"I think it's important to fully understand this whole 'Green' concept. Its not simply about sticking a wind turbine on your roof. All aspects have to be considered. The materials and design, location, orientation of the build, the skills and the workforce too. Otherwise you are simply bolting on expensive measures, which have yet to be shown to be cost effective.

The building budget was always going to be a concern, but then you have to look at the bigger picture and also consider cost over the lifetime of the property. Running costs should show major savings on in the future.

Murray & Burrell have been great to work with. By professionally managing every aspect- from providing the site, taking care of all the planning and building control issues and by using their own highly skilled tradesmen, they have taken the stress out of the whole self build process. We have felt completely confident in their expertise and workmanship,the quality of which really is second to none. Through out the build we were kept regularly informed of costs, which has been great. It meant that we were able to build our dream home within our budget, give or take one or two little extras!

We had looked at all sort of companies both here and abroad. Initially we were attracted to a few of the European companies that offer a very modern glass and steel framed house that can be bolted together in a matter of days. However, the end product did not feel particularly solid - more like living in a green house than an actual home. Something we felt we would tire of quite quickly. We wanted something more solid, bespoke and which reflected our individual needs and our style of living, but which would not cost the earth! By keeping it local we felt that we were able to put something back into the community whilst reducing our carbon footprint.

There is not a single element of the house that we wished we had done differently. We can not thank Murray & Burrell Ltd enough. The weather has been appalling and yet the men have worked steadily on in order to avoid delays, something we are very grateful for. The end result is really quite spectacular and beautiful and we are only too delighted to recommend Murray & Burrell to anyone."

Mr & Mrs Kemp