Fireplaces have become more than just a practical feature; they are now centerpieces in the home. The Fireplace Trends for 2024 offer a variety of chic inspiration for living spaces, from sleek and minimalist designs to the rustic charm of traditional wood-burning fireplaces. Whether the preferred style is contemporary or classic, there is a fireplace… Read more »
Posts By: Design for Me
8 Ways to Make Your Home More Comfortable Year-Round
Whether you’re renovating or just refining your current setup, it’s worth making your home feel comfortable in every season, without relying too heavily on energy use or major upgrades. These simple yet effective ideas will help you stay warm in winter, cool in summer, and stylish all year long. 1. Upgrade Your Insulation Insulation… Read more »
How to Clean Exterior Brick Walls – The Easy Way to Boost Kerb Appeal
A clean brick wall can instantly boost your home’s kerb appeal and give it that just-renovated feel—without actually renovating. But over time, grime, algae and pollution can dull the colour and damage the surface of even the best-quality bricks. The good news? You don’t need harsh chemicals or fancy equipment. With a few simple tools… Read more »
Residential architects in Essex
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 Essex to give you a starting point, and hopefully provide a little inspiration too. Essex is brimming with talented architects and designers, so we have no doubt… Read more »
What Is the Maximum Garden Room Size Without Planning Permission?
If you’re planning a new garden room, one of the first questions you may ask is: How big can it be without planning permission? In the UK, this depends on permitted development rules, which allow certain works to be carried out without applying for planning consent. Below, we outline the key size, height, and location… Read more »
Rammed Earth Construction in the UK: Is It Right for Your Self-Build Project?
If you’re planning a self-build project in the UK and exploring sustainable building techniques, rammed earth construction might have caught your attention. This ancient method, which dates back thousands of years, is gaining popularity among eco-conscious homebuilders thanks to its natural beauty, low environmental impact and excellent thermal performance. But is it the right choice… Read more »
Advantages of using an Approved Inspector for Building Regulations approval
For approximately the past 15 years it’s been possible to gain Building Regulations approval using an Approved Inspector and it’s become a more popular choice for good reason… Featured image above – extension by Tessa, architect in Hackney. See more and shortlist her for your project here. What is an Approved Inspector? By using… Read more »
How to find a freelance architect near me
Before embarking for your search for, ‘Freelance architects near me’ consider why a freelance architect is suitable. Freelance architects are particularly suited for small domestic projects, for example: extensions, renovations and loft conversions; homeowner planning applications; sketch drawings for builder’s quotes. Image above by Oana, Freelance architect on Design for Me. See more of… Read more »
Do you need planning permission for an extension?
Good news – you usually don’t need planning permission for a modest rear extension, thanks to permitted development (PD) rights. There are important rules and exceptions though, so read on to see if your home and proposal qualify. Extension pictured above by Oliver, architect from Wandsworth, London. Click here to see more and shortlist… Read more »
Residential architects in Surrey
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 Surrey to give you a starting point, and hopefully provide a little inspiration too. Surrey is brimming with talented architects and designers, so we have no doubt… Read more »
