In search of desirable residences

A round-up of the latest self-build and home renovation news, products and events. By Jennifer Grimble

Homes with chromotherapy lighting and Vitamin C showers for the health-conscious, plus designer playrooms and school uniform laundry drops for families? Zoe Dare Hall explores developments doing things differently

Discover how the UK’s country houses defied the odds to survive as historic monuments and cultural centres

Rye-based firm RX Architects, which has delivered more than 30 beach houses along the south coast, talks Coast through one of its latest projects in East Sussex

Pick of the week’s correspondence

Ben and Ruth Prior replaced a coastal bungalow with a stunning three-storey home to maximise family living space and views of the sea