Irene & Ken Livingston - Argyll

The stunning surroundings of Glen Creran, in Argyll, was where Irene and Ken Livingston had always dreamed of building themselves a traditional two-dormer cottage, creating their perfect family home.

And their dream came true after friends who'd used Robertson Timberkit to build their homes, told them to stop dreaming and start planning.

Working around their full-time jobs and helped by a team of enthusiastic friends - including a 74-year-old man bitten by the self-build bug - the Livingstons threw themselves into their project.

Just a few months later, the Livingstons' stunning timber and stone-clad cottage stood proudly on a raised stretch of beach near the local schoolhouse, perfect for their young son.

"Robertson Timberkit's design department were absolutely invaluable and they really helped turn our dream into reality," said Mrs Livingston.

While building their dream home, Mrs Livingston was interrupted one day by a man from England taking pictures of the house.

"He was a housebuilder and said he'd never seen such a beautiful home," explained Mrs Livingston. "I felt extremely proud."

Mr Livingston added: "All aspects of the service we received were excellent. The design team played a huge part for us - we got all the help and advice we needed, and the materials were undoubtedly the best value for money."