The best Self-Build inspiration feeds on Instagram right now
A self-build home may be a daunting dream for a newcomer but there’s no better place to seek inspiration than a swipe through the Instagram community, filled with DIY projects of all shapes and sizes. So to give a helping hand to anyone with a self-build craving, we've scoured the plains of Instagram to find the best self-build inspiration feeds on Instagram right now. From timber frame self builds to traditional brick and block – there’s a variety of building methods employed by couples and families, each with their own take on self-building and something unique to inspire the community.
For more self-build inspiration visit our case studies to discover the self-build journeys that led to dream homes.
1. @WestCoastBuild
This Scottish modern timber frame kit built in the Outer Hebrides is the stuff of dreams. Overlooking a picturesque croft, this self-build was created by mum-of-three Sarah who takes us through her self-build journey with stories organised in categories ranging from flooring tips right through to planning advice. It’s no wonder Sarah has a healthy 15,000 Instagram followers as she shares a plethora of unfiltered shots of dreamy sunsets and beaches.
2. @The_Folly_Farmhouse
When Aoife and Lars Dempsey set out on their self-build journey they could never have imagined creating their ultimate dream modern Georgian inspired farmhouse on family land in Wexford, Ireland. Their squares document the ups and downs of self-build life, how they created their beloved sweeping curved staircase and achieved their sleek interiors.
3. @Upsidedownhouse_blog
Despite a modest following on Instagram, first-time self builder Hannah Pike is being noticed on social media as she documents life in her Peak District self-build home. After leaving London’s Hackney she and husband Phil purchased one third of an acre in Derbyshire’s High Peak. The result is well-considered Nordic noir design connecting the land outside with moody, thoughtful interiors.
Read her full story in our case study here.
4. @building_ribbons
After breaking ground in 2019, self-builder Leonie and her family created a stunning timber framed self-build home with a brick and oak clad exterior. Their account is filled with enviable interior kitchen shots and dreamy views across rolling countryside through their solar glass doors.
5. @Hygge_for_home
Instagram influencer, content creator and mum-of-three, Reena Simon, transformed a dilapidated 1960s bungalow into a breathtaking Scandi rustic home with a £200,000 budget. She shares the highs and lows of her self-build journey during the global pandemic. There’s a wealth of interior inspiration and plenty of videos which tour the house from start to finish.
6. @housebythecherryblossom
During the first lockdown in 2020, Jayne from County Antrim in Northern Ireland started a home account to share her love of interior design. Since then she has amassed a following of 34,000 thanks to an array of glossy images of her home overlooking the picturesque countryside. But it’s not all interior design tips, here she also shares the best things about self-building, and of course, the difficulties with plenty of advice for wannabe self-builders.
All of these self-build homes provide unique inspirations varying from innovative engineering concepts, to creative interior design ideas, to expert architectural advice. Don't forget to follow our very own Instagram @saintgobainselfbuild for more inspiration and ideas!
Which Build Method to Choose?
Ultimately, design preferences, budget and your own skills will decide which build method route you take.
A Guide to Designing Your Self-Build
Designing your self-build is one of the most exciting parts of your journey but it’s important to be realistic along the way.