Build It Live South West returns to Exeter
Build It Live South West is back at Westpoint Arena, Exeter, on 12 and 13 September 2026, promising a weekend packed with inspiration, practical know-how and expert guidance for anyone planning to build, renovate, extend or improve their home.
Created by the team behind Build It magazine, the event brings together hundreds of products, trusted suppliers, specialist advice clinics and real-life project stories under one roof - making it an essential diary date for readers who are ready to turn home ambitions into action.
Visitors can compare products up close, quiz suppliers on the best products for a project, book free one-to-one sessions with Build It’s independent experts and drop into a packed programme of seminars and workshops throughout the day. From finding land and securing planning permission to choosing structural systems, heating, glazing and finishes, the show is designed to help every project move forward with confidence.
Whether readers are dreaming of a brand-new self build, weighing up an extension, restoring a period property or trying to make their home more energy efficient, Build It Live offers practical ideas they can take away and use immediately.
Chris Batesmith, Build It’s Content Director, said: “We are delighted to be returning to the South West this September for Build It Live. It’s a fantastic opportunity for visitors to meet trusted experts face to face, get clear and practical answers to their questions, and discover the products and ideas that could shape their future homes.
‘Six reasons visitors will leave Build It Live inspired, informed and ready to take the next step with their home project
1. It gives visitors direct access to the suppliers behind tomorrow’s homes
For people making high-value decisions about their homes, nothing beats seeing materials, systems and finishes in person. Build It Live brings together leading suppliers, architects and product specialists so visitors can compare options, ask detailed questions and find the right solutions for their own projects.
Expect everything from sliding doors, eco products and smart home systems to structural solutions including insulated concrete formwork, structural insulated panels, brick and masonry, timber frame and oak frame. It is a rich source of product inspiration, expert commentary and practical trend insights for homes and interiors.
2. Free talks and workshops tackle the questions self builders are asking
The live seminar and workshop programme is built around the real challenges homeowners face, from budgeting and planning to design decisions, energy efficiency and avoiding costly mistakes. Sessions are easy to follow, practical and packed with advice visitors can apply straight away.
Seminars such as ‘A Step-by-Step Guide to Self Build’ and ‘Renovating a Home with Character’ are hosted by Build It’s magazine experts, while specialist workshops cover topics including heating systems, finding land and choosing the right products and materials.
3. Independent experts are on hand for one-to-one guidance
The popular ‘Ask Our Experts’ lounge gives visitors the chance to sit down with Build It magazine’s specialists for free, impartial advice on their own self build, renovation or extension plans. Planners, architects, project managers, sustainability experts and other professionals will be available to help visitors untangle the detail and move forward with clarity.
On arrival at Build It Live you can book free one-on-one appointments with experts and talk through your project plans
These free consultations can offer the kind of focused, project-specific guidance that would normally come at a cost, making them a major draw for serious renovators and self builders. Slots are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis, so visitors are encouraged to arrive early and bring plans, sketches or questions with them.
4. Real self builders share the stories behind their finished homes
In the Build It Live Workshop Theatre, visitors can hear directly from people who have already completed their own self build or renovation projects. Their real-life stories reveal what it really takes to bring a dream home to life - from the big decisions and unexpected challenges to the practical lessons they wish they had known at the start. It’s an inspiring opportunity for future self builders to learn from those who have already been through the journey.
5. The Land Zone helps turn the search for a plot into a practical plan
Finding land remains one of the biggest barriers for would-be self builders. Build It’s dedicated Land Zone brings the PlotBrowser platform to life, giving visitors the chance to explore live opportunities, learn about different routes to finding a plot and get practical tips for securing viable land.
Representatives from serviced plot and custom build projects will also be available, giving visitors a clearer picture of alternative routes into self build and the options currently emerging around the UK.
6. Specialist advice clinics cover the details that make or break a project
Alongside the show’s product displays and live talks, free drop-in advice clinics give visitors access to specialists who can answer project-specific questions on subjects including heating, build costs, extensions and basements.
Visit the Advice Clinics for project-specific advice on your own self build, renovation or home extension
For those facing technical decisions or trying to control budgets, these clinics offer a valuable opportunity to get straight-talking advice before committing to the next stage of a project.
Tickets and Event Details
Tickets for Build It Live are available via the official website. Standard tickets are priced at £12 per person, with free admission for children under 16 when accompanied by an adult. Build It Live South West is open on Saturday 12 September 2026 from 10:00 to 16:30 and Sunday 13 September from 10:00 to 16:00. Tickets are valid for either day or both days of the event.
For further information and to book tickets, visit www.builditlive.co.uk
