2025 Cost Benchmarks from 100+ Residential Architects on Design for Me This year, we conducted a nationwide survey of architects and architectural designers on Design for Me. The information below reflects these updated figures. As a headline, we found that a 10m² single-storey kitchen extension in the UK typically costs around £80,000–£100,000 in 2025 (including… Read more »
Posts By: Design for Me
How much does a garden designer cost?
If you’re planning to redesign your garden, understanding the cost of hiring a garden designer is an essential starting point. The cost of a garden designer can vary greatly, depending on the size and complexity of the project, as well as the designer’s experience and location. For small projects, garden designers typically charge around 20%… Read more »
Cheapest Way to Extend Your Home | Loft vs Extension vs Garage Conversion
Adding more living space is one of the best ways to improve both your quality of life and the value of your home. But what is the cheapest way to do it: loft conversion, extension, or garage conversion? The answer depends on your property, your needs, and how you plan the project. At the heart… Read more »
What Happens If I Build Without Planning Permission?
Short answer: you may be asked to change or remove the work, face planning enforcement, and hit problems selling or remortgaging. In some cases (notably listed buildings) it can even be a criminal offence. The earlier you take expert advice, the better your outcome. This article provides general guidance, not legal advice. Policies and interpretations… Read more »
Advantages of a Timber Frame Self-Build
You have finally found the perfect plot to build on, have set a proper budget for your project, and are now ready to select a building material. Believe it or not, many UK homeowners in your shoes are turning away from brick and steel in favour of a different material…timber! That’s right, there has been… Read more »
Acoustic panels: Transforming spaces with style and sound control
Modern interior design is no longer just about aesthetics. Today, the focus extends beyond visual appeal to incorporate comfort, functionality, and well-being. One element that is quietly revolutionising both public and private spaces is the strategic use of acoustic panels. While their primary function is to manage sound, these panels are also making statements as… Read more »
How Do I Avoid Planning Permission Refusal? 7 Common Mistakes
Planning permission can feel opaque: evolving policies, strict validation rules, and lots of moving parts (heritage, neighbours, trees, flood risk…). However, most refusals and long delays are avoidable. If you tackle these common pitfalls early, you’ll save weeks and give your design the best chance of first-time approval. • Most householder applications aim to be… Read more »
Eco-design principles for your self-build
Title image from Edward, architect from Tooting Bec, London. See his full profile and shortlist him for your project here. Why Sustainable Design? Planning your dream eco-home? We’ve put together a brief summary of the main eco-design principles to follow when designing your new home. Most of us would agree that it is important… Read more »
How to find an affordable interior designer
Where can I find an affordable interior designer? If you’ve already started searching for your interior designer, you might have come across some beautiful websites from interior design companies displaying fabulous high-end projects. But if your first thought is, ‘My budget is nowhere near this!’ you’re probably looking in the wrong place. You might also… Read more »
Slimline Steel Doors for Kitchen Spaces
Elevate your Kitchen Living Space The kitchen is the heart of the home, and it’s important to create a space that is both functional and stylish. Doors play a critical role in achieving the desired aesthetic and functionality, but not all doors are created equal. Fabco Sanctuary’s slimline steel doors are an excellent choice… Read more »
