Meet Hannah and Charlie, the innovative couple turning home-building on its head with their polystyrene block house in Burnham-on-Sea, Somerset! By thinking outside the box, they’re on track to save a whopping £100,000 on their dream home.
The duo bought a quarter-acre plot back in June 2022 for £70,000 and decided to skip the pricey new-build market, where a two-bed would set them back at least £375,000. Instead, they rolled up their sleeves and took on 80% of the work themselves, using Insulated Concrete Framework (ICF) blocks. It’s like Lego for adults—they slot together and are filled with concrete, making for a sturdy, energy-efficient structure.
Hannah, a travel blogger, and Charlie, a professional golfer, are aiming to have their 140sqm, two-bed, one-office home move-in ready by summer 2026. With eight parking spots, a garage, and plans for luxe features like heated floors and even a laundry chute, they’re building something truly special—all for under £200,000!
They’ve already cleared the land, widened the driveway with recycled Tarmac, and planted a garden that’ll make any green thumb jealous. With strict budgeting and a bit of family help (Hannah’s sister even got in on the action, rolling out the driveway!), they’ve made this ambitious project achievable.
Hannah says, “We didn’t want just another cookie-cutter home with hidden problems. We wanted to build our forever home ourselves, learning along the way.” As they continue their build, they’re not just constructing walls but laying the foundation for a lifestyle filled with adventures and memories.
While they live with their parents during the build, Hannah and Charlie are already feeling the DIY itch for their next project. But for now, their eyes are set on moving into their custom-made dream home!
Have you ever considered building your own house? Would you take on such a project? Let us know your thoughts! 🛠️🏡✨