Posts By: Emily Barnes

Open plan kitchen fire regulations uk – can I make my entire ground floor open plan?

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

A simple guide to open plan kitchen fire regulations in the uk. If you want your ground floor to be totally open plan, there are key consideration in terms of Building Regulations are the associated fire safety issues. Part B of the Approved Documents gives guidance on how to meet the Building Regulations in England… Read more »

How much does a new bathroom cost?

Posted by & filed under Cost Planning.

As a general starting point a basic bathroom renovation cost upwards of £5,000+VAT. This is a starting cost for modest re-decoration, finishes and sanitary ware, and retaining the existing plumbing and electrics. There are are a few considerations outlined below that will increase this cost, such as the condition of the existing bathroom, whether you… Read more »

How to Improve Indoor Comfort Without Compromising Air Quality

Posted by & filed under Advice and tips, Renovations.

Creating a home that feels genuinely comfortable year-round takes more than nudging the thermostat. Real indoor comfort depends on ventilation, filtration, moisture balance, and keeping a handle on the everyday pollutants that quietly build up in enclosed spaces. A well-designed approach might include tools like humidifiers when persistently dry air is the culprit, but any… Read more »

Modern Italian Furniture: Timeless Elegance Meets Contemporary Design

Posted by & filed under Extensions, Interiors, planning applications.

Modern Italian furniture is synonymous with sophistication, innovation, and timeless style. Known for its seamless blend of sleek lines, premium materials, and artistic craftsmanship, Italian furniture effortlessly bridges contemporary aesthetics with classic design elements. Whether you’re furnishing a penthouse or a compact urban apartment, these pieces bring a perfect balance of functionality and style to… Read more »

Extending upwards – new permitted development rules for two storey extensions

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

Can I add two storeys to a house without planning permission? Thanks to a planning amendment in 2020, it is now possible to extend upwards, even adding a double storey extension to your home, using the prior approval route. However, this permitted development right is not applicable to all properties.   Design above by Simon,… Read more »

Residential architects in Brighton and Sussex

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

Home renovation and extension architects in Brighton and Sussex 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 Brighton and the rest of Sussex to give you a starting point, and hopefully provide a little inspiration too…. Read more »

What is an Article 4 Direction?

Posted by & filed under Extensions, planning applications.

An Article 4 Direction is a planning tool used by local authorities in the UK to remove or restrict permitted development rights in specific areas or properties. Permitted development rights allow homeowners to undertake certain minor alterations, extensions, or changes of use without the need for full planning permission. When an Article 4 Direction is… Read more »

Architect cost calculator

Posted by & filed under Advice and tips, Cost Planning, Renovations, Your Designer.

Architects’ fees calculator As a basic rule of thumb for private residential projects, a residential architect typically charges between 10-12% of the construction cost for full architectural services. Use our architect cost calculator below to estimate how much your architect may cost. We have also developed an extension cost calculator, which you can use here…. Read more »