A renovator's dream returns to Exeter

Build It Live, the UK’s most practical self-build and renovation show, returns to Exeter’s Westpoint Arena this weekend.

On Saturday and Sunday, September 7 and 8, Build It Live will bring together under one roof everything you need to help make a building project a success.

Attendees will have the opportunity to listen to real-life stories from self-builders featured in Build It magazine, including a florist and surfing instructor who used local labour and natural, sustainable materials to transform a classic barn into an idyllic Cornish home.

Hundreds of local and national suppliers will showcase the latest products and technology across the two days.

Above: Build It Live expert

There is also the chance to sit down for free impartial one-to-one consultations with industry experts and to attend informative live talks about everything from finding land to designing your own home and gaining planning consent.

These shows are ideal for individuals planning a self-build, renovating a property, or looking to add space, light, and value to a current home. 

Chris Batesmith, Content Editor at Build It magazine, which organises the Build It Live Shows, said: “All our shows provide a one-stop shop for all things self-build, renovation, and home improvement. Our Land Zone is the perfect place to visit to find a building plot, as there will be access to ‘Plotbrowser’, our free online plot-finding service, which lists 1000s of self-build plots and redevelopment opportunities.

“At Build It magazine, we have been providing expert guidance to self-builders and renovators for over 30 years, and our shows are another way we can help self-builders and renovators create their own dream home.”

Above: Build It Live seminar

The popular Sustainable Building Products Pavilion will also be returning to the Exeter show with advice on how to create a truly sustainable, healthy home, whether building from scratch or renovating an older property.

The Heating Advice Clinic will offer guidance on the best heating systems available for your home right now, together with all the latest information on government grants for installing air and ground source heat pumps. 

Attendees can also drop into any of the free troubleshooting clinics and find answers to questions around building costs, extensions, basements, and heating.

The event will run between 10am and 5pm on Saturday and 10am and 4:30pm on Sunday.

A standard ticket is £12, and children under 16 are admitted for free as long as they are with an accompanying adult.

Tickets, which are valid on either day or can be used to attend both, are on sale on their website.