Self build transforms 'cattle shed' into family home

Even a background in self build projects did not prepare Keith and Rona Mitchell for the enormity of the task when they set about constructing their family home.

Nevertheless, the couple have completed the conversion of a derelict cattle shed into a sustainable and affordable property, the Times reports.

The Mitchells completed the self build project within a budget of £146,000, which involved buying four-and-a-half acres of land.

What made the land and property attractive was its amenity and the fact that planning permission had already been obtained.

Describing the design process, Mr Mitchell said: "We sat down together and discussed every aspect from the planning to lighting, materials and colours.

"High on our list of priorities was a wood-burning stove, under-floor heating and a large open-plan living area."

Earlier this month, Alne-based brickmaker York Handmade Brick observed in its financial results that the self build housing market has withstood the downturn experienced in the rest of the housing market.