If you are thinking of building your own home then I have the perfect place for you to visit – the National Self Build and Renovation Centre in Swindon. Just off junction 16 on the M4, the NSBRC is the place that has the answer to many of your-self build questions and dilemmas. Open Tuesday–Sunday from 10:00-5:30, entry and parking is free, there is a café, Wi-Fi and on site wheelchairs.
There are 250 exhibitors and technical experts with independent free advice to cover every aspect of your build. Take a walk through the Self-Build Educational Zone to learn about the stages of your project from groundworks onward in chronological order. Containing life size exhibits, the core phases are explained in detail to help fully appreciate the journey you may undertake. There is also a Renovation Tour if you are undertaking a renovation rather than Self-Build project. There is also help with land finding and financial planning and mortgage services.
Several events run throughout the year. At the time of writing this, there is the National Self Build and Renovation Show, The Big Green Home Show, Eco Workshops, Design and Build Workshops and Ask an Architect.
Courses also run throughout the year, currently listed are Project Management, Self-Build and Heat and Energy courses.
Carpenter Oak has its own permanent oak framed stand which is available to visit all year round and is manned at various events. Our most recently attended event was National Self Build and Renovation Winter Show. People could come and chat to us about any ideas and projects they had in mind, help build a miniature frame, Astrid’s House, with Touch Wood South West or watch our peg making demonstration.
- Raising Astrid’s frame
- Building inspection
- Our NSBRC stand
Looking for some online inspiration before you go? Take a look at our Inspiration and Ideas page and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram.
Carpenter Oak will be attending the National Self Build and Renovation Summer Show on May 19th– 21th, we will once again be bringing the wonderful Astrid’s house, see you there!
