Codes require that a fireplace flue terminate 2' above any adjacent structure within 10'. This is for two reasons...draft issues and fire issues. If your situation can follow these guidelines there are some chimney cap solutions you may be able to use to insure good draft in a windy area.

Hi Michele, self build is very exciting and we wish you luck for your upcoming project. We have various tips when it comes to our customers designing their home. As some have suggested above understanding how you and your family occupy the space is fundamental in making those early design decisions. We also tell self builders to put 'wants and needs' into 3 columns, must have, nice to have and luxury. This helps define budget and start with the fundamentals before progressing to those items such as cinema rooms or a top end kitchen worktop. There are many helpful tips on our Self Build Academy website also plenty of design and interior inspiration at Potton Self Build Galleries Before you decide that building your home is right for you, ask yourself four questions; Do you have the time and commitment to see your project through to the end. Do you have the skills and knowledge required for the task ahead Do you understand the cost involved and do you have enough money to complete the build Do you have a constitution strong enough to see you through both the highs and lows of building your own home Provided you understand your answers to these questions and can ‘fill the gaps’ when it comes to skills, knowledge, time and funding, then press ahead and enjoy what is probably going to be one of the most rewarding experiences that you will ever have in your lifetime!

Some great advice there! I guess I'm trying to create a comfortable elegant feel/mood to the room. It is a child-free house, so I don't have to worry about little hands marking the fabric, but I do take the point on board - will consider darker fabrics. I do like the eames style chairs, and I will look into them in more detail, although I think I prefer the idea of a soft seat, rather than a hard one. One of my main concerns was in relation to the style/finish of the chair legs.....I love the legs on the table, so I want a chair that will complement the table. Is there any particular style of chair leg I should avoid? Or finish (wooden leg v chrome leg)? Karen: I'd be interested to see which chair you went for! Delighted to hear that you're happy with Atlantic

I have a very strange alcove in my hallway that I'd like to sort out. It used to lead to a room but the doorway has been permanently blocked up. There is a radiator and a wall light, both of which aren't helping when I try to think of what the alcove could be used for. The rad could be changed but must stay in the alcove. Any ideas would be hugely welcomed! I would consider a nice piece of furniture or shelving but with the radiator I just can't think how I could make use of the space. thank you!