With the growing stressors of the housing crisis, high utility costs and global climate change, it’s become crucial for homeowners to lower their energy consumption and make wise choices when it comes to construction materials. Eco-friendly building materials, which are harmless to the environment during production, use and when it comes to their disposal, offer… Read more »
Posts By: Design for Me
Insulating concrete formwork (ICF) for self builds
What is insulating concrete formwork (ICF)? Insulating concrete formwork consists of hollow polystyrene panels or blocks that fit into each other (like LEGO). Concrete is then poured into them to create a solid structure. The polystyrene elements form the shape of the walls, as well as providing insulation. Insulating concrete formwork on Grand Designs… Read more »
Creating a coastal garden retreat with nautical elements
Transform your garden into a serene coastal retreat by embracing nautical elements. Using subtle design choices, you can capture the essence of the seaside, creating a relaxing outdoor oasis. Incorporate ropes and other maritime-inspired features to enhance your garden’s tranquility. Creating a coastal-inspired garden offers a unique way to bring the tranquil atmosphere of the… Read more »
Small garden ideas from the experts
small garden ideas and tips from the experts We asked some of the best garden designers on Design for Me for their expert advice on designing a small garden. Juliet – Garden designer in Stroud, South-West (click on her name to view her full profile and shortlist her for your garden design project) If you have a small garden, lucky… Read more »
Chimney breast removal
Chimney breast removal At the heart of every Victorian home, the fireplace possessed great significance to a family both practically and socially. However most modern homeowners have a different view of the fireplace and the chimney breast that houses them. Chimney breasts are now often seen as being a little ‘in the way’, using up valuable floor space. Central heating systems and advances in insulation technology have also made the chimney somewhat… Read more »
How much do Interior Designers charge?
How much do Interior Designers charge? If you’ve already researched interior designer’s fees online, you may have discovered how difficult it is to find industry standards or rules of thumb; a good general estimate is difficult to find… The cost of your interior designer will depend on several things, such as their experience and expertise, but also the… Read more »
Building control regulations for an extension
Do you need building control approval for an extension? If you’re planning to extend your home, you will need to comply with the building regulations. This is a legal requirement and, without formal approval and control, your local council could force you open up or re-build sometimes significant aspects of the project. It could even… Read more »
Transform Your Garden with Landscaping
If you’re looking to make a real difference to your garden, simple gardening techniques may not quite make the cut. That’s why we’ve listed some of the best ways in which you can transform your garden with landscaping. Why is Garden Design Important? Taking pride in the appearance of your garden will help you… Read more »
What is the new Infrastructure Levy? How is it different from Section 106 or the CIL?
Section 106 agreements, the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) and the new Infrastructure Levy are all similar in that they impose additional conditions on the developer, linked to planning permission. The new ‘Infrastructure Levy’, which was announced in the Levelling-up and Regeneration Bill (May 2022), is intended to broadly replace both Section 106 agreements and the… Read more »
Contemporary living room ideas
Design-wise, your living room is the most important room in your house to get right. You probably spend most of your waking hours at home here. It’s a place to relax, entertain and spend time with your family. When it comes to contemporary living room design, there are a plethora of styles and colour palettes that… Read more »
