in.
0:33:48 > 0:33:53Because their self-build has overrun so dramatically, the lease has run out on their rented property,
0:33:53 > 0:33:56and they've now decamped to a caravan in their garden.
0:33:56 > 0:33:59We didn't want to have to live in a caravan,
0:33:59 > 0:34:02but circumstances have said we've got to do this for a while.
0:34:02 > 0:34:05We'll make the best of it.
0:34:07 > 0:34:11But a series of problems with the roof is hampering progress on the build.
0:34:11 > 0:34:14Some of the battens have had to be replaced,
0:34:14 > 0:34:19and this has led to tears in the vital membrane which keeps the house watertight.
0:34:19 > 0:34:25There's a tiny leak coming in from one of the nail holes in the structure.
0:34:25 > 0:34:31And it seems it never rains, but it pours. Upstairs it's a similar story.
0:34:31 > 0:34:37Yesterday we had it leaking through the ventilation pipes and actually coming into the floor.
0:34:37 > 0:34:42In our bathroom, we had quite a major leak coming completely through the roof,
0:34:42 > 0:34:45through the insulation, on to the floor,
0:34:45 > 0:34:48so we collected quite a lot of water.
0:34:50 > 0:34:53For the moment it feels like the build is going backwards.
0:34:53 > 0:34:58The tarpaulin's across there at the moment to try and stop most of these water leaks,
0:34:58 > 0:35:02hence the multicoloured sheets on the roof.
0:35:04 > 0:35:09And pretty soon it becomes clear that it's not the only problem with the roof.
0:35:09 > 0:35:13The local planning department has received a complaint that the building is too high,
0:35:13 > 0:35:16and today an officer has arrived for a spot check
0:35:16 > 0:35:20which could prove a far more significant setback to this build.
0:35:20 > 0:35:22- All right, Rachel?- Yeah. - You pop up here.
0:35:22 > 0:35:26A nervous Stephen and Rachel are roped in to help with the measurements.
0:35:26 > 0:35:30- About there, isn't it? - Yeah, got it, lovely. Yeah.
0:35:30 > 0:35:35- If I hold it...- I've got the tape. - If you've got the tape, I'll...
0:35:35 > 0:35:39And if the building's too high, they could be breaking planning laws.
0:35:39 > 0:35:43The worst-case scenario would mean the whole house having to be knocked down.
0:35:43 > 0:35:454.3.
0:35:45 > 0:35:49All in all, we're about 8.25 to 8.3, I'd say.
0:35:49 > 0:35:54Worryingly, the measurements have revealed the house is 25cm higher than it should be.
0:35:54 > 0:35:58Increased insulation in the floor, under-floor heating...
0:35:58 > 0:36:03- that can push up the floor by 250mm. - Yeah, we've got under-floor heating.
0:36:03 > 0:36:06It's a nerve-racking development.
0:36:06 > 0:36:11They'll now need to apply for special permission if the extra height is to be allowed to stand,
0:36:11 > 0:36:13and hope the planners accept the changes.
0:36:13 > 0:36:19We're going to have to get in contact with the architect and put a minor amendment in...
0:36:19 > 0:36:23which, hopefully, will be accepted.
0:36:23 > 0:36:27We don't know whether it means holding up the build or not, or whether we can carry on.
0:36:27 > 0:36:30So we shall have to wait and see on that one.
0:36:30 > 0:36:33And wait and hope is all they can do.
0:36:38 > 0:36:40It's now build month 16,
0:36:40 > 0:36:42and I've come back to Marlow for the final time
0:36:42 > 0:36:44to Stephen and Rachel's home..
0:36:44 > 0:36:47I first visited Marlow a year and a half ago.
0:36:47 > 0:36:53Then nothing happened, but then, just before my last visit, things suddenly started moving on apace.
0:36:53 > 0:36:55Let's see if that's continued.
0:36:56 > 0:36:59Well, it's still a building site, but things are progressing.
0:36:59 > 0:37:03Fortunately, the recent concerns about the size of the house
0:37:03 > 0:37:08look to have been resolved with the local planning department, which is a massive relief for the Robinsons.
0:37:08 > 0:37:11And I'm certainly impressed with how their home is shaping up.
0:37:17 > 0:37:19Here we are!
0:37:19 > 0:37:23- This is the space, isn't it?- It is. It's a good space. - It's going to be amazing.
0:37:23 > 0:37:29Even in this state, you just walk in and you go, "Ooh, hello! This is a statement!"
0:37:29 > 0:37:30Yeah.
0:37:32 > 0:37:35- So close now?- Yeah.- How close? Does it feel close?
0:37:35 > 0:37:40Or are you at that point when you just go, "I just want to be in!"
0:37:40 > 0:37:43No, it's fine. The excitement's still there.
0:37:43 > 0:37:46We're just coming up to the second fix, once the screeding's gone down.
0:37:46 > 0:37:50We've got most of the bits, so it's all a case of putting in the second fix...
0:37:50 > 0:37:52we can see the end.
0:37:52 > 0:37:55Just can't wait to see it all finished.
0:38:02 > 0:38:05By opting to self-build, Stephen and Rachel have designed a home
0:38:05 > 0:38:09that's tailored to their family's lifestyle and that's certainly evident in the main lounge.
0:38:10 > 0:38:16Well, I can have it as a living room but I also wanted to do a little home cinema effect,
0:38:16 > 0:38:19and Rachel said, "Yeah, you can do whatever you want as long as it's hidden
0:38:19 > 0:38:22"and it just looks like a living room when it's not in use."
0:38:22 > 0:38:27So a fair bit of planning and changing joist positions,
0:38:27 > 0:38:32- and, yeah, I've managed to do it. - Does it work?- It certainly does! - Come on, then!
0:38:34 > 0:38:37- That's outrageous! - RACHEL LAUGHS
0:38:38 > 0:38:43- I want one!- The projector isn't in at the moment, but it has been trial-fitted,
0:38:43 > 0:38:45- and it does fit...- Right.
0:38:45 > 0:38:49Just a couple of little issues we need to sort out with cables.
0:38:49 > 0:38:54I have to say when you've got To Build Or Not To Build on, I will be more or less life-size!
0:38:54 > 0:38:57Hello and welcome to To Build Or Not To Build.
0:38:57 > 0:39:00- Today we're in Marlow... You can see it, can't you? - Absolutely!- Yeah!
0:39:00 > 0:39:04That is a monster of a thing.
0:39:04 > 0:39:07I knew I'd make it to the big screen!
0:39:09 > 0:39:14Not to be outdone on the gadget front, Rachel's gone to town when it comes to the kitchen.
0:39:15 > 0:39:19- Is there a vision for the kitchen yet?- Our kitchen's built.
0:39:19 > 0:39:21- Is it ready to go, yeah? - It's ready to go.
0:39:21 > 0:39:23Has been for the last year.
0:39:23 > 0:39:25- Describe, describe.- Describe?
0:39:26 > 0:39:31I have a wall, bank of units, so fridge, freezers, oven, microwave,
0:39:31 > 0:39:36- plate-warmer...- Yeah. - It's a high-gloss, burgundy red.
0:39:36 > 0:39:38- I say!- Floor to ceiling.
0:39:38 > 0:39:41And in the middle an island
0:39:41 > 0:39:46which, last measurement, was something like 1,200 by 2.5 metres.
0:39:46 > 0:39:51- That's a big island.- It is a big island.- That's more or less the size of the Isle of Wight!
0:39:51 > 0:39:54Yeah! The only discretion we've had is the worktops.
0:39:54 > 0:39:59We're actually going to a recycling manufacturer
0:39:59 > 0:40:06who will recycle shells and car-wing mirrors and TV screens and put it all in a resin for us.
0:40:06 > 0:40:10- And make it into a comp...- Yeah, it's a composite...resin-based...
0:40:10 > 0:40:13- Because of the size of our island... - Will you be able to see what the bits are?- Yes.
0:40:13 > 0:40:15- You will?- Yes.
0:40:16 > 0:40:20- That could be very cool or an absolute disaster.- Yes.
0:40:20 > 0:40:24- It's hard to picture.- It is. But we do have a sample.- Let's have a look.
0:40:24 > 0:40:26It's got to be seen.
0:40:26 > 0:40:28All right.
0:40:28 > 0:40:33- OK, all of a sudden, you can see that that's really going to work. - Yeah.
0:40:33 > 0:40:37- Because you can actually see the little shards of glass and mirror. - Yeah.
0:40:37 > 0:40:42The plastic's 3D so if you get glass with a shell underneath, it becomes 3D.
0:40:42 > 0:40:46- Yeah, you can see bits of shell. That's a really strange mixture as well, isn't it?- Yeah.
0:40:46 > 0:40:50OK, I'm with you. I think that's going to look absolutely fantastic.
0:40:50 > 0:40:52I'm glad you showed me a piece.
0:40:55 > 0:40:58Despite the delays they've had to endure, at least when it comes to cash
0:40:58 > 0:41:01Stephen and Rachel are on target to build this house within their...
0:41:04 > 0:41:05..including...
0:41:08 > 0:41:11..that's £775,000 for this soon-to-be stunning home.
0:41:11 > 0:41:17Let's talk figures because we haven't had to have this valued, because you just have.
0:41:17 > 0:41:23Yeah, we spoke to the local estate agent for insurance purposes to see what it needs to be,
0:41:23 > 0:41:30so, he... First of all he found it very hard to value because there's just nothing else like it.
0:41:30 > 0:41:34But he valued it between 950 and 1.1.
0:41:34 > 0:41:37950 and 1.1? That's...that's...
0:41:37 > 0:41:41Well, you can see why. Where it is, it's a great location,
0:41:41 > 0:41:44and what it is, it's a fantastic house.
0:41:44 > 0:41:47You must be so pleased, so chuffed with the whole thing.
0:41:47 > 0:41:50We're chuffed with it. Money doesn't make any difference to us.
0:41:50 > 0:41:53That's a potential saving of...
0:41:55 > 0:41:58..compared to buying a similar property in this area,
0:41:58 > 0:42:00not that many match this amazing house!
0:42:00 > 0:42:05Hard to imagine when you look back to the '70s dormer disaster that once stood on this site.
0:42:06 > 0:42:11The bar's gone, but there's a little bit of something just to celebrate the fact...
0:42:11 > 0:42:14- It's got our names on it. - Absolutely!
0:42:14 > 0:42:16So that's yours to drink whenever you will,
0:42:16 > 0:42:22- perhaps when you do actually move in.- Thank you.- But it doesn't really tell the whole story, does it?
0:42:22 > 0:42:26Because you've lost... how can I put this? You've lost a certain bit of kitsch,
0:42:26 > 0:42:31a beautiful historic kitsch, so just to kind of add a little element back...
0:42:33 > 0:42:37- we just thought...- Babycham! - You just can't get...
0:42:37 > 0:42:42That will always make you think of that gorgeous unique bar that once was here.
0:42:42 > 0:42:46- There you go.- Thank you very much. - Treasure them.- We will!
0:42:46 > 0:42:49- Pride of place. - Honestly, no expense was spent.
0:42:50 > 0:42:52Truly, congratulations to you both,
0:42:52 > 0:42:58because despite all the delays and everything this is going to be an absolute triumph of a property!
0:42:58 > 0:43:01- It really is fantastic!- We hope so. - Yeah.
0:43:08 > 0:43:13Subtitles by Red Bee Media Ltd
0:43:13 > 0:43:17E-mail subtitling@bbc.co.uk