How we got here

Our story began with a realisation that the housing market was leaving countless potential self-builders in the dark. The founders of Livedin witnessed friends, family, and local communities struggle to navigate tangled regulations, secure suitable land, and find reliable advice or professional expertise.

A Seed of Inspiration

It all started as a grassroots effort. Our initial spark came from a small group of architecture enthusiasts, urban planners, and environmental advocates who believed that self-building could be simpler, more enjoyable, and more accessible than what the current system allowed. They saw an opportunity to upend the housing status quo and empower individuals to create homes that truly resonate with their ideals.

Bridging Gaps

In the early days, we focused on bridging the gaps between landowners, planners, architects, and would-be builders. We discovered that landowners were often keen to sell or develop their land for self-build projects but lacked the resources or market connections to do so efficiently. At the same time, aspiring self-builders found themselves drowning in complexities, from financing and planning to dealing with local councils.

Building Momentum

Over time, we refined our approach, developing a framework that combined planning permission expertise with community engagement. We began forging partnerships with local councils, sustainability experts, and other professionals who recognised the positive impact a thriving self-build sector could bring to local economies and ecological footprints.

Today and Beyond

Thanks to these early lessons, Livedin continues to refine a platform and methodology that guide people step-by-step along the self-build process. We are no longer just a handful of idealists—we are a growing movement that leverages technology, innovative design, and grassroots passion to elevate self-building into a truly transformative experience for individuals, neighbourhoods, and future generations.