Low-Water Garden Ideas That Still Feel Lush Drought, hotter temperatures, and unpredictable rainfall are reshaping how we design outdoor spaces. Traditional lawns and thirsty plant beds often struggle under these changing conditions. For many homeowners, it’s time to rethink the garden, not just to save water, but to create something easier to care for, more… Read more »
Posts By: Design for Me
How to find home interior design advice (and keep your costs down)
Most homeowners who use Design for Me typically have the following things in common: They value great design. They want to love their home and feel proud of it. They don’t feel talented or inspired enough to make all the design decisions themselves. They are keen to get the most out of their budget. Featured… Read more »
How to write an architectural brief
This simple guide – ‘how to write an architectural brief’ – is aimed at homeowners planning a house extension, renovation or a self-build house. As an architect myself, I created this platform – Design for Me – to help homeowners find the best residential architect for their particular project. It’s free to use and we’re… Read more »
Do you need planning permission for a side return extension?
Q: Do you need planning permission for a side return extension? Very possibly not! This is such a common project in UK towns and cities, for good reason. Many Victorian terraces have this strip of garden space that is so often dark and under-used. Claiming this space back internally can transform a kitchen or living space, without… Read more »
Glass Staircases : Advice & Inspiration
Glass is a material that has long been used in all kinds of structural applications. In spite on its fragility, glass is known to be robust and strong. In the right hands, with the right balustrade components and fixings glass can be used for just about anything. Unsurprisingly, homeowners are now finding that glass is… Read more »
Flood risk assessment for a planning application
Why do I need a flood risk assessment and what is it? If you are applying for planning permission, you may be need to provide a flood risk assessment with your application. This demonstrates the flood risk for your proposed development. When is a flood risk assessment required? A flood risk assessment is required… Read more »
Architect’s tips: How to design the best house extension layout
To design the best house extension layout, it should not be seen as a stand-alone project. To make the most of this extra space, you and your architect should consider the best layout for the entire house. But don’t worry – this doesn’t mean you will need to rethink the entire existing layout! Working within… Read more »
How Corner Sofas Can Maximise Comfort and Space in Your Home
If you’re looking to make the most of your living room layout without compromising on comfort, a corner sofa could be just what your home needs. Whether you’re in a cosy flat or styling a larger open-plan space, these versatile L-shaped sofas tick all the right boxes for both form and function. A clever… Read more »
Bathroom Trends and How To Do Them At Home
At Home Spa Bathroom The goal of an at-home ‘sparthroom’ is to recreate the tranquil, luxurious ambiance of a spa. To create a calm, peaceful, minimalistic and clutter free environment. A few changes to your bathroom can quickly make it feel luxurious and like you have a retreat right in your bathroom. Vertical wood panels… Read more »
Can you extend planning permission?
Can you pay to extend planning permission? You used to be able to pay to extend planning permission, but this has not been the case for many years now. Your two options now are to either: Submit a new application Make sure all the planning conditions are discharged and commence development* before the permission expires…. Read more »
