How to get planning permission for a new build house

Posted by & filed under planning applications, Self-Build.

There are a number of different routes to gaining planning permission for a new build house. This article explains the different options that are available to help you decide which route is right for your particular project and circumstances. Featured image above – self-build design by Stephen, architect from Southwark. Click here to see more… Read more »

What is custom build?

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

It’s common to confuse custom build and self build – many people assume the terms are interchangeable. It all boils down to how much a developer is involved. A custom build house is somewhere between a self-build house and a developer-built new build. Self-build = no developer involvement Custom build = some developer involvement Traditional… Read more »

How much does a self-build house cost?

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

(Self Build Architects from Design for Me. From Left to Right – Jake, Mark, Lucy, James, Liam, Felix) Ever dreamed about having a house designed just for you? How good would it be to have control over the shape of every room, materials, fittings and fixtures! You ‘bespoke’ means ‘expensive’ but it might be more affordable than you think… especially when you consider there… Read more »

How to get planning permission for a self-build house?

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

Self-building is becoming increasingly popular in the UK. Government incentives such as the Help to Build Loan have been recently introduced, to make the self-build process easier and more affordable, with an aim help to ease the affordable homes shortage in the UK.   Design above by Edward, architect from Nottingham, East Midlands. Click here… Read more »

Architect AND interior designer – do I need both?

Posted by & filed under Cost Planning, Designers, Interiors, Renovations.

This is a source of confusion for many clients. Generally speaking, an architect will design the external shell of the building (walls, roof, windows, etc) and an interior designer would design and specify the interior decoration, furniture and fittings. The work that sits in between – space planning of rooms, finishes and fixtures – could… Read more »

Getting Your Home Ready for Autumn

Posted by & filed under Inspiration, Interiors.

As the summer starts to fade, it’s time to savour the sound of leaves crunching under your feet, pull on your comfiest jumper and settle down with a pumpkin spice coffee. The autumn aesthetic is one of cosiness and relaxation, and you’ll want to bring it to the fore as much as possible in your… Read more »

Guide to permitted development rules

Posted by & filed under News.

What is permitted development? Permitted development – or officially General Permitted Development Order (GDPO) – allows you to carry out certain minor alterations or building projects without needing any planning permission. However, some permitted development projects will require a prior approval application (see below). If you want to be certain that your proposal falls within… Read more »

Hallway design ideas and inspiration

Posted by & filed under Inspiration, Interiors.

Title image – design by Peter, architect from Islington, London. Click here to see more and shortlist them for your home project.   Hallway design ideas – from Design for Me’s architects and designers Here are some of the best hallway designs from our architects and designers on Design for Me. Click on the images… Read more »

A guide to listed building consent

Posted by & filed under Advice and tips, Legal Considerations, Renovations.

What is Listed Building Consent?  Listed building consent is s a form of planning regulation aimed at safeguarding structures with remarkable architectural or historical value. These protective measures complement the standard planning regulations in place. Moreover, listed building designation can trigger the need for planning permission in situations where it would not typically be mandated—such… Read more »