Velar Blog

Useful articles on construction and design

Practical answers to the questions people ask most often before starting to build their own house.

July 20, 2026

Basement level: does your house actually need one

Extra usable space without expanding the footprint, or an extra line item? We break down when a basement level pays for itself and when you're better off without one.

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July 13, 2026

Strip, slab or pile foundation: how to choose

The foundation is the one thing you can't redo once the walls are up. Here's which soil and terrain each type suits, so the decision is informed rather than a guess.

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July 6, 2026

Heat pump or gas boiler: which heating to choose for your house

More expensive upfront or more expensive every month — the choice of heating system always comes down to this. We break down when a heat pump earns its keep and when gas is still the better call.

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June 29, 2026

What is a construction passport, and why do you need one

One of the most common questions at the start of building a private house. Here's the document explained without the legal jargon.

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June 22, 2026

Hidden costs when building a house

The estimate on paper and the final bill often differ not because of dishonesty, but because of line items nobody thought to ask about in advance.

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June 15, 2026

How to choose an architect for your house

A portfolio alone isn't a guarantee. Here's what to look for so the project doesn't turn into an endless chase.

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