Do I need a project manager for a self build or home renovation?

Posted by & filed under Advice and tips, Designers, Self-Build.

Should you hire a project manager for a self build or home renovation project? The question should really be, ‘what does a project manager do, and do I need one?’. In the building industry the term ‘project manager’ often gets muddled. When a building professional refers to a ‘project manager’ their meaning could fall broadly… Read more »

Residential architects in London

Posted by & filed under Inspiration, Local, Using Design for Me, Your Designer.

Home renovation and extension architects in London If you’re planning a house extension, renovation or new self-build, finding the right architect can be the critical first step. We’ve compiled some of the best residential architects in London to give you a starting point, and hopefully provide a little inspiration too. London is brimming with talented architects and designers,… Read more »

Upgrade Your Garden with Technology

Posted by & filed under Advice and tips, Gardens, Q&A, Using Design for Me, Your Designer.

You’ve put thought into making it an enjoyable space for you and your guests, but have you considered incorporating technology to take it to the next level? There are many technological innovations you can integrate into your garden to increase its appeal and tranquility in the 21st century. Consider these unique gadgets to enhance your… Read more »

Do you need planning permission for a loft conversion?

Posted by & filed under Advice and tips, Conversions, Legal Considerations, planning applications.

In most circumstances you will not need planning permission for a loft conversion, as the development will be covered by GPDO (permitted development). However, you should also check if your permitted development rights are restricted or have been removed (see below)*   Roof extension pictured above by Ben+Eoin, architect from Southwark, London. Click here to… Read more »

5 of the Best Interior Designers in Manchester

Posted by & filed under Inspiration, Interiors, Local, Using Design for Me, Your Designer.

Interior designers in Manchester If you’re planning a renovation or refurbishment, finding the right interior designer or architect is the critical first step. We’ve compiled some of the best interior designers in Manchester to give you a starting point, and hopefully provide a little inspiration too. Manchester is brimming with talented home designers, so we… Read more »

Residential architects in South London

Posted by & filed under Inspiration, Local, Using Design for Me, Your Designer.

Home renovation and extension architects in South London If you’re planning a house extension, renovation or new self-build, finding the right architect can be the critical first step. We’ve compiled some of the best residential architects in South London to give you a starting point, and hopefully provide a little inspiration too. South London is brimming with talented… Read more »

What is GPDO?

Posted by & filed under Advice and tips, Extensions, Legal Considerations, planning applications.

GPDO stands for General Permitted Development Order. Permitted development gives permission to undertake certain alterations, extensions or additions to your home without requiring Planning Permission.   Design above by Will, architect from Brighton and Hove, South East. Click here to see more and shortlist them for your home project. When permitted development doesn’t apply There… Read more »

Prefab homes, modular homes, kit houses… what’s the difference?

Posted by & filed under Advice and tips, Self-Build.

What’s the difference between modular, prefab and kit homes? If you are a novice self-builder, It’s easy to become overwhelmed with all of the industry jargon out there. ‘prefab homes’, ‘modular homes’, ‘kit houses’, ‘manufactured homes’ (etc…) are sometimes used interchangeably. However, there are subtle but important differences, and it will be critical to understand them in order… Read more »

Residential architects in Bristol and Bath

Posted by & filed under Extensions, Inspiration, Local, Using Design for Me, Your Designer.

If you’re planning a house extension, renovation or new self-build, finding the right architect can be the critical first step. We’ve compiled some of the best residential architects in Bristol and Bath to give you a starting point, and hopefully provide a little inspiration too. The Bristol and Bath area is brimming with talented architects and designers, so we… Read more »