With budgets under closer scrutiny and energy performance now high on the homebuyer’s wish list, today’s self-builders and renovators are rethinking what really adds value.

Instead of maximising size, many are focusing on quality per square foot - creating homes that are well-designed, sustainable and ready for the future. According to planning expert Simon Rix, a regular contributor to the Homebuilding & Renovating Show, this shift is also making it easier to gain planning approval, especially in sensitive areas like the Green Belt.

“By focusing on airtightness, renewable technologies and thoughtful design, homeowners can create spaces that are easier to approve, more efficient to run, and more valuable over time,” says Rix. These evolving priorities will be a central theme at the National Homebuilding & Renovating Show, returning from 19–22 March at the NEC, Birmingham.

From Passivhaus standards to perfectly planned gardens, it’s a shift that’s reshaping the future of British homes. Further details can be found in the press release below and images can be downloaded from this Dropbox link. 

For anyone interested in expert advice or commentary, local case studies and ticket giveaways, don't hesitate to contact the organisation. A shift to smarter spaces resulting in better outcomes:  

What are homeowners doing differently in 2026? With budgets under closer scrutiny and energy performance now high on the homebuyer’s wish list, today’s self-builders and renovators are rethinking what really adds value.

Instead of maximising size, many are focusing on quality per square foot - creating homes that are well-designed, sustainable and ready for the future. According to planning expert Simon Rix, a regular contributor to the Homebuilding & Renovating Show, this shift is also making it easier to gain planning approval, especially in sensitive areas like the Green Belt.

“By focusing on airtightness, renewable technologies and thoughtful design, homeowners can create spaces that are easier to approve, more efficient to run, and more valuable over time,” says Rix. 

These evolving priorities will be a central theme at the National Homebuilding & Renovating Show, returning from 19–22 March at the NEC, Birmingham. From Passivhaus standards to perfectly planned gardens, it’s a shift that’s reshaping the future of British homes.  

Among this year’s new voices is award-winning interior and landscape designer, founder of Studio MA Design, MarieAnne Messenger, who will lead a beginner-friendly session on how to turn a blank garden into a beautifully functional outdoor space. Her talk joins a refreshed programme of seminars and masterclasses that reflect a growing demand for well-rounded, design-led thinking, helping homeowners plan every element of their home, inside and out, from day one.  

This integrated approach runs throughout the show’s content, with a line-up of leading experts set to explore what smart self-building and renovating looks like today, all backed by hands-on, practical advice. Key themes include: 

  • How Passivhaus Is Changing the Planning Landscape – why ultra-efficient design is getting more projects approved
  • Designing for Value Per Square Foot, Not Square Metres – tips on working smarter with layout, systems and materials
  • The Top 10 Self-Build Mistakes to Avoid – from budget blunders to planning pitfalls

Other expert sessions will cover topics such as: Everything You Need to Know About Home Extending; A Guide to Planning and Permitted Development for Home Extensions and Conversions; Ideas for Adding Space Without Extending; Installing a Heat Pump Into Your Home and Invisible Solar – Going Green Beautifully. 

At the heart of the show, the Advice Centre will bring together a wide-ranging panel of specialists offering free 15-minute consultations. Visitors can tap into tailored advice from leading experts, including Homebuilding & Renovating’s property expert Michael Holmes, design expert & architect Allan Corfield, heating & eco expert David Hilton, planning expert Sally Tagg as well as builder & broadcaster Andy Stevens, renovation expert Jo Dyson, interior design expert Julia Kendell, retrofitting expert Marianne Suhr, self-build expert Mark Stevenson, build cost expert Tim Phillips, finance expert Tom McSherry, and Passivhaus architect Richard Hawkes. 

These same experts will also take to the stage throughout the event, sharing real-world insights tailored to every step of the self-build and renovation process. From navigating planning permission and controlling build costs to improving energy efficiency and rethinking space through smart conversions and interior design, the sessions are packed with practical advice to create a home that’s efficient, well-designed and truly works for visitors’ lifestyle. 

With over 370 exhibitors, attendees will have the chance to explore the latest products and innovations, ask questions, and compare options in person, all under one roof. Whether planning a renovation, extension or self-build, visitors can expect hands-on inspiration and expert guidance to move their projects forward. 

Tickets to the National Homebuilding & Renovating Show are priced at £18 each for any one day. The event runs from 19-21 March (10am-5pm) and 22 March (10am-4.30pm). 

Visitors can gain access to free tickets to the show by clicking on this free ticket link.