Journal
Practical writing on residential construction. For homeowners, architects and developers.
No fluff, no marketing. Honest pieces on what things cost, which contracts to use, what conservation areas actually mean, and how to choose a contractor for a project of scale.
15 March 2026 · 7 min read
What a £1m London home renovation actually costs
An honest breakdown of where the money goes on a £1m refurbishment of a Victorian terrace. Drawing from HXL's recent project data across Hampstead, Richmond and Notting Hill.
28 February 2026 · 6 min read
JCT Standard vs Design & Build. Which contract for your scheme?
For homeowners and architects appointing a principal contractor, the choice between JCT Standard Building Contract and Design & Build is the single biggest decision after appointing the team. Here's how to choose.
10 February 2026 · 8 min read
Conservation-area renovations: what Hampstead and Marlow homeowners need to know
Hampstead, Marlow and Beaconsfield are among the UK's most tightly-regulated conservation districts. Here's what that actually means when you start a renovation or extension. And how to plan for it.
22 January 2026 · 6 min read
Choosing a principal contractor for a £2m+ residential project
Five questions every homeowner and architect should ask before appointing a main contractor on a project of this scale. Get these right and the build is largely solved.
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