Meet our experts

A modern timber-clad self build house under construction and surrounded by scaffolding overlooking the Scottish coastline
(Image credit: Getty Images)

At Homebuilding & Renovating, we're proud to have helped hundred of thousands of self builders and renovators create their dream homes over the last 35 years.

We know independent expert advice, tailored to your unique project, is invaluable. As such, we've launched Homebuilding & Renovating Premium with the aim of giving you access to some of the UK's leading design and build experts from the comfort of your own home.

Headshot of self build expert Mark Stevenson against out of focus background
Mark Stevenson

Mark has worked in the self build industry for over 30 years. He operates his own project management consultancy, Elsworth Projects, is chair of the National Custom and Self Build Association (NaCSBA), and was previously Potton’s managing director.

He is one of the UK's leading self build experts, and has extensive knowledge of timber frame construction, finding plots, and project management.

Headshot of architect and self build expert Allan Corfield against out of focus background
Allan Corfield

Allan is an RIBA Chartered Architect and has overseen the design of over 550 low-energy homes.

He is one of the UK's leading experts on modern methods of construction, is part of the Structural Timber Association, Passive House Trust, and a board member of the self-build industry body, NaCSBA.

Headshot of Homebuilding expert Michael Holmes, standing in front of an out of focus background
Michael Holmes

Michael, one of the UK’s leading property experts, is Homebuilding & Renovating's Director of Content, Vice Chair of the National Custom and Self Build Association, presenter of multiple property TV shows and author of Renovating for Profit. 

He also runs an architectural design practice, and has undertaken over 50 building projects.

headshot of female with long dark hair
Laura Crombie

Laura Crombie is Content Director for Homebuilding & Renovating and has been a homes journalist for more than 17 years.

She’s DIY-renovated three properties and written about decorating and design for publications including The Guardian, The Times and The Metro. She’s currently renovating a four-bedroom detached house in Worcestershire.

Headshot of renewables and sustainability expert David Hilton against out of focus background
David Hilton

David is a fully qualified Gassafe, renewables and ventilation installer, with over 35 years experience.

He has a masters degree in sustainable architecture, and is an authority in sustainable building and energy efficiency, with extensive knowledge of building fabrics, heat recovery ventilation, renewables and heating systems.

portrait of Homebuilding & Renovating editor Claire Lloyd
Claire Lloyd

Claire is Homebuilding & Renovating's former Editor-in-Chief. She has been a member of the team for nearly 20 years, and is currently the brand's business development editor. An experienced homes journalist, she has also written for array of magazine titles.

She has first-hand experience, having taken on numerous renovation projects.

Headshot of quantity surveyor Tim Phillips against out of focus background
Tim Phillips

Tim Phillips, an experienced quantity surveyor and estimator, is Homebuilding’s build cost expert, and has worked in the construction industry for over 35 years.

He also has a personal insight into the cost challenges of residential self builds, renovations and extensions, being a serial renovator and managing his own property portfolio.

Beth Murton standing in front of open shelving and holding a pink coffee mug
Beth Murton

Beth became editor of Homebuilding & Renovating in 2023 with a wealth of experience, having been a homes journalist and editor for more than 20 years.

She has worked for and contributed to a number of leading magazines and websites in the UK, including Grand Designs, Homes & Gardens, Real Homes, Ideal Home and Period Living.

She is also an experienced renovator.